Infrared Detector Selection:

The detector is the most critical component of any IR system since it is the singular device which converts optical energy into useful electrical signal.

Due to their reliability, cost effectiveness and performance, Cal Sensors lead sulfide (PbS) and lead selenide (PbSe) are the detectors of choice for many commercial applications in the IR wavelength region between 1 µm and 6 µm.

Cal Sensors PbS and PbSe are chemically deposited, thin film, photoconductive IR detectors that require a bias voltage to measure resistance drop when exposed to IR radiation.

It is important to note that virtually all PbS/PbSe characteristics vary with temperature. Detectors also exhibit typical 1/f noise. For optimum performance, detector temperature should be stabilized and incident radiation should be chopped.

Careful system design considerations for these applications should include the following list of detector selection criteria. Important characteristics of lead salt detectors, in general, and ones unique to those manufactured by Cal Sensors, are also included under each section.

Detector parameters which have to be characterized and specified in detail include:

(Need more info? visit our detector FAQ's Page)