Fouad Nusseibeh

Uncooled MEMS-based detector arrays for THz imaging applications

We report experimental results on recently developed MEMS-based, uncooled THz detectors and imaging applications for linear focal plane arrays constructed from them. The detector incorporates a broadband micro-antenna coupled to an impedance-matched microbridge. Micro-antennas were fabricated having cut-on frequencies of 500GHz, 650GHz, and 1.5THz, each with bandwidth of several hundred GHz. Sensitivity and frequency response of the detectors is predicted to be ~6pW/√Hz (with backplane) and 7kHz, respectively, and supporting measurements of the first devices will be presented. Fully integrated 1x8 linear focal plane arrays have been assembled and will be used in on-going imaging demonstrations.

Beyond 850 nm: progress at other wavelengths and implications from the standard

Born of necessity of application, the Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) is now found in nearly all optical networking systems based on standards such as the IEEE 802.3z and ANSI X3.t11. Reliability continues to be the hallmark of the technology, and the volume manufacturing aspects are now realized. While VCSEls satisfying optical networking standards continue to provide the highest volume applications, the advantages of the technology are beginning to enable novel optical equipment. This paper explores development of VCSELs at wavelengths from 650 to 850nm, and the commercial applications of these devices in both the data communications and optical sensing arenas. VCSELs operating at longer wavelengths are also being developed, but are not at a stage of commercialization to be discussed in this forum.

MEMS-based uncooled THz detectors for staring imagers

We review our previous work to develop an uncooled THz detector capable of achieving an NEΔT ~0.5K at 30Hz frame rate and describe our approach to develop a staring THz camera based on a 2D array of such detectors. Both predicted and measured results of performance metrics (responsivity, NEP, response time, spectral bandwidth, NEΔT) are presented. The measured performance agrees reasonably well with predictions and is consistent with attaining our NEΔT goal. Thus far, 1x4 detector arrays have been fabricated, and 1x8 focal plane arrays have been developed and tested. We briefly discuss our vision to achieve a128x128 detector array needed for a practical staring THz imager and describe the technology challenges needed to realize it.

Passive uncooled subMMW focal plane array imager for person-borne explosives detection

We review our previous work to develop an uncooled subMMW detector capable of achieving an NEΔT ~0.5K at 30Hz frame rate and describe our approach to develop a staring subMMW camera based on a 2D array of such detectors. Both predicted and measured results of performance metrics (responsivity, NEP, response time, spectral bandwidth, NEΔT) are presented. The measured performance agrees reasonably well with predictions and is consistent with attaining our NEΔT goal. Thus far, 1×4 detector arrays have been fabricated, and 1×8 focal plane arrays have been developed and tested. We briefly discuss our vision to achieve a128×128 detector array needed for a practical staring subMMW imager and describe the technology challenges needed to realize it.

Final Scientific Report - Wireless and Sensing Solutions Advancing Industrial Efficiency

The project teams goal for the Wireless and Sensing Solution Advancing Industrial Efficiency award (DE-FC36-04GO14002) was to develop, demonstrate, and test a number of leading edge technologies that could enable the emergence of wireless sensor and sampling systems for the industrial market space. This effort combined initiatives in advanced sensor development, configurable sampling and deployment platforms, and robust wireless communications to address critical obstacles in enabling enhanced industrial efficiency.