Fully Automated Low Background Detector Radiometric Test Facility

Abstract

This paper describes the development, operation, and output of a fully automated, low photon flux background, longwave infrared (LWIR) detector radiometric test capability. The facility includes three low background, broadband, LWIR absolute radiometric response test stations and two medium background relative spectral response test stations. The reasons for developing such a capability are discussed. An overview of the two station types is given with block diagrams, photographs, and descriptions of the electronic, mechanical, cryogenic, and optical components. A description of the available automated test routines is presented with a discussion of the parameter space over which the tests may be run. Sample data plots for several tests of a front illuminated Si:As IBC detector are included. The automation of the system is discussed, including software design, system configuration, operator interface, test control, data archiving, and data reporting.