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Method and apparatus for bias and readout of bolometers operated on a hysteretic metal-insulator transition

  • US 6,323,486 B1
  • Filed: 07/30/1999
  • Issued: 11/27/2001
  • Est. Priority Date: 07/31/1998
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A method for detecting a signal comprising:

  • a) providing a bolometer comprising a material having an abrupt hysteretic change in electrical resistance responsive to temperature change;

    said material being coupled to means for impinging said signal on said material;

    b) applying an alternating current or chance in voltage across said material in an amount and for a period of time sufficient to cause a temperature change resulting in initiation of said abrupt change in resistance; and

    c) detecting a resultant change in electrical resistance of said material for a selected optimal duration at a selected optimal time after applying said alternating current or voltage, said resultant change in electrical resistance being indicative of the presence and strength of said signal.

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