Patents Assigned to L-3 Communications Corporatin
  • Patent number: 8183513
    Abstract: Read-out cell systems are disclosed for image detectors, including infrared image detectors, that provide improved sensitivity by providing in-cell subtraction through the use of a voltage ramp signal generated using a reference pixel and a feedback amplifier. The ramp voltage is generated using a reference pixel and an amplifier having feedback. The ramp voltage is then provided to a plurality of read-out cells. The ramp voltage can be coupled to an input transistor to provide current subtraction prior to the integration node. The ramp voltage can also be provided to integration capacitors within the read-out cells to provide current subtraction directly to the integration node. Further, a temperature-independent fixed current source can also be utilized to further control current subtraction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: L-3 Communications Corporatin
    Inventors: Charles M. Hanson, Stephen D. Gaalema