Abstract: An infrared detector has two infrared detector elements contained in a housing, the housing having a window which is transmissive for infrared radiation, and further electrical components interconnected with the detector elements are also contained in the housing. The housing is formed of a shaped plastic part in which a shaped sheet metal element and the electrical components are embedded. The shaped sheet metal component electrically connects the electrical components, and is provided with outward projections serving as the exterior terminal pins. The shaped sheet metal component has angled regions which are bent to surround at least a portion of the electrical components for shielding thereof.

Abstract: A circuit for an infrared detector includes a field effect transistor and a gate resistor connected thereto. A current-limiting component, preferably an ohmic resistor, is connected in series with the detector element between the gate of the field effect transistor and ground, to limit the current across the pn junction of the field effect transistor.