Types and determination of bad pixels in IRFPA

Bad pixels in infrared focal plane array (IRFPA) degrade the quality of infrared images and performance of infrared system. Bad pixels could be corrected with algorithm during application. But amount and distribution of bad pixels are crucial criterions for qualified IRFPA. By analyzing technical process of IRFPA, four types of bad pixels were classified. Their formation processes and causes were discussed. Characteristics of every type of bad pixels were studied. Relations between output voltages and types of bad pixels were constructed. An easy and fast approach was put forward to determine type of bad pixel in IRFPA. By observing waveforms of bad pixels, the type of a given bad pixel could be determined. Each type was corresponding to some technical process. This helps to realize surveillance on quality of IRFPA. Research results will help reduce the amount of bad pixels, improve fabrication technology, yield of IRFPA and then a stable production process.