Characterization of a High Sensitivity Composite Silicon Bolometer

Abstract. We have measured the electrical and radiometric properties of a cryogenic bolometer/amplifier which is intended for use as a transfer standard in an infrared spectral comparator facility under development at the NIST. We have found its sensitivity to be-20 pW, instability < 1%, responsivity N 1,7 x lo6 V/W, spatial nonuniformity 1 % and nonlinearity < 1 YO over five decades. These results show that this device can be used for its intended purpose as an IR detector transfer standard. 1