An alternate method for performing MRTD measurements

The Minimum Resolvable Temperature Difference test (MRTD) is one of the tests typically required to characterize the performance of thermal imaging systems. The traditional test methodology is very time intensive, requiring data collection at multiple temperatures and target frequencies. This paper will present an alternate methodology using a controlled blackbody temperature ramp rate. This allows selection of the temperature at which a target is determined “resolved” without stopping. Test results using the traditional method will be compared to test results using this alternate method.