Assessment of cameras for continuous wave sub-terahertz imaging

Abstract

In this contribution, we present the direct comparison between Ophir Pyrocam IV and Terasense Tera-1024 cameras used for imaging of terahertz (THz) and sub-THz signals. We compare general properties, such as frequency dependent and polarisation dependent sensitivity, angle dependent sensitivity essential for holographic and noncollinear interferometric measurements, and draw a conclusion about the most suitable camera for the discussed imaging approaches. Both cameras show acceptable performance and sensitivity at imaging both 0.14 THz and 0.3 THz signals. The Terasense camera, expectedly, shows stronger polarisation dependent properties, however, is significantly more angle independent, showing an acceptable performance at all tested incident angles up to 50 degrees. At the same time, although the angle dependence is stronger for the Ophir camera, it has smaller pixel pitch and more extended post-processing features, thus making it somewhat better suited for noncollinear interferometric and holographic sub THz imaging.