Noise in large-aperture self-scanned diode arrays

An equation for the random noise of self-scanned silicon photodiode arrays is developed which includes significant terms not previously considered. It is shown that, including these terms, the new 2.5-mm-high self-scanned arrays are only slightly noisier than older arrays; but because of their much greater aperture, they can detect much smaller light fluxes than the older arrays even when used with simple, inexpensive amplifiers.