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Signal-to-noise ratio and other characteristics of heterodyne radiation receivers

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Abstract

The theory of heterodyne radiation receivers for the infrared and far-infrared is reviewed. For simplicity, only systems based on photoemissive and photoconductive radiation mixers are considered. The signal-to-noise ratio is derived, and expressions for this quantity under various conditions are given. A brief comparison is made between heterodyne systems and high-resolution spectrometers using direct radiation detectors. It is concluded that for high spectral resolving powers and for relatively small astronomical sources, heterodyne systems are likely to offer a distinct advantage in signal-to-noise ratio, especially at long far-infrared wavelengths.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Electrical Science, National Physical Laboratory, Teddington, UK

    T. G. Blaney

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  1. T. G. Blaney
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Blaney, T.G. Signal-to-noise ratio and other characteristics of heterodyne radiation receivers. Space Sci Rev 17, 691–702 (1975). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00727583

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00727583

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