Importance

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Abstract

A system for deriving parallel data from a source, such as a detector array within an enclosed cryogenic volume utilizes remote optical sensing of micromechanical modulators so as to minimize power requirements and heat loss while providing full bandwidth operation. Subgroupings of the detector elements are used in multiplexed fashion to drive high speed micromechanical modulators in binary fashion until the entire detector array has been scanned. The deflection states of the micromechanical modulators are remotely sensed by optical means and the parallel data then reassembled or processed as desired. With this configuration the detector and modulator arrays may be disposed compactly within a cryogenic enclosure and external thermal inputs limited to low levels.

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First Claim