Nonlinear Modeling of RF Thermistor: Application to Bolometer Mount Calibration

The radio frequency (RF) bolometer thermistor has been studied over a wide frequency range. A novel equivalent electrical model is presented to show the nonlinear behavior of the bolometer thermistor for different polarization direct currents. This model has been used as the “detecting section” of a bolometer mount (thermistor RF sensor), and its “efficiency η” has been evaluated by the simple and quick “3-Γ, i.e., impedance method.” The experimental results show good agreement with the theoretical model. Using this model, together with the “impedance method,” can reduce the calibration time/cost of the bolometer mount for wide frequency ranges.