Array Sensor Applications for Optical Communications

Applications of low noise very high frame rate area array sensors to unguided optical communications systems are discussed. Array sensors can be utilized for acquisition, coarse tracking, fine tracking, and point-ahead monitoring. Array sensor structures and properties are reviewed and the application of high frame rate devices having low noise levels are considered. The potential for multiple beacon tracking is discussed. Several specific arrays and their rate and noise properties are reviewed in the context of these applications.