Application
Use of Photodiodes in Precision Guided Munitions
Discover how quadrant photodiodes contribute to the operations of precision guided munition operations.
Autonomous systems and novel disruptive weapons will play a major role in future tactical operations. In this context, precision-guided munitions have proven superior performance especially during the terminal homing phase. Insensitivity to jamming and high accuracy have made them the preferred munition for modern warfare.
Precision Guided Munitions Operation
- Target Designation: A “designator” creates a laser spot by reflecting the beam off the target. The laser designator can be initiated by ground forces with a handheld device or and advanced targeting pod (ATP) mounted on the aircraft fuselage.
- Weapon Deployment: The PGM, equipped with a semi-active laser (SAL) seeker is launched toward the target. The SAL typically includes an infrared filter, aspheric lens and four-quadrant silicon photodiode, referred to as Quadrant Photodiode (QP).
- Initial Navigation: After launch, the PGM uses feedback from global positioning satellites (GPS) and inertial navigation systems (INS) to guide the weapon toward the intended target.
- Terminal Homing: As the projectile approaches the target, the SAL sensor array becomes active monitoring the position of the laser spot relative to the missile’s axis. The weapon’s computer control uses this input to maintain the missile’s trajectory.
- Target Lock: As the PGM approaches its target, the guidance system maintains a high precision lock on the laser spot within the electronic crosshairs of the QP.
- Detonation: With the weapon locked onto the laser spot, the PGM detonates its warhead upon impact, delivering the payload exactly where intended.
Enhanced accuracy of precision guided munitions have significantly contributed to reduced civilian casualties in modern combat. These advanced systems make real-time adjustments after launch to avoid hitting unintended targets. Combining these weapons systems with pre-strike intelligence (such as satellite imagery and other surveillance) ensures target identification accuracy and minimizes civilian presence.
Precision strikes facilitated by PGM allow for smaller warheads to be utilized, limiting the blast radius and risks of collateral damage. Some munitions include abort systems that can deactivate the weapon and/or redirect it to a safe location. PGM have improved the ability of the military to eliminate important targets while reducing the potential for collateral damage, reducing unnecessary harm to infrastructure and civilians.
TE Connectivity Quadrant Photodiodes
TE Connectivity boasts high sensitivity quadrant photodiodes contributing to the accuracy of semi-active laser systems. Our portfolio enables quick and easy implementation into product architecture due to the available selection of configurations. We offer a variety of options for customizing our quadrant photodiodes to meet our customers’ needs regarding field of view (aperture) cost, response time, precision and dark current targets:
- Quadrant surface area size and shape: Available with circular or square shaped active areas in addition to a variety of quadrant surface sizes.
- N-type (common cathode) or P-type (common anode) designs depending on cost and durability requirements.
- Optimized for a wavelength of 1064 nm: This results in higher sensitivity than off-the-shelf silicon photodiodes.
- Antireflective window coatings: Supporting improved signal transmission
- Designs to facilitate temperature sensors and resistive heaters: Allowing temperature compensation for improved accuracy and stability, enhanced performance, extended lifespan and application versatility.
- 8-pixel quadrant photodiode structure: Creating a more complex and sensitive detection area
