Abstract

Realistic evaluation of optical correlator systems requires constant monitoring of what is achievable with digital electronic correlators. Several approaches to electronic implementations will be evaluated with respect to speed, power consumption, and volume. Formulae are developed to allow estimates to be easily revised as technology or the size of the problem changes. Specific examples using currently available technology will be given. Particular attention will be paid to the digital precision of the calculations. In particular, the benefits of operation using binary valued input scenes and correlation filters will be examined. Conclusions will be drawn about the implications for competitive application of optical correlators.

© 1992 Optical Society of America