Design of a ferroelectric bolometer

A new principle for bolometric measurements has been invented at JET. Its main feature is that a change in resonant frequency is measured rather than voltage levels. As a result, it should be virtually immune to the type of noise that is encountered in fusion research. The technology involved in the sensor production and the electronics used should provide a more sensitive and faster means for future bolometers. This contribution describes the novel principle, first results from prototype tests and it outlines the route to a fully developed diagnostic.