Swift EI is SCD’s event-based short-wave infrared (SWIR) sensor designed for tactical defense applications. Unlike conventional frame-based IR cameras, Swift EI detects pixel-level changes in the scene asynchronously, delivering microsecond-latency threat detection with significantly lower data bandwidth — making it ideal for UAVs, airborne payloads and fast-moving battlefield platforms.
The SWIFT-EI is the world’s first SWIR detector to feature a state-of-the-art read-out integrated circuit (ROIC), enabling low size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C). It supports VGA image format for SWIR imaging, multi-spot ALPD (asynchronous laser pulse detection), and a rapid imaging frame rate of up to 1,600 frames per second.
The revolutionary ROIC introduces an independent neuromorphic imaging stream for event detection, which greatly expands capabilities in target detection and classification.
Ideal for cutting-edge, low SWaP-C applications, the SWIFT-EI can be integrated into a variety of air platforms, missiles, vehicles, and handheld devices, making it extraordinarily versatile. With SWIFT-EI, SCD’s customers always have the advantage of being the FIRST TO SEE.
What is the Swift EI sensor?
Swift EI is SCD’s event-based SWIR (Short-Wave Infrared) image sensor that detects changes in a scene asynchronously at the pixel level, rather than capturing full frames at fixed intervals.
How does event-based SWIR sensing differ from conventional IR cameras?
Conventional IR cameras capture full frames at a fixed frame rate, generating large data volumes. Event-based sensors like Swift EI only output data when a pixel detects a change, drastically reducing latency and bandwidth.
What are the main tactical applications of Swift EI?
Swift EI is designed for UAV payloads, airborne surveillance, counter-drone detection, missile warning systems and platforms requiring real-time detection of fast-moving threats with minimal size, weight and power.
What spectral range does Swift EI cover?
Swift EI operates in the SWIR (Short-Wave Infrared) spectral band, typically 0.9–1.7µm, using SCD’s InGaAs-based detector technology.
Who manufactures the Swift EI sensor?
Swift EI is developed and manufactured by SCD – SemiConductor Devices, an Israel-based company specialising in infrared detectors, laser diodes and advanced sensing systems for defense and commercial applications.
