Introduction

Thermoelectric coolers (TECs) are miniature solid-state heat pumps capable of providing localized cooling to devices that require cold temperatures for proper operation. Before 1990, their use was confined to unique situations, generally in laboratories or other engineered environments. Throughout the 1990s, however, thermoelectrically cooled devices became somewhat common in everyday terrestrial and commercial applications. Notable examples include six-pack-sized minirefrigerators for automotive and marine use and night-vision devices. TECs in space have also become relatively common; they cool low noise amplifiers (LNAs), star trackers, and IR (infrared) sensors. Table 13.1 lists spaceborne TECs.