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Environments for working with digital objects are stored as container files called system images. Those system images require an emulator to provide the environment. Other approaches to automatize customizations of system images require the installation of additional tools inside the emulated environments. In contrast, the Assisted Create View approach enables system administrators to repeat work flows across many images without the need for additional software. The approach is based on a VNC API built into the emulator and is therefore completely independent of the emulated environment. Recorded mouse and keyboard input is the basis for automatization of routines. Once recorded, they can be applied to as many digital objects of the same type as required. Reproducing work flows for opening digital objects with a certain application inside the emulated environment or the modification of settings before the emulated environment is ready to use are tasks to be tested and analyzed through the implementation of a sample usage scenario.

In this dissertation a new type of infrared focal plan array (IR FPA) was investigated, consisting of antenna-coupled microbolometer fabricated using electron-beam lithography. Four different antenna designs were experimentally demonstrated at 10-micron wavelength: dipole, bowtie, square-spiral, and log-periodic. The main differences between these antenna types were their bandwidth, collection area, angular reception pattern, and polarization. To provide pixel collection areas commensurate with typical IR FPA requirements, two configurations were investigated: a two-dimensional serpentine interconnection of individual IR antennas, and a Fresnel-zone-plate (FZP) coupled to a single-element antenna. Optimum spacing conditions for the two-dimensional interconnect were developed. Increased sensitivity was demonstrated using a FZP-coupled design. In general, it was found that the configuration of the antenna substrate material was critical for optimization of sensitivity. The best results were obtained using this membranes of silicon nitride to enhance the thermal isolation of the antenna-coupled bolometers. In addition, choice of the bolometer material was also important, with the best results obtained using vanadium oxide. Using optimum choices for all parameters, normalized sensitivity (D*) values in the range of mid 108[√Hz/W] were demonstrated for antenna-coupled IR sensors, and directions for further improvements were identified. Successful integration of antenna-coupled pixels with commercial readout integrated circuits was also demonstrated.