Pandora multifrequency FMCW/SFCW radar

This paper pertains to the design aspects of a multifrequency FMCW/SFCW radar with emphasis on the engineering problems involved in its implementation. The paper mostly discusses the FMCW mode of operation. This system can also be used for generating SFCW signals. The implications in this mode are also examined. In the FMCW mode, this radar generates 8 separate FMCW signals which are then additively mixed and radiated. The target return also comprises returns at these frequencies. The signals are then split into their constituents and processed collectively to obtain an extremely high resolution synthetic image of the target. The ultimate objectives of the radar are multiple: to study waveforms of variable and flexible transmitted power spectra. To study ultra-wideband processing techniques, without the need to have an ultra-wide instantaneous bandwidth. To study coherent, non-coherent and mixed processing concepts. The radar itself belongs to the class of LPI radars in the FMCW mode. The high resolutions obtained by this technique are comparable to those that can be achieved by ultra-wideband radar. The additional advantage here is that this radar can be built using essentially "bought-out" items, i.e., it does not require any radically new technology. The paper discusses the problems involved in the implementation of this radar with special emphasis on the critical items, namely the design of the power combiner and the power resolver. A single tract of this radar was implemented. The paper also analyses the results achieved in the implementation of these critical units.