The receiver is an integral part of the radar system. As shown in Figure 11-1, it provides the necessary downconversion of the receive signal from the antenna and the inputs required to the signal and data processors. The advantages and disadvantages of component placement and configurations will be addressed in this chapter. Continuing advances in analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) and digital signal processing (DSP) technology are driving receiver development. As converters improve in speed and resolution, the digitization moves closer to the antenna. Improvements in DSP resolution, speed, and cost are pushing traditional analog receiver functions into the digital domain. While these will be detailed in Chapter 14, some of the main digitization components affecting receivers will be discussed in this chapter. Modern radar receivers are often required to perform a variety of tasks including change of frequency, bandwidth, and gain functions to support the radar modes. These more complex receivers often include digital control networks to select the appropriate receiver depending on the particular radar mode. In addition, these complex receivers often include built-in-test (BIT) functions to enable automated detection of receiver faults.

Chapter Contents:

• 11.1 Introduction
• 11.2 Summary of Receiver Types
• 11.3 Major Receiver Functions
• 11.4 Demodulation
• 11.5 Receiver Noise Power
• 11.6 Receiver Dynamic Range
• 11.7 Analog-to-Digital Data Conversion
• 11.8 Further Reading
• 11.9 References
• 11.10 Problems

Inspec keywords: radar antennas; radar receivers; analogue-digital conversion; radar signal processing; built-in self test

Other keywords: antenna; data processors; signal processors; digital signal processing technology; analog-to-digital converters; BIT functions; receiver fault automated detection; radar receivers; digital control networks; radar modes; gain functions; ADC; radar system; DSP resolution; analog receiver functions; built-in-test function

Subjects: Single antennas; Signal processing and detection; Radar equipment, systems and applications; Production facilities and engineering; A/D and D/A convertors