A great deal can be done to enhance and optimize the operation of a radar through careful selection of, principally, its PRFs but also of other waveform parameters. Simplifying the method of PRF selection can give a workable solution, but far superior performance can be achieved if one is prepared to take on a more complex problem entailing fine PRF resolution and combinations of PRFs with other waveform and processing parameters. The more complex problems demand more complex methods of optimization. Modern methods described here have been used with great success in the design of radar waveforms supporting a wide range of modes such as high and medium PRF pulse Doppler and ground-moving target indication (GMTI) and applications such as airborne fire control and long-range early warning radars.

Chapter Contents:

• 15.1 A Brief Review of the Pulse Repetition Frequency Selection Requirements
• 15.2 PRF Selection for Maximum Visibility
• 15.3 Major-Minor Method of PRF Selection
• 15.4 M:N Method of PRF Selection
• 15.5 Exhaustive Search
• 15.6 PRF Selection Using a Neural Network
• 15.7 PRF Selection Using Evolutionary Algorithms
• 15.8 Concluding Remarks
• References

Inspec keywords: ground penetrating radar; radar resolution; optimisation; Doppler radar

Other keywords: ground-moving target indication; pulse repetition frequency selection; complex method; MEMS packaging; radar resolution; airborne fire control; medium PRF pulse Doppler radar; optimization; radar waveform parameter; GMTI; long-range early warning radar

Subjects: Optimisation techniques; Radar equipment, systems and applications