This report discusses the design and analysis of a step frequency waveform for a surface based radar to detect small targets embedded in clutter. Detection of small targets requires significant reduction in clutter which can be achieved with high range resolution radar with narrow range cell size and Doppler processing. High range resolution with conventional constant frequency waveforms requires high speed A/D with large dynamic range, which is limited by existing A/D technology. However, step frequency allows high resolution with modest A/D requirements. The design of a step frequency waveform is complex due to the conflicting effect of waveform parameters on performance goals. In this report, the design process which determines the waveform parameters for given radar specifications, is systemized. A graphical as well as a computer implementation of the design process is presented. The step frequency waveform is analyzed using the ambiguity function which brings out the characteristics and advantages of the waveform. The ambiguity surface and related diagrams are plotted for specific waveforms of interest.

This thesis investigates the use of the step frequency waveform, its design and analysis using the ambiguity function. The step frequency waveform consists of a series of N pulses each with a pulse width of z, and whose frequency is increased from pulse to pulse in steps of delta f. A design procedure for detection of small targets with a surface (land or sea) based step frequency radar employing a high pulse repetition frequency (PRF) waveform is developed. The proposed method determines the waveform parameters fo given radar specifications. A simple graphical implementation as well as a computer implementation are presented. The theoretical dimensions of the step frequency waveform are defined and verified for some waveforms with parameters similar to the waveform of interest. Finally, the ambiguity function is used to analyze the step frequency waveform.

High range resolution can be obtained using a number of methods including ultra-wideband radar, intrapulse pulse compression, and super- resolution techniques. This thesis investigates the achievement of high radar range resolution by means of the step frequency waveform. The key advantage of the step frequency approach compared to other methods is the wide total bandwidth resulting in high range resolution while still maintaining a narrow instantaneous bandwidth which eases A/D sampling requirements. The effects of various waveform parameters on the high resolution range profile are determined for both noise and clutter limited environments. A novel technique is developed which enhances the resolution of moving targets in clutter and estimates the target velocity. This method consists of clutter cancellation followed by successive velocity compensations. Finally, design methods are developed to optimize system performance in a low PRF mode for both noise and clutter limited environments. Step frequency radar, Stepped-frequency waveform, High resolution radar, HRR.

This book comprehensively describes high-resolution microwave imaging and super-resolution information processing technologies and discusses new theories, methods and achievements in the high-resolution microwave imaging fields. Its chapters, which include abundant research results and examples, systematically summarize the authors’ main research findings in recent years. The book is intended for researchers, engineers and postgraduates in the fields of electronics systems, signal information processing and data analysis, microwave remote sensing and microwave imaging radar, as well as space technology, especially in the microwave remote sensing and airborne or space-borne microwave imaging radar fields.

An introduction to radar systems should ideally be self-contained and hands-on, a combination lacking in most radar texts. The first edition of Radar Systems Analysis and Design Using MATLAB® provided such an approach, and the second edition continues in the same vein. This edition has been updated, expanded, and reorganized to include advances in the field and to be more logical in sequence. Ideal for anyone encountering the topic for the first time or for professionals in need of on-the-job reference, this book features an abundance of MATLAB programs and code. Radar Systems Analysis and Design Using MATLAB®, Second Edition presents the fundamentals and principles of radar along with enough rigorous mathematical derivations to ensure that you gain a deep understanding. The author has extensively revised chapters on radar cross-section and polarization, matched filter and radar ambiguity function, and radar wave propagation. He also added information on topics such as PRN codes, multipath and refraction, clutter and MTI processing, and high range resolution. With all MATLAB functions updated to reflect version 7.0 and an expanded set of self-test problems, you will find this up-to-date text to be the most complete treatment of radar available, providing the hands-on tools that will enrich your learning.

High range resolution can be obtained using a number of methods including ultra-wideband radar, intrapulse pulse compression, and super- resolution techniques. This thesis investigates the achievement of high radar range resolution by means of the step frequency waveform. The key advantage of the step frequency approach compared to other methods is the wide total bandwidth resulting in high range resolution while still maintaining a narrow instantaneous bandwidth which eases A/D sampling requirements. The effects of various waveform parameters on the high resolution range profile are determined for both noise and clutter limited environments. A novel technique is developed which enhances the resolution of moving targets in clutter and estimates the target velocity. This method consists of clutter cancellation followed by successive velocity compensations. Finally, design methods are developed to optimize system performance in a low PRF mode for both noise and clutter limited environments.

This second edition of Airborne Pulsed Doppler Radar brings you up-to-date on new radar technologies since 1987 -- plus those likely to appear in the next five years. The book provides valuable insight into specific issues unique to airborne systems and contains the most extensive treatment of the medium-PRF waveform for more accurate performance analysis. Complete with nearly 250 illustrations and 290 equations, the book provides the background you need to: - Plan and predict the outcome of test programs - Evaluate proposals for new radar systems or upgrades - Analyze the performance of airborne radars in various scenarios - Understand the capabilities and limitations of airborne systems This book is a valuable reference for radar engineers, missile-seeker system engineers, and users of military airborne radar. It keeps you current on the fundamental principles and system design rationale for establishing radar characteristics, signal processing for target detection performance, and signal processing for tracking and system testing.