COMMS AND RADAR CALCULATOR

In the age of technological advancement, precision in communication and radar systems has become indispensable. This research report details the development of a comprehensive mobile application designed to facilitate radar and communication system calculations. The application encompasses four vital calculators: Line of Sight (LOS) Distance Calculator, Receiver Sensitivity Analysis, Free Space Loss (FSL) Calculator, and Maximum Detection Range Estimation Calculator. These calculators have been meticulously designed to provide accurate and efficient solutions to challenges in radar technology and communication systems.

INTRODUCTION

Introduction

In the field of radar and communication systems, complex calculations are often required to determine the feasibility and budgeting of various projects. These calculations involve multiple parameters and variables that need to be carefully considered. To simplify this process, a radar and communication links budget tool has been developed. This tool aims to streamline the calculation process and provide accurate results, enabling engineers and project managers to make informed decisions.

With the advent of mobile applications, professionals are able to access information and perform complex calculations more efficiently and effectively. Our application was developed to meet the specific needs of radar technology and communication systems professionals. Users are able to perform critical tasks with precision and ease through the intuitive interface which houses four essential calculators.

In this study, the methodology employed in developing these calculators is examined. These calculators were designed to produce accurate results while being user-friendly and applicable to real-world situations. In order to accomplish this monumental project, the C# programming language has been chosen for its versatility, reliability, and performance [1]. The C# programming language provides a robust foundation for a user-friendly, yet highly capable tool that is flexible, yet highly functional. This visionary app can be brought to life with its adaptability, which makes it the ideal choice.

The following sections of this report provide comprehensive explanations and examples of each application feature, detailing the methodology and formula behind these features. A comprehensive overview of the project will also be presented, highlighting its potential impact on communication and radar systems.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Introduction

In order to develop our research methodology, we conducted a thorough literature review encompassing LOS calculations, radar technology, communication systems, and electromagnetic theory. Our findings from the literature review were summarized as follows:

1. LOS Calculations: Calculation of LOS distances requires accurate height measurements and geometry and trigonometry principles [2].

2. Sensitivity Analysis of the Receiver: An analysis of the SNR (signal to noise ratio) and noise figure (noise figure) revealed a significant relationship between bandwidth, noise floor, and receiver sensitivity [3].

3. Free Space Loss (FSL): The literature emphasizes electromagnetic theory and propagation models and emphasizes Friis's transmission equation for FSL calculations [4].

4. Estimation of maximum detection range: Radar fundamentals, including transmitter power, antenna gain, RCS, and sensitivity, have been identified as critical components of range estimation [5], [6].

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Introduction

In the developing stages of the mobile application for communication and radar system calculations, a systematic research methodology was utilized. This section provides insight into the approach we adopted to comprehend and implement each calculator within the application. Additionally, the key formulas used are as described:

Line of Sight (LOS) Distance

1. Geometry and Trigonometry: The development process of the radar and target Line Of Sight (LOS) distance calculator begins with a foundational understanding of geometry and trigonometry. These mathematical principles are crucial for calculating LOS distances accurately.

2. Consultation with Experts: To ensure the precision of LOS distance calculations, consultations were held with experts in relevant fields, including radar technology and geometry.

3. Literature Review: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, covering resources related to LOS calculations and radar systems. This review helped in identifying common methodologies and best practices.

The Radar and Target LOS Distance Calculator is designed to determine the Line Of Sight (LOS) distance between a radar (transmitter) and a target (receiver). To comprehend its operation, one must understand the following key concepts:

1. Radar Height (RH): This parameter represents the height of the radar above the ground in meters (m). It is a crucial factor that affects LOS distance calculations.

2. Target Height (TH): Similarly, the target height is specified in meters (m) and reflects the elevation of the target above the ground.

3. [D1, D2] Calculation: The calculator calculates two intermediate distances, D1 and D2, using the radar and target heights, respectively. These distances are determined using the formula:

   (3.1)

where the constants 4.12 and the square root operation are derived from geometric considerations.

4. LOS Distance (LOS Dist): The LOS distance between the radar and target is the sum of D1 and D2, that is determined using the formula:

   (3.2)

The final result is provided in both kilometers (km) and nautical miles (nm) for user convenience.

5. Conversion to Nautical Miles: To provide an additional unit of measurement, the LOS distance is also converted to nautical miles (nm) by dividing the result by 1.85 (1 nautical mile is approximately 1.85 kilometers).

A systematic approach guided by mathematical principles and expert insight is used to calculate radar and target LOS distance for the mobile application.

Receiver Sensitivity Analysis

1. Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): The development of the Receiver Sensitivity Analysis Calculator begins with an understanding of SNR and its significance in communication systems. SNR is a critical factor in determining receiver sensitivity.

2. Noise Figure Analysis: Noise figure analysis is conducted to assess the impact of noise on receiver sensitivity. This involves understanding the role of noise figure (NF) and its calculation.

3. Bandwidth (BW): Bandwidth is a key parameter affecting receiver sensitivity, and its relationship with noise is analyzed to determine the noise floor.

4. Numerical Methods: Numerical techniques, including logarithmic calculations, are utilized to accurately calculate receiver sensitivity and noise floor.

To effectively utilize the Receiver Sensitivity Analysis Calculator, it is essential to comprehend the following key concepts:

1. Bandwidth (BW): BW represents the system's bandwidth in hertz (Hz), which determines the amount of information that can be transmitted or received.

2. Noise Figure (NF): NF, measured in decibels (dB), quantifies the additional noise introduced by the receiver. A lower NF indicates better receiver performance.

3. Noise Floor: The noise floor, expressed in decibels milliwatt (dBm), represents the minimum detectable signal power level in the presence of noise. The calculator computes the noise floor following the formula:

   (3.3)

where the constant -174 represents the thermal noise floor.

4. Sensitivity: Sensitivity, also in dBm, is the receiver's ability to detect weak signals while maintaining an acceptable SNR. The calculator calculates receiver sensitivity by adding the noise floor to NF value following the formula:

   (3.4)

This systematic approach, grounded in signal-to-noise ratio analysis and precise mathematical calculations, ensures the accuracy and reliability of the Receiver Sensitivity Analysis Calculator within the mobile application.

c. Free Space Loss (FSL)

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1. Electromagnetic Theory: A deep understanding of electromagnetic theory was essential. We reviewed Maxwell's equations and electromagnetic wave propagation principles.

2. Propagation Models: We explored various propagation models, including the Friis - transmission equation, to calculate free space loss.

3. Numerical Methods: Numerical methods, such as integration techniques, were employed to handle complex calculations.

The Free Space Loss (FSL) calculator within our mobile application operates based on the fundamental principles of signal propagation through free space. It considers the following parameters:

1. Transmitter Power (PTx): This parameter represents the power of the transmitter in watts (W), signifying the signal source's strength. The calculator initially converts the transmitter power (PTx) from watts (W) to decibels milliwatt (dBm) using the formula:

   (3.5)

2. Transmitting Antenna Gain (GTx): The gain of the transmitting antenna in decibels isotropic (dBi) reflects its effectiveness in directing the transmitted signal.

3. Receiving Antenna Gain (GRx): Similarly, the receiving antenna's gain in dBi indicates its ability to capture signals effectively.

4. Frequency (F): The frequency of the signal, expressed in megahertz (MHz), plays a pivotal role in determining signal propagation characteristics.

5. Distance (R): This parameter signifies the spatial separation between the transmitter and the receiver, measured in kilometers (km).

6. Additional Loss (L): Users can account for any supplementary losses in the communication path, such as those caused by obstacles or interference, by specifying this value in decibels (dB).

7. Receiver Sensitivity (Sensitivity): Receiver sensitivity, measured in decibels milliwatt (dBm), represents the minimum signal power required for successful detection.

The FSL calculator follows a systematic process to compute the Free Space Loss:

1. Received Power (PRx (dBm)): The calculator calculates the received power at the receiver (PRx) by considering transmitter power, antenna gains, frequency, distance, and additional losses. The formula for PRx calculation is:

   (3.6)

2. Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR (dB)): Finally, the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) is determined by subtracting the receiver sensitivity (Sensitivity) from the received power (PRx), as follows:

   (3.7)

The resulting SNR value indicates the quality of the received signal and is a critical factor in communication system performance. This systematic approach, combined with rigorous research and consultations with experts, underpins the accuracy and reliability of our FSL calculator within the mobile application.

d. Maximum Detection Range Estimation

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1. Radar Fundamentals: The development of the Maximum Detection Range Estimation Calculator begins with a strong foundation in radar principles. This includes an understanding of radar power, antenna gains, radar cross-section (RCS), and radar sensitivity.

2. Propagation Models: Propagation models, such as the radar range equation, are explored to estimate the maximum detection range. These models consider factors like signal propagation losses and pulse characteristics.

3. Numerical Techniques: Numerical techniques, including logarithmic and exponential calculations, are applied to handle complex radar range estimations accurately.

To effectively utilize the Maximum Detection Range Estimation Calculator, it is essential to comprehend the following key concepts:

1. Transmitter Power (PTx): PTx represents the power of the radar transmitter in kilowatts (kW). It signifies the strength of the radar signal.

2. Transmitting Antenna Gain (GTx): Gt is the gain of the transmitting antenna in decibels isotropic (dBi). It indicates how effectively the radar antenna directs the signal.

3. Receiving Antenna Gain (GRx): Similarly, GRx is the gain of the receiving antenna in dBi, reflecting its ability to capture radar signals.

4. Radar Cross-Section (RCS): RCS is specified in decibels milliwatt per square meter (dBm^2^) and quantifies the reflective properties of the target.

5. Number of Pulses: The number of radar pulses used in the detection process is a crucial parameter.

6. Frequency (F): Freq represents the radar signal frequency in gigahertz (GHz), which influences signal propagation.

7. Minimum Detectable Signal Power (MDS PRx): MDS PRx, measured in decibels milliwatt (dBm), is the minimum received power required for target detection.

8. Additional Loss (L): Users can account for any supplementary losses, such as environmental factors or interference, by specifying this value in decibels (dB).

The Maximum Detection Range Estimation Calculator follows a systematic calculation process:

1. Transmitter Power Conversion (PTx (dBm)): The calculator converts the radar transmitter power (PTx) from kilowatts (kW) to decibels milliwatt (dBm) using the formula:

   (3.8)

where 0.001 represents 1 milliwatt (mW) in dBm.

2. 40 log (R) Calculation: The calculator estimates the value of 40 log (R), which is a key component in radar range estimation. This calculation considers Pt (dBm), antenna gains, RCS, the number of pulses, frequency, MDS PRx, and additional losses:

   (3.9)

where NOP is the number of pulses.

3. Range (R) Calculation: Finally, the calculator computes the maximum detection range (R) by applying the inverse logarithmic operation to 40 log (R):

   (3.10)

This systematic approach, grounded in radar theory and precise mathematical calculations, ensures the accuracy and reliability of the Maximum Detection Range Estimation Calculator within the mobile application.

RESULTS

Analytical Proofs

The final program is provided on Google Play under the name (Radars & Comms Calculator). The program calculates the LOS, receiver sensitivity, losses, and maximum detection range following the formulas provided in the Methodology chapter as shown in Figure 4-1.

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Figure ‎4‑1: Main menu of the Comms & Radar calculator.

{width="1.6627930883639546in" height="3.3771948818897637in"}{width="1.6877154418197726in" height="3.427810586176728in"}{width="1.669371172353456in" height="3.390553368328959in"}By selecting the function and apply the parameters, the results are provided by the calculator as shown in Figure 4-2.

CONCLUSION

Conclusion

Our research methodology has resulted in a mobile application for radar technology and communication systems that combines theory with practice. In real-world scenarios, users can rely on our calculators for accurate results. Our scientific approach, based upon mathematical principles and expert insight, ensures accuracy.

Through the Google Play Store, you can download and install the mobile application, which includes the four calculators described in this report. We encourage users to explore its capabilities and leverage its accuracy in radar and communication system calculations.

The complete source code of the mobile application can be found on our GitHub repository for those interested in the underlying code and technical details. The repository allows you to review the codebase, contribute to its development, and gain a deeper understanding of the algorithms and formulas employed in the calculators. Developers are welcome to collaborate and engage in the project.

Researchers and enthusiasts in the rapidly evolving fields of radar technology and communication systems will benefit from this research and application. As a result of this innovative tool, we believe individuals seeking precision, efficiency, and reliability in their calculations and analyses will be able to benefit greatly.

[]{#_Toc145604405 .anchor}REFERENCES

[1] Hejlsberg, Anders, Scott Wiltamuth, and Peter Golde. C# language specification. Addison-Wesley Longman Publishing Co., Inc., 2003.

[2] Kent, Brian M., et al. "Dynamic radar cross section and radar Doppler measurements of commercial General Electric windmill power turbines Part 1: Predicted and measured radar signatures." IEEE Antennas and Propagation Magazine 50.2 (2008): 211-219.

[3] Ulaby, Fawwaz T., Adnan Aslam, and Myron C. Dobson. "Effects of vegetation cover on the radar sensitivity to soil moisture." IEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing 4 (1982): 476-481.

[4] Ghodgaonkar, Deepak K., Vasundara V. Varadan, and Vijay K. Varadan. "A free-space method for measurement of dielectric constants and loss tangents at microwave frequencies." IEEE Transactions on Instrumentation and measurement 38.3 (1989): 789-793.

[5] Barton, David K. "Modern radar system analysis." Norwood (1988).

[6] Skolnik, Merrill Ivan. "Introduction to radar systems." New York (1980).