Date of Award

3-2001

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

First Advisor

Michael A. Temple, PhD

Abstract

The experimental GP-3 radar system was originally designed and built under contract for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). AFRL sought AFIT's support in characterizing the as delivered' performance of the GP-3. This research effort focused exclusively on software modifications and hardware validations related to the GP-3 post-processing mode. As modified, tested, and validated, the GP-3's post-processing mode is now fully operational. The GP-3 is capable of transmitting and receiving bandlimited (3.5 MHz) waveforms at X-Band frequencies. System characterization tests included, noise performance and frequency response. System noise performance characterization permitted establishment of the receiver 'noise floor' and enabled determination of achievable SNRs (-22 dB to 44 dB for internal noise only). Frequency response characterization provided system coloration' effects; an operational center frequency (4.25 MHz) and -3.0 dB bandwidth (4 MHz) were established. The GP-3's operational post-processing capabilities were demonstrated for three systems: (1) a digital communication system, (2) a phase-coded, pulse compression radar, and (3) a radar employing nonlinear (range ambiguity) suppression (NLS). The GP-3 is now a viable research testbed - a highly capable system for adding an element of real-world credibility to any experimental, modeling, and simulation scenario.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-GE-ENG-01M-06

DTIC Accession Number

ADA391892

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