Measuring Freq of Doppler Radar Antenna

[shb264]

Hello

I have got a radar antenna with amplifier which say 30 GHz. The output power is .1 KW, which is less. I want to measure the exact frequency of the radar transmission. how can I measure the frequency and which equipment will be needed.

Radar antenna and amplifier are separate modules. Amplifier is powered up by 220 V 50 Hz ac and antenna module is connected with amplifier with a coax cable.

 

[jiripolivka]

Really nice specification!
The only suitable device to test the emitted-signal frequency is a spectrum analyzer with a good waveguide attenuator and a small horn.
Be sure to use a maximum attenuation to start, otherwise you will kill the analyzer input mixer.
Doppler radars often use not too stable oscillator so using a counter may not work.

 

[biff44]

a spectrum analyzer with a horn antenna nearby will do it....would start with a 30 dB attenuator pad in between the antenna and the analyzer. You can "max hold" the spectrum analyzer and after many passes figure out the frequency.

If you have access to the hardware, you could insert a directional coupler between the radar transmitter and antenna, and use a coax cable connection.

They also make pulsed frequency counters to measure non-cw signals

 

[shb264]

Can this frequency pass through fog/ dust and detect some object beyond some dust cloud?? Any opinion from the experts on the subject...

 

[jiripolivka]

Can this frequency pass through fog/ dust and detect some object beyond some dust cloud?? Any opinion from the experts on the subject...

Yes it can, but there are other factor to count on

 

[shb264]

So what is the most suitable frequency if you want to see through dust cloud on the ground of some fog. Are there some frequencies which are not effected by these factors...

 

[jiripolivka]

So what is the most suitable frequency if you want to see through dust cloud on the ground of some fog. Are there some frequencies which are not effected by these factors...

Generally speaking, fog and dust do not attenuate wavelengths longer than several micrometers.
So THz frequencies and lower are suitable. You should avoid spectrum lines of water vapor like 183 GHz or 23 GHz, otherwise fine.

 

[shb264]

Can X band (around 10 GHz) frequency radar be more suitable (35 G Hz) Ka Band radar...? as x band is generally available other that 24-35 GHz range?

 

[jiripolivka]

Can X band (around 10 GHz) frequency radar be more suitable (35 G Hz) Ka Band radar...? as x band is generally available other that 24-35 GHz range?

I can see that : 1.you have a 30 GHz radar and want to know its transmit frequency.
2. you have no clear idea what you want.

Indicate the problem you need to resolve. The best way is to read a good textbook and learn the basics of microwave propagation and radar technology.