Digital modules for phased array radar

The architecture for a digital transmit/receive module for phased array radars is described. The module is a true digital component: control and data inputs and outputs are sequences of numbers. Direct digital synthesis for frequency generation and a digital receiver provide the core of the digital module, and these two items are discussed separately. A wide range of system performance advantages are accrued using this approach; these are highlighted in the description of the module design. An experimental system using digital modules has been built and successfully demonstrated the feasibility of this approach to radar design. This experimental system was tested in an advanced compact range facility and results for these tests are presented. The concept of digital modules for phased array radar is shown to be sound, and some potential application areas are described.