The use of modelling in high power radar transmitter system design

A complex signal path model (SPM) of a high-power radar transmitter system has been developed at using Alta´s Signal Processing Worksystem (SPW) and has been used as an aid in the design and validation of of a suitable waveform and amplifier linearisation scheme which were needed to ensure an output signal conforming to both spectral and detectability requirements. The SPM has been created to assist in mitigating the risk associated with such a large system. The model simulates the entire signal path from generation and transmission, through propagation to reception, and signal processing to produce a peak detection, and is one of the most comprehensive of its kind. This paper considers the essential components of the transmission subsystem of the SPM, which is a hierarchical block-oriented model, exemplifying its role in developing and validating a sweep feedback control mechanism designed to linearise the output of the high-power transmitter amplifiers. The interaction of modelling with field trials using representative equipment is shown to play an essential role in this process