Noise factor and antenna gains in the signal/noise equation for over-the-horizon radar

A recommended form of the signal-to-noise equation that includes both internal and external system noise and signal/noise processing losses is discussed. The recommended form conforms to the internationally accepted definition of system operating noise factor but is extended to include signal/noise processing. The predetection signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of a radar or communication system is proportional to the power gain of the transmit antenna and the directive gain of the receive antenna, and is inversely proportional to the operating noise factor of the receiving system. The operating noise factor is approximately equal to the product of the external noise factor and the signal/noise processing factor when the system is external noise limited, as is usually the case for over-the-horizon (OTH) radar.