Abstract :
The smallest signal discernible through background noise is formulated in terms of the pulse energy, its repetition rate, the receiver design, and the choice of integrating and indicating means. The smallest signal visible on a Type-A scan can be improved upon by the use of electromechanical integrators. Integration before detection is, in theory, ultimately the most effective, but runs into serious practical difficulties. These are avoided when the integration is performed after detection. Optimum predetector selectivity is formulated. The optimum detector (square law) is found, and other detectors compared. A transmitter criterion provides a basis for comparing the effectiveness of transmitters, and shows how, at the expense of range resolution, longer pulses can increase visibility.
