Understanding Radar Range Calculation
The maximum radar range is determined by the radar equation:
Rmax = (PtG2σλ2 / (4π)3Pmin)1/4
Where:
- Rmax: Maximum radar range
- Pt: Transmitter power
- G: Antenna gain
- σ: Radar cross section of the target
- λ: Wavelength (implicit in our simplified calculator)
- Pmin: Minimum detectable power
Example Calculation:
Let's consider a typical air traffic control radar:
- Transmitter Power: 1000 W
- Antenna Gain: 10000 (40 dB)
- Radar Cross Section (small aircraft): 1 m²
- Minimum Detectable Power: 10-13 W
Using these values in the calculator would yield a maximum range of approximately 240 km.
Factors Affecting Radar Range:
- Transmitter Power: Higher power increases range
- Antenna Gain: Better focusing of energy improves range
- Target RCS: Larger targets are detectable at greater distances
- Receiver Sensitivity: Lower minimum detectable power increases range
Experiment with the calculator to see how changing these parameters affects the maximum radar range!
