Radar systems use various scanning modes to gather information about targets and the environment. These scanning modes can be broadly classified into two main types: mechanical scanning and electronic scanning (also known as phased array scanning).
Mechanical scanning involves physically rotating the radar antenna to scan a narrow beam of radio waves across the sky or a specific area. This rotational movement allows the radar to cover a wide field of view by systematically scanning azimuth (horizontal direction) and elevation (vertical direction). Mechanical scanning is reliable and simple, but can have limitations in scanning speed and agility.
Electronic scanning, or progressive array scanning, uses an array of individual antenna elements that can be electronically controlled to direct the radar beam without physically moving the antenna. By adjusting the phase and amplitude of signals across the antenna array, electronic scanning allows rapid and precise scanning of the radar beam in different directions. This flexibility allows electronic scanning radars to quickly switch between scanning modes, such as sector scanning, pencil beam scanning, or adaptive scanning patterns, depending on operational requirements.
The choice of radar scanning technique depends on factors such as the operational environment, the need for rapid target acquisition, tracking agility and the complexity of the radar system design. Mechanical scanning is often used in traditional radar systems where simplicity and reliability are prioritized, such as in weather radars or early warning radars. Electronic scanning, on the other hand, is favored for modern radar applications that require fast response times, adaptive scan patterns and precise target tracking capabilities, such as in military surveillance, air traffic control and surveillance systems. Advanced weather monitoring.