The radar range calculator helps determine the maximum distance at which a radar can detect a target.
This tool is designed for engineers and technicians working on RF systems and radars.
Formula used
R = ⁴√((Pt × σ × c² × G²) / ((4π)³ × f₀² × Pmin))
Or :
Pt = radar output power
σ = radar cross section of the target
c = speed of light (~3 × 10⁸ m/s)
G = antenna gain (linear)
f₀ = radar frequency
Pmin = minimum detectable signal
R = maximum range
Explanation
The maximum range depends on the transmitted power, antenna gain, frequency and sensitivity of the radar.
Higher gain or greater power increases range, while higher frequency or lower minimum signal can reduce it.
The cross section σ reflects the size and reflectivity of the target.
Calculation example
For a radar with:
Pt = 10 W , σ = 1 m² , G = 10 , f₀ = 3 GHz , Pmin = 0.001 W :
R = ⁴√((10 × 1 × (3×10⁸)² × 10²) / ((4π)³ × (3×10⁹)² × 0.001)) ≈ 17,000 meters
Benefits and Use
- Allows you to estimate the maximum detection distance of a radar target.
- Useful for the design and evaluation of radar and RF systems.
- Helps optimize the performance and reliability of surveillance systems.
- Facilitates coverage planning and radar positioning.
