Ambiguous range in radar occurs when the delay between transmitted pulses and received echoes is such that echoes from one pulse overlap with echoes from subsequent pulses. This overlap makes it difficult to accurately determine the distance to a target because the radar receiver cannot distinguish between echoes of different pulses.
As a result, the radar system may incorrectly interpret the range to the target, leading to measurement errors or the inability to fully detect the target.
To resolve ambiguous range in radar, several techniques can be used depending on the specific radar system and operational requirements. A common method is to increase the pulse repetition frequency (PRF). By increasing the PRF, the time between consecutive pulses decreases, reducing the probability of overlap between echoes of different pulses.
This allows the echo-distinguishing radar system to more efficiently and accurately determine the range to targets within its maximum range without ambiguity.
Another approach to resolving ambiguous range is through pulse-to-pulse frequency agility. This technique involves varying the frequency of consecutive radar pulses in a controlled manner. By modulating the pulse frequency, radar systems can ensure that echoes from one pulse do not overlap with echoes from subsequent pulses, thereby minimizing range ambiguity.
This method is particularly useful in scenarios where increasing the PRF may not be feasible or desirable due to other operational constraints.
Additionally, advanced signal processing algorithms and techniques can be implemented to analyze received radar returns and mitigate the effects of range ambiguity. These algorithms may involve sophisticated digital filtering, correlation techniques, or pulse compression methods to improve the radar’s ability to distinguish echoes and accurately determine the range of targets.
By combining technical adjustments with computational approaches, radar systems can effectively resolve ambiguous range and improve overall measurement accuracy in complex operational environments