This Radar Range Convertor helps engineers and enthusiasts estimate the maximum detection distance of a radar system based on power, frequency, antenna gain, target cross-section, and minimum detectable signal. It simplifies complex calculations into an interactive tool.
Radar Range Formula
R = [(Pt × σ × c² × G²) / ((4π)³ × f0² × Pmin)]^(1/4)
Understanding the Formula
The formula calculates the maximum range (R) where a radar can detect a target:
– Pt: Radar transmitted power
– σ: Radar cross-section of the target
– c: Speed of light
– G: Antenna gain
– f0: Radar operating frequency
– Pmin: Minimum detectable signal power
Raising the fraction to the power of 1/4 accounts for the radar equation’s fourth-root dependence on these variables.
Example Calculation
Suppose a radar has the following parameters:
Pt = 10 W, G = 20 (linear), f0 = 5 GHz, σ = 1 m², Pmin = 1 mW
Using the formula:
R = [(10 × 1 × (3×10⁸)² × 20²) / ((4π)³ × (5×10⁹)² × 0.001)]^(1/4) ≈ 92.8 meters
Why use this Radar Range Convertor?
1. Quickly estimate radar coverage for system design.
2. Helps in planning antenna placement and radar deployment.
3. Reduces manual errors in complex radar range calculations.
4. Useful for both educational purposes and professional RF engineering.
5. Provides a clear, interactive method to understand the effect of power, frequency, and gain on radar range.
