High Dynamic Range Monopulse Microwave Receiver Front-end

Three channel microwave receivers are widely used in almost all tracking radars utilizing monopulse technique for precision angle tracking. In this paper, the design and realization of a high dynamic range monopulse microwave receiver front- end for a highly application specific airborne tracking radar system has been presented. This design is unique in terms of achieving the desired dynamic range avoiding implementation of sensitivity time control (STC) and automatic gain control (AGC), realized within the space and weight constraints of the system. Phase and amplitude matching between the channels, isolation from transmitter leakage were the other important factors considered. Basic configuration has been presented along with the results of simulation which has been carried out using electronic design automation (EDA) software. Measured results have also been compared with the simulation and presented.