DESIGNING AND CONFIGURING PROOF-OF-CONCEPT LPI RADAR RF FRONT END

Abstract

Multi-function systems that perform radar detection, conduct electronic warfare, and enable communications between platforms and troops are highly desirable; however, integrating these functions into a single package of limited physical size presents significant challenges. The design, assembly, configuration, and analysis of a transceiver radio frequency (RF) front end using commercial off-the-shelf modules to test the various functions of a proof-of-concept multi-function RF system are presented in this thesis. Various transceiver RF requirement analyses are performed including frequency selection, intermodulation products, minimum discernable signal, dynamic range, filter needs, noise figure, required signal-to-noise power ratio, transmitter and receiver gain analyses, and transmit power. Power, gain, and filter measurements through the receive chain were obtained to validate the RF receiver and transmitter front end designs. Results indicate that various RF requirements are met. Eventual miniaturization and integration of the whole RF transceiver into a single package are discussed.