Mark A. McFarland and Robert T. Johnk

Abstract: Characterizing the effects that out-of-band interference has on the performance of an S-band marine radar receiver’s IF output normally requires non-linear network analysis. We have developed a non-linear network analyzer from commonly available laboratory instruments. Our automated system operates over a broad range of interferer frequencies and power levels. It enables the collection of the data required for an extensive analysis of a radar receiver’s AM-AM and AM-PM performance in the presence of interference. With this data, engineers can begin to make recommendations on protecting these radars from potential interference.

Keywords: radar; out-of-band interference; S-band; non-linear network analyzer; interference protection; insertion loss; phase loss

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