Monopulse Radar vs. Conical Scan Radar: A Comparison

radar
monopulse
conical scan
tracking
angle accuracy

This article compares Monopulse Radar and Conical Scan Radar, outlining their similarities and differences. Both are types of tracking radar used for determining the position of a target.

Comparison Table

FeatureMonopulse RadarConical Scan Radar
Scanning SystemSimultaneous scanning systemSequential scanning system
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)LargeSmall
Angle AccuracyBetterInferior compared to monopulse radar
Glint EffectSystem performance is degraded by glint.System performance is degraded by glint.
Echo Amplitude FluctuationAngle accuracy is not affected.Angle accuracy is not affected.
ComplexityMore complexNot complex
Receiving Channels21
Antenna FeedsTwo feedsSingle feed
Antenna Beam Rotation SpeedRelatively low speedRelatively high speed
Pulse RequirementSingle pulseMinimum 4 pulses
Angle MeasurementAngle measurement done in two coordinates, measured, then integrated.Angle measurement done in two coordinates, integrated, then measured.
Electronic CountermeasuresLess susceptibleMore susceptible
CostRelatively highRelatively low
ApplicationUsed when good angle accuracy is neededUsed when high angle accuracy is not needed

Key Differences Explained

The table above highlights several key differences. Monopulse radar uses a simultaneous scanning system and provides better angle accuracy due to its ability to process signals from a single pulse. This comes at the cost of increased complexity and higher expense. The higher SNR also helps in difficult detection scenarios.

Conical scan radar, on the other hand, employs a sequential scanning system, requiring multiple pulses to determine target location. While its angle accuracy isn’t as precise as monopulse radar, it benefits from a simpler design and lower cost.

Angle Measurement Approaches

A significant difference lies in how each radar processes angle measurements. Monopulse radar performs angle measurement in two coordinates simultaneously, providing a more instantaneous and precise result, making it less susceptible to target movement during the measurement process. Conical scan radar integrates pulses over time before performing angle measurement, which can be affected by target motion.

Electronic Warfare Considerations

Monopulse radar’s ability to operate with a single pulse and its sophisticated signal processing techniques make it less vulnerable to electronic countermeasures, offering a crucial advantage in contested environments.

TWS Radar: Advantages and Disadvantages

Explore the benefits and drawbacks of Tracking While Scan (TWS) radar systems, including their applications in air defense and limitations in accuracy.

radar
tws
tracking