Radar Frequency Bands Chart: A Complete Overview

Radar systems utilize a variety of frequency bands, each with its own set of characteristics that impact performance factors like range and resolution. A radar frequency bands chart is a useful tool to categorize these frequencies, helping engineers select the most suitable band for their particular applications. Common radar frequency bands include L, S, C, X, Ku, and Ka bands.

Each band occupies a specific frequency range and is suited for different tasks. Most radars operate in the UHF and microwave frequency bands. Modern radars are even venturing into millimeter wave bands.

The table below provides an overview of various radar bands, including their frequency range, wavelength, maximum peak transmitted power, and typical applications.

Radar BandFrequency RangeWavelengthMaximum Peak Power (MWatt)Applications
HF3 to 30 MHz10 m to 100 m-Coastal radar systems, OTH (Over-the-Horizon) radar
P30 to 300 MHz1m to 10m-Applied retrospectively to early radar systems
UHF300 to 1000MHz0.3 to 1 m5.0Very long range, ground penetrating radar
L1 to 2 GHz15 cm to 30 cm30.0Long range air traffic control and surveillance
S2 to 4 GHz7.5 cm to 15 cm25.0Terminal air traffic control, long range weather or marine radar
C4 to 8 GHz3.75 cm to 7.5 cm15.0Satellite transponders, weather radar
X8 to 12 GHz2.5 cm to 3.75 cm10.0Missile guidance, marine and weather radar, ground surveillance
Ku12 to 18 GHz1.67 cm to 2.5 cm2.0High resolution mapping, satellite altimetry
K18 to 27 GHz1.11 to 1.67 cm0.6Used by meteorologists to detect clouds, used by police to detect motorists with high speed.
Ka27 to 40 GHz0.75 cm to 1.11 cm0.25Mapping, short range, airport surveillance
mm40 to 300 GHz1 mm to 7.5 mm-This millimeter band is used for various radar applications
Q40 to 60 GHz5 mm to 7.5 mm-Used for military communications
V50 to 75 GHz4 mm to 6 mm-Very strongly absorbed by atmosphere
W75 to 110 GHz2.7 mm to 4 mm-76GHz LRR, 79GHz SRR automotive radar, high resolution meteorological observation, imaging

Understanding the characteristics of each band empowers radar engineers to design systems optimized for specific environmental conditions and application requirements.

Conclusion

The radar frequency bands chart is a valuable resource for selecting the appropriate band for a given application, ensuring optimal radar performance across diverse scenarios.