FlexSAR, a high-quality, flexible, cost-effective, prototype SAR system

Mark Jensen; Chad Knight; Brent Haslem

doi:10.1117/12.2177594

21 May 2015 FlexSAR, a high-quality, flexible, cost-effective, prototype SAR system

Mark Jensen, Chad Knight, Brent Haslem

Proceedings Volume 9461, Radar Sensor Technology XIX; and Active and Passive Signatures VI; 94610K (2015) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2177594
Event: SPIE Defense + Security, 2015, Baltimore, MD, United States

Abstract

The FlexSAR radar system was designed to be a high quality, low-cost, flexible prototype instrument. Many radar researchers and practitioners desire the ability to efficiently prototype novel configurations. However, the cost and time required to modify existing radar systems is a challenging hurdle that can be prohibitive. The FlexSAR system couples an RF design that leverages connectorized components with digital commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) cards. This design allows for a scalable system that supports software defined radio (SDR) capabilities. This paper focuses on the RF and digital system design, discussing the advantages and disadvantages. The FlexSAR system design objective was to support diverse configurations with minimal non-recurring engineering (NRE) costs. Multiple diverse applications are examined, demonstrating the flexible system nature. The configurations discussed utilize different system parameters (e.g., number of phase-centers, transmit configurations, etc.). The resultant products are examined, illustrating that high-quality data products are still attained.

Citation Download Citation

Mark Jensen, Chad Knight, and Brent Haslem "FlexSAR, a high-quality, flexible, cost-effective, prototype SAR system", Proc. SPIE 9461, Radar Sensor Technology XIX; and Active and Passive Signatures VI, 94610K (21 May 2015); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2177594

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