Why Does Pulse Shape Matter For Radar (And How To Accurately Characterize It)?

Pulsed and pulse compression (CHIRP) radar systems are essential in applications ranging from air traffic control to weather monitoring and military operations. Their effectiveness depends on pulse fidelity—the accuracy with which a transmitted pulse matches its intended shape. Distortions such as overshoot, ringing, and droop can degrade detection range, reduce target resolution, or even generate false “ghost” targets. For instance, overshoot may trigger limiters that protect hardware but reduce average power output, while ringing can introduce sidelobes in pulse compression radars, creating false returns.

To evaluate and optimize radar performance, engineers must measure and characterize pulse shapes with precision. A typical test setup includes an RF synthesizer to generate the stimulus, driver amplifiers to boost input power, directional couplers to extract signals for monitoring, and peak power sensors to capture pulse details. Solid-state power amplifiers (SSPAs), which amplify radar pulses before transmission, are a key focus of such testing.

Maury Microwave provides solutions tailored for these needs. The MPA-series driver amplifiers deliver clean, consistent pulses, ensuring signal integrity through the test chain. The RTP5000 Series peak power sensors offer industry-leading capabilities, including a 50 MHz–40 GHz range, –50 dBm sensitivity, <3 ns rise time, 100 ps time resolution, and the ability to measure pulses as narrow as 10 ns. With high-speed, gap-free acquisition, these sensors capture subtle pulse artifacts with unmatched accuracy.

By combining robust driver amplifiers and precision power sensors, Maury Microwave enables engineers to confidently measure pulse fidelity, safeguard radar performance, and ensure mission-critical systems operate at peak effectiveness.