Distance Learning Operations Course, Topic 3 Lesson 1

DLOC TOPIC 3 LESSON 1

Table of Contents

Home
Introduction and Objectives
- Introduction
- Objectives
1. Radar Fundamentals
2. Radar Equation and Reflectivity
3. PRF, Rmax, and Vmax
4. Range Issues
5. Radar Beam Characteristics
6. WSR-88D Data Collection
References

Simplified Radar Equation

For the WSR-88D, the only variables that are not fixed are returned power (P_r), reflectivity (Z), attenuation factor (L_a), and range (R). The fixed variables are combined to create a new term which we will refer to as the radar constant, C_r. By combining the fixed variables into a radar constant, Equation (1) simplifies into

Equation (3)

where C_r is the radar constant. Solving for Z, the above equation, Equation (3), becomes

Equation (4)

By knowing the returned power and range (based on timing), the above equation, Equation (4), estimates target reflectivity.

Next Page: Equivalent Reflectivity vs. Reflectivity (Z_e vs. Z)