PX-1000: A Solid-State Polarimetric X-Band Weather Radar and Time–Frequency Multiplexed Waveform for Blind Range Mitigation

Abstract

In this paper, a compact, transportable, and dual-polarization X-band weather radar was developed at the Advanced Radar Research Center of the University of Oklahoma. The radar was designed using a software-defined radio (SDR) approach for waveform versatility. One of the key innovations in this paper is the combination of SDR design and the mitigation of blind range, which is inherent in pulse compression radars, using a time-frequency multiplexed waveform while compression is performed in pure software architecture. Internally, this radar has been referred to as the PX-1000. It is primarily used as a platform for waveform studies and various signal processing techniques, such as pulse compression, polarimetric signal processing, refractivity retrieval, and support of various field campaigns. The radar system has been completed and is operational. It has two identical and independent power amplifiers, one for each polarization. The system also features a 1.2-m parabolic reflector dish with dual-polarization feed, which provides a 1.8 ° beamwidth. A majority of the components are housed above the turntable of an azimuth-over-elevation pedestal. We also took this opportunity to design and develop a new software suite that includes signal processing, system control, and graphical user interface. The raw I/Q time series can be recorded and streamed out of the radar system in real time. In this paper, a detailed description of the radar and some experimental data will be presented.