Detection of Electronic Devices Using FMCW Nonlinear Radar

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Electromagnetics
• Radar Systems

Background:

• Conventional radars struggle to detect electronic devices due to their small radar cross-sections (RCS).
• Nonlinear radar receivers are designed to detect harmonic or intermodulated echoes, enabling separation from clutter.
• Electronic devices generate unique nonlinear responses not present in natural scatterers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a harmonic-based nonlinear radar scheme for detecting electronic devices.
• To utilize frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) signals for enhanced detection.
• To evaluate the performance of nonlinear FMCW radar for short-range electronic device detection.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a harmonic-based nonlinear radar system.
• Utilizing frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) signals in S-band (Tx) and C-band (Rx).
• Conducting laboratory experiments to detect electronic devices of various sizes.

Main Results:

• Successful detection of small electronic devices was achieved using the nonlinear FMCW radar.
• The system demonstrated the ability to distinguish electronic devices from non-electronic clutter.
• Appropriate selection of system parameters is crucial for effective detection.

Conclusions:

• Nonlinear FMCW radar is a viable technique for detecting small electronic devices.
• The study provides insights into system parameter selection for optimal performance.
• The paper discusses maximum detectable range estimation using the nonlinear radar range equation.