Compact, solid state, high PRF radar modulators

Abstract

Hundreds of radar systems in US DoD and commercial operation today utilize tetrodes or thyratrons/PFNs for high PRF (pulse repetition frequency) pulse modulation. These vacuum tube modulators are expensive to maintain, and their relatively short lifetime constitutes a significant operational expense. DTI of Bedford, MA, USA, with support, from the Office of Naval Research and the Naval Surface Warfare Center, has built high voltage, compact, solid state modulators with applications in a wide variety of radar systems. The new modulator technology significantly increase the performance and reliability of high PRF radar systems.