Improving the Automatic Frequency Tracking and Correction System of Pulse Radars with Magnetron Transmitter
https://doi.org/10.32603/1993-8985-2025-28-6-90-98
Abstract
Introduction. In conventional pulse radar systems of earlier generations that utilize magnetron generators, automatic frequency tracking and correction mechanisms are predominantly based on analog technology. These systems exhibit several inherent limitations, most notably those arising from to the limited frequency stability of the magnetron generator. Specific issues include inaccuracies in estimating the deviation between the measured frequency and its nominal value, a limited tracking range, and a slow response time. The fundamental cause of this low frequency stability lies in the magnetron design, which operates on an LC self-oscillation principle. In this paper, we propose to enhance the automatic frequency tracking and correction system by incorporating digital signal processing techniques and fast Fourier transform (FFT) algorithms. This approach enables rapid and high-precision measurement of the operating frequency within time intervals defined by the pulse width. The proposed methodology significantly improves the performance and reliability of such systems. These findings hold considerable practical importance, particularly for the modernization and sustained operation of legacy pulse radar systems. By addressing the limitations of outdated analog components, the proposed solution extends the operational lifespan of such systems. This is of importance given the scarcity of replacement parts that are no longer available on the market.
Aim. Research and presentation of a digital solution for the system of automatic frequency tracking and correction. Materials and methods. The research methodology was based on previous research findings, achievements in digital signal processing and theoretical analysis. A structural diagram of the proposed system was developed and its experimental simulation was conducted.
Results. A functional diagram of the proposed automatic frequency tracking and correction system is developed. Specific experimental results are described. The measurement error can reach 1 kHz (~0.003 %) in the mid-frequency range.
Conclusion. An automatic frequency tracking and correction system has been developed. This approach extends the current methodology in the field of pulse radars.
About the Authors
Duc Y. Nguyen
Le Quy Don Technical University
Viet Nam
Viet Nam
Duc Y. Nguyen, development of synthesis and analytical approaches; participation in simulation and experimental testing; design of the structural and functional diagram
Hanoi
Viet Hung Tran
Le Quy Don Technical University
Viet Nam
Viet Nam
Viet Hung Tran, research conception and scientific supervision, including simulation models for initial and improved AFCS elements by MATLAB tools; scientific support in synthesizing structural diagrams, functional diagrams of improved AFCS, schematic diagrams of its subsystems
Hanoi
Minh Thien Hoang
Le Quy Don Technical University
Viet Nam
Viet Nam
Minh Thien Hoang, scientific, methodological, and technological support in data analysis and synthesis; development of engineering solutions in product implementation; analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of data
Hanoi
Hai Le
Le Quy Don Technical University
Viet Nam
Viet Nam
Hai Le, carrying out the research; implementation of specific circuit engineering solutions; programming FPGA to perform measurement and data processing functions
Hanoi
Phung Bao Nguyen
Le Quy Don Technical University
Viet Nam
Viet Nam
Phung Bao Nguyen, scientific supervision; consulting and controlling the entire prototype synthesis process; testing and evaluating of simulation and experimental data; manuscript editing
Hanoi
Chi Thanh Vu
Academy of Military Science and Technology
Viet Nam
Viet Nam
Chi Thanh Vu, carrying out the research; product implementation; measurement and data collection; data evaluation
Hanoi
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Review
For citations:
Nguyen D.Y., Tran V.H., Hoang M.T., Le H., Nguyen P.B., Vu Ch.T. Improving the Automatic Frequency Tracking and Correction System of Pulse Radars with Magnetron Transmitter. Journal of the Russian Universities. Radioelectronics. 2025;28(6):90-98. https://doi.org/10.32603/1993-8985-2025-28-6-90-98
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