A Counter for Instant Measurement of Repetition Frequency and Detection of Stagger

Abstract

This paper describes the functioning of a counter that is capable of measuring instantaneously the Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF) of a pulse train about the time of arrival of which, there is no a priori information nor is the duration for which pulses are available for counting is known. The counter selects a pair of pulses, measures the corresponding time-period and refers to a memory look-up table to get the PRF corresponding to the measured time-period. The counter has a capability to indicate any stagger in the receiver pulse train. This is done by taking three consecutive pulses and measuring the two successive time periods to verify whether they match to a given tolerance. This counter can be employed as an applique unit to a Surveillance Receiver used for monitoring any radar activity in its neighbourhood.

Indexing Terms:

• Counters
• IPRF Counters
• Stagger Detection
• Defence Applications

Additional information

Notes on contributors

V. Swaminathan

SWAMINATHAN, V: (b. 1944 Sept. 28; Kumbakonam). Obtained BSc degree from University of Madras in 1963 and DMIT (Electronics) from the Madras Institute of Technology in 1966. He joined the Research and Development Organisation of the Ministry of Defence B in November 1966. Worked in the Electronics and Radar Development Establishment, Bangalore, for about 15 months on VHF Receivers technology. In 1968–69, he took a specialized course on Radar Technology, Poona. At present the is working in the Defence Electronics Research Laboratory, Hyderabad, as Senior Scientific Officer Grade I. He is engaged in the design and development of microwave receivers, displays and parameter analysers. He is working for his Master's degree at Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Hyderabad, the Course being offered in collaboration with IETE.