Radar Detection Flashcards
Transmitter information?
The transmitter generates energy. Most of the energy is channeled to the antenna; a small amount goes to the process
Antenna information
The antenna is used to aim the microwave beam at the area being monitored
Receiver information?
The receiver is the unit that displays the speed readout
The radar beam
The radar beam continues outward until it is reflected, refracted or absorbed
Radar beam angle
The main signal beam becomes wider the further from the transmitter it becomes
Beam range
The range of the radar beam differs depending on the site
Factors effecting range
Radar range can be affected by atmosphere and terrain. Operators can adjust the sensitivity of the radar to account for problematic areas and weather
Target reflectivity
The size and shape of the target vehicle affects the strength of reflected signal
Doppler effect
The change in frequency between the signal transmitted and the signal reflected back is the Doppler effect
Tuning forks
Are used to simulate speed. Each fork is stamped with a operating band (frequency) and the speed the fork will produce at the frequency. They are used to check the accuracy of the speed reading
Cosine effect
Aim the radar beam so that the Cosine effect is minimised and gives a more accurate reading. Any speed difference between true speed and the recorded speed will always be in the favour of the target vehicle
Radar stationary mode
- When selecting a site operation and safety must be considered.
- Correct aiming of the antenna minimises the Cosine effect
Site safety
The operator is responsible for their safety and the safety of other road users
What are the 3 Radar components?
Transmitter, receiver, antenna
Radar - Moving mode
Ground speed must be obtained before any target vehicle enters the beam
