Application of Virtual Instrument in CINRAD Transmitter Testing

Radar performance parameter test is an important mean to check radar performance indicators, including pulse envelope, pulse spectrum and pulse power of the signal, and limit improvement factor in the transmitter. All of these parameters will affect the normal work of the radar directly. To solve the problem of complex operation, low efficiency and high error rate of manual testing, a special weather radar transmitter auto testing system based on virtual instrument is introduced in this article. Based on the analysis of mathematical models of S band weather radar transmitter and some existed test methods, the paper tries to test radar transmitter parameters by virtual instrument, using LabVIEW controlling hardware test circuit. This system, in guarantee the accuracy of the premise, can store/recall test results through the database. It has the characteristics of friendly interface, easy operation and good expansibility.