Antenna Gain VS. Azimuth

The Cheetah Measurement System leverages widely commercialized network analyzer technology to yield exceptional value. Using a network analyzer for RCS and antenna measurements began as a novel idea in 1985. Back then, measurement speeds were slow and often impractical. More recent Performance Network Analyzers (PNAs) have shattered this early paradigm. Today, a measurement that would have taken an hour can be made in about 18 minutes.

The Cheetah Measurement System leverages these advancements to provide state of the art measurement sensitivity at practical speeds and a very affordable price. Cheetah systems are turn-key and based on a total system design approach that addresses the many nuances required to achieve accurate and reliable RCS data. The versatile Cheetah architecture supports custom frequency bands anywhere in the range 10 MHz to >100 GHz. A turn-key system integrates a PNA with a gated transceiver unit, software, a PC, and other options including antennas, target control equipment, training, and extended warranty/support. All Cheetah Systems are designed, integrated, and backed by System Planning Corporation, founders of the instrumentation radar industry with over 25 years experience.

The gated Cheetah transceiver dramatically enhances the ability of a PNA to collect RCS and antenna data. The transceiver incorporates low noise amplifiers that improve measurement sensitivity by more than 30 dB compared to measurements using a standalone PNA. The transceiver also incorporates high isolation gating switches that preserve the PNA's dynamic range. An integrated timing unit with 500 psec resolution and 250 psec jitter enables precise range gating and clutter suppression during RCS measurements. Amplification in the transceiver's Tx path improves sensitivity during RCS measurements and link margin during antenna measurements.

The Cheetah hardware supports both RCS and antenna measurements. Full featured software for both applications is provided by CompuQuest, a trusted and well-established name within RCS and antenna measurement communities. A brief overview of the software features is presented below. For full details, please contact SPC to request a PDF version of the Cheetah software manuals.

RCS Measurement Software

RCS vs. Azimuth ISAR imaging Full polarization matrix Simultaneous full polarization matrix (requires optional hardware) Background subtraction RCS calibration with full library of all common cal standards Phase coding (requires optional hardware) Remote control of radar over the Internet Full access to radar timing signals & control Range walk Transmit power leveling for optimal dynamic range Multi-axis position control (requires optional hardware) Radar diagnostic tools (optional add-on) Easy to learn graphical users interface

Remote control of radar via wireless PDA (optional add-on) Antenna Measurement Software Linear and Polar antenna patterns Fully automated axial ratio calculation Empty chamber subtraction Fully automated RMS calculation Full raster scanning for 3-D antenna patterns Near-field to far field correction based on NIST standards Automatic calculation of standard antenna parameters N dB beam width Directivity Antenna efficiency Gain Side lobes Power sweeps for characterizing active antennas

1. Cheetah Transceiver (2 - 18 GHz)
2. Agilent PNA (0.01 to 20 GHz)
3. Measurement software
4. Computer/Monitor/Keyboard
5. Color printer
6. Premium instrumentation rack, single bay
7. System RF cabling
8. 6 to 25 ft. antenna cable
9. System timing and interface cabling
10. Cheetah Owner's Manual
11. One year warranty
12. On-site installation

Turnkey Systems

• RCS antennas
• Compact reflectors
• Position controllers
• Target positioners
• Target pylons
• Calibration targets
• Portable RCS measurement shelters
• Range layout and design
• Weather stations
• Analog-to-digital data recorders

Miscellaneous

• On-site training
• 4-year extended warranty and support