This software controls the behavior of a miniaturized microwave radar module. It controls the hardware, digitizes raw samples from the analog output of the module, and applies DSP (digital signal processing) algorithms to the data stream to reduce the bandwidth and data rate. It also implements an automatic calibration algorithm to adjust the I/Q (in-phase and quadrature) values in the cancellation path to remove a large unchanging signal. The software implements a variety of commands to control the behavior of the system, and provides for synchronization of multiple modules. It encodes the digital data in a format suitable for serial ports.

This innovation is for control of the hardware for a CWFM (continuous-wave frequency-modulated) radar, data formatting, automatic calibration, and adjustment of a signal cancellation path. The software runs in the microcontroller of the radar module and handles the interface to a host computer. It configures hardware and software parameters, collects samples, and performs signal processing to filter and reduce the sample rate, then formats it for transmission to the host.

This work was done by James P. Lux of Caltech for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

In accordance with Public Law 96-517, the contractor has elected to retain title to this invention. Inquiries concerning rights for its commercial use should be addressed to:

Innovative Technology Assets Management
JPL
Mail Stop 321-123
4800 Oak Grove Drive
Pasadena, CA 91109-8099
E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Refer to NPO-49417.



This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Document cover
Control Software for Integrated CW Radar Module

(reference NPO49417) is currently available for download from the TSP library.

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