Abstract: A weather radar system with icing detection capability is disclosed. Increased radar system sensitivity is combined with aircraft outside air temperature to determine super-cooled liquid water content which leads to icing. The radar system can operate in a rainfall mode only, an icing mode only, or in both modes. Display modes include plan position indicator and range height indicator configurations.

Abstract: A radar system includes a stabilization calibration arrangement wherein a module stores particular parameters for relating the radar system to a gyro which provides stabilizing data for the radar system. The storage module, the radar system and the gyro are mounted on the same mounting platform so that the particular calibration features remain with the mounting platform. With the arrangement described, the radar system is independent of the gyro and can be of a generic configuration as is advantageous for stabilization calibration purposes.

Abstract: A horizontal plan view and a vertical side view of a weather disturbance are combined into a single axonometric display to facilitate analysis of the disturbance. Desired azimuth and elevation angles for the center of the axonometric display and which of the four quadrants of the display to be emphasized are user selectable. Either the plan view or the side view can be separately displayed in the axonometric format and the axonometric display is user selectable with the conventional display being readily available.

Abstract: A weather radar system is operable in an automatic mode for positioning the radar system antenna beam to scan an elevation axis between upper and lower scan limits in incremental steps as selected by a user while continuously scanning an azimuth axis for enhancing the analysis of weather conditions.

Abstract: A non-linear range scale for a radar system is implemented whereby the full range capability of the system is shown with emphasis on close-in targets. The arrangement is adaptable to a variety of non-linear functions having the advantage of selection by the user to provide good close-in visibility and visibility of distant conditions simultaneously.

Abstract: A transistorized active switch radar pulse modulator has a unique means for pulse current control which includes a transformer interconnected with a magnetron. Transistor switches and related circuitry pulse a step up transformer with voltage pulses to drive the magnetron with a desired current pulse having the appropriate shape and width. A capacitor in the secondary of the transformer acts as a load to the transformer prior to the conduction level of the magnetron so that no current transients occur after the magnetron fires. Suitable protective features operate to sense an arcing condition and to dissipate the arcing effects. A unique slope control circuit insures that the requisite flat current pulse drives the magnetron.