Radar digital beamforming

System considerations for the design of a fully digital receive-array radar are examined, and a feasible scheme for its implementation is suggested, with emphasis on the beam-forming function. Most of the digital functions required in the beam-former are performed by high-speed memories, accumulators, and latches that are now commercially available. It is shown that besides the usual advantages associated with a digital system, the new features proposed will also result in a cost saving over a hybrid or a conventional digital approach.