|
The standard for radar reflectors is based on radar cross section (RCS)
values known to produce a reliable blip at a range that makes evasive
maneuvers possible. These values are diagramed on what is known as
a "polar plot". This standard specifies what the horizontal
coverage must be so that regardless from which angle two vessels
approach each other, enough energy is returned to the receiving radar to
produce a blip.
Currently there is only one reflector on the world
market that not only meets but exceeds this criteria; the Cyclops
3. The values given for the Cyclops 2 and Cyclops 1 are
equally
impressive. To see these values shown on a polar plot is the only
way to make accurate
comparisons between brands of reflectors. Contact
us for your official Cyclops
"polar plots". The only way to accurately compare
brands!
Radar Cross Section (RCS) Defined
To express reflector performance, a uniform standard had
to be established. In order to
calibrate test equipment a
precision steel sphere is used for this purpose, since a sphere
returns
the same amount of energy regardless of orientation relative to the path
of transmission.
The test equipment is activated and then adjusted
to correspond to the surface area of the
spheres cross section expressed
in square meters, hence the expression radar cross section
or its
abbreviation, RCS. In other words, if a performance trace on a polar plot shows 1 sqm
it would return the same amount of
energy as if a radar sent energy against a 1sqm flat metal
plate
perpendicular to the transmission path.
Since anything but a
sphere offers a changing profile as it changes its orientation relative
to the transmission path, its RCS will vary through 360 degrees.
It will immediately expose the major
flaw of corner reflectors, since
the nature of their design is accompanied by a large sector
through 360
degrees that shows no response whatsoever.
Testing Authority
All performance claims are backed by official test
documentation produced by the British
Defense Research Agency, a branch
of the British Admiralty. These tests were produced independently from the
manufacturer and formed the basis on which the International
Standards
Organization , ISO "Type Approved" certificate was issued for
the Cyclops 3
A copy of the "polar plot" for any Cyclops
model is furnished with every reflector, the
Cyclops 3 is delivered with a
copy of the official Type Approval certificate.
|
