What main function does the discriminator serve in a RADAR receiver?

The discriminator in a RADAR receiver plays a crucial role in detecting received signals. Its primary function is to differentiate between the signals that are of interest—such as the echoes returned from targets—and other signals, including noise and interference.

When the received signal is processed, the discriminator takes the incoming signals and converts the frequency information contained in them into a more usable waveform. This conversion simplifies the process for subsequent components in the receiver system, allowing them to effectively identify and process the detected targets.

Detection involves not just recognizing the presence of a signal, but also determining its characteristics, such as its amplitude and frequency. By focusing on the detection capability, the discriminator aids in ensuring that the system can accurately interpret the information carried by the returned RADAR waves, which is fundamental for tasks like target tracking and identification.

In contrast, other options, while related to signal processing or modulation, do not encompass the primary function of the discriminator, which is specialized for signal detection.