Which circuit determines the pulse repetition rate (PRR) in a RADAR system?

The pulse repetition rate (PRR) in a radar system is determined by the timer, or synchronizer circuit. This circuit is responsible for controlling how often the radar sends out a pulse of energy. The PRR essentially dictates how fast the radar can send out pulses and receive echoes back; it is a critical factor in the radar's ability to detect and track moving objects effectively.

The synchronization circuit ensures that these pulses are emitted in a regular and controlled manner, allowing for precise timing in the operation of the radar system. It helps maintain the timing relationship between the transmitted pulse and the reception of the reflected signal. This timing is crucial for calculating the distance to the detected objects by measuring the time it takes for the signals to return.

In contrast, circuits like the discriminator, artificial transmission line, and pulse-rate-indicator circuit serve different functions within a radar system. The discriminator mainly processes the signals for detection and information extraction, while the artificial transmission line is more related to signal shaping or delay functions, and the pulse-rate-indicator circuit provides feedback on the rate at which pulses are being sent, rather than controlling that rate. Thus, the timer or synchronizer circuit is the key component that defines the PRR in radar systems.