A calibration target is mounted on a low cross-section pole located near the beach several hundred feet from the radar. The calibration target is positioned to reduce clutter and multipath effects to a minimum. The radar system is carefully calibrated and aligned before and after each measurement to maximize measurement accuracy. An online monitor of radar performance during data collection is available to ensure that all data collected are valid data. The equipment racks are designed for two technicians to operate and monitor the tracking and data collection systems.
Target tracking is available in several modes.
When available, GPS is used for automatic angle and range tracking. A television camera boresighted to the radar antenna pedestal supplies operators with a visual means to verify angle information. Range track can be accomplished manually using an A-scope display. Azimuthal track is accomplished manually using a video display. Automatic azimuthal track is provided using optical video tracking.