Weather radar transceivers use a magnetron which is basically a cathode emission device. The magnetron is subject to deteriorization due to aging. Therefore, it is recommended to perform some type of periodic maintenance to detect and correct the effects of aging. This reduces the chance of an in-service failure.
An annual, routine test of the following parameters should made:
- Power output
- Transmitter frequency
- AFC voltage
- Sensitivity (MDS)
Ideally, the test should take place between December and March prior to the peak thunderstorm season.