Extending the dynamic range of an S-band radar for cloud and precipitationstudies

A new S-band vertical profiler with a coupler option for extending the dyna mic range of the radar's receiver is discussed. The added dynamic range all ows the profiler to record radar reflectivity measurements in moderate to h eavy precipitation that otherwise would not have been possible with this sy stem because of receiver saturation. The radar hardware, signal processor, and operating software are based on existing S-band and UHF profiler techno logy. Results from a side-by side comparison with a calibrated Ka-band rada r are used to determine the calibration and sensitivity of the S-band profi ler. In a typical cloud profiling mode of operation, the sensitivity is -14 dBZ at 10 km. Examples taken from a recent field campaign are shown to ill ustrate the profiler's ability to measure vertical velocity and radar refle ctivity profiles in clouds and precipitation, with particular emphasis on t he benefit provided by the coupler technology.