Windprofiler optimization using digital deconvolution procedures

Abstract Digital improvements to data acquisition procedures used for windprofiler radars have the potential for improving the height coverage at optimum resolution, and permit improved height resolution. A few newer systems already use this capability. Real-time deconvolution procedures offer even further optimization, and this has not been effectively employed in recent years. In this paper we demonstrate the advantages of combining these features, with particular emphasis on the advantages of real-time deconvolution. Using several multi-core CPUs, we have been able to achieve speeds of up to 40 GHz from a standard commercial motherboard, allowing data to be digitized and processed without the need for any type of hardware except for a transmitter (and associated drivers), a receiver and a digitizer. No Digital Signal Processor chips are needed, allowing great flexibility with analysis algorithms. By using deconvolution procedures, we have then been able to not only optimize height resolution, but also have been able to make advances in dealing with spectral contaminants like ground echoes and other near-zero-Hz spectral contamination. Our results also demonstrate the ability to produce fine-resolution measurements, revealing small-scale structures within the backscattered echoes that were previously not possible to see. Resolutions of 30 m are possible for VHF radars. Furthermore, our deconvolution technique allows the removal of range-aliasing effects in real time, a major bonus in many instances. Results are shown using new radars in Canada and Costa Rica.