A Compact Low-power ISM-band Harmonic Radar for RF Receiver Detection

Harmonic radars have received sustained attention in recent years for unique capability on clutter suppression, which demonstrates huge potential in detecting and locating RF receivers in harsh environment. We implemented a laboratory-level harmonic detection system with a compact single-antenna setup by using standard general instruments and commercial RF modules. The system successfully detected the simulated RF receiver with 0 dBm transmitting power at about 8 m. Furthermore, we revised classical harmonic radar equation by introducing the receiver modules' nonlinear characteristics and updated the relations between the receiving harmonic power, transmitting power and range, which were validated by the observed data by the system. The system could be the test bench for related indoor and outdoor experiments in the future.