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Dual Polarization Upgrade. A H ardware Perspective. Existing WSR-88D antenna. A vast majority of the dual polarization components are being mounted to the counterweights thus all of that hardware must be hoisted up into the radome . Left side of antenna .
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Dual Polarization Upgrade A Hardware Perspective
Existing WSR-88D antenna A vast majority of the dual polarization components are being mounted to the counterweights thus all of that hardware must be hoisted up into the radome.
Left side of antenna Major component added to the antenna counterweight is the RF Pallet.
Antenna counterweight View from rear of antenna
Right side of antenna Major component added is the Antenna Mounted Electronics assembly. - Receiver, BITE/Calibration, Processor, Cooler/Heater, Power Supply
Close up diagrams of Antenna Mounted Electronics (AME) assembly. Assembly box is mounted on right side of antenna counterweights.
Front of antenna All new complex feedhorn must be mounted to the front of the antenna to transmit and receive dual polarization signal.
REVIEW NEXRAD Dual Pol Modification Installation of Dual Polarization includes significant modification to the NEXRAD antenna, as well as software to process the Dual-Polarization data Rearview of unmodified antenna ..with climate-controlled equipment pallet installed.. ..second equipment pallet that divides the signal installed.. ..requires new feedhorn and support struts.. First operational NEXRAD with Dual-Pol modification at Vance Air Force Base
WSR-88D radar prior to upgrade WSR-88D radar After upgrade
Final Thoughts • All of the waveguide (conduit for transmitting and receiving signal) must be replaced and doubled. • Hardware components installed in the radome weigh 400-700 pounds. • All new software must be installed and tested. • In short, this is the most significant upgrade to the WSR-88D since it was deployed in the mid to late 90’s.