Performance characterization of electronic FMCW active imagers

In active imaging, a target is illuminated with a controlled source, and reflected light is sensed to form an image. This technique is a reliable way to ensure higher signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) than passive imaging in low-ambient light circumstances. Using advanced system design schemes, the target’s distance and range-dependent velocity are recoverable. In an electronic frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) active imager, the intensity of the source is modulated with a chirped frequency and demodulated using the same reference. In this study, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and range precision of an electronic FMCW active imager are simulated and compared with two additional range-resolving imagers. Finally, the design of an electronic FMCW imager is presented and preliminary experimental results are discussed.