How does Pulse Radar differ from Continuous Wave (CW) Radar?

Pulse Radar operates by transmitting short bursts or pulses of energy, allowing it to measure the distance to a target based on the time it takes for these pulses to return after reflecting off an object. This pulsing technique enables the radar to determine the range to a target effectively, as it can distinguish between the time of sending the pulse and receiving the echoed signal.

In contrast, Continuous Wave (CW) Radar continuously emits a signal without interruption, making it more suitable for measuring attributes like velocity through the Doppler effect rather than precise distance measurements. The unique characteristic of Pulse Radar's burst transmission allows it to operate effectively over longer ranges and provides the capability to process and analyze targets in real time, differentiating it from the methods employed by CW Radar.

Understanding this distinction between Pulse and CW Radar illustrates the specific applications and advantages of each type, especially in contexts requiring accurate range finding, such as in various military and civilian radar systems.