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Phased Array Radar (PAR)
SETI engineers, along with Radar Engineering and Development (RED) engineers, are actively involved in developing the National Weather Radar Testbed (NWRT) into a world-class research facility. This collaborative effort involves both hardware and software design and development.
IDENTIFYING PROBLEMS AND FINDING SOLUTIONS:
Hardware Interface Development
PROBLEM: Users outside of Norman need to operate the PAR remotely so it can function as a testbed for ALL collaborators.
SOLUTION: SETI
engineers developed a new Radar Control Interface (RCI) which
allows researchers to operate the PAR remotely using a networked based
computer. The RCI is based on a client-server model with a single server
and one or more clients. The RCI client computer can be local or remote
(outside the Norman area). Multiple RCI clients can be run simultaneously
to monitor the system (with only one in control at a time). Improvements
are continually being made to the RCI to support the mission goals. 2006
IIPS Conference
abstract 
Sample RCI Client Display (Larger image)
PROBLEM: The original Digital Signal Processor design doesn't take advantage of available non-proprietary computer speed and performance.
SOLUTION: SETI and RED engineers have developed a new Digital Signal Processor (DSP) which runs on a multiprocessor-based Linux system. This new DSP is replacing the legacy Environmental Processor (EP) which was originally delivered with the PAR. The EP was designed to run on proprietary hardware (Sun/Sky), lacking the power and performance needed to fully utilize the system. The new DSP design provides expandability, is more robust, and much less likely to fail during operations.
Reflectivity Display of a Severe Storm using data generated by new DSP (Larger image)
Data Archive
PROBLEM: Data archive capabilities need to be developed and expanded for scientists using PAR data in their research.
SOLUTION: SETI engineers are developing new data archival capabilities and procedures to support scientists who will need access to PAR time series and moment radar data in their research. These procedures include both short- and long-term RAID storage and data retrieval.
Software Tools
PROBLEM: Radar operators need to be able to adjust command files quickly to adapt scanning strategies during severe weather.
SOLUTION: SETI engineers are developing an interactive software tool, Stim Wizard, to build PAR radar command files, called "stimulus files," to support radar operations. (These files are synonymous with the VCPs that are currently run on the WSR-88D radars.) During a recent data collection effort, the Stim Wizard proved valuable in allowing operators to adjust command files quickly to scan a group of storms more effectively. This tool should prove valuable in the development of adaptive scanning procedures.
Sample Stimulus Wizard Display (Larger image)
PROBLEM: Users need a way to access the data inventory and be assured it is monitored for quality.
SOLUTION: SETI engineers are developing software tools to support PAR data analysis and quality control. One such tool, IQBrowse, has been developed so that the contents of PAR time series data files can be monitored for quality control and inventory the contents.
Sample PAR IQ Data Browser Display (Larger image)
