Signal Amplification

First, align the sensor perpendicular to the target. Then use the spectrum view for final adjustments. The smoother a surface, the more crucial the precise alignment of the radar sensor becomes.

The signal strength received by the radar sensor is crucial for reliable measurements.
In OndoNet , it is visualized by the amplitude of the spectrum.

The figure below illustrates how the sensor’s orientation relative to the measurement target influences the reflected signal strength:
Perpendicular alignment = strongest signal → increasing tilt = weaker signal.

Optimizing Sensor Alignment

1. Roughly align the sensor towards the measurement target.

2. In the Spectrum chart, enable Add Hold to monitor whether the signal strength increases or decreases during alignment.

3. Manually adjust the sensor step by step and compare the current signal strength with the previous signal shown by the orange reference line.

4. Continue adjusting until you achieve the highest possible signal strength.

If your target is too far away or the signal strength remains low, consider using a radar reflector to enhance the signal and improve detection accuracy.

AutoGain: Once you are done, click on AUTO GAIN in the “Settings” section to further optimize the signal strength. This will automatically adjust the gain parameters of the amplifiers. If you have a changing distance to the target, please refer to the Raw Data chapter.

• Sensor alignment: Position the sensor perpendicular to the measurement target to maximize signal strength and Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). A higher SNR ensures more robust and stable measurements and reduces interference from unwanted reflections.

• Surface properties: Rough surfaces are advantageous for radar measurements, as they reflect more of the radar beam back to the sensor. Smooth surfaces allow less tilting before signal strength drops significantly.

• Impact of orientation: As the target’s surface tilts away from perpendicular, the reflected signal strength decreases.