Modern methods of improving the range accuracy of CTFM sonars

In a CTFM (continuous transmission frequency modulated) sonar, the error in range measurement is usually dominated by the low resolution of the range coding frequency of the system. Modern real time spectrum analysers using 1024 point DFTs (discrete Fourier transforms) can display the range codes of the sonar at a resolution approximately equal to 0.2%. To produce a range code accurate to half of the resolution, the linearity of the CTFM sweep must, however, be kept as low as 0.01%. This requirement creates several difficulties in the design of the frequency sweep when both non-linearity and stability of the voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) and of the controlling voltage ramp are to be considered. A practical approach for achieving the above specifications is described. Properties of electronic components and of state of the art devices and the restrictions of their operating conditions are discussed. Illustrations are given for two measuring instruments: an underwater sonar system for quantitative assessment of fish population, and a diagnostic sonar.