Dynamic Spectral Mask Construction for Radar Transmission Based on Communication Receiver Locations

Abstract

Currently, the spectrum is allocated using fixed methods, where the spectral bands are all purchased by individual users. Part of the current system is the idea that a spectral mask is static and is based upon a set of guidelines specified by regulatory agencies. As the spectrum becomes more fully utilized in the lower bands, other methods are being sought to solve the spectrum crisis. One such method is the idea of cognitive radio, where a secondary user can use a specific band if the licensed user is not present. Once the licensed user returns to the spectrum, the secondary user must choose a different band. This thesis describes a dynamic spectral mask, which can be applied to cognitive radio and changes based upon the location, frequency, and acceptable interference power levels of nearby communication handsets. The algorithm seeks to determine the largest gap in spectrum and creates a dynamic spectral mask to prevent the radar from operating above the maximum acceptable interference power level of the communication handsets. After the mask has been created, signals such as the ambiguity function can be optimized using the algorithm.