Rohde and Schwarz DDF5GTS High Speed Scanning Direction Finder

The Rohde & Schwarz DDF5GTS is a high-speed scanning direction finder for rapid, precise radiolocation across broad frequency spectra. It delivers direction-finding and signal detection in complex RF environments, including frequency-agile and low probability of intercept (LPI) signals. The system integrates three-channel architecture with super-resolution methods for multi-signal resolution, supporting both mobile and stationary deployments. It interoperates with Rohde & Schwarz networked direction finding systems for spectrum monitoring and signal intelligence.

– Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range (Monitoring): 8 kHz to 6 GHz
• Frequency Range (Direction Finding): 300 kHz to 6 GHz
• Optional HF Extension (R&S DDFGTS-HF): Monitoring to 8 kHz; Direction Finding to 300 kHz
• Real-time Bandwidth: 80 MHz
• DF Scan Speed: Up to 60 GHz/s (at 25 kHz, 100 kHz, or 1 MHz resolution)
• DF Accuracy: 0.2° to 1° RMS
• DF Sensitivity: 0.7 to 3 µV/m
• Minimum DF Signal Duration: 60 µs
• Pulse Intercept Capability: 10 µs minimum duration
• Frequency-Hopping Intercept: Up to 2000 hops/s

– Key Features

• Three-channel architecture enabling exceptionally fast direction-finding scan speed
• Integrated super-resolution DF method for resolving multiple emissions on identical frequencies
• Independent DDC (Direct Digital Conversion) channel for simultaneous direction finding and monitoring
• High immunity to reflections with antenna designs maintaining accuracy on weak signals
• Active/passive antenna switchover to prevent overload from strong signals

– Antenna Integration

• Supports up to three VHF/UHF/SHF receiving antennas and three optional HF receiving antennas
• Compatible with all R&S ADDx multichannel DF antenna systems
• R&S ADD557SR antenna system operates 20 MHz to 6 GHz, optimized for DDF5GTS
• Multichannel antenna elements provide stable direction finding in complex electromagnetic conditions

– Typical Applications

• Signal intercept of frequency-hopping transmitters with high hop rates
• Direction finding and location of transient and pulsed emissions
• Spectrum monitoring in dense electromagnetic environments
• Intelligence gathering in networked radiolocation systems.