What does police RADAR measure?

Police RADAR measures the comparison of transmitted and returning frequency. This principle is founded on the Doppler Effect, which describes how the frequency of a wave changes in relation to an observer moving relative to the source of the wave. In practical terms, RADAR emits a radio frequency signal that travels until it encounters a moving vehicle. When the signal reflects back to the RADAR unit, there is a change in frequency proportional to the speed of the vehicle due to its motion toward or away from the RADAR. By calculating the difference between the transmitted frequency and the received frequency, the RADAR system can determine the speed of the vehicle accurately.

In summary, the essence of RADAR operation lies in this frequency comparison, enabling law enforcement to measure vehicle speed effectively. Understanding this process is crucial for anyone operating RADAR equipment, as it reflects both the technology's functionality and the physics involved in speed measurement.