How many separate channels does a monopulse receiver have?

A monopulse receiver is designed to achieve high accuracy in direction finding by utilizing multiple channels simultaneously. It typically features at least four separate channels: one for summing the signals from the antenna lobes and three others to compare the signals from those lobes. This configuration allows the receiver to derive precise angular information about the source of the signal. The use of multiple channels facilitates the capability to calculate the difference in signal strength between the various paths, ultimately determining the direction of the incoming signal with high precision.

This design is particularly effective in radar and tracking applications, where accuracy in locating targets is critical. The additional channels provide the needed comparisons to ensure reliability and precision in the directional measurements, distinguishing it from simpler systems that may only use one or two channels for less complex tasks.