Windowing Processing of Linear Frequency Modulation (LFM) Signals

In signal processing, Linear Frequency Modulation (LFM) signals are commonly employed for ranging and target detection applications. When utilizing LFM signals for distance measurement, matched filtering is essential to extract echo signals. Matched filtering enhances the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and improves range resolution. Implementation typically involves cross-correlating the received signal with a time-reversed complex conjugate of the transmitted LFM waveform, which can be efficiently computed using Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) operations. Additionally, windowing techniques can be applied to optimize the LFM signal's spectral characteristics, making it better suited for specific application requirements. Windowing functions (e.g., Hamming, Hanning, or Blackman) are multiplied with the LFM signal in the time domain to reduce spectral leakage and control sidelobe levels. Therefore, both matched filtering and windowing processing constitute critical steps in LFM signal processing workflows.