Analysis of techniques for processing parallel signal outputs

Three techniques for processing parallel sonar outputs are individual processors for each output, summing all parallel outputs for use in one processor, and selecting the maximum (peak) value of the parallel outputs for use in one processor. An analysis is made of the detection sensitivity of each technique as a function of the number of parallel outputs and the amount of signal integration. The results show that the peak selection technique provides a substantial savings in processing equipment and reduces sonar display requirements compared to the individual processor technique and provides enhanced detection sensitivity compared to the summation technique.