What type of cathode ray tube (CRT) is most commonly used in ground radar equipment?

• A. Gas-discharge CRT
• B. Electromagnetic (EM)
• C. Liquid crystal display (LCD)
• D. Plasma display

Answer: (B)

Ground radar displays rely on a CRT whose electron beam is steered primarily by magnetic fields. This electromagnetic deflection, produced by coils around the tube neck, allows fast, wide-angle sweeps and a bright, stable image on a relatively large screen—exactly what radar requires for real-time tracking. Gas-discharge CRTs are not typically used for radar because their response and brightness aren’t as suitable for high-speed, high-contrast displays. LCD and plasma are flat-panel technologies and do not function as traditional CRTs; they’re different display approaches. So the standard CRT used in ground radar is the electromagnetically deflected type.