Comparison of FMCW and OFDM Radar Performance at 77 GHz and 140 GHz in Realistic Traffic Scenarios

Frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar represents the current state-of-the-art in automotive radar systems, while orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) radar is regarded as a promising candidate for next generation systems due to its potential for joint sensing and communication. This work compares the performance of FMCW and OFDM radars within realistic traffic scenarios characterized by mutual interference from other radar-equipped vehicles. The analysis investigates a frequency-hopping interference mitigation technique within the allocated spectrum bands of 77-80 GHz and 1 4 0 - 1 4 3 ~ G H z. Monte Carlo simulations are used to evaluate the performance of a front-mounted automotive radar in a sixlane highway scenario under both high- and low-density traffic conditions. The simulation framework integrates a radar receiver software tool with an open-source traffic simulator. The results indicate that, neglecting adverse weather effects, the 77 GHz and 140 GHz bands provide comparable performance, and that both systems benefit significantly from random frame-by-frame carrier frequency hopping.