What is referred to as the rapid swinging of a radar unit antenna that causes an incorrect reading?

The panning effect is characterized by the rapid swinging of a radar unit antenna that can result in erroneous speed measurements. This swinging motion may cause the radar signal to fluctuate rather than accurately reflecting the speed of the target vehicle. When the antenna moves too quickly, it can create ambiguity in the data being collected, leading to incorrect speed readings.

In radar operations, it's crucial for the antenna to maintain a steady position when tracking a target to ensure that the reflected waves provide an accurate measurement. If the unit continuously swings back and forth while measuring, the readings can become unreliable, contributing to the so-called panning effect, which affects the quality and reliability of speed determinations. Understanding this concept is essential for proper radar operation and for ensuring accurate speed enforcement.