Products> Antenna Products > Trihedral Corner Reflector Antennas
Mi-Wave’s Trihedral Corner Reflectors are precision-engineered passive radar targets designed for radar calibration, radar cross section (RCS) measurement, antenna testing, and RF system verification. Constructed from three mutually perpendicular reflective surfaces, these reflectors provide a strong, predictable signal return by reflecting incident RF energy directly back toward the source.
Available in a range of sizes and configurations, Mi-Wave trihedral corner reflectors are suitable for use across RF, microwave, and millimeter-wave frequency bands. Their stable mechanical design and repeatable electromagnetic performance make them ideal for both laboratory environments and outdoor test ranges.
Note: The trihedral corner reflectors shown represent only a portion of Mi-Wave’s capabilities. Custom reflector designs are available to support specific frequency ranges, performance requirements, and application needs.
| Model | Frequency (GHz) | Length (a) (inches) | Length (L) (inches) | Weight (oz) | RCS (dBsm) | Mounting Bracket optional | Material | Finish | Outline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 770-1.4-m | 10 | 1 | 1.4 | 4 | -21.1 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-1.4-m | 20 | 1 | 1.4 | 4 | -15.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-1.4-m | 30 | 1 | 1.4 | 4 | -11.6 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-1.4-m | 40 | 1 | 1.4 | 4 | -9.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-1.4-m | 50 | 1 | 1.4 | 4 | -7.1 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-1.4-m | 60 | 1 | 1.4 | 4 | -5.5 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-1.4-m | 70 | 1 | 1.4 | 4 | -4.2 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-1.4-m | 80 | 1 | 1.4 | 4 | -3.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-1.4-m | 90 | 1 | 1.4 | 4 | -2.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-1.4-m | 100 | 1 | 1.4 | 4 | -1.1 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-1.4-m | 110 | 1 | 1.4 | 4 | -0.27 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-1.4-m | 120 | 1 | 1.4 | 4 | 0.48 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-2.8-m | 10 | 2 | 2.8 | 0.7 | -9.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-2.8-m | 20 | 2 | 2.8 | 0.7 | -3.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-2.8-m | 30 | 2 | 2.8 | 0.7 | 0.48 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-2.8-m | 40 | 2 | 2.8 | 0.7 | 2.9 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-2.8-m | 50 | 2 | 2.8 | 0.7 | 4.9 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-2.8-m | 60 | 2 | 2.8 | 0.7 | 6.5 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-2.8-m | 70 | 2 | 2.8 | 0.7 | 7.8 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-2.8-m | 80 | 2 | 2.8 | 0.7 | 9.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-2.8-m | 90 | 2 | 2.8 | 0.7 | 10.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-2.8-m | 100 | 2 | 2.8 | 0.7 | 10.9 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-2.8-m | 110 | 2 | 2.8 | 0.7 | 11.7 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-2.8-m | 120 | 2 | 2.8 | 0.7 | 12.5 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-4.2-m | 10 | 3 | 4.2 | 0.8 | -2.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-4.2-m | 20 | 3 | 4.2 | 0.8 | 4.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-4.2-m | 30 | 3 | 4.2 | 0.8 | 7.5 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-4.2-m | 40 | 3 | 4.2 | 0.8 | 10.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-4.2-m | 50 | 3 | 4.2 | 0.8 | 11.9 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-4.2-m | 60 | 3 | 4.2 | 0.8 | 13.5 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-4.2-m | 70 | 3 | 4.2 | 0.8 | 14.8 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-4.2-m | 80 | 3 | 4.2 | 0.8 | 16.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-4.2-m | 90 | 3 | 4.2 | 0.8 | 17.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-4.2-m | 100 | 3 | 4.2 | 0.8 | 17.9 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-4.2-m | 110 | 3 | 4.2 | 0.8 | 18.8 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-4.2-m | 120 | 3 | 4.2 | 0.8 | 19.5 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-5.6-m | 10 | 4 | 5.6 | 1.5 | 2.9 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-5.6-m | 20 | 4 | 5.6 | 1.5 | 9.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-5.6-m | 30 | 4 | 5.6 | 1.5 | 12.5 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-5.6-m | 40 | 4 | 5.6 | 1.5 | 15.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-5.6-m | 50 | 4 | 5.6 | 1.5 | 16.9 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-5.6-m | 60 | 4 | 5.6 | 1.5 | 18.5 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-5.6-m | 70 | 4 | 5.6 | 1.5 | 19.8 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-5.6-m | 80 | 4 | 5.6 | 1.5 | 21.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-5.6-m | 90 | 4 | 5.6 | 1.5 | 22.0 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-5.6-m | 100 | 4 | 5.6 | 1.5 | 22.9 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-5.6-m | 110 | 4 | 5.6 | 1.5 | 23.8 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-5.6-m | 120 | 4 | 5.6 | 1.5 | 24.5 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-7-m | 10 | 5 | 7 | 2 | 6.8 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-7-m | 20 | 5 | 7 | 2 | 12.8 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-7-m | 30 | 5 | 7 | 2 | 16.4 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-7-m | 40 | 5 | 7 | 2 | 18.9 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-7-m | 50 | 5 | 7 | 2 | 20.8 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-7-m | 60 | 5 | 7 | 2 | 22.4 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-7-m | 70 | 5 | 7 | 2 | 23.7 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-7-m | 80 | 5 | 7 | 2 | 24.9 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-7-m | 90 | 5 | 7 | 2 | 25.9 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-7-m | 100 | 5 | 7 | 2 | 26.8 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-7-m | 110 | 5 | 7 | 2 | 27.6 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-7-m | 120 | 5 | 7 | 2 | 28.4 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-8-m | 10 | 5.6 | 8 | 2.5 | 8.8 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-8-m | 20 | 5.6 | 8 | 2.5 | 14.8 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-8-m | 30 | 5.6 | 8 | 2.5 | 18.3 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-8-m | 40 | 5.6 | 8 | 2.5 | 20.8 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-8-m | 50 | 5.6 | 8 | 2.5 | 22.8 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-8-m | 60 | 5.6 | 8 | 2.5 | 24.3 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-8-m | 70 | 5.6 | 8 | 2.5 | 25.7 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-8-m | 80 | 5.6 | 8 | 2.5 | 26.8 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-8-m | 90 | 5.6 | 8 | 2.5 | 27.9 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-8-m | 100 | 5.6 | 8 | 2.5 | 28.8 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-8-m | 110 | 5.6 | 8 | 2.5 | 29.6 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted | |
| 770-8-m | 120 | 6 | 8 | 2.5 | 30.4 | Metric thread M3 x 0.5 and 1/4 x 20 | Aluminum | Painted |
*All data presented is collected from a sample lot.
* Actual data may vary unit to unit, slightly.
*All testing was performed under +25 °C case temperature.
*Consult factory to confirm if material, plating, size, shape, orientation and any electrical parameter is critical for the application as website information is for reference only.
*Millimeter Wave Products, Inc. reserves the right to change the information presented on website without notice as we continue to enhance the performance and design of our products.
Trihedral Corner Reflector Engineering Calculators
These calculators support radar engineers working with trihedral corner reflectors for RCS estimation, calibration planning, and RF system verification.
Radar Cross Section (RCS)
Required Reflector Size for Target RCS
Wavelength Calculator
Free Space Path Loss
Electrical Size (a / λ)
RCS Conversion (m² ↔ dBsm)
Key Features & Performance Benefits
Wide Frequency Coverage (8.4–260 GHz)
Supports RF, microwave, and millimeter-wave applications across a broad frequency range, making these reflectors suitable for multi-band radar and test systems.
High Radar Cross Section (RCS)
Trihedral geometry provides a strong, consistent radar return by reflecting incident energy directly back toward the source.
Retroreflective Geometry
Constructed from three mutually perpendicular conductive surfaces, ensuring incident signals are reflected back to the transmitter over a wide range of angles.
Stable and Predictable Performance
Delivers repeatable RCS characteristics, making it ideal for calibration, validation, and measurement applications.
Passive Operation (No Power Required)
Operates without active electronics, providing reliable performance with no power consumption or signal distortion.
Precision Machined Construction
Manufactured with tight tolerances to ensure consistent electromagnetic performance across frequency bands.
Multiple Standard Sizes (1” to 8”)
Available in a range of reflector sizes to support different frequency ranges and RCS requirements.
Broad Angular Response
Maintains strong reflectivity across a wide range of incident angles, improving usability in dynamic test environments.
Low Maintenance and High Durability
Robust metallic construction ensures long-term stability in laboratory and outdoor environments.
Custom Configurations Available
Supports custom sizes, mounting configurations, materials, and frequency-optimized designs.
Applications
Trihedral Corner Reflector Applications
Mi-Wave Trihedral Corner Reflector Antennas are used in RF and radar systems requiring predictable signal reflection, high RCS, and repeatable calibration performance.
Radar Cross Section (RCS) Measurement
Widely used as reference targets for measuring and validating radar cross section.
Typical applications include:
- RCS calibration targets
- Signature measurement testing
- Stealth and detection studies
- Radar system benchmarking
- Scattering analysis
Radar Calibration
Provides a known and stable reflection target for radar system calibration.
Typical applications include:
- Radar gain calibration
- System sensitivity verification
- Range calibration
- Doppler system validation
- Radar performance testing
Antenna Testing and Alignment
Used in antenna measurement setups where a known reflective target is required.
Typical applications include:
- Antenna alignment
- Beam pointing verification
- Radiation pattern testing
- Reflector system calibration
- Far-field measurement setups
RF System Verification
Supports validation of RF systems requiring known reflection characteristics.
Typical applications include:
- RF link testing
- System integration validation
- Signal path verification
- Propagation studies
- Equipment testing
Outdoor Test Ranges
Suitable for field deployment in radar and RF testing environments.
Typical applications include:
- Open-range radar testing
- Remote sensing experiments
- Tracking system validation
- Field calibration targets
- Long-distance RF testing
Research and Development (R&D)
Used in advanced RF and radar research environments.
Typical applications include:
- Electromagnetic scattering studies
- Radar system development
- Academic research
- Defense and aerospace testing
- Prototype validation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a trihedral corner reflector?
A trihedral corner reflector is a passive RF device made from three perpendicular conductive surfaces that reflect incoming electromagnetic waves back toward the source.
What are trihedral corner reflectors used for?
They are used for radar calibration, radar cross section measurement, antenna testing, and RF system verification.
What frequency range do Mi-Wave trihedral reflectors support?
Mi-Wave trihedral corner reflectors operate from 8.4 GHz to 260 GHz.
Why do trihedral reflectors return signals back to the source?
Their geometry causes multiple reflections between the three surfaces, resulting in energy being reflected back in the direction it came from.
What is radar cross section (RCS)?
RCS is a measure of how detectable an object is by radar, representing the amount of RF energy reflected back toward the source.
Do trihedral reflectors require power?
No. They are passive devices and do not require any electrical power.
How does reflector size affect performance?
Larger reflectors generally produce a higher radar cross section, improving detectability.
Are trihedral reflectors suitable for outdoor use?
Yes. They are commonly used in outdoor radar test ranges due to their durability and passive operation.
Can these reflectors be customized?
Yes. Mi-Wave offers custom sizes, materials, and configurations for specific applications.
What industries use trihedral corner reflectors?
They are used in aerospace, defense, research, telecommunications, and radar system development.
Glossary of Trihedral Corner Reflector Terms
Reflector Fundamentals
Trihedral Corner Reflector
A passive RF device consisting of three mutually perpendicular conductive planes that reflect incident electromagnetic waves back toward the source regardless of angle of incidence.
Retroreflection
The ability of a structure to reflect electromagnetic energy back toward the originating source over a wide angular range.
Corner Reflector Geometry
The three-plane orthogonal structure that enables multiple internal reflections, resulting in strong backscatter.
Reflective Surface
A conductive surface that reflects RF energy with minimal absorption.
Radar and Measurement Terms
Radar Cross Section (RCS)
A quantitative measure of how detectable an object is by radar, expressed in square meters (m²).
Backscatter
The portion of electromagnetic energy reflected directly back toward the radar source.
Scattering Mechanism
The physical interaction between RF waves and a target that results in energy being redirected.
Calibration Target
A known reference reflector used to calibrate radar systems and validate measurement accuracy.
Reference Target
A standard object with predictable RCS used for system benchmarking.
Radar Return Signal
The signal received by a radar after reflection from a target.
Electrical and RF Concepts
Wavelength (λ)
The distance between repeating points of a wave, calculated as λ = c / f.
Frequency (GHz)
The number of oscillations per second of an RF signal.
Microwave Frequencies
1 GHz to 30 GHz.
Millimeter-Wave (mmWave)
30 GHz to 300 GHz.
Free Space Propagation
Transmission of electromagnetic waves through free space without obstructions.
Geometry and Scaling
Edge Length (a)
The length of one side of the trihedral reflector. This is the primary parameter that determines RCS.
Aperture Area
The effective geometric area of the reflector contributing to reflection.
RCS Scaling Law
Radar cross section increases proportionally to the fourth power of edge length and inversely with the square of wavelength.
Electrical Size
The size of the reflector relative to wavelength, which determines its scattering efficiency.
Performance Characteristics
Reflectivity
The ability of the reflector to return incident RF energy.
Angular Coverage
The range of angles over which the reflector maintains strong return signals.
Passive Target
A device that reflects RF energy without requiring power or active components.
Signal Return Strength
The amplitude of the reflected signal received by the radar system.
Measurement Repeatability
The ability to produce consistent results across multiple tests.
System and Application Terms
Radar Calibration
The process of adjusting a radar system using known targets.
Antenna Alignment
The process of orienting antennas for optimal signal reception or transmission.
Far-Field Measurement
Testing conducted at distances where wavefronts are effectively planar.
Test Range
An environment used for RF or radar testing.
Propagation Study
Analysis of how RF signals travel and interact with objects.
Advanced Concepts
Specular Reflection
Reflection from a smooth surface where the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection.
Multi-Bounce Reflection
Successive reflections within the trihedral structure that result in retroreflection.
Polarization Independence
The ability of the reflector to return signals regardless of polarization orientation.
Dynamic Range (Radar)
The range of signal strengths a radar system can detect.
Why Choose Mi-Wave for Trihedral Corner Reflectors
Proven RF and Radar Calibration Expertise
Mi-Wave has decades of experience designing and manufacturing high-performance RF, microwave, and millimeter-wave components used in demanding test, measurement, and calibration applications. Our trihedral corner reflectors are built to deliver consistent and repeatable results for critical radar testing.
Reliable Passive Retroreflection
Trihedral corner reflectors are passive devices that require no power or active electronics. Their geometric design ensures a strong and stable radar return over a wide range of incident angles, making them highly effective reference targets for system calibration and performance verification.
Precision Construction
Each reflector is fabricated with tight mechanical tolerances to maintain proper alignment of the reflective surfaces. This precision ensures predictable radar cross section behavior and accurate test results across a wide frequency range.
Custom Reflector Solutions
In addition to standard designs, Mi-Wave offers custom trihedral corner reflectors tailored to specific frequency bands, size requirements, mounting configurations, or test environments. Our engineering team can support unique radar and RF test applications.
What This Product Does
Passive RF and Microwave Retroreflection
Trihedral corner reflectors function by reflecting incident RF, microwave, or millimeter-wave signals off three perpendicular surfaces, returning the signal directly back toward the transmitter. This multi-reflection mechanism produces a strong backscatter response with consistent amplitude and phase characteristics.
Because the reflected signal is highly predictable, trihedral corner reflectors are commonly used as reference targets for validating radar system performance, antenna alignment, receiver sensitivity, signal processing accuracy, and overall system stability.
Typical Uses and Applications
Trihedral corner reflectors are widely used in:
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Radar system calibration and validation
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Radar cross section (RCS) measurement
-
Antenna pattern and gain testing
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RF, microwave, and millimeter-wave test setups
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Target simulation for radar performance evaluation
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Laboratory measurements and outdoor test ranges
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Aerospace, defense, and communications system testing
These reflectors provide repeatable and reliable signal returns, enabling accurate benchmarking and performance comparison across different systems and test conditions.
Key Features
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Passive trihedral retroreflector design
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Predictable and repeatable radar cross section
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Strong backscatter response for calibration and testing
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Effective across RF, microwave, and millimeter-wave frequencies
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Wide angular response for flexible placement
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Precision mechanical construction
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Suitable for lab, range, and field environments
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Custom sizes and configurations available
Trihedral Corner Reflector Engineering Calculators
These calculators support radar engineers working with trihedral corner reflectors for RCS estimation, calibration planning, and RF system verification.
