Optimal Track Lengths for CARMA

Marc W. Pound
University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742

Using relevant parameters for CARMA, I revisit the analysis of Regan &
Rand (1996) who recommended optimum track lengths for BIMA based on
source declination, observing frequency and site characteristics, with
an upper limit of 8 hrs.  Using CARMA site characteristics, I compute
percentage of maximum achievable SNR as a function of track length over a
wide declination range.  For CARMA, I recommend that the fiducial track
length be the length at which 90% of the achievable SNR is reached with
an upper limit of 12 hours.

footnote: As of Feb. 2008, the CARMA Science Steering Committee has adopted 
90% SNR and an 8 hour maximum.