Abstract:Precipitation measurement of using microwave link is the latest technology of precipitation measurement. Microwave has direct effect on near surface atmosphere, so it has advantages of high spatial and temporal resolution. This paper summarizes the development status and technical difficulties of the precipitation measurement using the microwave link. Combined with the practical application of microwave communications, it analyzes the basis for frequency band selection, factors to be considered for signal attenuation measurement and detailed rain attenuation forward modeling. It also points out that accurate recognition of precipitation initiation time and area rainfall retrieval algorithms are two key technologies for its practical application. In a word, this paper provides a reference for further studies on the precipitation measurement method by microwave link.