Danny Deger wrote:

In another thread I am in a discussion on radar capability for FAA
"Centers". My recollection is that they typically have no primary radar,
thus no capability to paint weather. Someone is telling me they do.
Anybody out there have the answer. Maybe some do and some don't, and the
ones I used in the past don't.

The answer is "it depends." Many enroute U.S. radar sites DO have primary
radar coverage. However there are also plenty so-called "beacon only" sites
that only interogate transponders. These sites are less expensive to install,
particularly in remote areas where installations and electric is at a premium.
The long term trend of FAA was to have less and less full blown primary radar
coverage, similar to what many other countries were already doing for their
civil aviation. The FAA's strategy changed in September, 2001. Primary
coverage will be with us to stay, and may even be expanded in some areas.

Air traffic control radar is optimized and sized for finding airplanes, not
rain drops. Newer center facilities use weather radar (Nexrad) to provide
their weather information on their screens.

I highly recommend taking a tour of any local TRACON and ARTCC facilities. You
will need a pre-approved appointment and may have to provide your information
well in advance. Participating as part of a small group (such as an instrument
ground school course) may be helpful.

The new center and approach faciltiies have wonderful equipment and radar
displays. I cringe whenever I hear a politician say that we haven't invested a
penny in air traffic control for forty years. It took a long time, yes, but
the upgrades are paying dividends. Now to redesign the airspace maps......