Accessoires

The term 'radar' refers to a localisation method based on electromagnetic radio waves. A radar device emits pulse signals that are reflected by objects. The echoes received are analysed and displayed on the radar screen. On yachts, multifunction displays are often used to display the radar image, which can be used universally for navigation. For example, the electronic nautical chart and the radar image can be viewed in parallel, and the radar image can also be superimposed on the nautical chart using the overlay function.

With radar antennas, a distinction must be made between radar and slot antennas. A compact and lightweight radar antenna is mainly used as a marine radar on sailing boats and small motorboats. Due to its round, encapsulated design, it offers more options for mounting on the mast or equipment carrier at the stern and can be easily combined with a gimbal mount. Their power consumption is also lower. Radome antennas usually have a transmission power of 2 kW or 4 kW, which is sufficient for a range of up to 48 nautical miles.

Open slot antennas or slot radiators are used on large yachts and in commercial shipping, where power consumption is less important than performance. Due to their narrower aperture angle, slot antennas offer better target detection and resolution, especially at long range. The transmission power is usually 4 kW, which enables a range of up to 72 nautical miles. Digital radar antennas are now replacing analogue technology. Digital processors enable better target resolution, power consumption is lower and cable sections can be shortened. The latest generation of HD digital radar sets also enables the parallel display of two radar images with different ranges. Depending on whether a ship's radar is focussed on the close range or on distant targets, it transmits on a different frequency. Either on the X-band from 9.3 to 9.5 GHz or on the band from 300 MHz to 3 GHz.

Broadband technology is ideal for compatibility with electronic charting systems and echo sounder displays, e.g. for a radar overlay. MARPA and AIS functions are also displayed on the radar screen. MARPA enables the tracking of moving targets such as ships in terms of speed, bearing and direction. Dangerous approach points and the time required to reach CPA are displayed. Radar reflectors increase the probability of being detected by radar, especially on fibreglass yachts and small boats. Active radar reflectors amplify the radar pulses and send them back, making it easier to detect small targets such as pleasure craft in coastal areas. Equipment specialist Compass offers powerful marine radar and yacht radar on Compass24.

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