Solid-State Doppler Tracking

It’s the comfort of knowing you are safe.

It’s Doppler Radar echoes changing color,
showing which targets are a threat to you.
It’s instant tracking of up to 100 moving
targets. It’s Furuno’s Bird Mode tracking
birds to find the best fishing grounds. It’s
the “NXT” innovation in Radar, the all-new
DRS4D-NXT Solid-State Doppler Radar for
NavNet TZtouch & TZtouch2.

Target AnalyzerTM function, facilitated by Doppler

technology, immediately alerts you to targets (displayed
in red) that pose a threat to your vessel. Simultaneously
track up to 100 moving targets, displaying their speed &
course vectors.

RezBoostTM beam sharpening displays higher resolution

targets, similar to those from an open array antenna.

Operator’s Guide to
Marine Radar
NXT Solid-State Doppler Radar
The innovation in Radar www.FurunoUSA.com
 4. MAINTENANCE
Table of Contents Regular maintenance is important for continued performance of the Radar. Before reviewing this section,
please read the safety information which follows.
1-3) Principles of Radar
DANGER: ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD
3-5) Radar System Configurations
This equipment uses high voltage electricity which can endanger human life. At several places within
5-6) Radar Terminology the unit there are high voltages sufficient to kill anyone coming in direct contact with them. While the
equipment has been designed with consideration for the operators safety, precautions must always be
exercised when reaching inside the equipment for the purpose of maintenance or service. For this reason,
6-8) Radar Controls only qualified personnel totally familiar with electrical circuits and service manual should work inside the
display or scanner units. A residual charge remains in capacitors and other devices for several minutes after
9) Targeting Birds turning off the power. Therefore, before beginning any maintenance work, wait for two or three minutes to
allow the residual charge to subside.

10-11) Range, Bearing and Position PERIOD ITEM

3 to 6 Scanner unit fixing bolts and nuts are exposed to the marine environment and are thus subject
12-14) Advanced Radar Operation Months to corrosion. Check bolts for tightness and corrosion, replacing any corroded bolts and coating
new bolts with anticorrosion sealant.

15-18) Radar FAQ's Foreign material such as salt deposits, oil, etc., can accumulate on the radiator (antenna) and
cause a considerable drop in Radar performance. Wipe the radiator clean with a freshwater-
moistened cloth. Because the radiator is constructed of reinforced plastic, do not use gaso-
19) Additional Resources line, benzine or any other commercial cleaners to clean the radiator as they can damage the
integrity of the radiator and remove paint from its surface.

20) Radar Mark Definitions Check the waterproofing gasket for wear. The gasket should be coated with silicone grease to
preserve elasticity.
21) Maintenance Open the scanner unit and visually check that all screws on terminal board are secured tightly.

Wipe the screen clean with a soft cloth to remove any dust. Do not use chemical cleaners to
When it comes to safety on the water, no other piece of clean the screen as they may remove paint, markings and any anti reflective coating that may
electronic equipment on your bridge is as important be on the screen.
as your Radar. For more than 40 years, Furuno Radars
consistently won the prestigious NMEA (National 6 Months Check the scanner drive motor brushes. The life of these carbon brushes is about 2,000
Marine Electronics Association) award for Best Radar, to 1 Year hours. If their lengths are less than 6 mm, replace them with new brushes, which are 11 mm
and most recently, the prestigious NMEA Technology long.
Award. Whether you are looking for a compact 2.2kW
unit or a commercial grade 50kW Radar, Furuno is the Carbon dust given off by the scanner drive motor brushes may fall into the slits of the timing
disk. This may cause the sweep on the display to jump. Check the slits for carbon dust and
single largest source of Radars you can rely on. This book
foreign material.
will help you learn about what a Radar is, how it works,
and how to get the most from what is perhaps the most Check that all wiring on terminal boards is secure. Check that all plugs and jacks are properly
1 Year
Boats of all types can benefit from having a Radar important navigation device you will ever own. seated.
onboard for navigation and situational awareness..

Table 3 above outlines a suggested regimen of maintenance that you may follow to get the best performance from your Radar.
Preventive maintenance greatly extends the life of the equipment. A maintenance program should be established and should
at least include the items listed above.
Mark Display: 1. Principles of Radar What Radar Can Do
Radar mainly functions as an anti-collision aid. It
Table 2 describes the marks commonly found on Furuno Radars. What is Radar? also provides information about the whereabouts of
Radar is an acronym meaning RAdio Detecting And neighboring vessels, coastal outlines, etc.
Mark Appearance Description Ranging. It is a device which measures not only the
The cursor is controlled by operating the trackball, arrow keys or time it takes for a pulsed signal to be reflected back • Navigate in darkness and fog

++
Cursor
omnipad. Its main function is to measure range and bearing to a from an object but also its bearing relative to your In fog or darkness, you may lose situational awareness
target, select AIS and ARPA targets, and set guard zones around your own ship because of poor or no visibility.
position. No other piece of marine electronics can give
Tuning Bar The tuning bar shows receiver tuning state. Normally, a longer bar you as much information about objects around your With Radar acting as your eyes, however, you have
indicates better tuning, however the length of the bar can vary
+
+ own ship as Radar. the ability to monitor other ships’ movement under
with range and number of targets.
+ these conditions.
Heading Mark The heading mark shows own ships heading. With no gyro or flux-
gate compass the mark always points to zero degrees.
Present state of Radar:
Radar was developed during World War II. Today, • Collision avoidance
Radar is available for all classes of vessels including The guard alarm feature of every Furuno Radar alerts
North Mark This mark appears when a gyro or fluxgate compass is connected small fishing vessels and pleasure craft. Many you when targets enter a particular area, or own ship is
to the Radar. The short dashed line always points to north. pleasure boats may also have a color video sounder nearing a danger area. The alarm area can be forward
(Fish Finder) or navigation device such as a GPS of own ship or a 360-degree circle around the vessel.
Range rings provide an estimate of range to target. The interval receiver, but the single most important piece of When Radar targets such as other ships, landmasses or
Range Rings
and number of rings may change with range. electronics is the Radar. No other gear can give you buoys enter the zone, an audible alarm sounds to alert
+ the ability to spot a vessel coming at you out of the the operator.
+ fog, or tell you the location of the inlet to a harbor in
+
VRM Variable Range Marker. These marks appear on the display as the pitch black of night. • Assess target movement
dashed circles. The length of the dash of the #2 VRM is longer
than that of the #1 VRM. They function to measure range to tar-
The Echo Trail feature simulates target movement
get. For navigational safety, nothing beats Radar. While in afterglow. It is useful for assessing the movement
Electronic Bearing Line. These marks appear on the display as
your chart plotter may show you where everything of all targets relative to own ship. Some Radars have
EBL
dashed lines. The length of the dash on the #2 EBL is longer than around you is supposed to be, only your Radar can the capability to show the true movement of targets,
that of the #1 EBL. They function to measure bearing to target. show you where everything is, including coastline providing increased navigational safety.
and navigation aids such as beacons or buoys, as well
Guard Zone The guard zone defines an area which, when targets enter or leave as uncharted objects such as vessel traffic and other • Determine own ships position
as per user settings, an audible alarm is triggered to alert the user obstructions.
to the change.
Since Radar sees further than the naked eye, the
echoes from islands and landmasses can be used to
About Furuno Radars: determine own ships’ position. When running near
The National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) land, you can use peninsulas and other targets whose
annually recognizes its member marine electronics echoes show distinct contours on the display to
AIS Target Display: ARPA Target Display:
manufacturers for superior products. Furuno annually determine own ships’ position. Distant, tall mountains
takes home the top award in several categories of or bridges may be similarly used provided they are
marine electronics equipment, and our Radars have above the horizon
won the top prize every year since 1976. Furuno
has repeatedly won the coveted NMEA award for • Navigate to specific location
Manufacturer of the Year - Support. These awards Fishing vessels and pleasure boats use Radar to
make it clear that Furuno is the leading manufacturer help them navigate to favorite fishing spots. When
of Radar in terms of quality, reliability and after- navigating to a fishing spot, the forces of wind
purchase support. and current can combine to throw the vessel off its
intended course. To remember your location if your
ship drifts, use the VRM and EBL to mark range and
bearing to nearby islands or peninsulas.

20 1
• Navigate straight to waypoint D = 1/2 x cT
c = Speed of Radio Pulse (3 x 108 m/sec) Radar FAQ’s continued ...
The map-like picture displayed by Radar helps you
navigate straight to a waypoint and compliments chart T = Time between transmission of radio pulse and
plotter images. reception of reflected echo Q: What are Radar side lobes and what do they do?
D = Distance A: Side lobes are naturally occurring areas of transmitted energy that are part of virtually any transmitter used
• Receive Radar beacon (RACON) in marine electronics. Radar, echo sounders (fishfinders) and sonars all generate a “main beam”, which is also
Radar can receive pulsed signals from a Radar beacon Both radio waves and light travel at the near-constant known as the “main lobe”. “Side lobes” are transmitted energy that is outside of the “main beam” or “main
to determine own ships position. speed of 186,000 miles per second; therefore, the lobe”.
Radar can process vast amounts of information in
• Fishing operation a very short time. Comparatively, Sonar and Fish Reflections from side lobes can sometimes cause false targets and/or “noise” on your display. All Furuno
Finders use ultrasonic waves rather than radio waves. products have gain and clutter controls to help minimize the affects of side lobe returns. Many installation
Besides its basic function as an aid to navigation,
Since the propagation speed of the ultrasonic wave menus and settings exist for fine-tuning Furuno products.
Radar is also a valuable tool for fishing operations.
is 1,500 miles per second, signal processing is much
Purse seiners use it to monitor net shape, observing
slower with these devices than with Radar. Q: Why does my Radar have to wait 2 minutes after I turn it on before I get a picture?
the echoes from floats attached to the net. It is
A: The component that transmits Radar energy is called a magnetron and is similar to that which is in your
especially useful in fleet fishing for determining
microwave oven, but much more powerful. This is a tube, which will be damaged if the filament isn’t heated to
position of vessels, locating fishing grounds and
a proper temperature. Therefore, Radars have a timing circuit – typically 2 or 3 minutes – which disables the
positioning vessels.
magnetron from transmitting until the filament is sufficiently heated. This protects the magnetron from being
damaged.
Specialty fisherman use Radar to search for sea birds,
which may be an indication of the presence of bait
fish or their target species. This technique has become
easier with the advent of dual-range simultaneous
Additional Resources
scanning, such as that found in NavNet 3D, TZtouch, How Radar determines bearing
and TZtouch2, where the navigator can use one Radar Radar determines the range to a target by measuring
www.FurunoUSA.com:
the amount of time required for a reflected echo to Visit our web site at www.FurunoUSA.com for information on the entire
screen with the gain set for targeting birds, while the
other Radar screen is used to navigate. As you can see, return to the scanner. Bearing to a target is determined line of award-winning Furuno Radars. Browse through our catalog of
for many fishing vessels Radar functions more often by the direction from which a reflected echo returns. chart plotters, fish finders, sonar and communication products to round
as an aid to fishing rather than an aid to navigation. out your helm.
The scanner rotates 360 degrees about its vertical
How It Works axis, using a special gear. In order to achieve precise
Did you ever shout at a cliff and hear the echo of your bearing resolution the antenna radiates RF (radio
shout? Radar works in a similar manner. Imagine that frequency) power in the form of a highly directional
beam. “Super” beams having horizontal beamwidth
Authorized Furuno Dealers:
radio pulses are emitted from the scanner in a certain
direction. When the pulse strikes an object such as on the order of one 1 degree or less provide highly Your local Furuno dealer is a valuable resource when it comes to an-
a ship or island some of the energy returns to the precise bearing information. The sharper the beam, swering specific questions about the electronics that are right for you.
scanner. The direction in which the scanner is pointing the more accurately the bearing of a target can be To find your nearest Furuno dealer, simply go to our web site at www.
when the reflection is received is the direction of the determined.
FurunoUSA.com and click on “Where To Buy”. Enter in your zip code
target causing the reflection. Since radio waves travel
at a near-constant speed, the time required for the How the Radar displays targets and you will receive a complete list of Furuno dealers in your area.
reflected echo to return to the scanner is a measure of Radar targets are displayed on what is called a Plan
the range to the target. Position Indicator, or PPI. This display is essentially
a polar diagram, with the transmitting ships’ position
Furuno User Forum
How Radar determines range at the center. Images of target echoes are received The Furuno Forum, found at at www.FurunoUSAForum.com, is
The radio pulse makes a complete round trip, but and displayed at their relative bearing, and at their manned by our knowledgable Technical Support staff. Here, you
only half the time of travel is needed to determine the distances from the PPI center. Early model Radars can ask questions and get answers about any Furuno products. Join our
range to the target. This equation shows how range is displayed targets and possess few features such as
rapidly growing pool of knowledgeable Furuno users today!
determined: heading marks and range rings. To view the display,
a viewing hood was required to block out extraneous
2 light.

19
 Almost all late model Radars use Liquid Crystal Radar System Configuration
Radar FAQ’s continued ... Display (LCD) or daylight bright Cathode Ray
Tube (CRT) displays. These types of displays Basic system
Q: What is the difference between a true color Radar and a “color” Radar? provide steady, bright, non-fading Radar echoes The basic Radar system consists of two units: the
A: With a true color Radar the return signal strength from the target(s) determines the color represented on the in monochrome or color depending on model. scanner unit and the display unit. The transceiver
display for the target(s). Strong targets are depicted in warm colors, such as red. Weak targets are represented The picture is visible even in full daylight. Digital (transmitter/receiver unit, or t/r) is generally housed
in cool colors such as yellows and greens. information is displayed on-screen to keep you in the gearbox of the scanner unit. In some designs
informed of your navigational situation at all times. the t/r is separate from the scanner unit and contained
A good example would be observing a thunder storm with your true color Radar. With the Radar properly set
in its own housing; such a unit is referred to as ‘t/r
up and adjusted you can see strong cells within the storm depicted in reds. Areas of the storm with light rain are Radar range down.’ Also, the control unit may be separate from
depicted in yellows and greens. Atmospheric conditions and target shape, material and the display unit so as to allow for custom selection of
aspect slightly affect Radar range. However, Radar display in what is referred to as a ‘black box’ system.
A “color” Radar represents all targets in one color, no matter what the signal strength is. range is generally calculated as follows:
Note: All Furuno color Radars are true color Radars.

Q: Can I mount a masthead light on top of my Radome?

A: Making any kind of penetration in the upper dome assembly is not recommended and will void your
warranty. This almost always leads to water intrusion due to improper sealing, or physical damage to the
dome(cracking).

Q: I need a replacement upper cover for the radome of my Radar. How do I find the part number?
A: To find the part number click on the “Search” button on our web site, www.FurunoUSA.com. Enter the Figure 2 - Basic Radar system
model number of your Radar and select the “Find Parts For this Model #(Enter exact Model #)” radio button. Figure 1 - Determining Radar range
Click Search to display a list of parts for your unit and look for the upper radome assembly (ASSY/RADOME Scanner unit components
UPPER...). If you are not certain of your model number you may try locating your model under the “Products” D is the distance from the scanner to the target Most scanner units employ the circuits and devices
tab on the top navigation bar. horizon. Under normal atmospheric conditions, this shown in Figure 3:
distance is 6% greater than the optical horizon. This
Once you have located the part number you may contact your local authorized Furuno dealer to purchase this is because radio waves bend or refract slightly by
item. atmospheric change.

Q: The bottom 25 percent of the Radar picture is blank on my 1621 Radar display. The Radar picture The higher the scanner or target is above the surface,
above is normal. What could be the problem? the longer the detection range. For example, if the
A: The bottom portion of many of the Furuno Radar displays can be configured to display navigation data from scanner is 9 meters above the sea surface and the
a GPS source, etc. Please follow the steps below to properly configure your Radar display. height of the target is 16 meters, you should be able to
see the target’s echo on the display when the target is
1) Check in the [MENU] setting for [Nav Data] selected. 15 miles from the Radar. Figure 3 - Circuits and devices of a scanner unit
2) Select [OFF] to display the Radar picture in full screen mode.
Magnetron
Note: If the display is interfaced with a GPS, etc. make sure to power on the device to display the information at Unusual propagation conditions The magnetron generates the radio pulses.
the bottom 25 percent of the Radar screen. Air ducts created by atmospheric conditions can affect Magnetrons, as well as the Radar itself, are classified
radio pulse propagation and thus Radar range. When by their transmitting frequency band. There are two
Q: Why does the lollipop symbol on my Radar bounce around when I am stopped or moving at slow the radio pulse is bent downward, radio pulses can main frequency bands in commercial Radar: X-Band
speeds? travel great distances, thereby increasing the effective (9,000 MHz band; wavelength 3cm) and S-Band
A: The waypoint lollipop gets its heading information from your GPS using Course Over Ground (COG). Since range at which targets can be detected. This is called (3,000 MHz band; wavelength 10 cm). Magnetron
COG is based on changes in your position, it will “bounce” around when you are moving slow or stopped. super-refraction. The opposite condition, in which output power ranges from 1kW for small Radars to
Radar waves bend upward and decrease the range at 60kW for large Radars. Table 1 compares the S-Band
which targets can be detected, is called sub-refraction. and X-Band frequencies.
18 3
 Table 1 - Comparison of X-Band and S-Band The length of the array affects horizontal beamwidth,
and thus the Radar’s ability to determine target Radar FAQ’s continued ...
Frequency Band Characteristics
bearing. The longer the array, the more accurately the
X-Band • Short wavelength for better
Radar can determine bearing. For example, an array Q: Why does my Furuno Radar transmit for about 30 seconds, beep, and then go into stand-by mode for
directivity
of 50 cm length gives a horizontal beamwidth of 5 5 minutes?
• Attenuation in precipitation is
degrees, while one of 300 cm length gives a horizontal A: It sounds like you have the Watchman mode turned on. The Watchman mode sets the Radar to stand by
greater than on S-Band
beamwidth of 0.75 degrees. and then transmits the Radar at a user selected interval to check for target changes in the Guard Zone. If any
• Small, light-weight antennas changes occur, the Radar will sound an audible alarm, cancel the Watchman mode and continue to transmit.
S-Band • Longer wavelength for long Scanner directivity is a measure of the two Please refer to your operator’s manual for instructions on turning this mode off.
range detection beamwidths. One is in the horizontal plane, known as
• Penetrates precipitation for horizontal beamwidth, and the other is in the vertical Most Furuno Radars will have a notation of [Watchman] on the display when the function is active and the
excellent performance in plane, known as vertical beamwidth. The narrower display will beep when going into or out of this mode.
inclement weather the horizontal beamwidth the sharper the beam. The
• Large antenna vertical beamwidth should be wide; it is typically 20 Q: Do I need to install a flux gate compass for my Radar/chart overlay and ARPA to work?
to 25 degrees. The main reason for a wide vertical A: Yes. A stabilized heading input is required for both of these features to work.
Modulator beamwidth is to ensure the ability to display a target
The device responsible for monitoring the magnetron while own ship is pitching and rolling. Radar overlay will work with either an NMEA or Furuno AD10S heading input. NMEA sentences that will work
for proper operation is the modulator. It ensures that are HDG, HDM, HDT.
the magnetron transmits at exactly the same frequency Limiter
throughout the duration of the pulse, and that the time The limiter protects the receiver circuits from damage ARPA requires the Furuno AD10S heading input at 25 milliseconds. You can use any of Furuno’s current flux
between pulses is the proper length. in the event own ship’s Radar receives radio pulses gate compasses, an AD100 Gyro Converter, or any autopilot or flux gate compass capable of supplying this data
from another ship’s Radar. When this occurs, the format. Furuno’s UHD Radars require high-speed NMEA to support ARPA, but do NOT reuire AD10S
TX/RX Switching limiter attenuates them to protect the next stage MIC
A TX/RX switching device enables the Radar to (Microwave Integrated Circuit). Q: What is the difference between X-band and S-band Radars?
transmit the radio pulse and receive its reflected echo A: Simply put, they differ in frequency. The majority of marine Radars operate on X-band.
through one scanner. The switching device used by the MIC X-band is widely used because of the ability to utilize smaller antennas that fit on most boats and to provide
Radar is called a circulator It consists of a permanent MIC is an acronym meaning Microwave Integrated better target resolution. S-band Radars are often used for specialized applications, such as seeing through
magnet and a ferrite core. When transmitting, it Circuit. The MIC consists of a local oscillator and heavy weather or precipitation and for long-range bird detection. S-band antennas are larger. The smallest
directs radio pulses to the scanner and disconnects mixer circuits. Incorporating those devices on an IC Furuno S-band antenna is 9 feet long and can be as long as 12 feet.
the receiver circuits. When receiving, it funnels weak improves quality, reliability, sensitivity and noise
reflected echoes away from the magnetron to prevent figure (nf). Q: Can I find birds using a Furuno X-Band Radar?
both flow to the magnetron and loss of receive signal. A: Yes, birds do reflect X-Band Radar signals well enough to be detected. You must use a high power Radar to
IF Amplifier get a usable level of bird detection. We recommend 12kW of output power or higher to consistently detect birds
Scanner
The IF amplifier amplifies the Intermediate Frequency Since birds are a small target, the set-up of the Radar must be optimized and the detection range will vary.
The scanner transmits the radio pulses and receives signal output by the MIC.
their reflected echoes. Most scanners rotate at a
Q: How big does my boat have to be to have a Radar?
constant speed of 24 rpm. Many modern Furuno Display unit components A: There is no size restriction for a boat to have a Radar. As long as you have a stable mounting platform for the
Radar scanners rotate at variable speeds dependent
Most display units employ the devices shown in antenna and enough dash space to mount a display, Furuno has a Radar for you.
upon the range in use in order to optimize Radar
Figure 5:
detection. The type of scanner used by most vessels
Q: Is it okay to paint my Radar antenna?
is the slotted array, an antenna with a series of slits
A: Yes, it is okay to paint your Radar antenna. However, the paint MUST be epoxy-based with NO metallic
spaced at suitable intervals and angles from which
ingredients. Paint with metallic ingredients will cause poor performance and may cause damage to your Radar.
radio pulses are transmitted. The reflected echoes also
pass through these slits.
Q: My ARPA auto Radar plotter is erratic or drops targets. What could be causing this to happen?
Figure 4 - A typical slotted array scanner A: All Furuno ARPA plotters require an AD10 heading input with a 25ms refresh rate. It will not work properly
with a GPS NMEA heading input. Please check to make sure you are using the proper type of heading input. The
Furuno PG500R or SC30/SC50/SC110 compass will give you the 25ms input that is required.
Figure 5 - Devices of a display unit
4 17
 A/D Converter Range resolution is a measure of the capability of the
Radar FAQ’s continued ... The received IF signal is an analog signal. This signal Radar to display as separate pips the echoes received
is converted to a digital signal in order to undergo from two targets that are on the same bearing and
Q: Can I cut my Radar cable to length or should I coil it and store it? various processing in the display unit. The A/D are close together. The main factor that affects range
A: It is not recommended to cut your Radar cable. Find a place to hide and coil the excess. If there is no other (Analog to Digital) converter converts analog signals resolution is pulselength. A short pulselength gives
way to hide the cable, it can be reduced in length but this should be done by an authorized Furuno USA dealer. to digital signals. better range resolution than a long pulselength.
If not performed correctly, cutting the cable could lead to corrosion and may result in voiding the warranty.
Adjusting the cable length will also affect the timing of the Radar. Please confirm that the timing is still correct Signal Processing
if any changes are made to the cable length. This section is the heart of the Radar and contains
computers, memories, and other IC’s. Extensive use of
Q: What are the “streaks” or “spiral lines” that sometimes show up on my Radar display? digital techniques permits high speed processing.
A: If they appear intermittently and then go away, it is most likely Radar interference from other vessels
or perhaps even a second Radar aboard your own boat. Furuno Radars offer several levels of interference Control Unit
rejection, or “IR”. IR is usually selectable from a menu setting. Start by applying the first level of IR and see if The control unit contains various keys and controls for
the interference stops. Even if higher levels of IR are necessary, you will note very little degradation of your adjustment of the Radar picture. Whenever a control
Radar picture. CAUTION: Interference Rejection may suppress certain very weak targets and/or Radar signals setting is changed the associated reaction appears
from RACON buoys. almost immediately on the display. In some Radar
designs, the control unit is separate from the display
Q: Will I be able to detect weather with my Furuno Radar? unit. Figure 7 - Example of range resolution
A: Yes, most marine Radars will detect weather fronts. With Furuno true color Radars you will be able to see
individual weather cells at a great distance. Basic Radar Terms Generally, use a short pulselength on short ranges for
better range resolution, and a long pulselength on long
Radar Resolution: Different than display ranges for longer range detection.
Q: I am purchasing a Furuno Radar system and was wondering if I would be better off with an open array resolution, which is a measure of the pixels in an LCD
unit or a radome type of antenna unit? display, Radar resolution describes the Radar’s ability
Beamwidth: Beamwidth is the angular width,
A: Generally speaking, an open array Radar antenna will have better performance than a radome antenna of to distinctly display two Radar targets which are
horizontal or vertical, of the path taken by the Radar
comparable output power. The open array antenna focuses its output beam better then the radome, resulting in close to each other. Radar has two types of resolution:
pulse. Horizontal beamwidth ranges from 0.75 to
better bearing resolution and target discrimination. This focus is best measured by the horizontal beam width range, and bearing.
of an antenna. The smaller the horizontal beam width the better the target resolution. If you have the space, the 5 degrees, and vertical beamwidth from 20 to 25
degrees.
open array is the best choice for maximum performance. Bearing resolution is a measure of the capability of
the Radar to display as separate targets the echoes
Q: Is the radiation coming from my Furuno Radar dangerous? received from two targets that are at the same range
A: It is the consensus of the scientific community that the level of radiation exposure from Marine Navigation and close together. The principal factor affecting
Radars is well below that which is permissible under current regulatory and professional guidance, and poses bearing resolution is horizontal beamwidth. The
no real health threat. Marine Radars are actually very low “average power” systems, the hazards from which narrower the horizontal beamwidth the better the
are normally insignificant. We do not, of course, recommend looking into a Radar that is mounted a few feet in bearing resolution.
front of you on the same horizontal plane.

Q: I have accessed the installation menu for my Furuno Radar but cannot select heading or sweep timing
adjustments. When selected with the [ENTER] button the Radar display just beeps twice and nothing
happens. Why?
A: Heading alignment and sweep timing adjustment cannot be selected unless the Radar is in transmit mode.
Place Radar in transmit mode before accessing the Installation Menu.

Q: My Radar doesn’t pick up targets as far as it previously did. What could be the cause?
A: The most likely cause is the magnetron. Please contact your local Furuno dealer for repair information.

16 Figure 6 - Example of
bearing resolution
Figure 8 - Example of
scanner beamwidth
5
Pulse Repetition Rate: Pulse repetition rate is
the number of radio pulses transmitted in one second.
It is automatically determined by pulselength and
Control Description:
Power: Powers the entire Radar system. After Radar FAQ's
turning on the power, a timer displays the time
detecting range. For short ranges, pulselength is short remaining for transmission preparation. “ST-BY” We've gathered a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about Radars and provided the answers in this section. If
and the pulse repetition rate is high. For long ranges, appears when the Radar is ready to transmit. The you have a question that is not answered in this book, you can visit us on the web at www.FurunoUSA.com and click on the
pulselength is long and the pulse repetition rate is low. method of turning off the power varies by model;
Support button. You can browse through answers to questions, or search for your answer by model, topic or keyword. If you
can't find the answer you're looking for, you can ask our technicians directly at the Furuno Forum at www.FurunoUSAForum.
consult your Operator’s Manual for details on com. A knowledgeable technician will respond with your answer.
Minimum detectable range: This is the powering off your Radar.
minimum range at which a target is detectable by the
Q: How do I adjust my new Furuno Radar for the best presentation?
Radar. It is determined by scanner height, vertical Economy: The economy mode turns off power to A: Normally the auto features will work well for most situations. If you want to adjust the Radar manually try
beamwidth, blind sector within the scanner beam, and the display in stand-by to lessen power consumption. the following:
pulselength.
Trackball/Cursor Pad: The trackball or cursor 1) Transmit the Radar in maximum range
Maximum detectable range and output pad shifts the cursor, which sets the guard zone, 2) Set STC (sea clutter) to minimum
power: Doubling the output power of a typical displays range and bearing to a target, etc. Some 3) Set FTC (rain clutter) to minimum
Radar raises the maximum detectable range by only models may have individual arrow keys in place of a 4) Set the gain control to maximum (the screen should show mostly Radar noise)
19 percent. In the reverse case, halving the output trackball or cursor pad. 5) Now adjust the gain control to show a very small amount of noise (only a few noise spots on the screen)
power lowers the maximum detectable range by 6) Without disturbing the gain control select the appropriate working range
16 percent. While you can increase the maximum Scanner: This switch starts and stops scanner 7) Adjust STC(sea clutter) as desired
detectable range by using a high output power Radar, rotation. Turning the switch off when transmitting 8) Adjust FTC(rain clutter) if needed
a better (and more economical) way to do it would sets the Radar in stand-by. A rotating scanner can be
be to mount the scanner as high as possible above the dangerous - before turning the switch on, be sure no Note: The timing and heading must still be set according to the procedure listed in the installation manual.
waterline and/or utilize a longer antenna to increase one is standing near the scanner unit.
horizontal beamwidth.
Q: Should I manually tune my Furuno Radar or use the automatic tuning feature?
ST BY/TX: Press this key to transmit radio pulses. A: Unless a problem is suspected with the automatic tuning circuit, automatic tuning is superior to manual
2. RADAR CONTROLS To stop transmitting, press the key again. tuning. The automatic tuning circuits adjust the receiver sensitivity to each transmitted pulse. It would be
This section briefly describes the function, objective impossible to duplicate this procedure using manual tuning. Most Furuno Radars have an automatic tune
and usage of Radar controls. Note that some controls Gain: This control adjusts receiver sensitivity. Adjust compensation adjustment that must be done as part of the initial installation alignments. See installation
described here may not be provided on your Radar. the gain to increase sensitivity and display echoes. For manual for more information on initial set-up.
For detailed control description, refer to your long range, adjust the control so background noise
Operator’s Manual. is just visible on the display. For short range, some Q: My Radar is showing targets in the wrong place (i.e. the buoy in front of the boat is showing on the
Radar operators set this control relatively high and Radar as a target behind the boat). My compass heading input is correct and the Radar is in head-up
Precautions: adjust sensitivity using the A/C SEA control. mode. How do I correct this?
A rotating scanner is dangerous. Before turning the A: All Radars require a heading alignment upon installation of the Radar antenna. Refer to your installation
Radar on, be sure no one is near the scanner unit. A/C Rain (FTC): The Rain control, also called FTC manual for the proper procedure in completing this adjustment. Once you complete the heading alignment the
(Fast Time Constant), suppresses the reflected echoes targets should show in the correct places.
The scanner unit emits high frequency radio pulses, from rain, hail and snow to clear the display. On the
which can be harmful, particularly to your eyes. Never X band Radar, because of its short pulselength, the Q: My Radar turns on but will not go into transmit. It has a message on the screen that says HD/BP, what
look directly into the scanner unit when the Radar is echoes from legitimate contacts can become lost in the does that mean?
in operation. echoes from precipitation, called rain clutter. When A: The error message “HD/BP” indicates that the display is not getting heading or bearing pulse signals. The
rain clutter masks the display, adjust this control to first step is to see if the antenna is turning. If you have an open array this is easy to check, but if you have a
break up the clutter and distinguish echoes. Adjust the
Key response: The Radar normally releases a radome antenna you will need to remove the cover to check for rotation. You will need to contact an Authorized
control so that the clutter just disappears; too much
beep when you correctly enter a command. If no beep Furuno representative. This information will help them start the troubleshooting process.
A/C Rain action may shrink or erase the echoes from
is released, try again. Incorrect command generates
legitimate targets.
several beeps. This function can usually be disabled, Q: How does UHD Radar work?
but caution must be used as this audible feedback is A: Furuno’s Ultra High Definition Radars use a new digital processing technique that effectively doubles the
important to verify correct entry of commands. scan lines on the screen, dramatically improving resolution. Additionally, vastly improved Auto Modes employ

6 digital filtering and modeling techniques that allow the Radar to adapt to a variety of sea states.
15
Multiple Echoes Radar Interference A/C Sea (STC): Sea control, also called STC Offset EBL: This EBL can be shifted to any
Multiple echoes can occur when a strong, short-range Radar Interference occurs when in the vicinity of (Sensitivity Time Constant), suppresses reflections location on the display. This allows you to predict
echo is received from a target. A second, third or more another Radar operating on the same frequency from waves near own ship. In rough seas the other ships’ course (to avoid collision) and measure
target may be observed on the display at double, triple band, normally 9GHz; 3GHz for large Radars. It reflected echoes from wave crests are very strong, the range and bearing between two targets.
or other of the actual range of the target. Multiple is usually seen on the display as large numbers of producing a mass of echoes which cover the central
reflection echoes may be reduced or often eliminated bright dots either scattered at random or in the form part of the display. This is called sea clutter. Any Plot: This function plots the movement of all ships
by decreasing the sensitivity. of dotted lines extending from the center to the edge echoes within the clutter will be partially or totally relative to own position. Press the key to start plotting.
of the display. The interference effects are easily obscured. Adjust this control to reduce the clutter The positions of all targets at the end of the preset
Blind and Shadow Sectors distinguishable from normal echoes because they do and distinguish echoes. The proper setting should be time are marked on the display.
Funnels, stacks, masts or derricks in the path of the not appear at the same places on successive rotations such that the clutter is suppressed and echoes become
antenna may hide Radar targets which are behind of the scanner. You can reduce the interference effects distinguishable. If the control is set too high, both sea Echo Trails: This feature continuously shows the
them. If the angle subtended at the scanner is more by turning on the interference rejection. clutter and echoes will disappear from the display. movements of other ships in afterglow. It is useful for
than a few degrees a blind sector may be produced. When there is no sea clutter visible on the display, assessing target movement and collision possibility.
Within the blind sector small targets at close range turn the control fully counterclockwise.
may not be detected while larger targets at much Display Mode: The display mode determines target
greater range may be detected. Brill: This control adjusts the display brilliance. position and movement on the display. There are two
types of display mode: Relative and True.
Side Lobe Echoes Range: Press the [+] and [-] keys to raise and lower
Every time the scanner rotates, some radiation escapes the range respectively. When you change ranges, • Relative Bearing Display: This mode is also
from each side of the beam. This energy is referred to the number of range rings and range ring interval as known as Head-up, since own ships heading is
as side lobe energy. If a target exists where it can be well as pulselength are automatically changed. For always at the top of the display. The position of
detected by the side lobes as well as the main lobe, confirmation, the range and range ring interval appear own ship is fixed and echoes of all other objects
the side lobe echoes may be represented on both on the display. therefore move relative to own ship. This is the
sides of the true echo at the same range. Side-lobes usual form in small Radar sets.
usually only show at short ranges and from strong Rings: Press this key to show or hide the range • True Bearing Display: This mode is sometimes
targets. They can be reduced through careful reduction rings. Range rings provide an estimate of the range called North-up since the display is oriented
of sensitivity or proper adjustment of the A/C SEA to a target. The number of range rings and range ring North. This mode is suitable for long -range
control. interval automatically change with the range. Ring observation since it is somewhat like looking at a
interval (distance between rings) appears on the nautical chart.
display.
Off Center: This key shifts the display center
VRM: The VRM (Variable Range Marker) measures to location desired. The off-center display allows
the range to targets. To measure range, press the key the operator to view the situation around own ship
to display the VRM. It appears as a dashed circle. without changing the range. Set the cursor where you
Adjust the VRM so that it touches the inner edge of want the center position to be, and then press the key.
the target. The range to the target appears in a data To cancel the off-center display, press the key again.
box on the display. Some Radars may display two
VRM’s; the length of the dash of the #2 VRM is X2 Zoom: The X2 ZOOM feature allows you to
longer than that of the #1 VRM. take a closer look at a target of interest. Set the cursor
near the object you want to zoom and press the key.
EBL: The EBL (Electronic Bearing Line) measures To cancel zoom, press the key again.
bearing to targets in degrees. To measure bearing,
press the key to display the EBL. It appears as a Index Lines: Index lines are useful for maintaining
dashed line. Adjust the EBL so that it bisects the a constant distance between own ship and the
target. The bearing to target appears in a data box on coastline or a partner ship. Press the key to toggle
the display. Some Radars can display two EBL’s; the index lines on and off.
Figure 13 - Example of Sidelobes length of the dash of the #2 EBL is longer than that of
the #1 EBL.
14 7
Interference Rejection: This control reduces or HM Off: The heading mark may sometimes hide a Other Aids To Navigation False Echoes
eliminates interference received from another ship’s small echo. To show that echo, press and hold down The Radar display sometimes shows a series of Occasionally false echoes appear on the screen at
Radar. Turn it off when no Radar interference exists. the HM OFF key to temporarily erase the heading dots or dashed radial lines. They are navigational positions where there is no target. In some cases the
mark . Release the key to display the heading mark. marks transmitted by Radar beacons. A Radar effects can be reduced or eliminated. The operator
Guard Alarm: The guard alarm creates a zone beacon transmits a coded signal when it receives a should become familiar with the appearance of these
about own ship, either complete 360 degree zone or Echo Stretch: This function ‘stretches’ small radio pulse from a Radar, and some Radar beacons false echoes so as not to confuse them with echoes
a specific area forward of own ship. If targets enter echoes to make them easier to see. It stretches not transmit continuously. Its main purpose is to help the from legitimate contacts.
or exit the zone an audible alarm sounds to alert the only small echoes but also returns from sea and navigator find his own position in terms of range and
operator. rain clutter and Radar interference. For this reason, bearing from the beacon. There are two main classes Indirect echoes
make sure clutter and interference are sufficiently of Radar beacons: RACON and RAMARK. Another Indirect echoes may be returned from either a passing
Echo Averaging: The Radar’s internal circuitry suppressed before using echo stretch. type of Radar beacon is called a Search And Rescue ship or from a reflecting surface on your own ship,
processes echo data to obtain a desired effect. The Transponder, or SART. When activated by a crew such as a stack. Figure 12 illustrates the effects of an
result depends on the Radar model. For example, NAV: This key shows/hides navigation data, member on a ship in distress it transmits a distinctive indirect echo. Indirect echoes may be recognized as
some Radars may suppress brilliance of unstable including position, range and bearing to waypoint, signal when its transmitter is triggered by a radio follows:
echoes (sea clutter, etc.), or emphasize an unstable ship’s speed and more. This feature usually requires a pulse.
small echo. navigation aid which can output data in NMEA0183 • They usually occur in shadow sectors
or NMEA2000 format. If a gyrocompass is connected RACON • They appear on the bearing of the obstruction but
Hue, Color, Background Color: These to the Radar, a dashed line connects navaid-selected The RACON (RAdar beaCON) automatically at the range of the legitimate contact
settings change display color and background color waypoint with own ship’s position. transmits a signal when it receives a radio pulse. • When plotted, their movements are usually
respectively to improve display visibility. Note that The signal transmitted by the RACON appears abnormal
marks and characters also change color when the keys intermittently on the display as a Morse character, a • Their shapes may indicate that they are not direct
are pressed. dashed or dotted line radiating out from the beacon. echoes
In the U.S., RACONs are used to mark lighthouses
and buoys, inconspicuous coastlines, navigable
spans under bridges, offshore structures such as oil
platforms, or environmentally sensitive areas such as
coral reefs.

RAMARK (Radar Marker)

The RAMARK is a Radar beacon which transmits
either continuously or at intervals. When a Radar
scanner faces a RAMARK it receives the RAMARK
signal. The RAMARK signal appears on the display
as a Morse character, a dashed or dotted radial line.
RAMARKs are not commonly used in the U.S.

SART (Search And Rescue Transponder)

When a Radar transponder is activated by a ship in
distress, its transmitter emits a signal when activated
by a radio pulse. The appearance of the signal on the
display depends on the distance between the Radar
and the transponder. The closest transponder signal to
own ship position is the approximate position of the
Figure 9 shows a sample Radar display. Own ship’s position is at the display center. The Radar range is 12 ship in distress.
nautical miles and the range ring interval is 2 nautical miles. The circled objects are ARPA targets and the
triangle objects are AIS targets. The large, continuous echoes are from land masses. Note that the actual shape In the GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety
of a target cannot be displayed on the Radar - only the portions struck by the radio pulse appear on the display. System), certain classes of vessel must carry a SART.
You should continuously monitor the display for Figure 12 - Example of Indirect Echo
8 Radar transponder signals. Be prepared to offer
assistance to a ship in distress if required.
13
3. INTERPRETING THE DISPLAY Influence of Waves and Precipitation
This section provides the information necessary for On short range, a mass of echoes covers the central Targeting Birds With Your Furuno Radar
interpreting the display. part of the display. This is caused by echoes from Some Furuno Radars include a Bird To target the birds, set the Radar to This is what you will be looking for
waves, called sea clutter. The higher the waves the Mode that is perfect for picking up a mid- or long-range. Next, increase when you don’t have a visual cue as
more extensive the sea clutter on the display. In most
birds at a distance, and it’s a well the Gain control until you see noise to where the birds are feeding.
Radar Picture and Target Properties known fact that if you want to find on the display. This will appear as
cases it is more pronounced to the windward side of schools of fish, it helps to locate the If your Radar is capable of operating
The strength of the reflected echo depends not only
a blanket of small specks. You will
the vessel. To suppress sea clutter, use the A/C SEA birds - the undisputed masters of fish need to leave the Gain turned all in True Motion, do so. You will be
on the height and size of the target, but also its shape,
control. Always leave a little sea clutter on the display
finding. What is less clear is exactly the way up, thus setting the receiver stabilizing the display, and you will be
material composition and angle at which the radio how to go about targeting birds if your able to tell if the
to be sure weak target echoes are not erased. Radar, a tool normally reserved for flock is travelling
pulse strikes. The size of the target actually has little collision avoidance, does not have in a straight line
to do with the reflected echo. If the radio pulse strikes a Bord Mode setting. This section looking for bait
it at a right angle, even a small target will return will remove some of the mystery pods or if they
surrounding the subject. have found their
a strong echo provided that the material is a good target school and
reflector of RF energy. The first thing to think of when are feeding.
considering bird-tracking Radar is
antenna beamwidth. Remember When operating in
A return echo will be weak if the angle at which the that the narrower the beamwidth, Head Up or True
radio wave strikes a target is small. For example, the greater target discrimination Motion, be sure to
flat surfaces such as sandy beaches, sandbars and you will have. For this reason, dome turn on your target
mudbanks have almost no area that can reflect ARPA and AIS antennas are generally not as adept trail function and
at tracking birds as a comparable set it for long
energy back to the Radar. Conical surfaces, such as ARPA is an acronym that stands for Automatic Radar open array antenna. As the length of trails to help track
lighthouses, generate weak return echoes because their Plotting Aid. The ARPA functions as a collision the antenna radiator increases, These birds were targeted using the Furuno 1954C NavNet travelling flocks.
shape diffuses most of the radiated energy. Because of avoidance tool, tracking individual Radar targets and beamwidth becomes narrower, so Radar. True Color is highly desirable when targeting birds, as
a larger antenna will invariably offer demonstrated above; these flocks were easily picked out in Practice these
their poor reflecting properties, flat or conical surfaces plotting their course and speed in order to determine better target discrimination. red against the blanket of clutter. techniques and
do not return an echo suitable for range determination. the closest point of approach (CPA) and time to you will soon be
closest point of approach (TCPA) to own vessel. Data Experience and practice will make for maximum sensitivity in order to scouting your fishing spots just like
you a bird-finding machine, but to the pros, even with an older Furuno
Radar sees only the near side of targets. For example, such as course, speed, range, bearing, CPA and TCPA get there you need to start with the
detect birds. Resist the temptation
to turn up the AC/Sea or AC/Rain to Radar.
it cannot show you what is behind a sea wall or an can be called up in a data box on the screen simply by basics. For the novice, it is best to drop out the noise. Flocks of birds
island. The echo of a mountain peak may appear on selecting the target of interest. practice these techniques on a clear may look like dense, recurring noise
day with calm seas. It is easiest to rather than a solid target, but you
the Radar display as a peninsula or small island. The first visually locate a flock of birds. should be able to see them clearly.
Radar image is not always as it seems - you should AIS is an acronym that stands for Automatic
always exercise caution when interpreting the display. Identification System. The AIS system is used to
exchange vessel and navigation data including vessel Radar Factoids - and Solid State Radar
Target material and reflected echo name and call sign, length and beam, position with
Generally, steel objects return a very strong echo accuracy indication and integrity status, course, speed, Solid State Radar require no magnetron to produce
while reefs and water return weak echoes. The heading and ROT and other specific information, all a magnetic pulse. While a magnetron Radar uses a
weakest echoes come from wood and fiberglass in real time. Data is shared with other nearby ships as powerful pulse, it is only transmitting 0.3 percent of
objects. In summary, non-metallic objects or those well as coastal VTS (Vessel Traffic Service) stations. the time. Solid State Radar transmits at lower power
that are flat or conical in shape do not make good Unlike ARPA, which is dependent upon Radar returns but uses up to 10 percent of the duty cycle.
Radar targets, and the Radar may display only weak, to track targets, AIS targets are acquired and tracked
intermittent echoes - or it may not display them at all. via VHF (radio) signal. This means that AIS-equipped The Furuno NXT Radar is a Solid-State Radar with
targets that are partially or totally obscured from the pulse compression, Target Analyzer™ and Fast
Precipitation sweep of the Radar can still be acquired and tracked if Target Tracking™ utilizing Doppler technology. NXT

Rain, snow and hail may return echoes which appear within VHF coverage. is the first radar in the world to use the new Furuno
exclusive Target Analyzer™ function. Targets that are
on the display as a blurred or cluttered area. You can approaching your vessel automatically change color,
suppress them by adjusting the A/C RAIN control, or allowing for instant identification of hazardous objects With the NXT Radar’s Doppler technology, any vessel
lowering the sensitivity. - green targets are targets that stay stationary, or are approaching yours will automatically display a target
vector and sound an alarm.
moving away from you, while red targets are moving
towards your vessel.

12 9
Radar Picture and Marks By EBL: How to Suppress Sea Clutter How to Suppress Rain Clutter
The Radar display shows you not only echoes but also Display an EBL and adjust it so that it bisects the The effect of echoes with waves changes with wave Echoes from precipitation cover a much wider area on
marks and information. This section describes the Radar target. The bearing to the target appears on the size, sea conditions, weather and antenna height above the display than echoes from waves. However, since
picture and marks you will see on the display. EBL readout. Bearing relative to heading is relative the sea surface. Sea clutter can be suppressed by not they are not as strong as those from waves, they can
bearing, while bearing relative to North is true only the A/C SEA controls but also by a combination be suppressed by adjusting the A/C RAIN and GAIN
Measuring Range bearing. of A/C RAIN and GAIN controls. controls.
The range from own ship to target can be measured in three
ways: by range rings, by cursor, and by VRM. General Procedure: Example 1: Drizzle over a wide area
Turn the A/C SEA control fully counterclockwise If using the A/C RAIN control shrinks or erases
By Range Rings: (down). Turn the GAIN control fully clockwise (up). echoes, turn the GAIN control clockwise (up) until
The RINGS key shows/hides the range rings and adjusts Slowly turn the GAIN control counterclockwise rain clutter just appears on the display.
their brilliance. To measure range by the range rings, count (down) to reduce sea clutter and distinguish targets.
the number of rings between the center of the display and Note that echoes that are weaker than the sea clutter Example 2: Density of rain different from area to
the echo. Check the range ring interval at the top of the will not appear. area
display and judge the distance of the echo from the inner In this instance you usually reduce the clutter in the
edge of the nearest ring. If this action does not remove sea clutter near own area of light rain by adjusting the A/C RAIN control.
Figure 11: Comparison of true and relative bearing ship, gradually turn the A/C SEA control clockwise Be careful not to remove the clutter completely;
By Cursor: (up) to reduce sea clutter. weak echoes may be missed. If strong clutter appears
No Gyrocompass Connection: in the area of heavy rain, turn the GAIN control
The cursor provides a more accurate measurement of range
You can determine true bearing by adding relative NOTE: The A/C RAIN control is also effective in counterclockwise (down) a little.
to targets. Set the cursor intersection on the inner edge of
bearing to your compass reading. If the sum is over suppressing sea clutter. It is most effective when the
the target. The range from own ship to target appears on the
360 degrees, subtract 360 from the number. echo of the target is larger than that of the sea clutter.
display.
Its main advantage over the A/C SEA control is that,
Gyrocompass connection: when used to suppress sea clutter, it does not shrink
By VRM:
Select the true bearing display, north-up mode. small echoes.
The VRM, like the cursor, provides a more accurate
Measure the bearing by the EBL and check the EBL
measurement of the range to targets. Display a VRM and
readout.
adjust it so that it rests on the inner edge of the target. The
range to target appears on the VRM readout.

An ARPA target is measured by range and bearing from

own ship and located on the Radar PPI. When ARPA
and AIS are combined and their symbols are within an
operator-set criteria, the ARPA symbol is merged with the
AIS symbol. Some common ARPA symbols are:
AIS provides real-time information about AIS-equipped vessels on your
Figure 10 - How to measure range AIS-ready chart plotter, navigation software or Radar. This information is
presented graphically, allowing you to monitor and avoid AIS equipped ves-
Measuring Bearing sels in the area. Since AIS targets can be received even if they are not within
The relative bearing from own ship to targets can be line of sight, the system greatly enhances situational awareness in congested
measured by the cursor and by the EBL. With gyrocompass waterways, limited visibility or heavy sea conditions, and gives the navigator much
connection, you can display true bearing. more information about AIS equipped vessels. Some common AIS symbols are:

By Cursor:
Set the cursor intersection on the center of the echo. The
bearing from own ship to target appears on the display.

10 11
Radar Picture and Marks By EBL: How to Suppress Sea Clutter How to Suppress Rain Clutter
The Radar display shows you not only echoes but also Display an EBL and adjust it so that it bisects the The effect of echoes with waves changes with wave Echoes from precipitation cover a much wider area on
marks and information. This section describes the Radar target. The bearing to the target appears on the size, sea conditions, weather and antenna height above the display than echoes from waves. However, since
picture and marks you will see on the display. EBL readout. Bearing relative to heading is relative the sea surface. Sea clutter can be suppressed by not they are not as strong as those from waves, they can
bearing, while bearing relative to North is true only the A/C SEA controls but also by a combination be suppressed by adjusting the A/C RAIN and GAIN
Measuring Range bearing. of A/C RAIN and GAIN controls. controls.
The range from own ship to target can be measured in three
ways: by range rings, by cursor, and by VRM. General Procedure: Example 1: Drizzle over a wide area
Turn the A/C SEA control fully counterclockwise If using the A/C RAIN control shrinks or erases
By Range Rings: (down). Turn the GAIN control fully clockwise (up). echoes, turn the GAIN control clockwise (up) until
The RINGS key shows/hides the range rings and adjusts Slowly turn the GAIN control counterclockwise rain clutter just appears on the display.
their brilliance. To measure range by the range rings, count (down) to reduce sea clutter and distinguish targets.
the number of rings between the center of the display and Note that echoes that are weaker than the sea clutter Example 2: Density of rain different from area to
the echo. Check the range ring interval at the top of the will not appear. area
display and judge the distance of the echo from the inner In this instance you usually reduce the clutter in the
edge of the nearest ring. If this action does not remove sea clutter near own area of light rain by adjusting the A/C RAIN control.
Figure 11: Comparison of true and relative bearing ship, gradually turn the A/C SEA control clockwise Be careful not to remove the clutter completely;
By Cursor: (up) to reduce sea clutter. weak echoes may be missed. If strong clutter appears
No Gyrocompass Connection: in the area of heavy rain, turn the GAIN control
The cursor provides a more accurate measurement of range
You can determine true bearing by adding relative NOTE: The A/C RAIN control is also effective in counterclockwise (down) a little.
to targets. Set the cursor intersection on the inner edge of
bearing to your compass reading. If the sum is over suppressing sea clutter. It is most effective when the
the target. The range from own ship to target appears on the
360 degrees, subtract 360 from the number. echo of the target is larger than that of the sea clutter.
display.
Its main advantage over the A/C SEA control is that,
Gyrocompass connection: when used to suppress sea clutter, it does not shrink
By VRM:
Select the true bearing display, north-up mode. small echoes.
The VRM, like the cursor, provides a more accurate
Measure the bearing by the EBL and check the EBL
measurement of the range to targets. Display a VRM and
readout.
adjust it so that it rests on the inner edge of the target. The
range to target appears on the VRM readout.

An ARPA target is measured by range and bearing from

own ship and located on the Radar PPI. When ARPA
and AIS are combined and their symbols are within an
operator-set criteria, the ARPA symbol is merged with the
AIS symbol. Some common ARPA symbols are:
AIS provides real-time information about AIS-equipped vessels on your
Figure 10 - How to measure range AIS-ready chart plotter, navigation software or Radar. This information is
presented graphically, allowing you to monitor and avoid AIS equipped ves-
Measuring Bearing sels in the area. Since AIS targets can be received even if they are not within
The relative bearing from own ship to targets can be line of sight, the system greatly enhances situational awareness in congested
measured by the cursor and by the EBL. With gyrocompass waterways, limited visibility or heavy sea conditions, and gives the navigator much
connection, you can display true bearing. more information about AIS equipped vessels. Some common AIS symbols are:

By Cursor:
Set the cursor intersection on the center of the echo. The
bearing from own ship to target appears on the display.

10 11
3. INTERPRETING THE DISPLAY Influence of Waves and Precipitation
This section provides the information necessary for On short range, a mass of echoes covers the central Targeting Birds With Your Furuno Radar
interpreting the display. part of the display. This is caused by echoes from Some Furuno Radars include a Bird To target the birds, set the Radar to This is what you will be looking for
waves, called sea clutter. The higher the waves the Mode that is perfect for picking up a mid- or long-range. Next, increase when you don’t have a visual cue as
more extensive the sea clutter on the display. In most
birds at a distance, and it’s a well the Gain control until you see noise to where the birds are feeding.
Radar Picture and Target Properties known fact that if you want to find on the display. This will appear as
cases it is more pronounced to the windward side of schools of fish, it helps to locate the If your Radar is capable of operating
The strength of the reflected echo depends not only
a blanket of small specks. You will
the vessel. To suppress sea clutter, use the A/C SEA birds - the undisputed masters of fish need to leave the Gain turned all in True Motion, do so. You will be
on the height and size of the target, but also its shape,
control. Always leave a little sea clutter on the display
finding. What is less clear is exactly the way up, thus setting the receiver stabilizing the display, and you will be
material composition and angle at which the radio how to go about targeting birds if your able to tell if the
to be sure weak target echoes are not erased. Radar, a tool normally reserved for flock is travelling
pulse strikes. The size of the target actually has little collision avoidance, does not have in a straight line
to do with the reflected echo. If the radio pulse strikes a Bord Mode setting. This section looking for bait
it at a right angle, even a small target will return will remove some of the mystery pods or if they
surrounding the subject. have found their
a strong echo provided that the material is a good target school and
reflector of RF energy. The first thing to think of when are feeding.
considering bird-tracking Radar is
antenna beamwidth. Remember When operating in
A return echo will be weak if the angle at which the that the narrower the beamwidth, Head Up or True
radio wave strikes a target is small. For example, the greater target discrimination Motion, be sure to
flat surfaces such as sandy beaches, sandbars and you will have. For this reason, dome turn on your target
mudbanks have almost no area that can reflect ARPA and AIS antennas are generally not as adept trail function and
at tracking birds as a comparable set it for long
energy back to the Radar. Conical surfaces, such as ARPA is an acronym that stands for Automatic Radar open array antenna. As the length of trails to help track
lighthouses, generate weak return echoes because their Plotting Aid. The ARPA functions as a collision the antenna radiator increases, These birds were targeted using the Furuno 1954C NavNet travelling flocks.
shape diffuses most of the radiated energy. Because of avoidance tool, tracking individual Radar targets and beamwidth becomes narrower, so Radar. True Color is highly desirable when targeting birds, as
a larger antenna will invariably offer demonstrated above; these flocks were easily picked out in Practice these
their poor reflecting properties, flat or conical surfaces plotting their course and speed in order to determine better target discrimination. red against the blanket of clutter. techniques and
do not return an echo suitable for range determination. the closest point of approach (CPA) and time to you will soon be
closest point of approach (TCPA) to own vessel. Data Experience and practice will make for maximum sensitivity in order to scouting your fishing spots just like
you a bird-finding machine, but to the pros, even with an older Furuno
Radar sees only the near side of targets. For example, such as course, speed, range, bearing, CPA and TCPA get there you need to start with the
detect birds. Resist the temptation
to turn up the AC/Sea or AC/Rain to Radar.
it cannot show you what is behind a sea wall or an can be called up in a data box on the screen simply by basics. For the novice, it is best to drop out the noise. Flocks of birds
island. The echo of a mountain peak may appear on selecting the target of interest. practice these techniques on a clear may look like dense, recurring noise
day with calm seas. It is easiest to rather than a solid target, but you
the Radar display as a peninsula or small island. The first visually locate a flock of birds. should be able to see them clearly.
Radar image is not always as it seems - you should AIS is an acronym that stands for Automatic
always exercise caution when interpreting the display. Identification System. The AIS system is used to
exchange vessel and navigation data including vessel Radar Factoids - and Solid State Radar
Target material and reflected echo name and call sign, length and beam, position with
Generally, steel objects return a very strong echo accuracy indication and integrity status, course, speed, Solid State Radar require no magnetron to produce
while reefs and water return weak echoes. The heading and ROT and other specific information, all a magnetic pulse. While a magnetron Radar uses a
weakest echoes come from wood and fiberglass in real time. Data is shared with other nearby ships as powerful pulse, it is only transmitting 0.3 percent of
objects. In summary, non-metallic objects or those well as coastal VTS (Vessel Traffic Service) stations. the time. Solid State Radar transmits at lower power
that are flat or conical in shape do not make good Unlike ARPA, which is dependent upon Radar returns but uses up to 10 percent of the duty cycle.
Radar targets, and the Radar may display only weak, to track targets, AIS targets are acquired and tracked
intermittent echoes - or it may not display them at all. via VHF (radio) signal. This means that AIS-equipped The Furuno NXT Radar is a Solid-State Radar with
targets that are partially or totally obscured from the pulse compression, Target Analyzer™ and Fast
Precipitation sweep of the Radar can still be acquired and tracked if Target Tracking™ utilizing Doppler technology. NXT

Rain, snow and hail may return echoes which appear within VHF coverage. is the first radar in the world to use the new Furuno
exclusive Target Analyzer™ function. Targets that are
on the display as a blurred or cluttered area. You can approaching your vessel automatically change color,
suppress them by adjusting the A/C RAIN control, or allowing for instant identification of hazardous objects With the NXT Radar’s Doppler technology, any vessel
lowering the sensitivity. - green targets are targets that stay stationary, or are approaching yours will automatically display a target
vector and sound an alarm.
moving away from you, while red targets are moving
towards your vessel.

12 9
Interference Rejection: This control reduces or HM Off: The heading mark may sometimes hide a Other Aids To Navigation False Echoes
eliminates interference received from another ship’s small echo. To show that echo, press and hold down The Radar display sometimes shows a series of Occasionally false echoes appear on the screen at
Radar. Turn it off when no Radar interference exists. the HM OFF key to temporarily erase the heading dots or dashed radial lines. They are navigational positions where there is no target. In some cases the
mark . Release the key to display the heading mark. marks transmitted by Radar beacons. A Radar effects can be reduced or eliminated. The operator
Guard Alarm: The guard alarm creates a zone beacon transmits a coded signal when it receives a should become familiar with the appearance of these
about own ship, either complete 360 degree zone or Echo Stretch: This function ‘stretches’ small radio pulse from a Radar, and some Radar beacons false echoes so as not to confuse them with echoes
a specific area forward of own ship. If targets enter echoes to make them easier to see. It stretches not transmit continuously. Its main purpose is to help the from legitimate contacts.
or exit the zone an audible alarm sounds to alert the only small echoes but also returns from sea and navigator find his own position in terms of range and
operator. rain clutter and Radar interference. For this reason, bearing from the beacon. There are two main classes Indirect echoes
make sure clutter and interference are sufficiently of Radar beacons: RACON and RAMARK. Another Indirect echoes may be returned from either a passing
Echo Averaging: The Radar’s internal circuitry suppressed before using echo stretch. type of Radar beacon is called a Search And Rescue ship or from a reflecting surface on your own ship,
processes echo data to obtain a desired effect. The Transponder, or SART. When activated by a crew such as a stack. Figure 12 illustrates the effects of an
result depends on the Radar model. For example, NAV: This key shows/hides navigation data, member on a ship in distress it transmits a distinctive indirect echo. Indirect echoes may be recognized as
some Radars may suppress brilliance of unstable including position, range and bearing to waypoint, signal when its transmitter is triggered by a radio follows:
echoes (sea clutter, etc.), or emphasize an unstable ship’s speed and more. This feature usually requires a pulse.
small echo. navigation aid which can output data in NMEA0183 • They usually occur in shadow sectors
or NMEA2000 format. If a gyrocompass is connected RACON • They appear on the bearing of the obstruction but
Hue, Color, Background Color: These to the Radar, a dashed line connects navaid-selected The RACON (RAdar beaCON) automatically at the range of the legitimate contact
settings change display color and background color waypoint with own ship’s position. transmits a signal when it receives a radio pulse. • When plotted, their movements are usually
respectively to improve display visibility. Note that The signal transmitted by the RACON appears abnormal
marks and characters also change color when the keys intermittently on the display as a Morse character, a • Their shapes may indicate that they are not direct
are pressed. dashed or dotted line radiating out from the beacon. echoes
In the U.S., RACONs are used to mark lighthouses
and buoys, inconspicuous coastlines, navigable
spans under bridges, offshore structures such as oil
platforms, or environmentally sensitive areas such as
coral reefs.

RAMARK (Radar Marker)

The RAMARK is a Radar beacon which transmits
either continuously or at intervals. When a Radar
scanner faces a RAMARK it receives the RAMARK
signal. The RAMARK signal appears on the display
as a Morse character, a dashed or dotted radial line.
RAMARKs are not commonly used in the U.S.

SART (Search And Rescue Transponder)

When a Radar transponder is activated by a ship in
distress, its transmitter emits a signal when activated
by a radio pulse. The appearance of the signal on the
display depends on the distance between the Radar
and the transponder. The closest transponder signal to
own ship position is the approximate position of the
Figure 9 shows a sample Radar display. Own ship’s position is at the display center. The Radar range is 12 ship in distress.
nautical miles and the range ring interval is 2 nautical miles. The circled objects are ARPA targets and the
triangle objects are AIS targets. The large, continuous echoes are from land masses. Note that the actual shape In the GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety
of a target cannot be displayed on the Radar - only the portions struck by the radio pulse appear on the display. System), certain classes of vessel must carry a SART.
You should continuously monitor the display for Figure 12 - Example of Indirect Echo
8 Radar transponder signals. Be prepared to offer
assistance to a ship in distress if required.
13
Multiple Echoes Radar Interference A/C Sea (STC): Sea control, also called STC Offset EBL: This EBL can be shifted to any
Multiple echoes can occur when a strong, short-range Radar Interference occurs when in the vicinity of (Sensitivity Time Constant), suppresses reflections location on the display. This allows you to predict
echo is received from a target. A second, third or more another Radar operating on the same frequency from waves near own ship. In rough seas the other ships’ course (to avoid collision) and measure
target may be observed on the display at double, triple band, normally 9GHz; 3GHz for large Radars. It reflected echoes from wave crests are very strong, the range and bearing between two targets.
or other of the actual range of the target. Multiple is usually seen on the display as large numbers of producing a mass of echoes which cover the central
reflection echoes may be reduced or often eliminated bright dots either scattered at random or in the form part of the display. This is called sea clutter. Any Plot: This function plots the movement of all ships
by decreasing the sensitivity. of dotted lines extending from the center to the edge echoes within the clutter will be partially or totally relative to own position. Press the key to start plotting.
of the display. The interference effects are easily obscured. Adjust this control to reduce the clutter The positions of all targets at the end of the preset
Blind and Shadow Sectors distinguishable from normal echoes because they do and distinguish echoes. The proper setting should be time are marked on the display.
Funnels, stacks, masts or derricks in the path of the not appear at the same places on successive rotations such that the clutter is suppressed and echoes become
antenna may hide Radar targets which are behind of the scanner. You can reduce the interference effects distinguishable. If the control is set too high, both sea Echo Trails: This feature continuously shows the
them. If the angle subtended at the scanner is more by turning on the interference rejection. clutter and echoes will disappear from the display. movements of other ships in afterglow. It is useful for
than a few degrees a blind sector may be produced. When there is no sea clutter visible on the display, assessing target movement and collision possibility.
Within the blind sector small targets at close range turn the control fully counterclockwise.
may not be detected while larger targets at much Display Mode: The display mode determines target
greater range may be detected. Brill: This control adjusts the display brilliance. position and movement on the display. There are two
types of display mode: Relative and True.
Side Lobe Echoes Range: Press the [+] and [-] keys to raise and lower
Every time the scanner rotates, some radiation escapes the range respectively. When you change ranges, • Relative Bearing Display: This mode is also
from each side of the beam. This energy is referred to the number of range rings and range ring interval as known as Head-up, since own ships heading is
as side lobe energy. If a target exists where it can be well as pulselength are automatically changed. For always at the top of the display. The position of
detected by the side lobes as well as the main lobe, confirmation, the range and range ring interval appear own ship is fixed and echoes of all other objects
the side lobe echoes may be represented on both on the display. therefore move relative to own ship. This is the
sides of the true echo at the same range. Side-lobes usual form in small Radar sets.
usually only show at short ranges and from strong Rings: Press this key to show or hide the range • True Bearing Display: This mode is sometimes
targets. They can be reduced through careful reduction rings. Range rings provide an estimate of the range called North-up since the display is oriented
of sensitivity or proper adjustment of the A/C SEA to a target. The number of range rings and range ring North. This mode is suitable for long -range
control. interval automatically change with the range. Ring observation since it is somewhat like looking at a
interval (distance between rings) appears on the nautical chart.
display.
Off Center: This key shifts the display center
VRM: The VRM (Variable Range Marker) measures to location desired. The off-center display allows
the range to targets. To measure range, press the key the operator to view the situation around own ship
to display the VRM. It appears as a dashed circle. without changing the range. Set the cursor where you
Adjust the VRM so that it touches the inner edge of want the center position to be, and then press the key.
the target. The range to the target appears in a data To cancel the off-center display, press the key again.
box on the display. Some Radars may display two
VRM’s; the length of the dash of the #2 VRM is X2 Zoom: The X2 ZOOM feature allows you to
longer than that of the #1 VRM. take a closer look at a target of interest. Set the cursor
near the object you want to zoom and press the key.
EBL: The EBL (Electronic Bearing Line) measures To cancel zoom, press the key again.
bearing to targets in degrees. To measure bearing,
press the key to display the EBL. It appears as a Index Lines: Index lines are useful for maintaining
dashed line. Adjust the EBL so that it bisects the a constant distance between own ship and the
target. The bearing to target appears in a data box on coastline or a partner ship. Press the key to toggle
the display. Some Radars can display two EBL’s; the index lines on and off.
Figure 13 - Example of Sidelobes length of the dash of the #2 EBL is longer than that of
the #1 EBL.
14 7
Pulse Repetition Rate: Pulse repetition rate is
the number of radio pulses transmitted in one second.
It is automatically determined by pulselength and
Control Description:
Power: Powers the entire Radar system. After Radar FAQ's
turning on the power, a timer displays the time
detecting range. For short ranges, pulselength is short remaining for transmission preparation. “ST-BY” We've gathered a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about Radars and provided the answers in this section. If
and the pulse repetition rate is high. For long ranges, appears when the Radar is ready to transmit. The you have a question that is not answered in this book, you can visit us on the web at www.FurunoUSA.com and click on the
pulselength is long and the pulse repetition rate is low. method of turning off the power varies by model;
Support button. You can browse through answers to questions, or search for your answer by model, topic or keyword. If you
can't find the answer you're looking for, you can ask our technicians directly at the Furuno Forum at www.FurunoUSAForum.
consult your Operator’s Manual for details on com. A knowledgeable technician will respond with your answer.
Minimum detectable range: This is the powering off your Radar.
minimum range at which a target is detectable by the
Q: How do I adjust my new Furuno Radar for the best presentation?
Radar. It is determined by scanner height, vertical Economy: The economy mode turns off power to A: Normally the auto features will work well for most situations. If you want to adjust the Radar manually try
beamwidth, blind sector within the scanner beam, and the display in stand-by to lessen power consumption. the following:
pulselength.
Trackball/Cursor Pad: The trackball or cursor 1) Transmit the Radar in maximum range
Maximum detectable range and output pad shifts the cursor, which sets the guard zone, 2) Set STC (sea clutter) to minimum
power: Doubling the output power of a typical displays range and bearing to a target, etc. Some 3) Set FTC (rain clutter) to minimum
Radar raises the maximum detectable range by only models may have individual arrow keys in place of a 4) Set the gain control to maximum (the screen should show mostly Radar noise)
19 percent. In the reverse case, halving the output trackball or cursor pad. 5) Now adjust the gain control to show a very small amount of noise (only a few noise spots on the screen)
power lowers the maximum detectable range by 6) Without disturbing the gain control select the appropriate working range
16 percent. While you can increase the maximum Scanner: This switch starts and stops scanner 7) Adjust STC(sea clutter) as desired
detectable range by using a high output power Radar, rotation. Turning the switch off when transmitting 8) Adjust FTC(rain clutter) if needed
a better (and more economical) way to do it would sets the Radar in stand-by. A rotating scanner can be
be to mount the scanner as high as possible above the dangerous - before turning the switch on, be sure no Note: The timing and heading must still be set according to the procedure listed in the installation manual.
waterline and/or utilize a longer antenna to increase one is standing near the scanner unit.
horizontal beamwidth.
Q: Should I manually tune my Furuno Radar or use the automatic tuning feature?
ST BY/TX: Press this key to transmit radio pulses. A: Unless a problem is suspected with the automatic tuning circuit, automatic tuning is superior to manual
2. RADAR CONTROLS To stop transmitting, press the key again. tuning. The automatic tuning circuits adjust the receiver sensitivity to each transmitted pulse. It would be
This section briefly describes the function, objective impossible to duplicate this procedure using manual tuning. Most Furuno Radars have an automatic tune
and usage of Radar controls. Note that some controls Gain: This control adjusts receiver sensitivity. Adjust compensation adjustment that must be done as part of the initial installation alignments. See installation
described here may not be provided on your Radar. the gain to increase sensitivity and display echoes. For manual for more information on initial set-up.
For detailed control description, refer to your long range, adjust the control so background noise
Operator’s Manual. is just visible on the display. For short range, some Q: My Radar is showing targets in the wrong place (i.e. the buoy in front of the boat is showing on the
Radar operators set this control relatively high and Radar as a target behind the boat). My compass heading input is correct and the Radar is in head-up
Precautions: adjust sensitivity using the A/C SEA control. mode. How do I correct this?
A rotating scanner is dangerous. Before turning the A: All Radars require a heading alignment upon installation of the Radar antenna. Refer to your installation
Radar on, be sure no one is near the scanner unit. A/C Rain (FTC): The Rain control, also called FTC manual for the proper procedure in completing this adjustment. Once you complete the heading alignment the
(Fast Time Constant), suppresses the reflected echoes targets should show in the correct places.
The scanner unit emits high frequency radio pulses, from rain, hail and snow to clear the display. On the
which can be harmful, particularly to your eyes. Never X band Radar, because of its short pulselength, the Q: My Radar turns on but will not go into transmit. It has a message on the screen that says HD/BP, what
look directly into the scanner unit when the Radar is echoes from legitimate contacts can become lost in the does that mean?
in operation. echoes from precipitation, called rain clutter. When A: The error message “HD/BP” indicates that the display is not getting heading or bearing pulse signals. The
rain clutter masks the display, adjust this control to first step is to see if the antenna is turning. If you have an open array this is easy to check, but if you have a
break up the clutter and distinguish echoes. Adjust the
Key response: The Radar normally releases a radome antenna you will need to remove the cover to check for rotation. You will need to contact an Authorized
control so that the clutter just disappears; too much
beep when you correctly enter a command. If no beep Furuno representative. This information will help them start the troubleshooting process.
A/C Rain action may shrink or erase the echoes from
is released, try again. Incorrect command generates
legitimate targets.
several beeps. This function can usually be disabled, Q: How does UHD Radar work?
but caution must be used as this audible feedback is A: Furuno’s Ultra High Definition Radars use a new digital processing technique that effectively doubles the
important to verify correct entry of commands. scan lines on the screen, dramatically improving resolution. Additionally, vastly improved Auto Modes employ

6 digital filtering and modeling techniques that allow the Radar to adapt to a variety of sea states.
15
 A/D Converter Range resolution is a measure of the capability of the
Radar FAQ’s continued ... The received IF signal is an analog signal. This signal Radar to display as separate pips the echoes received
is converted to a digital signal in order to undergo from two targets that are on the same bearing and
Q: Can I cut my Radar cable to length or should I coil it and store it? various processing in the display unit. The A/D are close together. The main factor that affects range
A: It is not recommended to cut your Radar cable. Find a place to hide and coil the excess. If there is no other (Analog to Digital) converter converts analog signals resolution is pulselength. A short pulselength gives
way to hide the cable, it can be reduced in length but this should be done by an authorized Furuno USA dealer. to digital signals. better range resolution than a long pulselength.
If not performed correctly, cutting the cable could lead to corrosion and may result in voiding the warranty.
Adjusting the cable length will also affect the timing of the Radar. Please confirm that the timing is still correct Signal Processing
if any changes are made to the cable length. This section is the heart of the Radar and contains
computers, memories, and other IC’s. Extensive use of
Q: What are the “streaks” or “spiral lines” that sometimes show up on my Radar display? digital techniques permits high speed processing.
A: If they appear intermittently and then go away, it is most likely Radar interference from other vessels
or perhaps even a second Radar aboard your own boat. Furuno Radars offer several levels of interference Control Unit
rejection, or “IR”. IR is usually selectable from a menu setting. Start by applying the first level of IR and see if The control unit contains various keys and controls for
the interference stops. Even if higher levels of IR are necessary, you will note very little degradation of your adjustment of the Radar picture. Whenever a control
Radar picture. CAUTION: Interference Rejection may suppress certain very weak targets and/or Radar signals setting is changed the associated reaction appears
from RACON buoys. almost immediately on the display. In some Radar
designs, the control unit is separate from the display
Q: Will I be able to detect weather with my Furuno Radar? unit. Figure 7 - Example of range resolution
A: Yes, most marine Radars will detect weather fronts. With Furuno true color Radars you will be able to see
individual weather cells at a great distance. Basic Radar Terms Generally, use a short pulselength on short ranges for
better range resolution, and a long pulselength on long
Radar Resolution: Different than display ranges for longer range detection.
Q: I am purchasing a Furuno Radar system and was wondering if I would be better off with an open array resolution, which is a measure of the pixels in an LCD
unit or a radome type of antenna unit? display, Radar resolution describes the Radar’s ability
Beamwidth: Beamwidth is the angular width,
A: Generally speaking, an open array Radar antenna will have better performance than a radome antenna of to distinctly display two Radar targets which are
horizontal or vertical, of the path taken by the Radar
comparable output power. The open array antenna focuses its output beam better then the radome, resulting in close to each other. Radar has two types of resolution:
pulse. Horizontal beamwidth ranges from 0.75 to
better bearing resolution and target discrimination. This focus is best measured by the horizontal beam width range, and bearing.
of an antenna. The smaller the horizontal beam width the better the target resolution. If you have the space, the 5 degrees, and vertical beamwidth from 20 to 25
degrees.
open array is the best choice for maximum performance. Bearing resolution is a measure of the capability of
the Radar to display as separate targets the echoes
Q: Is the radiation coming from my Furuno Radar dangerous? received from two targets that are at the same range
A: It is the consensus of the scientific community that the level of radiation exposure from Marine Navigation and close together. The principal factor affecting
Radars is well below that which is permissible under current regulatory and professional guidance, and poses bearing resolution is horizontal beamwidth. The
no real health threat. Marine Radars are actually very low “average power” systems, the hazards from which narrower the horizontal beamwidth the better the
are normally insignificant. We do not, of course, recommend looking into a Radar that is mounted a few feet in bearing resolution.
front of you on the same horizontal plane.

Q: I have accessed the installation menu for my Furuno Radar but cannot select heading or sweep timing
adjustments. When selected with the [ENTER] button the Radar display just beeps twice and nothing
happens. Why?
A: Heading alignment and sweep timing adjustment cannot be selected unless the Radar is in transmit mode.
Place Radar in transmit mode before accessing the Installation Menu.

Q: My Radar doesn’t pick up targets as far as it previously did. What could be the cause?
A: The most likely cause is the magnetron. Please contact your local Furuno dealer for repair information.

16 Figure 6 - Example of
bearing resolution
Figure 8 - Example of
scanner beamwidth
5
 Table 1 - Comparison of X-Band and S-Band The length of the array affects horizontal beamwidth,
and thus the Radar’s ability to determine target Radar FAQ’s continued ...
Frequency Band Characteristics
bearing. The longer the array, the more accurately the
X-Band • Short wavelength for better
Radar can determine bearing. For example, an array Q: Why does my Furuno Radar transmit for about 30 seconds, beep, and then go into stand-by mode for
directivity
of 50 cm length gives a horizontal beamwidth of 5 5 minutes?
• Attenuation in precipitation is
degrees, while one of 300 cm length gives a horizontal A: It sounds like you have the Watchman mode turned on. The Watchman mode sets the Radar to stand by
greater than on S-Band
beamwidth of 0.75 degrees. and then transmits the Radar at a user selected interval to check for target changes in the Guard Zone. If any
• Small, light-weight antennas changes occur, the Radar will sound an audible alarm, cancel the Watchman mode and continue to transmit.
S-Band • Longer wavelength for long Scanner directivity is a measure of the two Please refer to your operator’s manual for instructions on turning this mode off.
range detection beamwidths. One is in the horizontal plane, known as
• Penetrates precipitation for horizontal beamwidth, and the other is in the vertical Most Furuno Radars will have a notation of [Watchman] on the display when the function is active and the
excellent performance in plane, known as vertical beamwidth. The narrower display will beep when going into or out of this mode.
inclement weather the horizontal beamwidth the sharper the beam. The
• Large antenna vertical beamwidth should be wide; it is typically 20 Q: Do I need to install a flux gate compass for my Radar/chart overlay and ARPA to work?
to 25 degrees. The main reason for a wide vertical A: Yes. A stabilized heading input is required for both of these features to work.
Modulator beamwidth is to ensure the ability to display a target
The device responsible for monitoring the magnetron while own ship is pitching and rolling. Radar overlay will work with either an NMEA or Furuno AD10S heading input. NMEA sentences that will work
for proper operation is the modulator. It ensures that are HDG, HDM, HDT.
the magnetron transmits at exactly the same frequency Limiter
throughout the duration of the pulse, and that the time The limiter protects the receiver circuits from damage ARPA requires the Furuno AD10S heading input at 25 milliseconds. You can use any of Furuno’s current flux
between pulses is the proper length. in the event own ship’s Radar receives radio pulses gate compasses, an AD100 Gyro Converter, or any autopilot or flux gate compass capable of supplying this data
from another ship’s Radar. When this occurs, the format. Furuno’s UHD Radars require high-speed NMEA to support ARPA, but do NOT reuire AD10S
TX/RX Switching limiter attenuates them to protect the next stage MIC
A TX/RX switching device enables the Radar to (Microwave Integrated Circuit). Q: What is the difference between X-band and S-band Radars?
transmit the radio pulse and receive its reflected echo A: Simply put, they differ in frequency. The majority of marine Radars operate on X-band.
through one scanner. The switching device used by the MIC X-band is widely used because of the ability to utilize smaller antennas that fit on most boats and to provide
Radar is called a circulator It consists of a permanent MIC is an acronym meaning Microwave Integrated better target resolution. S-band Radars are often used for specialized applications, such as seeing through
magnet and a ferrite core. When transmitting, it Circuit. The MIC consists of a local oscillator and heavy weather or precipitation and for long-range bird detection. S-band antennas are larger. The smallest
directs radio pulses to the scanner and disconnects mixer circuits. Incorporating those devices on an IC Furuno S-band antenna is 9 feet long and can be as long as 12 feet.
the receiver circuits. When receiving, it funnels weak improves quality, reliability, sensitivity and noise
reflected echoes away from the magnetron to prevent figure (nf). Q: Can I find birds using a Furuno X-Band Radar?
both flow to the magnetron and loss of receive signal. A: Yes, birds do reflect X-Band Radar signals well enough to be detected. You must use a high power Radar to
IF Amplifier get a usable level of bird detection. We recommend 12kW of output power or higher to consistently detect birds
Scanner
The IF amplifier amplifies the Intermediate Frequency Since birds are a small target, the set-up of the Radar must be optimized and the detection range will vary.
The scanner transmits the radio pulses and receives signal output by the MIC.
their reflected echoes. Most scanners rotate at a
Q: How big does my boat have to be to have a Radar?
constant speed of 24 rpm. Many modern Furuno Display unit components A: There is no size restriction for a boat to have a Radar. As long as you have a stable mounting platform for the
Radar scanners rotate at variable speeds dependent
Most display units employ the devices shown in antenna and enough dash space to mount a display, Furuno has a Radar for you.
upon the range in use in order to optimize Radar
Figure 5:
detection. The type of scanner used by most vessels
Q: Is it okay to paint my Radar antenna?
is the slotted array, an antenna with a series of slits
A: Yes, it is okay to paint your Radar antenna. However, the paint MUST be epoxy-based with NO metallic
spaced at suitable intervals and angles from which
ingredients. Paint with metallic ingredients will cause poor performance and may cause damage to your Radar.
radio pulses are transmitted. The reflected echoes also
pass through these slits.
Q: My ARPA auto Radar plotter is erratic or drops targets. What could be causing this to happen?
Figure 4 - A typical slotted array scanner A: All Furuno ARPA plotters require an AD10 heading input with a 25ms refresh rate. It will not work properly
with a GPS NMEA heading input. Please check to make sure you are using the proper type of heading input. The
Furuno PG500R or SC30/SC50/SC110 compass will give you the 25ms input that is required.
Figure 5 - Devices of a display unit
4 17
 Almost all late model Radars use Liquid Crystal Radar System Configuration
Radar FAQ’s continued ... Display (LCD) or daylight bright Cathode Ray
Tube (CRT) displays. These types of displays Basic system
Q: What is the difference between a true color Radar and a “color” Radar? provide steady, bright, non-fading Radar echoes The basic Radar system consists of two units: the
A: With a true color Radar the return signal strength from the target(s) determines the color represented on the in monochrome or color depending on model. scanner unit and the display unit. The transceiver
display for the target(s). Strong targets are depicted in warm colors, such as red. Weak targets are represented The picture is visible even in full daylight. Digital (transmitter/receiver unit, or t/r) is generally housed
in cool colors such as yellows and greens. information is displayed on-screen to keep you in the gearbox of the scanner unit. In some designs
informed of your navigational situation at all times. the t/r is separate from the scanner unit and contained
A good example would be observing a thunder storm with your true color Radar. With the Radar properly set
in its own housing; such a unit is referred to as ‘t/r
up and adjusted you can see strong cells within the storm depicted in reds. Areas of the storm with light rain are Radar range down.’ Also, the control unit may be separate from
depicted in yellows and greens. Atmospheric conditions and target shape, material and the display unit so as to allow for custom selection of
aspect slightly affect Radar range. However, Radar display in what is referred to as a ‘black box’ system.
A “color” Radar represents all targets in one color, no matter what the signal strength is. range is generally calculated as follows:
Note: All Furuno color Radars are true color Radars.

Q: Can I mount a masthead light on top of my Radome?

A: Making any kind of penetration in the upper dome assembly is not recommended and will void your
warranty. This almost always leads to water intrusion due to improper sealing, or physical damage to the
dome(cracking).

Q: I need a replacement upper cover for the radome of my Radar. How do I find the part number?
A: To find the part number click on the “Search” button on our web site, www.FurunoUSA.com. Enter the Figure 2 - Basic Radar system
model number of your Radar and select the “Find Parts For this Model #(Enter exact Model #)” radio button. Figure 1 - Determining Radar range
Click Search to display a list of parts for your unit and look for the upper radome assembly (ASSY/RADOME Scanner unit components
UPPER...). If you are not certain of your model number you may try locating your model under the “Products” D is the distance from the scanner to the target Most scanner units employ the circuits and devices
tab on the top navigation bar. horizon. Under normal atmospheric conditions, this shown in Figure 3:
distance is 6% greater than the optical horizon. This
Once you have located the part number you may contact your local authorized Furuno dealer to purchase this is because radio waves bend or refract slightly by
item. atmospheric change.

Q: The bottom 25 percent of the Radar picture is blank on my 1621 Radar display. The Radar picture The higher the scanner or target is above the surface,
above is normal. What could be the problem? the longer the detection range. For example, if the
A: The bottom portion of many of the Furuno Radar displays can be configured to display navigation data from scanner is 9 meters above the sea surface and the
a GPS source, etc. Please follow the steps below to properly configure your Radar display. height of the target is 16 meters, you should be able to
see the target’s echo on the display when the target is
1) Check in the [MENU] setting for [Nav Data] selected. 15 miles from the Radar. Figure 3 - Circuits and devices of a scanner unit
2) Select [OFF] to display the Radar picture in full screen mode.
Magnetron
Note: If the display is interfaced with a GPS, etc. make sure to power on the device to display the information at Unusual propagation conditions The magnetron generates the radio pulses.
the bottom 25 percent of the Radar screen. Air ducts created by atmospheric conditions can affect Magnetrons, as well as the Radar itself, are classified
radio pulse propagation and thus Radar range. When by their transmitting frequency band. There are two
Q: Why does the lollipop symbol on my Radar bounce around when I am stopped or moving at slow the radio pulse is bent downward, radio pulses can main frequency bands in commercial Radar: X-Band
speeds? travel great distances, thereby increasing the effective (9,000 MHz band; wavelength 3cm) and S-Band
A: The waypoint lollipop gets its heading information from your GPS using Course Over Ground (COG). Since range at which targets can be detected. This is called (3,000 MHz band; wavelength 10 cm). Magnetron
COG is based on changes in your position, it will “bounce” around when you are moving slow or stopped. super-refraction. The opposite condition, in which output power ranges from 1kW for small Radars to
Radar waves bend upward and decrease the range at 60kW for large Radars. Table 1 compares the S-Band
which targets can be detected, is called sub-refraction. and X-Band frequencies.
18 3
• Navigate straight to waypoint D = 1/2 x cT
c = Speed of Radio Pulse (3 x 108 m/sec) Radar FAQ’s continued ...
The map-like picture displayed by Radar helps you
navigate straight to a waypoint and compliments chart T = Time between transmission of radio pulse and
plotter images. reception of reflected echo Q: What are Radar side lobes and what do they do?
D = Distance A: Side lobes are naturally occurring areas of transmitted energy that are part of virtually any transmitter used
• Receive Radar beacon (RACON) in marine electronics. Radar, echo sounders (fishfinders) and sonars all generate a “main beam”, which is also
Radar can receive pulsed signals from a Radar beacon Both radio waves and light travel at the near-constant known as the “main lobe”. “Side lobes” are transmitted energy that is outside of the “main beam” or “main
to determine own ships position. speed of 186,000 miles per second; therefore, the lobe”.
Radar can process vast amounts of information in
• Fishing operation a very short time. Comparatively, Sonar and Fish Reflections from side lobes can sometimes cause false targets and/or “noise” on your display. All Furuno
Finders use ultrasonic waves rather than radio waves. products have gain and clutter controls to help minimize the affects of side lobe returns. Many installation
Besides its basic function as an aid to navigation,
Since the propagation speed of the ultrasonic wave menus and settings exist for fine-tuning Furuno products.
Radar is also a valuable tool for fishing operations.
is 1,500 miles per second, signal processing is much
Purse seiners use it to monitor net shape, observing
slower with these devices than with Radar. Q: Why does my Radar have to wait 2 minutes after I turn it on before I get a picture?
the echoes from floats attached to the net. It is
A: The component that transmits Radar energy is called a magnetron and is similar to that which is in your
especially useful in fleet fishing for determining
microwave oven, but much more powerful. This is a tube, which will be damaged if the filament isn’t heated to
position of vessels, locating fishing grounds and
a proper temperature. Therefore, Radars have a timing circuit – typically 2 or 3 minutes – which disables the
positioning vessels.
magnetron from transmitting until the filament is sufficiently heated. This protects the magnetron from being
damaged.
Specialty fisherman use Radar to search for sea birds,
which may be an indication of the presence of bait
fish or their target species. This technique has become
easier with the advent of dual-range simultaneous
Additional Resources
scanning, such as that found in NavNet 3D, TZtouch, How Radar determines bearing
and TZtouch2, where the navigator can use one Radar Radar determines the range to a target by measuring
www.FurunoUSA.com:
the amount of time required for a reflected echo to Visit our web site at www.FurunoUSA.com for information on the entire
screen with the gain set for targeting birds, while the
other Radar screen is used to navigate. As you can see, return to the scanner. Bearing to a target is determined line of award-winning Furuno Radars. Browse through our catalog of
for many fishing vessels Radar functions more often by the direction from which a reflected echo returns. chart plotters, fish finders, sonar and communication products to round
as an aid to fishing rather than an aid to navigation. out your helm.
The scanner rotates 360 degrees about its vertical
How It Works axis, using a special gear. In order to achieve precise
Did you ever shout at a cliff and hear the echo of your bearing resolution the antenna radiates RF (radio
shout? Radar works in a similar manner. Imagine that frequency) power in the form of a highly directional
beam. “Super” beams having horizontal beamwidth
Authorized Furuno Dealers:
radio pulses are emitted from the scanner in a certain
direction. When the pulse strikes an object such as on the order of one 1 degree or less provide highly Your local Furuno dealer is a valuable resource when it comes to an-
a ship or island some of the energy returns to the precise bearing information. The sharper the beam, swering specific questions about the electronics that are right for you.
scanner. The direction in which the scanner is pointing the more accurately the bearing of a target can be To find your nearest Furuno dealer, simply go to our web site at www.
when the reflection is received is the direction of the determined.
FurunoUSA.com and click on “Where To Buy”. Enter in your zip code
target causing the reflection. Since radio waves travel
at a near-constant speed, the time required for the How the Radar displays targets and you will receive a complete list of Furuno dealers in your area.
reflected echo to return to the scanner is a measure of Radar targets are displayed on what is called a Plan
the range to the target. Position Indicator, or PPI. This display is essentially
a polar diagram, with the transmitting ships’ position
Furuno User Forum
How Radar determines range at the center. Images of target echoes are received The Furuno Forum, found at at www.FurunoUSAForum.com, is
The radio pulse makes a complete round trip, but and displayed at their relative bearing, and at their manned by our knowledgable Technical Support staff. Here, you
only half the time of travel is needed to determine the distances from the PPI center. Early model Radars can ask questions and get answers about any Furuno products. Join our
range to the target. This equation shows how range is displayed targets and possess few features such as
rapidly growing pool of knowledgeable Furuno users today!
determined: heading marks and range rings. To view the display,
a viewing hood was required to block out extraneous
2 light.

19
Mark Display: 1. Principles of Radar What Radar Can Do
Radar mainly functions as an anti-collision aid. It
Table 2 describes the marks commonly found on Furuno Radars. What is Radar? also provides information about the whereabouts of
Radar is an acronym meaning RAdio Detecting And neighboring vessels, coastal outlines, etc.
Mark Appearance Description Ranging. It is a device which measures not only the
The cursor is controlled by operating the trackball, arrow keys or time it takes for a pulsed signal to be reflected back • Navigate in darkness and fog

++
Cursor
omnipad. Its main function is to measure range and bearing to a from an object but also its bearing relative to your In fog or darkness, you may lose situational awareness
target, select AIS and ARPA targets, and set guard zones around your own ship because of poor or no visibility.
position. No other piece of marine electronics can give
Tuning Bar The tuning bar shows receiver tuning state. Normally, a longer bar you as much information about objects around your With Radar acting as your eyes, however, you have
indicates better tuning, however the length of the bar can vary
+
+ own ship as Radar. the ability to monitor other ships’ movement under
with range and number of targets.
+ these conditions.
Heading Mark The heading mark shows own ships heading. With no gyro or flux-
gate compass the mark always points to zero degrees.
Present state of Radar:
Radar was developed during World War II. Today, • Collision avoidance
Radar is available for all classes of vessels including The guard alarm feature of every Furuno Radar alerts
North Mark This mark appears when a gyro or fluxgate compass is connected small fishing vessels and pleasure craft. Many you when targets enter a particular area, or own ship is
to the Radar. The short dashed line always points to north. pleasure boats may also have a color video sounder nearing a danger area. The alarm area can be forward
(Fish Finder) or navigation device such as a GPS of own ship or a 360-degree circle around the vessel.
Range rings provide an estimate of range to target. The interval receiver, but the single most important piece of When Radar targets such as other ships, landmasses or
Range Rings
and number of rings may change with range. electronics is the Radar. No other gear can give you buoys enter the zone, an audible alarm sounds to alert
+ the ability to spot a vessel coming at you out of the the operator.
+ fog, or tell you the location of the inlet to a harbor in
+
VRM Variable Range Marker. These marks appear on the display as the pitch black of night. • Assess target movement
dashed circles. The length of the dash of the #2 VRM is longer
than that of the #1 VRM. They function to measure range to tar-
The Echo Trail feature simulates target movement
get. For navigational safety, nothing beats Radar. While in afterglow. It is useful for assessing the movement
Electronic Bearing Line. These marks appear on the display as
your chart plotter may show you where everything of all targets relative to own ship. Some Radars have
EBL
dashed lines. The length of the dash on the #2 EBL is longer than around you is supposed to be, only your Radar can the capability to show the true movement of targets,
that of the #1 EBL. They function to measure bearing to target. show you where everything is, including coastline providing increased navigational safety.
and navigation aids such as beacons or buoys, as well
Guard Zone The guard zone defines an area which, when targets enter or leave as uncharted objects such as vessel traffic and other • Determine own ships position
as per user settings, an audible alarm is triggered to alert the user obstructions.
to the change.
Since Radar sees further than the naked eye, the
echoes from islands and landmasses can be used to
About Furuno Radars: determine own ships’ position. When running near
The National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) land, you can use peninsulas and other targets whose
annually recognizes its member marine electronics echoes show distinct contours on the display to
AIS Target Display: ARPA Target Display:
manufacturers for superior products. Furuno annually determine own ships’ position. Distant, tall mountains
takes home the top award in several categories of or bridges may be similarly used provided they are
marine electronics equipment, and our Radars have above the horizon
won the top prize every year since 1976. Furuno
has repeatedly won the coveted NMEA award for • Navigate to specific location
Manufacturer of the Year - Support. These awards Fishing vessels and pleasure boats use Radar to
make it clear that Furuno is the leading manufacturer help them navigate to favorite fishing spots. When
of Radar in terms of quality, reliability and after- navigating to a fishing spot, the forces of wind
purchase support. and current can combine to throw the vessel off its
intended course. To remember your location if your
ship drifts, use the VRM and EBL to mark range and
bearing to nearby islands or peninsulas.

20 1
 4. MAINTENANCE
Table of Contents Regular maintenance is important for continued performance of the Radar. Before reviewing this section,
please read the safety information which follows.
1-3) Principles of Radar
DANGER: ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD
3-5) Radar System Configurations
This equipment uses high voltage electricity which can endanger human life. At several places within
5-6) Radar Terminology the unit there are high voltages sufficient to kill anyone coming in direct contact with them. While the
equipment has been designed with consideration for the operators safety, precautions must always be
exercised when reaching inside the equipment for the purpose of maintenance or service. For this reason,
6-8) Radar Controls only qualified personnel totally familiar with electrical circuits and service manual should work inside the
display or scanner units. A residual charge remains in capacitors and other devices for several minutes after
9) Targeting Birds turning off the power. Therefore, before beginning any maintenance work, wait for two or three minutes to
allow the residual charge to subside.

10-11) Range, Bearing and Position PERIOD ITEM

3 to 6 Scanner unit fixing bolts and nuts are exposed to the marine environment and are thus subject
12-14) Advanced Radar Operation Months to corrosion. Check bolts for tightness and corrosion, replacing any corroded bolts and coating
new bolts with anticorrosion sealant.

15-18) Radar FAQ's Foreign material such as salt deposits, oil, etc., can accumulate on the radiator (antenna) and
cause a considerable drop in Radar performance. Wipe the radiator clean with a freshwater-
moistened cloth. Because the radiator is constructed of reinforced plastic, do not use gaso-
19) Additional Resources line, benzine or any other commercial cleaners to clean the radiator as they can damage the
integrity of the radiator and remove paint from its surface.

20) Radar Mark Definitions Check the waterproofing gasket for wear. The gasket should be coated with silicone grease to
preserve elasticity.
21) Maintenance Open the scanner unit and visually check that all screws on terminal board are secured tightly.

Wipe the screen clean with a soft cloth to remove any dust. Do not use chemical cleaners to
When it comes to safety on the water, no other piece of clean the screen as they may remove paint, markings and any anti reflective coating that may
electronic equipment on your bridge is as important be on the screen.
as your Radar. For more than 40 years, Furuno Radars
consistently won the prestigious NMEA (National 6 Months Check the scanner drive motor brushes. The life of these carbon brushes is about 2,000
Marine Electronics Association) award for Best Radar, to 1 Year hours. If their lengths are less than 6 mm, replace them with new brushes, which are 11 mm
and most recently, the prestigious NMEA Technology long.
Award. Whether you are looking for a compact 2.2kW
unit or a commercial grade 50kW Radar, Furuno is the Carbon dust given off by the scanner drive motor brushes may fall into the slits of the timing
disk. This may cause the sweep on the display to jump. Check the slits for carbon dust and
single largest source of Radars you can rely on. This book
foreign material.
will help you learn about what a Radar is, how it works,
and how to get the most from what is perhaps the most Check that all wiring on terminal boards is secure. Check that all plugs and jacks are properly
1 Year
Boats of all types can benefit from having a Radar important navigation device you will ever own. seated.
onboard for navigation and situational awareness..

Table 3 above outlines a suggested regimen of maintenance that you may follow to get the best performance from your Radar.
Preventive maintenance greatly extends the life of the equipment. A maintenance program should be established and should
at least include the items listed above.
 Solid-State Doppler Tracking
It’s the comfort of knowing you are safe.
It’s Doppler Radar echoes changing color,
showing which targets are a threat to you.
It’s instant tracking of up to 100 moving
targets. It’s Furuno’s Bird Mode tracking
birds to find the best fishing grounds. It’s
the “NXT” innovation in Radar, the all-new
DRS4D-NXT Solid-State Doppler Radar for
NavNet TZtouch & TZtouch2.

Target AnalyzerTM function, facilitated by Doppler

technology, immediately alerts you to targets (displayed
in red) that pose a threat to your vessel. Simultaneously
track up to 100 moving targets, displaying their speed &
course vectors.

RezBoostTM beam sharpening displays higher resolution

targets, similar to those from an open array antenna.

Operator’s Guide to
Marine Radar
NXT Solid-State Doppler Radar
The innovation in Radar www.FurunoUSA.com