Radar reflector with radar?

Paul Beaurain · 10 January 2007, 18:21

Hi
There has been much said about radar reflectors - so this question isn't about specific types and models etc.

the question then.

If I have a small radar, is the radar itself a radar reflector?

I suspect that when switched on and transmitting it may be 'seen', and that when switched off the boat would become invisible again.

hence require radar and seperate reflector and/or seame type device

thanks
PB

jwalker · 10 January 2007, 22:06

Quote:

Originally Posted by Paul Beaurain

.. is the radar itself a radar reflector?

I suspect that when switched on and transmitting it may be 'seen', and that when switched off the boat would become invisible again.

Nope. Only by dint of it containing some reflective surfaces.

Jono Garton · 11 January 2007, 08:29

Paul

It well worth doing a RYA Radar Course, Radar is very easy to rely on but get it wrong.

Jono

Doug Stormforce · 11 January 2007, 11:17

Paul

I would fit a seperate reflector if I were you and as Jono says attend a one day RYA course.

If doing a course try and ensure it with someone who specialises in small craft high speed naviagtion as opposed to a sailing only school. The theory is the same for all but the practical application fo both completely different

tim griffin · 11 January 2007, 11:57

Radar target enhancer is what you need if I read your first post correct or one of the many types of radar reflectors on the market . The magazines run regular features on them and also Radar itself.
Agree with Doug shop around before/if you do a radar course as a sailing school will not appreciate the speeds a rib can do though the Instructor may be happy with both types of boating .Speak to them if you can or pre course reading would be the RYA An Introduction to Radar by Tim Bartlett and another quite good pocket size aid memoir is Radar Companion by Pat Manley printed by Fenhurst. Most schools are happy to do it on your boat so much more practical excercises can be set up.

alystra · 11 January 2007, 16:23

Quote:

Originally Posted by Paul Beaurain

Hi
There has been much said about radar reflectors - so this question isn't about specific types and models etc.

the question then.

If I have a small radar, is the radar itself a radar reflector?

I suspect that when switched on and transmitting it may be 'seen', and that when switched off the boat would become invisible again.

hence require radar and seperate reflector and/or seame type device

thanks
PB

The radar itself is not a radar reflector and work as one.

When switched on and transmitting, its pulses can (or could on the relatively primitive radars I've used a long time ago on big ships) be seen on another set using the same frequency. However, the 'interference' appears as wavy lines of fine dots on the screen in a random pattern. These do not emanate from any of the targets shown on the screen, though the ships would be using their radar. No doubt modern sets with raster scan filter that out.

You need a separate radar reflector.

Tony

Paul Beaurain · 14 January 2007, 06:27

Guys
Thank you for the feedback.
My aim would be radar + reflector + Seame

This way is the boat is without power (or Seame is without power) the 'std' reflector would be vital.
Thanks
Paul

Jono - thanks for the pm, reply now sent.

Paul Beaurain · 04 January 2008, 10:36

Hi
An update for you.
I spoke to SeaMe today and learnt that the dual ban (S and X) is under final development. This will solve all the previously discussed issues.
The date is not yet known as the unit is still being 'reduced in size' such that it is not too heavy/large for mast top mounting. Estimate is 6-9 months.

Paul

MikeCC · 04 January 2008, 16:15

Perhaps stating the obvious but for anyone installing both, make sure the radar reflector is out of line of sight of radar scanner!

SeaSkills · 05 January 2008, 05:15

Bit of a tangent, but what are peoples' thoughts on radar as a health risk? I was always told that you have to mount the set high so that the transmissions are clear of everybodys heads or their brains would get fried and all that stuff. More and more people now seem to be saying that's not an issue and you can happily stand in front of an active radar set without worrying. I don't! Should I worry? Have the manufacturers changed the specs so much that it's become safe?

Poly · 05 January 2008, 10:09

Quote:

Originally Posted by SeaSkills

Bit of a tangent, but what are peoples' thoughts on radar as a health risk? I was always told that you have to mount the set high so that the transmissions are clear of everybodys heads or their brains would get fried and all that stuff. More and more people now seem to be saying that's not an issue and you can happily stand in front of an active radar set without worrying. I don't! Should I worry? Have the manufacturers changed the specs so much that it's become safe?

Ian this has been a recurring discussion here, including fairly recently http://rib.net/forum/showthread.php?...ighlight=radar apparently the small furuno unit makes no mention of safe working distance/height etc. in a world of litigation that might be an indication that they consider the risk negligeble.

jwalker · 05 January 2008, 10:21

The Raymarine radar manual makes a particular point about possible eye damage.