Navico launches Simrad pulse compression radar
The Simrad Halo is a solid-state, open-array radar system for non-SOLAS applications on commercial vessels. The unit combines broadband and traditional pulse radar systems to detect targets 20 feet or more away – far closer than pulse radars can detect – as well as offering long-range performance of up to 72 nautical miles.
In dual-range mode Halo monitors both near and far ranges simultaneously via independent displays, controls and (with an optional heading sensor) MARPA tracking of up to 10 targets in each mode. The radar also offers Beam Sharpening for enhanced target separation control
Other features include custom harbour, offshore and weather modes to enhance visibility in all conditions, while the bird-finder mode also enables fishing vessels to locate flocks of birds hovering over productive catch areas.
Unlike traditional pulse radar, Halo does not rely on a high-powered magnetron to transmit a signal, allowing it to resume full operation instantly from standby and within 16-25 seconds of being switched on, as opposed to 2-3 minutes with conventional pulse radars.
The solid-state transceiver means that there is no magnetron to replace or tune, while brushless motor driver also offers improved durability. The radar is designed to operate at high speed in winds up to 70 knots, and is rigorously tested to exceed IEC environmental, vibration and operational standards.
Halo is safe to run in anchorages and marinas and is radiation safe to people within the swing circle of the array on all models.
“We have introduced reliable solid-state technology at a fraction of the cost of existing commercial solid-state radar,” said Jose Herrero, managing director commercial marine division at Navico. “Even the smallest fleets can take advantage of the comprehensive feature available, with a perfect mix of near and distant range, reliability and resolution without the associated warm-up time, power consumption, costly maintenance and harmful emissions.”
HALO radar is exclusively compatible with Simrad NSS evo2 and NSO evo2 multifunction display systems, connecting via ethernet with a bulkhead-mounted interface box below deck. The radar requires just 40W average in no wind, and 150W at maximum wind velocity.
In standby mode, power consumption is only 6.5W, compared to 10-15W for traditional pulse radar. The radar can work on both 12- or 24-volt systems, and is available in 3ft (€5,000/£3,741/US$6,300 excluding VAT), 4ft (€5,500/£4,158/US$7,000) and 6ft (€6,000/£4,575/US$7,700) open arrays.
