Radar technology takes a major step forward with the introduction of the Simrad RA40, RA41 and RA42 Color TFT Radars. For the first time a helmsman can select to view a wide screen presentation of a dual range mode, which will enable him to see his immediate area while simultaneously keeping a watchful eye on what is approaching in the distance. This is a major contribution towards the safety of vessels at sea, especially for vessels that do not have two radars fitted.
The new generation of Simrad Radars can now include an Automatic Tracking Aid (ATA) which tracks up to 10 targets designated by the user. Once locked-on, the Radar will automatically provide a menu of data which includes speed, bearing, course and closest point of approach on all targets selected. A built-in alarm system warns of possible collision or lost target, making watch-keeping easier and safer.
The Simrad RA40 is supplied with a compact radome antenna, measuring 18 inches across. The 2kW output gives the RA40 a range of 24NM. This combination is ideally suited for the smaller vessel.
The Simrad RA41 operates with a 2 foot radome antenna with 4kW output. This provides a 36NM range on a 10.4" TFT color or true black and white display screen. Viewing two ranges on one split screen allows, for example, both 0.5NM and 6NM to be selected, which provides the helmsman with a view of his immediate proximity in detail, together with approaching hazards in the distance. Both ranges are continuously variable which means that the user can adjust his radar to precisely the ranges he needs without being restricted by pre-set range buttons.
The Simrad RA42 can operate with either a 3’ or 4’ open scanner with 4kW output, which extends the range to 48NM, the sharper beam width provided by an open scanner, gives detailed extended range performance. The RA42 uses the same 10.4" displays as the RA40 and RA41.
These models have the semi 3D facility, which was first introduced with Simrad’s smaller compact LCD radars. This enables easy and instant discrimination between weak and strong echo strengths for recognition of shoreline, targets and obstacles. This facility is particularly valuable in heavy rain or rough seas where targets can be seen clearly and naturally for recognition at a glance.
The new radars have the facility to show a simultaneous split screen of both conventional and 3D displays. The stunning new landscape screens allow a more panoramic view than other recreational radars and permits the user to make full use of the new, wide screen mode and split screen displays without losing any radar viewing area.
By connecting an electronic compass and speed log to the radar via the NMEA input, the True Motion function becomes available. The radar is fully specified with all the commercial radar modes one would expect to find such as VRM (Variable Range Marker), EBL (Electronic Bearing Line) and Track etc.
During the hours of darkness the radar can be adjusted to reverse the contrast of the display. This is an important safety feature that reduces light emission from the screen, while accentuating targets and providing continuity of the helmsman’s night vision
Ease of operation
A fully automatic mode of operation, as well as dedicated manual adjustment buttons, has been provided for all main functions. Soft keys with a rotary analogu control ensure that the user can quickly become familiar with operating the radar. A new Man Overboard display has been incorporated as a safety feature, together with a full navigation display page.
The Simrad RA40 series radars reflect the Simrad MarineLine styling that will allow the radars to be fully integrated into a Simrad bridge arrangement. Incorporating removable corners and concealed fixings, flush mounting the radars is easily achieved. As with other Simrad MarineLine products these radars have tough watertight casings which allow them to be positioned in more exposed positions.
The new Simrad Radars are the first LCD radars to satisfy the stringent requirements of professional users and can be delivered with the high color TFT screen or the true black and white LCD screen.
Simrad RA41C Specifications:
- Display : 10" Color TFT display screen 640 x 480 dots
- Distance Range : 0.125 NM - 36 NM
- Minimum detecting distance: Within 25 m
- External Interface NMEA 0183: 2 channels (One standard channel; Optional cable is required for 2nd channel connections)
- Warm Up Time : 2 MIn
- Wind Resistance : 100 knots
- Interconnecting cable: Standard 10 m. Option: 15, 20 and 25 m.
- Indication system: Normal, Wide Screen, Split Modes; Dual Range (wide), Normal/Semi - 3D, Normal/Navigation
- Off center: Can be 100% off center over the full range
- Language support: English, French, Italian, German, Chinese, Japanese, Greek, Danish, Norwegian, Swedish, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish and Turkish
- Distance accuracy: Better than 0.9% of maximum range of the scale in use, or 8 m, whichever is the greater
- Bearing accuracy: 1° or less
- Waterproof standard: (S/U): IPX 56, (D/U): IPX 55
- Radio wave type and freqency: P0N, 9410 ± 30 MHz