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What is Broadband Radar?
by Rodney Rodriguez
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Broadband Radar is a new radar technology developed by Navico. Unlike traditional radars, which use a magnetron to transmit a pulse of energy, Broadband Radars have a solid-state transmitter that sends out a continuous wave of energy that increases in frequency. Once the transmitted signal leaves the antenna its frequency does not change. The difference in frequency between the received signal and the current transmitter frequency represents the distance to the target.
Broadband Radar offers several advantages over traditional pulse radar. Since it transmits a continuous wave, rather than a pulse, it provides superior target detection, better range resolution and is less susceptible to sea clutter. The level of radiated energy is far less, even less than that of a cell phone, so there is no risk of radiation, allowing fewer restrictions on antenna placement. The solid-state design of the transmitter offers instant-on operation and requires less power to operate, making it an ideal choice for yachts and sailboats. Short-range target detection and visibility is better than pulse radars, also.
There are a few disadvantages to Broadband Radar that need to be mentioned. Due to its design, it is inherently easily overwhelmed by nearby pulse radars, though I am sure the manufacturer addressed this in its design. Also, its ability to detect targets diminishes as range to the target increases, limiting its useful range to no more than about 24 miles. Finally, as this is a new technology, its long-term reliability is unknown.
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This article first appeared in the May 1, 2009 issue of Sea Magazine. All or parts of the information contained in this article might be outdated. |
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