Problem With a Boat Radar

Outfitting a boat with radar can help navigation.

From small boats to large vessels, boat radar is an invaluable tool for the safety of the watercraft and its inhabitants. If the radar fails, there are strategies for troubleshooting that can bring the system back into service.

Identification

Radar (radio detection and ranging) uses radio frequencies that bounce off of objects and back to its antenna, resulting in an image on the screen. This device helps boaters see in bad weather, which is especially valuable in avoiding collisions with other boats.

Considerations

Various problems can occur with a boat radar. Excessive noise, or interruption on the radar screen, can be caused by an out of tune receiver. In addition, external wiring could be the culprit if it is loose or frayed. Finally, any malfunction with the scanner could indicate an obstruction to its rotation or improper installation.

Interference

Interference can also affect the radar. Blocking the radar beam's path with nearby electronics or wiring can impact functioning. Also, it is recommended to keep other volatile electronic wiring away the boat radar's wiring, and to verify the proper grounding of the overall radar system.

References

• Boat U.S.: Radar
• Northstar: 6kW Open Array HD Radar System