Raymarine calls its new generation of radar antennas Quantum 2. In addition to the familiar chirp technology, the solid-state radome antenna now also features Doppler evaluation. This not only records the radar echo, but also determines the frequency shift between the emitted pulse and the received signal, which is emphasised by the movement of the target. This makes it possible to recognise immediately whether the object is moving or not. Radar devices without Doppler evaluation can only deduce the target's movement from the offset of successively received echoes.
The explanatory video from Raymarine
To make it even easier to assess the situation, the targets are colour-coded: approaching objects are shown in red; if it is a fellow traveller or a boat moving away, the echo is green. A safety sector can also be activated. This monitors a 200 metre range in front of the ship and warns of potential collisions. Target tracking has also been improved. The Quantum 2 radar can automatically detect approaching objects.
The antenna is said to weigh 5.6 kilograms and can either be connected to the plotter by cable or coupled via Wi-Fi, in which case only a power cable needs to be pulled into the mast. Quantum 2 should be available in the second quarter of 2018 and cost 2095 euros.
Further information at www.raymarine.de.
Hauke Schmidt
Test & Technology editor
