1.
INSTALLATION
This chapter provides the procedures necessary for installation.
Installation mainly consists of the following:
•
sitting and mounting the display unit and antenna unit
•
connection of the signal cable and the power cable
•
establishing the ground
•
checking the installation, and
•
adjustments.
1.1 Antenna Unit Installation Sitting, handling considerations
•
The antenna unit is generally installed either on top of the wheelhouse or on
the radar mast on a suitable platform. Locate the antenna unit where there is
a good all-round view as far as possible, no part of the ship's superstructure
or rigging intercepting the scanning beam. Any obstruction will cause shadow
and blind sectors. A mast for instance, with a diameter considerably less than
the width of the radiator, will cause only a small blind sector, but a horizontal
spreader or crosstrees in the same horizontal plane as the antenna unit would
be a much more serious obstruction; you would need to place the antenna unit
well above or below it.
•
It
is rarely possible to place the antenna unit where a completely clear view
in all direction is available. Thus, you should determine the angular width
and relative bearing of any shadow sectors for their influence on the radar at
the first opportunity after fitting. (The method of determining blind and
shadow sectors appears later in this chapter.)
•
If
you have a radio direction finder on your boat, locate its antenna. Clear the
antenna unit, to prevent interference to the direction finder. A separation of more
than two meters is recommended.
•
To lessen the chance of picking up electrical interference, avoid routing the signal
cable near other onboard electrical equipment. Also avoid running the cable in
parallel with power cables.
•
The compass safe distance should be observed to prevent deviation of the
magnetic compass.
Standard compass
Steering compass
1.3m
0.7m
