State of the Art X’ Band radar

Simrad introduces a new series of improved X-band radars which provide mariners with even better detection capability. The new configuration is characterized by reduced weight, small dimensions and compact electronics thereby offering the proper solution for installation even on small High Speed Crafts. X-band antenna group including 6 or 9 foot antenna and pedestal with 12 or 25 kW transceiver up-mast and down-mast.


In Greek mythology, Argus Panoptes, or Argos, guardian of the heifer-nymph Io and son of Arestor, was a primordial giant whose epithet “Panoptes”, “all-seeing”, led to his being described with multiple, often one hundred, eyes.”


Main features:
– Designed for new Navigation Radar Standard IEC 62388
– Pedestal with built-in 12 kW or 25 kW transceiver supports 6’ and 9’ antennas
– Modular and solid state construction
– Electronic Modulator based on mosfet technology
– Long life 3rd generation magnetron (12 kW and 25 kW)
– Low Noise Amplifier providing a reduced overall Noise Figure
– Microcomputer controlled operations
– Serial link with telemetry and remote control for adjustments
– Built-in test facilities for power supply and modulator parameters
– PRF jittering removing any possible ambiguity due to multiple-time-around echoes
– Two different Sectors Blanking to be set at time of installation
– Performance Monitor
– Rotation: 20 or 40 rpm
– Easy installation

The Simrad ARGUS radars fully complies and exceeds IMO regulations. Thanks to the modular design, they can be either assembled to form a stand-alone display cabinet or be flush mounted into a mechanical bridge console. The standard configuration always includes full ARPA, AIS and an electronic built-in Interswitch for dual radar installations.

The deck configuration provides an optional display deck stand which can also house the electronic cabinet. Two different options available :
• Desk-Top Cabinet for 27“ with Pedestal
• Desk-Top Cabinet for 23“ / Adapter
Frame kit for 19” Monitor / Pedestal

The modular configuration with monitor, keyboard and ARPA electronic cabinet supplied as three separate modules which can be flush mounted into the bridge console to the customers΄ preference.

The table top configuration where the monitor and key- board are housed into an ergonomic console while the ARPA electronics are contained in a separate bulkhead mounted cabinet.

Wide screen (27”) radar presentation:
• Square Radar PPI
• No info clutter in radar PPI -  Most professional radar users sail in North-up presentation (as in the ECDIS) enabling the navigator to see further on short range and pulse settings.
• User selectable second  - Use for dual range, extra target zoom or of center presentation.
• User selectable viewing area - Select CCTV, full Conning or second radar scanner, all without compromising  IMO performance requirements.


19” and 23” displays
• Square Radar PPI - Same as a chart on an ECDIS.
• No info clutter in radar PPI -  Most professional radar users sail in North-up presentation (as in the ECDIS) enabling the navigator to see further on short range and pulse settings.
• Main radar operator settings - One line containing most used radar functions and information.
• User selectable viewing area


Building an Anti-Piracy System
The SIMRAD ARGUS system introduces some key features that tackle the problem of piracy of the merchant fleet and yachts. By utilizing Broadband Radar’s close range performance and zero radiation, fleet owners can build an anti-piracy system into the navigation display. Pirates typically attack vessels underway and at night from behind to avoid being seen on the Navigational radar. They very often approach in small skiffs hard to detect in-between waves with 4-8 pirates on board. Sometimes with two - three boats together and using a Mother ship as base. So far evasive ship manoeuvers seem to be the best action hindering boarding and an attack can last several hours before giving up. Pirates are also attacking while ships are at anchorage.

Navigational Radars are typically mounted in front of smokestacks and are therefore focused forward looking. The sheer size of the scanner prevents mounting in strategic places. The ARGUS has the ability to merge two high powered antennas to find small targets in-between ocean waves, display long and short range simultaneously and zoom in on and track suspicious targets. The ARGUS also has the ability to integrate Broadband Radar and display Pulse and Broadband simultaneously in one single display overview with uncompromised IMO performance.

Tighten the Blind Zone
The Broadband Radar component provides complete close range coverage within the pulse radar’s blind spot. Targets can be monitored and detected within a 5m range ensuring that all potential threats are monitored.