My radar image does not look the same as before, what happened?
This is a difficult question to answer because it is based on the operator’s qualification of the current and previous radar image. It is recommended that snapshots of the RDOP Application are taken on a periodic basis so that the before and after can be shown to SSR Technical Support – if necessary.
The most common resolutions to this question are provided herein.
- The Radar Controls / Filters have been Changed
Every Radar Control and Filter that can be adjusted from the I/F Panel will have an impact on the radar image. Changing the Clutter from Manual to Auto will have a major impact by removing all static clutter from the environment. The following settings are the factory recommended defaults:
- Radar Gain = 95
- A/C Sea (STC) = 0
- A/C Rain (FTC) = 0
- Pulse Width (PW) = Auto
- Clutter = Manual
- IR (Interference Rejection) = High
- The Environment has Changed
Sometimes novice operators are unable to explain the radar image when they are first presented with a common radar environmental issue. Precipitation and clouds may present localized or global clutter (increase FTC, decrease PW). High wind and seas may present nearby clutter (increase STC, decrease PW). Congested shipping lanes or other nearby RF equipment may cause interference – which can present a variety of images (ensure IR is High, ensure PRF Stagger is On).
- The Radar Transceiver is Mistuned
Over time the optimal tuning frequency of the Transceiver may change and it needs to be re-initialized. This can be done from the ‘Tx/Rx’ Panel of RDOP Maintenance by selecting ‘Auto-Tune’ Init.
- The Receiver or Magnetron has Deteriorated and need to be Replaced
Over time the Receiver and Magnetron performance will deteriorate, and these components will need to be replaced. By changing the Pulse Width and recording the Magnetron values one can use this information to determine if Magnetron needs to be replaced, this is described in Radar Performance Monitoring Recommendations. Both components can be tested with a Performance Monitor.
Further information on debugging radar issues can be found in the Radar Fault Isolation Manuals, on the Download Manuals Webpage.
