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Choosing the best Radar reflector can be
rather confusing and it is not a straightforward task as there are several
factors to consider. We have listed some test results below as well as
some articles, followed by links to the main manufacturers. New
regulations have yet to be fully implemented (Jan 2005). We have
compiled some notes on considerations when selecting and comparing
Radar reflectors
see here
Still confused
after reading all information below? Each manufacturer is
providing statistics to promote their own products and this can make the
choice confusing because tests can use different criteria. We recommend
looking at independent test results (see below). If test results are
provided by manufacturers we will point this out where possible. We are
not going to recommend a particular model as we wish to present the
facts and remain impartial, also we are aware that standards are being
updated and new Radar reflectors are in the pipeline and of course
personal choice and type of boat will affect the final decision.
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Radar reflector tests and
explanations |
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1995 Test |
Courtesy of US Sailing and Safety at
Sea
This test, conducted in 1995, is very
interesting and was comprehensive when it was undertaken, however there
are a few new Radar reflectors now on the market not covered in this
test. This test report is very good reading as it explains what makes a
good reflector. This article also explains the difference between
X-Band and S-Band Radar and the technologies of the different type of
reflectors. This is a
'Must Read' before choosing a reflector. |
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Echomax V Blipper |
This document was provided by
Echomax
It shows comparative data between the
Echomax and Firdell Blipper as well as some other information. |
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Radar reflector manufacturers |
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Cyclops |
Type: Passive using di-electric
lenses.
Cyclops are about to launch (Jan 2005)
their new radar reflector that meets the new regulations (IMO July
2003). I am told they will perform well for both X-band and S-band radar |
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Davis
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Type:
Octahedral
(made of three planar circles or
squares of metal intersecting at right angles, forming eight trihedral
reflectors)
The EchoMaster comes in a plastic case and folds flat for easy storage
and is made of stamped aluminium sheets with locking corner rivets. The
Davis Emergency Radar Reflector is a compact, lightweight and economical
unit that disassembles and stows flat for storage. |
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Echomax |
Type:
Trihedral
ECHOMAX reflectors comprise of a three stack array of laser cut
aluminium enclosed in a fibreglass or polyethylene case
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Firdell
(please note: Firdell do
not currently have their own website so we have linked to a distributor
who has the technical as well as the sales information) |
Type:
Firdell uses ten
trihedral corner reflectors oriented approximately 36° to each other.
The Blipper 210-7 is the smallest of the
standard range of radar reflectors in Firdell's Blipper Series. Derived
directly from Marconi-Firdell's Radar Synthetic Targetry programs. |
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Luneberg |
Type: Trihedral
The Luneberg reflector requires no energy supply nor maintenance. The
reflector gives an homogeneous response inside a wide angle. |
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Mobri |
Type: Various
1. Old type designed 1980
2.Modular designed 1998
3.New - Active type |
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Sea-me |
Type: Active (receives an incoming
radar signal, amplifies it and retransmits it)
Sea-me is an ACTIVE device
which receives an incoming radar signal, amplifies it and retransmits it
omni directionally in azimuth using a five stage amplifier |
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Tri-lens |
Type: Luneberg Lenses
Now defence industry technology has been
brought to the pleasure boating. Luneberg lenses have been used by the Navy, Army
and Air Force for years as radar reflectors. The Tri-Lens Reflector uses
this technology to bring a far superior reflector to the market. |
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