Simrad's more versatile radar

Navico has updated its broadband radar software development kit (BRPC SDK) to allow OEM and third party developers to integrate its unique and market-leading broadband 4G radar with their applications.

Developers will be able to integrate features of Simrad broadband 4G radar into PC-based applications as well as a range of on-land and marine systems. Broadband radar data can be received and manipulated on a PC Windows platform, without the need of a Simrad multifunction display.

Broadband 4G Radar can be used for a variety of functions including security of ports, fish farms and oil fields. It is also highly applicable to defence and on-land surveillance such as border security, or as a portable radar display for temporary or covert surveillance applications.

The Simrad BRPC SDK works with an off-the-shelf Simrad broadband 4G radar meaning there is no special model to purchase. The 4G system is available with two levels of functionality, either basic level (LL1), or advanced control (LL2) operation.

Navico’s latest FMCW technology comes with a 50 per cent improvement in range and target detection capability (36nm range); unmatched resolution and clutter reduction to deliver a crystal clear image; extremely low emissions (less than one-fifth that of a mobile phone); InstantOn technology and low-power consumption, along with simple installation and ease of use.

Broadband 4G is the first dome radar in the world to use Beam Sharpening, a technology that significantly improves the azimuth resolution -- or effective horizontal beam width of the radar -- to provide what the company claims is the best target resolution of any dome radar available.

Current examples of Broadband 4G integration using the BRPC SDK include tactical navigation software used in ocean and coastal yacht racing, naval defence applications integrated into custom bridge systems and in homeland security and national border control.