SECTION TWO - Installation

Table 4: Troubleshooting the radar interface (continued)

 

 

 

Component

Symptom

Possible Solutions/Reasons

 

 

 

 

 

 

RADAR DEVICE

There’s bearing-pulse interference

• The radar’s scanning cables may be too

 

from the radar (this also applies to

closely bundled with the 961’s control

 

depth sounders).

head-to-processor coax cable: Run the

 

 

cables of the radar and the 961 on

 

 

opposite sides of the vessel.

 

 

• The 961 display-to-processor coax

 

 

cable may be damaged or improperly

 

 

terminated. Temporarily substitute a

 

 

known-good cable to determine if the

 

 

cable is defective.

 

 

• The radar scanner cable may be dam-

 

 

aged, improperly terminated, or the sys-

 

 

tem/vessel grounds need attention.

 

 

• Ensure that the radar display is properly

 

 

grounded to an earth ground.

 

 

• There maybe a lack of or improper

 

 

shielding for the radar’s scanning cable.

 

 

Inspect the radar scanning

 

 

cable-to-scanner base grounding for a

 

 

low impedance connection (less than .5

 

 

ohms (1/2) between the display end

 

 

and the scanner base termination is

 

 

optimal; if it’s higher, consult the radar

 

 

manufacturers). Shielding material can

 

 

be used to attenuate interference

 

 

effects. Lead, copper, and Mu metal

 

 

(Mu is the most expensive) are all good

 

 

choices for flat-sheet shielding. There

 

 

are a number of different sheet, strap,

 

 

or mesh copper products that can be

 

 

purchased off-the-shelf. Also, a tinned

 

 

“expando sleeve” type copper braided

 

 

strap can be used for shielding cable

 

 

bunches as long as it is not exposed to

 

 

saltwater or corrosive environments.

 

 

There are numerous different sizes of

 

 

grounding plates available for installa-

 

 

tion outside the vessel hull, in water,

 

 

that provide a good “seawater-earth”

 

 

grounding plate.

 

 

 

961 INSTALLATION MANUAL Revision A

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NorthStar Navigation 961XD installation manual Radar Device
Page 52 Page 54

961X, 961XD specifications

NorthStar Navigation has long been a leader in marine navigation systems, and the NorthStar 961XD and 961X are no exceptions. These cutting-edge devices bring advanced navigation capabilities to both recreational boaters and professional mariners, ensuring precise positioning and enhanced safety on the water.

The NorthStar 961XD is equipped with a powerful GPS receiver that delivers exceptional accuracy, even in challenging environments. This is achieved through a combination of differential GPS (DGPS) technology and support for WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System). These features enable users to achieve positioning accuracy within a few meters, which is crucial for safe navigation in crowded or complex marine environments.

One of the standout features of the NorthStar 961XD and 961X is their intuitive user interface. The devices boast a large, high-resolution color display that provides clear visibility in various lighting conditions, including bright sunlight. The menu-driven system allows users to quickly access essential functions, making it easy to plot courses, set waypoints, and track routes on the go.

Both models support advanced charting capabilities, including the ability to display vector and raster charts. The chart database can be easily updated via USB, ensuring that users have access to the latest navigational information. This is particularly important for long-distance cruisers navigating through unfamiliar waters.

Another significant feature of the NorthStar 961XD and 961X is their integrated fishfinder capabilities. With sonar technology, users can locate fish, understand the underwater topography, and enhance their fishing experience. This dual functionality makes the devices versatile companions for both navigation and hunting for the next big catch.

Connectivity is another important aspect of the NorthStar systems. Both models feature multiple connectivity options, including NMEA 0183, allowing seamless integration with other onboard electronics such as autopilots, radars, and AIS systems. This enhances the overall situational awareness and safety of the vessel.

Finally, the rugged design of the NorthStar 961XD and 961X ensures they can withstand the harshest marine environments. With water-resistant housing and durable construction, these devices are built to last, providing reliable performance year after year.

In summary, the NorthStar 961XD and 961X deliver a winning combination of advanced navigation technologies, user-friendly interfaces, integrated fishfinding capabilities, and robust construction. These features make them indispensable tools for anyone serious about safe and efficient navigation on the water.
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