RADAR: Radio Detection and Ranging

Developed just before WWII, Radar operates by generating a microwave radio frequency pulse and directing it in a narrow beam from a rotating antenna. After the pulse is transmitted the receiver detects the echoes and amplifies them to produce bright spots or areas on the indicator. The time between the transmitted pulse and echoes is interpreted as distance (range) from own ship.  As used aboard ships and other surface craft, radar data are displayed on a plan position indicator, a map like display with own ship in the center. Other vessels, buoys, land masses show up as bright spots or areas on a dark background.  Using a reflection plotter and plotter pencil (similar to a grease pencil), the radar observer can, by successive plots of other vessels, track and calculate the movements of other vessels and assess any risk of collision. Radar is an object-detection system that uses radio waves to determine the range, angle, or velocity of objects. It can be used to detect aircraft, ships, spacecraft, guided missiles, motor vehicles, weather formations, and terrain. The modern uses of radar are highly diverse, including air and terrestrial traffic control, radar astronomy, air-defense systems, antimissile systems, marine radars to locate landmarks and other ships, aircraft anti-collision systems, ocean surveillance systems, outer space surveillance and rendezvous systems, meteorological precipitation monitoring, altimetry and flight control systems, guided missile target locating systems, ground-penetrating radar for geological observations, and range-controlled radar for public health surveillance.

Raytheon Marine Co. – RAYCAS V 1660/12SS

Manufactured by: Raytheon Marine Co.

Model: RAYCAS V 1660/12SS 

Date of Mfg: 5/82 (Display), 2/82 (Transceiver)

Power Requirements: 115VAC

Operating Frequency: 3070 +-50 MHz, Output power 60KW

Pulse Repetition Frequencies: 3600, 1800, 900 Hz