Simrad has unveiled the world’s first high-performance, solid-state, open-array radar system: HALO.
Simrad has unveiled to boating consumers worldwide their all new HALO™ Pulse Compression Radar range – the world’s first high-performance solid-state, open-array radar system with pulse compression technology, suitable for recreational and light marine markets.
Combining the advantages of Broadband Radar™ (also introduced by Simrad Yachting as the BR24 in 2009) and traditional pulse radar systems, HALO provides navigational visibility and awareness, as close as 20-feet, within the pulse radar’s short-range “blind spot,” where once only Broadband Radar could operate — all while offering exceptional long-range performance up to 72 nautical miles.
With Beam Sharpening for enhanced target separation control, HALO provides unmatched target resolution. Utilizing its Dual Range mode, HALO can also function as two radars in one with no signal loss – monitoring two distance ranges simultaneously with independent display controls. Custom, Harbor, Offshore, Weather, and Bird modes tune HALO’s advanced signal processing to ensure targets are seen vividly – even in the toughest environmental conditions. This Dual Range mode with HALO also means dual MARPA target tracking. Up to 20 targets can be tracked, displaying the closest point of approach and time to closest point of approach for each.
Unlike traditional pulse radars, HALO does not rely on a high-powered magnetron or vacuum tube to transmit a signal – allowing it to produce a crystal-clear, accurate radar image instantly from standby and in 16-25 seconds after power-up. This eliminates the standard two- to three-minute warm-up associated with traditional pulse radars. A rugged, helical gear-train construction coupled with HALO’s brushless motor ensures quiet operation at any speed. This motor design also makes it less likely to wear out or need servicing, which can be required with traditional pulse-radar mechanical systems. In addition, solid-state technology means compliance with the latest, low emission and radiation standards – making it safe to run HALO in anchorages and marinas. In fact, HALO is radiation safe to people within the swing circle of the array on all models. In Standby mode, power consumption is only 6.5 Watts, versus 10 or 15 Watts for traditional pulse radars.
“The world of recreational radar has taken another quantum leap forward,” said Leif Ottosson, CEO of Navico. “By introducing the HALO Pulse Compression Radar system, we have given boaters the best possible combination of features, providing the perfect mix of near and distant range, reliability and resolution without the associated warm-up time, power consumption, maintenance or harmful emissions.”
With its low power consumption, support for 12- or 24-volt systems and availability in 3-, 4- and 6-foot open arrays, HALO is idea for small- to mid-sized powerboats. HALO Radar connects to any Simrad NSS evo2 or NSO evo2 multifunction display system via Ethernet, with a bulkhead-mounted RI-12 interface box below deck. Antenna installation has been simplified, utilizing the same thin cable and small-diameter connectors as the Broadband 3G™ and 4G™ Radar systems. HALO’s sleek open-array antenna sits atop a uniquely curved pedestal — a departure from traditional box-shaped radar designs. Unlike other radar systems, the HALO pedestal is lit with a soft-glow, blue-LED accent light. This light is integrated into the pedestal, and it can be customized with a four-level brightness control that provides an attractive display.
Availability: The new Simrad HALO Pulse Compression Radar is scheduled for availability from authorized dealers in 2015. The 3-foot array is priced at $4,500 USD; the 4-foot model is $5,000 USD, and the 6-foot array is $5,500 USD. For more information about the HALO Radar or the entire line of Simrad Yachting marine electronics, please contact 800-324-1356 (toll-free) in the USA or 800-661-3983 (toll-free) in Canada or visit simrad-yachting.com.
