The practical results are a greater operating range, enhanced sidelobe suppression at short range, and significantly lower power requirements.

These improvements have been achieved by incorporating the latest advances in electronics to ensure accuracy in frequency matching, consistent pulse by pulse responses and the advanced sidelobe suppression.

SeaBeacon 2 System 6 features an intelligent power management system that allows users to programme precise quiescent and active periods as required to match performance with power consumption.

In addition, the racon will automatically return to quiescent mode after a four second active period if there is no local radar activity.

Apart from quiescent periods, the user can select a variety of other operating parameters such as standard response code via an optional hand-held keypad or any computer with terminal emulation software.

Like its predecessors, the new racon uses independent dual band, high speed digital signal analysis.

Interrogations by radar main lobes are identified accurately by taking frequency and pulse width measurements (dual token identification). Amplitude values are used to block responses to sidelobe interrogations.

SeaBeacon 2 can respond simultaneously and with a high level of frequency accuracy to the radars of any number of vessels within line of sight range, even those with very narrow receiver bandwidths.

The design gives operators a clear indication of the racon's identity and location. Proportional scaling ensures that the racon trace remains clearly visible on radar displays regardless of the range scale selected.

SeaBeacon 2 System 6 is available in two versions: GMU for general marine use and EX for use in Zone 1 hazardous applications. It is compatible with an input power range of 9 to 36 VDC and services both X and S band radars.

All SeaBeacon 2 racons are protected by positive pressurisation. Before leaving the factory the unit is purged with an inert gas and pressurised to 35 kpa, providing complete protection to internal components from moisture ingress. Tideland has already taken 80 orders for the new model.

MJ Information No: 17815