Furuno Radar FAR-2328 NXT

Aerodynamic ANTENNA DESIGN extends lifespan

The FAR-2xx8 series antennas have been reshaped to reduce aerodynamic drag and ease the load on the gearbox's moving parts. The new antenna motor is fanless and brushless, reducing maintenance costs. The gearbox has also been redesigned with a more aerodynamic form, with an emphasis on safe and simple maintenance. Cable connections are easily accessible, and all gearbox components are integrated into a single module that can be lifted out if necessary. This module can be brought indoors for safe, dry servicing.

The FAR-2xx8 series includes the following models:

• X-band radar (3 cm) : FAR-2318, FAR-2328 NXT, FAR-2328,
• S-band radar (10 cm): FAR-2338S NXT, FAR-2338 

The radar image is clean and reliable

Furuno places strong focus on innovation and further development of its radar technology, aiming to provide users with an optimal radar image that is reliable, nearly noise-free, and features sharp, accurate echoes. The FAR-2xx8 series processes all signals within the antenna unit itself. This avoids signal loss between the antenna and processor and lays the foundation for achieving the best possible radar image.

Automatic Clutter Elimination (ACE)

Constantly changing weather and sea conditions demand frequent radar adjustments. The FAR-2xx8 series includes several functions to help navigators do this quickly and safely. The new ACE (Automatic Clutter Elimination) noise reduction function is activated with a single click and contributes to an improved radar image that the navigator can rely on. The function automatically optimizes radar settings based on advanced analysis of echoes and backscatter. However, it should be used with care, as under certain conditions manual control may yield better results.

Radar image shows target tracking on FAR-2xx8 S-band radar.

NXT RADAR MODELS UTILIZE DOPPLER TECHNOLOGY

All our NXT radar models, both IMO and non-IMO, are solid-state radars that also utilize Doppler technology for maximum performance. New functions that leverage this technology include Target Analyzer™, Fast Target Tracking™, and Auto Target Acquire. These functions provide extremely fast and accurate detection and identification of targets and other potential hazards.

With Fast Target Tracking™, course and speed vectors for plotted targets are displayed within just a few seconds. Tracking has proven to be very stable, even for smaller and high-speed vessels. This allows the navigator to take early action when needed and avoid unwanted incidents.

ENHANCED USER EXPERIENCE

Radar as a navigation tool has undergone continuous development over many years. It has become an advanced system with numerous options for various settings, both for radar functionality and image presentation. InstantAccessBar™ provides quick access to frequently used functions and settings. For example, you can easily toggle or adjust:

• ACE - Automatic Clutter Elimination
• EAV - Echo average variation
• ES - Echo Strech
• AIS target presentation

RETROFIT TO FAR-2xx8

Photo: Furuno dealer Navy Rørvik

USER INTERFACE REMAINS FAMILIAR

The FAR-2xx8 series is the successor to the FAR-2xx7. The new design places great emphasis on making retrofit installation and operation simple. The antenna fits into the same bracket as the previous model. The user interface, including controls, is similar to the FAR-2xx7 series, making it easy for users to transition to the new model. At the same time, new quick-access functions have been introduced in the interface. This lowers the entry barrier for new users adopting the FAR-2xx8 models.

Integration with other equipment is maintained

• When retrofitting from the FAR-2xx7, existing displays can usually be reused, provided they are functioning properly.
• The FAR-2xx8 series supports interswitching with FAR-3xxx, FAR-2xx7 and FAR-15x8.
• Radar overlay from FAR-2xx8 is available for TECDIS
• Connection to Furuno VDR is supported (additional equipment may be required).