Standard Horizon MDS-8 Marine RADAR User Manual


 
Radar Installation Manual Page 11
2. INSTALLATION
This chapters illustrates the instructions on mechanical and electrical connections of the
Radar and the necessary software settings to operate it.
WARNING
In order for the Radar Antenna to communicate with the Chart Plotter, the software must be
configured as explained in the Par. 2.7.
2.0 INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
Prior to the actual installation of the Radar Antenna, several factors must be considered to
ensure maximum performance (see also Appendix B).
a. The Antenna must be located so that passengers and crew are not exposed to the direct
Radar beam.
b. The Antenna should be mounted on the centerline of your vessel in a location that has
an unobstructed view forward and the rest of the area around the scanner is as
unobstructed as possible.
c. A location as high as practical to improve maximum range is preferable, keeping in mind
that minimum range objects may be overlooked if mounted too high. Large structure or
stacks cause blind spots.
d. Contamination from engine exhaust on the scanner housing reduces Radar perform-
ance.
e. Antennas for GPS, radio communication or other equipment should not be in the Radar
beam (Use non-metallic extension poles to move the active area of Antennas above the
Radar beam).
f. In selecting a location, consider the suitability of the mounting surface. It must be flat
and approximately levelled with the vessel’s water line. The surface must support the
weight of the scanner and have access to the under side for installation of the four
mounting bolts.
g. Consider the cable route from the Antenna to the GPS Chart Plotter’s location. Avoid
routing the interconnecting cable through areas of possible damage from moving
objects, machinery, and exposure to chemicals or high temperature.
NOTE
1. The recommended mounting surface thickness is 3/8 to 1/2 in. (9 mm to 13 mm).
If the mounting surface is thin, the mounting surface must be increased to the recommended
surface thickness.
2. If it is thicker, longer bolts must be purchased.
3. The scanner will be damaged if bolts penetrate more than 9/16 in. (15 mm).
2.1 PREPARE THE RADAR FOR INSTALLATION
Unpack the Radar Antenna and check that the contents correspond to the packing list.
2.1.0 Cable
Do not remove the cover from the unit. There are no connections or adjustments inside the