Radar Detector

[Guest]

I once read in PBO that there was a system available that can passively detect radar from ships called the C.A.R.D. system. Apparently this uses a tiny percentage of the power that a normal radar system uses- ideal for long cruises or ocean races.

Have you, or know anyone that has bought this system? I'd love to know what you think of it, as I am interested in purchasing one.

Thanks, Ben

 

[Charieis]

Take care. These devices detect radars. They do not use radar to detect targets. They are very simple versions of the radar warners used by the military and rely in the other chap transmitting.
If I remember correctly the device to which you refer was a four antenna device with a simple display giving bearing indication in 45 degree sectors. You would be lucky to get a bearing accuracy in a real installation of much better than 15degrees rms - not much good for plotting collision courses and you get no range data. It would however tell you that a radar was out there, somewhere vaguely in a particular direction.
I have tried the old Lokata hand held radar detector. Not very impressive on that occasion. I was in Cowes and it detected the hydrofoil at about a mile. Not what I would call a very timely warning when the thing travels at twenty-odd knots!