radar reflector

[calloo]

I have had to replace my old jigsaw assembly of a ball type radar reflector with a modern tubular contraption. Being an inveterate luddite I am a bit anxious about this bit of gear. Can anybody tell me if this has to be mounted vertically or horizontally. Perhaps it does not matter!

 

[Pierrot]

Which type of radar reflector is it?

The cylindrical ones should be mounted vertically (in both planes) or even better gimballed so that it remains upright even when the boat is healed.

However if it is one of those tubular ones about 2" in diameter you can mount it any way you like - it won't work anyway.

 

[calloo]

Thanks buddy. Maybe you can advise me on what will work.

 

[Talbot]

Echomax or firdell blipper are the best. next best is the old octohedral reflector (ugly but effective) Others are less effective.

 

[Pierrot]

[ QUOTE ]
Thanks buddy. Maybe you can advise me on what will work.

[/ QUOTE ]
Echomax probably the best, followed by Firdell (which is an early version of the same design). The octohedral ones are pretty good.

As a basic rule of physics a passive reflector cannot reflect waves that don't hit it - a small passive radar reflect cannot work.

 

[calloo]

Thanks to all for the advice. I shall float test the 2 inch cylinder.

 

[ShipsWoofy]

Don't be too quick, there are many small powerboats who could use it. The do not have the benefit of a mast to hang a good sized reflector to. Put it on the the for sale forum.

FWIW I use the rain catcher, at night or poor vis I hoist it to the x-tress. Unfortunately my bank manager will confirm that my boat account is not a bottomless money pit /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif