North Star Radar Detector 10 kW User Manual

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Disclaimer  
As Northstar is continuously improving this product we retain the right to make changes to the  
product at any time which may not be reflected in this version of the manual. Please contact your  
nearest Northstar distributor if you require any further assistance.  
It is the owner’s sole responsibility to install and use the instrument and transducers in a manner that  
will not cause accidents, personal injury or property damage. The user of this product is solely  
responsible for observing safe boating practices.  
BRUNSWICK NEW TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES AND AFFILIATES DISCLAIM ALL  
LIABILITY FOR ANY USE OF THIS PRODUCT IN A WAY THAT MAY CAUSE ACCIDENTS, DAMAGE OR THAT  
MAY VIOLATE THE LAW.  
Governing Language: This statement, any instruction manuals, user guides and other information  
relating to the product (Documentation) may be translated to, or has been translated from, another  
language (Translation). In the event of any conflict between any Translation of the Documentation,  
the English language version of the Documentation will be the official version of the Documentation.  
This manual represents the product as at the time of printing. Brunswick New Technologies Inc. and its  
subsidiaries and affiliates reserve the right to make changes to specifications without notice.  
Copyright © 2006 Brunswick New Technologies Inc. Northstar™ is a registered trademark of Brunswick  
New Technologies Inc.  
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Warranty  
The Northstar Warranty Statement is supplied as a separate document.  
It is shipped with the Product Registration Card.  
Feedback from you  
Your feedback is important and helps Northstar ensure that this manual is a valuable resource for all  
marine technicians. E-mail your comments or suggestions about this manual to the following address:  
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Preface  
This manual explains how to install the scanner and the radar processor. It also explains how to set up  
the radar system after installation and gives information on troubleshooting.  
This manual is supplementary to the Northstar 6000i/6100i Installation and Operation Manual and the  
Northstar 8000i System Installation documentation.  
This manual is written for professional marine technicians, installation technicians, and service  
technicians, and can be used for information by dealers.  
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE USE  
WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could  
result in death or serious injury.  
CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result  
in minor or moderate injury.  
CAUTION used without the safety alert symbol indicates a potentially hazardous  
situation which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.  
Ensure that mains power is OFF before starting installation or servicing work. Electrical shock, fire or injury can  
result if electrical power remains ON, or is switched ON, during installation or servicing work.  
A potentially lethal high voltage is present and can remain for a period of time after the equipment is turned OFF.  
Ensure that capacitors are discharged with an Earthed wire before starting servicing work.  
Ensure that internal surfaces are no longer charged before you touch them.  
To minimize accidents, wear dry cotton gloves and avoid touching equipment with both hands unless absolutely  
necessary. Always work from a stable position to avoid slipping or falling onto the equipment.  
The radar is intended ONLY as an aid to navigation.  
The skipper must make final decisions based on all of the information sources to hand  
and must not rely solely on the radar.  
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Only qualified personnel should install or service this equipment. Installation or servicing work that is done by  
non-qualified personnel can result in equipment breakdown, poor performance of the equipment, fire, electrical  
and physical hazards, injury or death.  
Wear safety equipment such as a hard hat and a safety belt at all times when installing or working on the scanner.  
The scanner is usually installed in an elevated position and serious injury or death can result if a person falls while  
installing or working on it. It may be necessary to construct a working platform, particularly for the installation.  
The scanner is heavy and an open array may start rotating at any time. Install the radar system in a location that  
will minimize the possibility of anyone being struck or injured by it.  
Install the scanner in an elevated position to minimize the radiation hazard to personnel.  
Never look directly into the scanner at close range while the radar is operating.  
Radar scanners emit electromagnetic energy at a frequency that can be harmful at close range. Always keep the  
recommended safe distance from the scanner as follows:  
Vertical beam  
angle of scanner  
(degrees)  
Minimum safe distance  
(100 Watts per m² average power (10 Watts per m² average power  
Minimum safe distance  
Scanner  
Model  
density) Note 1  
density) Note 2  
2 kW  
30  
25  
20  
20  
20  
1.6 ft (0.5 m)  
3 ft (0.9 m)  
4.6 ft (1.4 m)  
9.3 ft (2.8 m)  
11.5 ft (3.5 m)  
3 ft (9.0 m)  
4 kW  
6 kW  
3.6 ft (1.1 m)  
9.5 ft (2.9 m)  
18 ft (5.5 m)  
10 kW  
25 kW  
57 ft (17.4 m)  
NOTES: Limits apply to exposure within the vertical beam angle.  
Note 1: Peak occupational exposure limit pursuant to IEC 60936 Clause 3.27 and IEC 62252 Clause 4.32  
Note 2: General public exposure limit pursuant to IEC 60936 Clause 3.27 and IEC 62252 Clause 4.32  
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Introduction to the Northstar radar  
The Northstar radars are designed as an option available to the Northstar 6000i, 6100i, or 8000i  
systems.  
A variety of scanner models are available (2 kW, 4 kW, 6 kW, 10 kW and 25 kW) to suit different  
customer requirements. Each scanner model has a corresponding radar processor model.  
Check the 25 kW radar parts  
The NS-RDR1257MO 25 kW radar system consists of a box containing the scanner, a box containing  
the open array, and a box containing the 25 kW radar processor.  
The interconnection cable is not supplied and must be ordered separately. It is available in two  
lengths; NS003105 is the 65.5 ft (20m) length, NS003106 is the 98.4 ft (30 m) length.  
If you want to use an interconnection cable length other than the 65.5 ft (20 m) or 98.4 ft (30 m)  
options, please consult your Northstar dealer.  
If you're connecting the radar to a Northstar 6000i or 6100i system, a 10 ft (3 m) radar communications  
cable (NS003107) is supplied with the 6000i or 6100i system. If this is not long enough, an optional 6 ft  
(1.8 m) extension cable (NS003108) for the radar communications cable can be added between the  
radar processor and the 6000i. This extension cable is not supplied as standard, and must be ordered  
separately.  
If you're connecting the radar to a Northstar 8000i system, you need the 8000i network cable  
(NS00481X) which is available is several lengths. This is not supplied as standard, and must be ordered  
separately.  
Unpack the boxes carefully and check the contents against the packing lists. If anything is missing,  
contact your distributor.  
NS004794R 25 kW scanner components  
Quantity  
Item  
Part name  
Part number  
1
Scanner unit  
NS004794  
4
4
M10x1.5 x55  
Hexagonal bolts  
Part of hardware  
kit HR000069  
M10 Hexagonal  
Nuts  
Part of hardware  
kit HR000069  
4
M10 Spring  
washers  
Part of hardware  
kit HR000069  
4
1
M10 Plain washers Part of hardware  
kit HR000069  
4x160 mm Copper Part of hardware  
Earth plate  
kit HR000069  
4
1
22 mm Brass  
washers  
Part of hardware  
kit HR000069  
M6x12 Earth bolt  
Part of hardware  
kit HR000069  
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1
1
1
Installation  
template  
MTZ303535  
LA000414A  
Mounting template ?????  
Packing list  
????  
NS00310X interconnection cable - order separately  
Quantity  
Item  
Part name  
Part number  
1
Interconnection  
cable  
NS003105 length  
65.5 ft (20 m)  
OR  
NS003106 length  
98.4 ft (30 m)  
NS004784R 25 kW radar processor standard components  
Quantity  
Item  
Part name  
Part number  
1
25 kW radar  
NS004784  
processor box  
1
1
This manual  
MN000358A  
LA000276A  
Installation  
template  
1
1
Product  
Registration Card  
CD000085A  
CD000260A  
Warranty  
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Spare 10 A fuse  
(motor)  
?????  
4
Mounting screw HR000061  
NS004794R 25 kW open array standard components  
Quantity  
Item  
Part name  
Part number  
1
25 kW open array  
NS004794  
1
Assembly  
LA000277A  
instructions sheet  
1
Packing list  
????  
4
Brass washers  
????  
4
4
Spring washers  
M10x35 bolts  
???  
???  
NS00481X cable for 8000i installation only - order separately  
Quantity  
Item  
Part name  
Part no.  
1
Network cable  
for 8000i  
NS004810 length  
1.6 ft (0.5 m)  
installation  
ONLY.  
NS004811 length  
6.5 ft (2 m)  
NS004812 length  
16.4 ft (5 m)  
NS004813 length  
32.8 ft (10 m)  
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NS003107 cable for 6000i and 6100i installations only - supplied with 6000i and 6100i system  
Quantity  
Item  
Part name  
Part No  
1
Radar  
NS003107  
communications  
cable for 6000i  
and 6100i  
installations  
ONLY.  
NS003108 Optional extension cable for 6000i and 6100i installations only - order separately  
Quantity  
Item  
Part name  
Part no.  
1
Radar  
NS003108  
communications  
extension cable  
for 6000i and  
6100i installation  
ONLY.  
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10 25 kW radar system overview  
The radar system is intended for use in a marine environment.  
The 25 kW radar system consists of a scanner and an open array, connected to the 25 kW radar  
processor by a prefabricated interconnection cable which is available in two lengths (NS003105 or  
NS003106).  
where A is the radar processor, B is the vessel's power supply (24 V DC ONLY), and C is the Network  
Linker (NS004721).  
The 25 kW interconnection cable contains separate motor power wires, and there is a separate motor  
power fuse in the radar processor.  
If the radar processor is connected to a Northstar 6000i or 6100i, it communicates with the display unit  
through the 6000i and 6100i radar communications cable (NS003107). An optional extension cable  
(NS003108) is available.  
If the radar processor is connected to a Northstar 8000i system, it communicates with the 8000i  
Network Linker (NS004721) through the 8000i network cable (NS00481X).  
DC power for the scanner and radar processor is provided through a power cable that connects the  
radar processor to the vessel's DC power supply. The power cable is not supplied.  
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11 Install the radar  
A radar unit should only be installed by a qualified marine technician, as potentially lethal high  
voltage is present along with heavy rotating parts. There is a transmit interlock that prevents radar  
transmissions if the scanner is not rotating. However, a high voltage remains for a period of time after  
the system is turned off. If you are not familiar with this type of electronics, consult with a trained  
service or installation technician before attempting to service any part of the equipment.  
Installation includes  
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mechanical mounting  
electrical wiring  
configuring the 6000i or 6100i system or 8000i system to work with the radar  
adjusting the radar for proper performance.  
Don't take any shortcuts, and follow these instructions carefully.  
NOTE: For the radar overlay to function properly on the chart screen, you must correctly install and  
calibrate a separate heading sensor. Without the heading sensor, you cannot overlay the chart. A 10  
Hz heading output rate is required for best radar/chart overlay performance.  
This section explains how to:  
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choose the correct location for the scanner  
install the scanner on a power boat or a yacht  
choose the correct location for the radar processor  
install the radar processor  
Read the important warning and safety information in the Preface before you install the radar.  
11.1 Choose the scanner location  
The radar's ability to detect targets depends greatly on the position of its scanner. The ideal location  
for the scanner is high above the vessel's keel line where there aren't any obstacles.  
The higher the installation position, the longer the radar ranging distance, but the minimum range  
that the radar can detect targets increases the higher that the radar is mounted.  
Also see the sections on installing the scanner on a power boat or yacht.  
When you're deciding on the location, consider the following:  
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the length of the interconnection cable supplied with your radar is usually sufficient. If you  
think you'll need a longer cable, consult your Northstar dealer before installation, because a  
longer cable may reduce the performance of the radar.  
if the roof of the wheelhouse is the highest existing location, consider installing a radar mast  
or a pedestal on which you can mount the scanner. You may also need to construct a  
working platform for your own safety during installation and servicing work.  
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if you mount the scanner on a pedestal or base, ensure that rain and sea spray can drain  
away from it rapidly.  
if you locate the scanner on the mast, position it on the forward side so that there is a clear  
view to the front of the vessel.  
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the scanner is usually installed parallel to line of the keel  
ensure that the location site provides the scanner with a clear view of the front of the vessel.  
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DON'T DO THIS!  
ƒ
DON'T install the scanner too high up, where its weight will alter the stability of the vessel  
and cause degradation of the radar picture over short ranges (see "How to find the  
optimum height for the scanner").  
ƒ
DON'T install the scanner close to lamps or exhaust outlets. The heat emissions may cause  
the equipment to breakdown and soot and smoke will degrade the performance of the  
radar.  
ƒ
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DON'T install the scanner close to the antennas of other equipment such as direction  
finders, VHF antennas, GPS equipment and so on, because it may cause interference.  
DON'T install the scanner where a large obstruction (such as an exhaust stack) is at the same  
level as the beam, because the obstruction is likely to generate false echoes and/or shadow  
zones.  
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DON'T install the scanner where it will be subjected to strong vibrations (such as a derrick  
post) because these vibrations will degrade the performance of the radar.  
DON'T install an open array close to halyards or flags because the wind could wrap these  
around the scanner and jam it.  
DON'T install the scanner inside of the recommended compass safe distances of any navigation instruments such  
as the magnetic compass and the chronometer. The compass safe distances are as follows:  
2 kW radar  
4 kW radar  
6 kW radar  
10 kW radar  
25 kW radar  
STD 2.3 ft (0.7 m)  
STEER 1.6 ft (0.5 m)  
STD 6.5 ft (2.0 m)  
STEER 5 ft (1.5 m)  
STD 7.5 ft (2.3 m)  
STEER 5.7 ft (1.75 m)  
STD 7.9 ft (2.4 m)  
STEER 6 ft (1.8 m)  
STD 7.9 ft (2.4 m)  
STEER 6 ft (1.8 m)  
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11.1.1 Power boat installations  
Normally, you should install the scanner horizontally, to produce an equal sweep around the power  
boat:  
However, when the power boat is traveling at high speed, the bow rises up out of the water and if the  
elevation angle (trim) of the bow is raised up so that it equals, or exceeds, 50% of the vertical beam  
width of the radar, this can cause two problems:  
ƒ
ahead of the power boat, the beam is projected too high to sweep the water surface  
effectively. Targets can be missed completely or appear at a very poor resolution on the  
display screen.  
ƒ
astern of the power boat, the beam is projected too low and is concentrated over a small  
area of water so that sea clutter becomes a problem on the display screen.  
In this case, you're recommended to install the scanner so that is tilted down at the front, at an angle  
that will produce an almost horizontal sweep when the power boat is running at speed.  
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11.1.2 Yacht installations  
Normally you should install the scanner horizontally, to produce an equal sweep around the yacht.  
However, a yacht heels over to the lee side, and when the heel angle exceeds 50% of the vertical beam  
width of the radar, this can cause two problems:  
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on the windward side of the yacht, the beam is projected too high to sweep the water  
surface effectively. Targets can be missed completely or appear at very poor resolution on  
the display unit.  
on the lee side of the yacht, the beam is projected too low and is concentrated over a small  
area of water so that sea clutter becomes a problem on the display unit.  
In this case, you're recommended to install the scanner on a gimbal mounting so that it can operate  
effectively in a heavy swell or when the yacht is heeled over.  
11.2 How to find the optimum height for the scanner  
The optimum height for the scanner is as close as possible to the A-B line for best performance.  
How to find the A-B Line:  
The vertical extent of the radar beam is 2θ°, so most of the radar beam is concentrated within this  
angle, meaning that outside of this angle the radar beam will be very weak.  
Scanner model  
θ° value (half the -3 dB beam width)  
2 kW  
4 kW  
15  
12.5  
6 kW  
10  
10  
10  
10 kW  
25 kW  
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An example of an A-B Line is shown in the picture. If you install the scanner below the A-B line, the  
scanner will be too low. It will be difficult to acquire distant targets and the superstructure will be  
more likely to impede the passage of the beam and generate false echoes. If the scanner is installed  
too high above the A-B line, the beam will miss close targets and increase sea clutter return.  
You can find the A-B line for any vessel as follows:  
1. Using a drawing of the vessel, lay a rule along the line of the main deck and continue this  
forwards as a dashed line extending beyond the bow.  
2. Using a protractor, measure the θ° value (for your scanner model) below the dashed line at  
the bow and draw in a new line along this angle.  
3. Extend the new line back beyond the stern of the vessel. This is the A-B line.  
11.3 How to find the maximum detection range  
Propagation of the radar beam can vary, depending on the properties of the air through which it's  
traveling. Under normal conditions, the distance that the radar beam travels is approximately 10%  
further than the distance to the optical horizon.  
You can calculate the theoretical distance traveled by the radar beam using the following formula:  
D = 2.23 (h1 + h2)  
where:  
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D is distance traveled by the radar beam  
h1 is the height above sea level of the scanner  
h2 is the height above sea level of a target  
An example is shown below:  
In this example, the scanner is installed on the vessel at a height of 10 ft (3 m) above sea level (h1).  
Island A is 33 ft (10 m) high (h2) and for comparison, Island B is 16.4 ft (5 m) high (h2). Both islands are  
at a distance (D) of 10 nautical miles from the vessel.  
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Calculations using the formula show that, at this distance, the radar can only detect objects that are  
more than 25 ft (7.6 m) high, which means that Island A is shown on the radar but Island B is not  
shown.  
Remember that:  
ƒ
the maximum detection range of the radar is limited by the curvature of the Earth's surface  
under normal conditions of wave propagation.  
ƒ
bad weather conditions can reduce the maximum detection range  
11.4 How to reduce false echoes and shadow zones  
False echoes can be produced on the radar display if the scanner is installed too close to an object on  
the vessel's superstructure. This object can block the radar beam and reflect it back, generating the  
false echoes and shadow zones.  
If you're having problems with false echoes and/or shadow zones, check if it's possible to re-install the  
scanner at a higher location where the radar beam will be clear of any obstructions.  
If not, try relocating the scanner away from the central keel line of the vessel to the starboard side.  
This will move any shadows to the port side, maximize the radar view of your give way sector, and  
ensure a clear view of the area around the vessel at the bow.  
Use the following formula to calculate the distance that you'll need to move the scanner:  
Ls = 0.4R + D/2 (when R is less than 49 ft [15 m])  
Ls = 0.025R + D/2 (When R is greater than or equal to 49 ft [15 m])  
where:  
Ls = distance to be moved from the keel line  
D = diameter of the obstacle  
R = distance between the antenna and the obstacle  
11.5 Install an open array scanner on a trestle  
Depending on your chosen location for the scanner, it may be easier to install the scanner if you  
fabricate a trestle or radar mast on which you can mount the scanner.  
In this case, the base of the trestle must be installed parallel to the water surface. Orient the trestle so  
that the main cabling from the scanner will face the stern. Make sure that the edges of the trestle  
won't trap water.  
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If the trestle height (A) is less than 2 m high, use the angle joint method as shown:  
If the trestle height (A) is more than 2 m high, install a radar mast secured with guy wires as shown:  
11.6 25 kW radar dimensions  
The 25 kW radar has an open array with a rotation diameter of 89.4" (2270 mm). Ensure that the open  
array will be able to rotate freely and take this diameter into account when calculating the  
recommended distances from other equipment.  
Before starting the installation, use the drilling template to identify the:  
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ƒ
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ƒ
cable inlet  
safety switch  
Earth bolt  
front and rear of the scanner.  
The radar dimensions are shown:  
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11.7 Install the 25 kW scanner unit  
Tape the paper installation template securely to the chosen location site. Before drilling, check that:  
ƒ
ƒ
the location site is not more than 0.6" (15 mm) thick, to ensure that you can use the bolts  
supplied.  
you've oriented the template correctly so that the front of the scanner unit faces the bow  
and the cable inlet faces the stern.  
Drill the four bolt holes then remove the template and position the scanner over the bolt holes.  
Slide a spring washer, then a brass washer onto each bolt. Push the bolt down through the scanner  
bolt hole and the drill hole, working from the top side of the location site.  
Slide a plain washer then a spring washer onto the bolt then screw two nuts onto the bolt to secure it.  
Repeat this for procedure for each bolt, then tighten all the nuts so that the scanner is secure.  
NOTE: Use the bolts supplied as these are hardened stainless steel and the correct length.  
11.8 When to install the open array  
IMPORTANT: Install the open array onto the scanner AFTER you have connected the interconnection  
cable to the scanner otherwise you'll have to remove the open array from the scanner, and then re-  
install it.  
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11.9 Install the radar processor  
Install the radar processor in a dry location away from spray, rain, drips, and condensation.  
The location site must allow you to easily connect the radar processor to the ship's ground, the  
interconnection cable, the power cable, and the 6000i and 6100i radar communications cable or the  
8000i network cable. Check that these cables and the ship's ground can easily reach the radar  
processor BEFORE you drill.  
The radar processor dimensions are shown on the drilling template. Follow the instructions on the  
drilling template to install the radar processor.  
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12 Wire the radar system  
Always install a separate circuit breaker or separate fuse for the radar system circuit.  
12.1 Wiring guidelines  
Most installation problems are caused by shortcuts taken with system cables. When wiring the radar:  
ƒ
DON'T make sharp bends in the cables.  
ƒ
DON'T run cables in a way that allows water to flow down into the connectors.  
but  
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
DO make drip and service loops.  
DO use cable ties to keep the cables tidy and secure.  
DO seal and protect all wiring connections if cables are shortened, lengthened, or re-  
terminated.  
ƒ
DO leave room to easily access, install and remove cables.  
12.2 Connect the interconnection cable (NS003105/NS003106) to the 25  
kW scanner  
1. Unscrew and lift away the hinged cover of the scanner.  
2. Identify the connectors B, C, D, E, and F at the end of the interconnection cable.  
3. Push the cable gland (D), a plain washer (B), the gasket (C) and another plain washer (B) over the connector end of the  
interconnection cable (E) in the order shown. Push the interconnection cable through the cable inlet into the scanner.  
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4. Tear away the tape (A) then unravel the shield mesh and wrap this around the washer as shown.  
5. Check that the interconnection cable is positioned so that you can easily connect it to the J connectors, as shown:  
6. Screw down the cable holders and clips to keep the interconnection cable in place inside the scanner. The  
interconnection cable must be clumped at the copper tape at location A.  
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7. Connect the five interconnection cable connectors (B, C, D, E, and F) to the J connectors as follows:  
Cable connector  
J connector  
B (P2)  
C (P1)  
J2  
J1  
D (P3)  
E (P4)  
F (P5)  
J3  
J4  
J5  
8. Close the scanner with the screws.  
The wiring details for the connector ends B, C, D, E, and F are as follows:  
NS003105/NS003106 Interconnection cable - connector ends  
Pin  
Color  
AWG Size  
B
C
D
E
F
1
Blue / Gray (big)  
#16  
1
2
Purple / Brown (big)  
White / Orange (big)  
Red / Green (big)  
Black / Sky (big)  
Black  
#16  
#16  
#16  
#16  
#22  
#24  
1
3
2
4
2
5
1
2
6
6
7
Drain wire (coax line)  
No connection  
Yellow / Pink (big)  
Axis line  
2
8
9
#16  
#24  
#24  
#24  
#24  
#24  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
1
3
Yellow (thin)  
Green (thin)  
5
2
White (thin)  
4
Drain wire  
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15  
16  
Shield line  
#24  
#22  
1
3
Orange (medium)  
Shell Braid shield  
12.3 25 kW radar processor connectors  
There are four interface connectors on the rear of the 25 kW radar processor, plus a chassis earth.  
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You can connect the radar processor to either the Northstar 6100i OR to the Northstar 8000i, but not  
to both simultaneously.  
25 kW radar processor interface connectors  
Connector name  
Connector function  
Connects to...  
Network  
Ethernet communications for 8000i network, using the 8000i  
the 8000i  
network cable (NS00481X)  
Power (+Ve and -Ve)  
NMEA / Comms  
Power input  
Ship's power 24 V DC ONLY (using  
the power cable)  
Data communications (for the 6000i or 6100i display unit, using  
6000i and 6100i systems  
only)  
radar communications cable  
(NS003107/NS003108)  
Remote power control, relay 6000i, 6100i, or 8000i remote  
and ignition (for the 6000i,  
6100i, and 8000i)  
power signals, relay or ignition;  
cable not supplied  
NMEA communications for  
8000i NMEA compliant compass;  
compass (for the 8000i only). cable not supplied  
Scanner  
Scanner communications  
Scanner, using the  
interconnection cable (NS003105  
or NS003106)  
Chassis Earth  
Grounding point  
Vessel's Ground using ground  
wire  
12.4 Run the interconnection cable (NS003105/NS003106) to the radar  
processor  
Run the interconnection cable (NS003105/NS003106) from the scanner unit to the radar processor.  
Push the round connector (A) of the interconnection cable into the scanner connection on the radar  
processor and tighten the locking nut.  
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The front view of the interconnection cable is shown:  
The interconnection cable pin details are provided here for information, in case the connector needs  
to be removed to feed the cable, or in case the cable needs to be shortened.  
Pin  
Color  
AWG Size  
Signal name  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Blue / Gray (big)  
Purple / Brown (big)  
White / Orange (big)  
Red / Green (big)  
Black / Sky (big)  
Black  
#16  
#16  
#16  
#16  
#16  
#22  
#24  
Motor Ground  
Motor Ground  
Motor Power  
Motor Power  
Scanner Ground  
Analog Ground  
Video Ground  
Not used  
Drain wire (coax line)  
No connection  
9
Yellow / Pink (big)  
Axis line  
#16  
#24  
#24  
#24  
#24  
#24  
#24  
#22  
Scanner Power  
Video  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
16  
Yellow (thin)  
Green (thin)  
White (thin)  
Drain wire  
RS-485 Comm+  
Bearing Zero  
RS-485 Comm-  
Trigger Ground  
Trigger  
Shield line  
Orange (medium)  
Bearing Pulse  
Shell Braid shield  
12.5 Earth the 25 kW scanner  
The Earth bolt MUST be connected to the vessel's ground system.  
Connect the copper Earth strap (A) to the scanner with a hexagonal bolt (C).  
Connect the other end of copper Earth strap to the mounting location, using the special hexagonal  
Earth bolt (B), then apply silicon sealant around both the bolts.  
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12.6 Install the 25 kW open array  
IMPORTANT: Install the open array onto the scanner ONLY after you've connected the 25 kW  
interconnection cable.  
Use the assembly sheet provided and check that you've got all the components shown. Follow the  
instructions on the assembly sheet to install the open array.  
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12.7 Connect the 25 kW radar processor to a 6000i or 6100i display  
The following diagram shows the recommended method for connecting the radar processor to a  
6000i or 6100i display unit:  
Item  
Function  
A
Junction box  
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B
C
D
E
To NMEA Device 1  
To NMEA Device 2  
To Smartcraft  
Remote power  
F
Circuit breaker/fuse box  
G
H
I
Optional radar communications extension cable (NS003108)  
Vessel's Ground  
NTSC Video Input  
Fuse (7A)  
GPS antenna  
Power  
J
K
L
M
N
0
P
NMEA  
Ethernet  
AUX  
VGA (out)  
12.7.1 Connect the radar communications cable (NS003107) to the junction box  
The free ends of the radar communications cable (NS003107) must be terminated in a junction box  
(see the figure in the previous section). The junction box is not supplied.  
The communications cable has a 0.41" (10.5 mm) diameter. The junction box must be waterproof and  
large enough to contain a 20 way strip connector.  
All cable entry points should use suitable grommets or glands to ensure that waterproofing is  
maintained.  
The table shows the wiring and pin details of the radar communications cable. The naming  
convention for the bi-colored wires is primary color/stripe; for example, White/Orange refers to a  
white colored wire with an orange stripe.  
If the radar processor is connected through the 12-pin NMEA/Comms connector on the radar communications  
cable (NS003107), then all of the NMEA 2 free end signals and grounds must be NO CONNECT in the junction box.  
If a SmartCraft device is connected through the 8 pin SmartCraft connector on the radar communications cable  
(NS003107), then all the RS-232 free end signals and grounds should be NO CONNECT in the junction box.  
NMEA devices must be connected to an unused NMEA port on the connector strip.  
The remote power signal configuration is explained in "Configure the remote power control for a  
6000i or 6100i (common power source)" and "Configure the remote power control for a 6000i or 6100i  
(different power sources)".  
Wire function  
Free end  
Connector 1  
6000i/6100i NMEA  
Connector 2  
NMEA/Comms  
Connector 3  
Smartcraft  
Pin  
Color  
Pin  
Color  
Pin Color  
NMEA 1 IN A  
Brown  
Blue  
3
Brown  
NMEA 1 IN B  
1
Blue  
NMEA 1 IN GROUND  
NMEA 1 OUT A  
NMEA 1 OUT B  
White/Blue  
Violet  
4
White/Blue  
Violet  
12  
7
Gray  
Gray  
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NMEA 1 OUT GROUND  
NMEA 2 IN A  
Blue/White  
White/Brown  
Brown/White  
White  
8
Blue/White  
White/Brown  
Brown/White  
White  
6*  
1
2
Green  
Red  
NMEA 2 IN B  
2*  
NMEA 2 IN GROUND  
NMEA 2 OUT A  
NMEA 2 OUT B  
NMEA 2 OUT GROUND  
RS-232 GROUND  
RS-232 RX  
5*  
Yellow  
15*  
11*  
10  
Yellow  
7
Orange  
Blue  
Orange  
Black  
Orange  
Black  
8
12  
Yellow  
Tan  
17*  
16*  
18*  
13  
Tan  
1
3
8
White  
Green  
Red  
Green  
Green  
RS-232 TX  
Red  
Red  
REMOTE SAVE  
Orange/White  
Pink  
Orange/White  
Pink  
6000i or 6100i REMOTE  
POWER OUT  
14  
SHIELD  
Drain  
9
Drain  
9
Drain  
RADAR REMOTE POWER White/Orange  
IN  
10  
Brown  
* See cautions on previous page.  
The end view of the three connectors is shown:  
Connector 1 - 6100i NMEA pin assignments  
Connector 2 - Radar NMEA/Communications pin assignments  
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Connector 3 - SmartCraft pin assignments  
12.7.2 Configure the remote power control for a 6000i or 6100i (common power  
source)  
IMPORTANT: This remote power control option works correctly only when the 6000i or 6100i and the  
radar processor share the same power earth and are located 16.5 ft (5 m) or less apart.  
A simplified diagram of the power control circuit for the radar processor and 6000i or 6100i is shown:  
where:  
Key  
Component  
A
B
C
D
E
Radar processor  
NMEA/Comms port  
NMEA port  
Link in the junction box  
Fuse/Breaker board  
Fuse  
F
G
Battery  
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The radar processor has two remote power inputs with opposite active states which are OR’ed  
together.  
Pin 10 input (active low) is used by the 6000i or 6100i systems and Pin 12 input (active high) is used by  
the 8000i system.  
Pin 12 is tied to ground through the NS003107 cable, to allow control through Pin 10.  
The radar processor has an active low input with a pullup resistor to Vbatt, to complement the open  
collector output configuration of the 6000i or 6100i systems.  
There is a choice of two different modes for powering the radar ON/OFF:  
ƒ
If you want the radar to power ON automatically when the radar processor is powered ON,  
connect the White/Orange wire to a NMEA ground in the junction box.  
ƒ
If you want the radar to power ON automatically whenever the 6000i or 6100i is ON,  
program the Honk Output as REMOTE PWR in the 6000i or 6100i. This option is contained in  
the Alarms menu. (To access the Alarms menu, repeatedly press the * key until the Alarms  
menu is visible.) You must also connect the Pink wire to the White/Orange wire in the  
junction box.  
12.7.3 Configure the remote power control for a 6000i or 6100i (different power  
sources)  
When the 6000i or 6100i and the radar processor have isolated power supplies, or are located more  
than 16.5 ft (5 meters) apart, there is a choice of two different modes for powering the radar ON/OFF:  
ƒ
If you want the radar to power ON automatically whenever the 6000i or 6100i is ON, use the  
following power ON/OFF configuration:  
where:  
Key  
Component  
A
B
C
Radar processor  
Main PCB  
NMEA/Comms port  
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E
Relay with (normally) closed contact  
F
Fuse  
G
NMEA port  
Power port  
Fuse /Breaker board  
Battery  
H
I
J and K  
ƒ
If you want the radar to power ON automatically when the radar processor is powered ON,  
omit the relay and leave Pin 10 and 12 on Connector 1 (the NMEA/Comms connector) as No  
Connect.  
12.8 Connect the 25 kW radar processor to an 8000i display  
You are recommended to use the following configuration when connecting the radar processor to an  
8000i display, where A is the (optional) NMEA Compass, B is the Circuit breaker/Fuse box, and C is the  
vessel's Ground.  
Alternative 8000i system configurations are possible. For further information please refer to the  
Northstar 8000i System Installation documentation.  
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12.9 Configure the remote power control for an 8000i  
NOTE: At the time of printing this manual, the 8000i does not support remote power control of  
network modules. This feature will be added in future release.  
The radar processor supports this feature through Pin 12 on the NMEA/Comms port.  
If you want the radar processor to power ON automatically whenever power is applied, leave Pin 10  
and Pin 12 of the NMEA/Comms connector as No Connect.  
Alternatively, if you want the radar to be powered ON only when vessel's engines are running, Pin 12  
(active high) must be driven by the vessel's ignition key.  
12.10 Connect an 8000i network cable (NS00481X)  
Connect the 8000i network cable (NS00481X) ONLY if you're connecting the radar system to a  
Northstar 8000i system.  
Push one end of the 8000i network cable into the NETWORK connector on the radar processor. Plug  
the other end into the network connector on the network linker.  
If the NMEA/COMMS connector on the radar processor is not used, leave the sealing cap in place.  
12.11 Connect the optional NMEA compass for an 8000i  
The NMEA compass may be directly connected to the radar processor through the NMEA/COMMS  
port.  
Compass data is appended to the radar data by the radar processor and then broadcast over the  
network to the 8000i display and other devices. This enables more precise radar chart overlay and  
target tracking (MARPA) than is possible by compass connection to other points in the network.  
The NMEA compass cable is not supplied but the pinout of the NMEA/COMMS port is shown for  
information:  
Pin  
Function  
3
NMEA Tx+ data  
NMEA Ground  
4
5
NMEA Rx- data  
6
NMEA Rx+ data  
Shield  
9
11  
12 V Compass power (100 mA max)  
It is recommended that a single compass data source is used for the 8000i network. To achieve this,  
the NMEA compass data must be fed to other devices on the 8000i network using the spare data  
channels from the compass (if available) or the NMEA data splitter. See the "Northstar 8000i System  
Setup Manual" for more information.  
12.11.1 Configure the optional NMEA compass  
The compass must be NMEA compliant and configured as follows:  
ƒ
10 Hz update rate  
4800 baud  
ƒ
The compass must be able to supply the NMEA 0183 HDT, HDM, and HTG heading sentences (all other  
sentence types will be ignored).  
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Ideally, the compass should draw less than 100 mA. (If this is not possible, power the compass using a  
separate 12 V source.)  
12.12 Connect the power cable  
The power cable to the radar processor is NOT supplied for either the 6000i or 6100i system or the  
8000i system. Power must be supplied through a fuse/breaker element located at the power source  
end of the power cable.  
Check the system specifications section for the recommended DC input voltage.  
The power cable and fuse requirements are shown in the table.  
Fuse/Circuit breaker Maximum length of  
Scanner  
rating  
power cable  
Power cable size  
2 kW  
5 A  
33 ft (10 m)  
26 ft (8 m)  
26 ft (8 m)  
26 ft (8 m)  
26 ft (8 m)  
14 AWG  
14 AWG  
14 AWG  
12 AWG  
12 AWG  
4 kW  
10 A  
10 A  
15 A  
15 A  
6 kW  
10 kW  
25 kW  
Typically the fuse /breaker would be located in a fuse/breaker box with the fuses/breakers for other  
devices.  
The radar processor must have it's own exclusive fuse/circuit breaker. The fuse/circuit breaker should  
be labeled appropriately.  
To connect the power cable to the radar processor, you must:  
1. Strip away approximately 0.4" (10 mm) of the shielding at the end of the power cable, and  
then identify the positive wire and the negative wire.  
2. Unscrew the small holding screw from the positive power cable input connector (identified  
by the + sign) on the radar processor.  
3. Insert the bare ends of the positive wire into the positive power cable input connector to  
make a connection.  
4. Tighten the small holding screw to hold the positive wire in place. Gently pull on the  
positive wire to ensure that it is secured.  
5. Repeat this process to connect the negative wire to the negative power cable input  
connector (identified by the – sign).  
12.13 Connect the ground wire  
The radar processor has a Chassis Earth connection stud located on the far right hand side of the unit.  
The Chassis Earth is DC isolated from power (–ve) to eliminate the risk of galvanic corrosion.  
If you are installing the radar processor on a vessel with a metal hull, connect the radar processor  
Chassis Earth to the hull at the closest possible location, using 12 AWG wire (or thicker):  
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The eyelets must be crimped or soldered at both locations (A) and the method of connection to the  
vessel's hull is shown at (B).  
If you are installing the radar processor on a vessel with a non-metallic hull, connect the radar  
processor Chassis Earth to the vessel's ground network. If a vessel's ground network is not available,  
leave the radar processor Chassis Earth unconnected.  
12.14 Radar system checklist  
When you've finished the wiring, visually check that:  
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
each component is securely mounted and able to withstand rough sea conditions.  
all the cables are correctly installed.  
any cable shield mesh is correctly configured.  
all cable entry points are watertight.  
water can't leak into the scanner.  
Now you're ready to set up the radar with the Northstar system that you're using.  
13 Set up the radar with the Northstar 8000i system  
Setting up the radar with the Northstar 8000i is described in the Northstar 8000i System installation  
documentation for your display processor.  
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14 Set up the radar with the Northstar 6000i or 6100i  
14.1 Turn the radar on and off  
14.1.1 Before you turn on the radar for the first time  
To extend magnetron lifetime, you're recommended to leave the radar in Standby mode for 30  
minutes when activating the radar for the VERY FIRST time. (When the radar is in Standby mode, it's  
NOT transmitting but it is powered up – this allows the magnetron heater to stabilize). Then, after 30  
minutes, press the RADAR ON key to test and align.  
If you're using the radar with the 6000i or 6100i, press CLR (NOT ENT) the VERY FIRST time when the  
radar transmit activation message appears. After this first time, you can press ENT anytime this screen  
appears. The radar countdown timer will appear – typically 90 seconds on lower powered radars –  
then the radar will automatically start transmitting.  
14.1.2 Turn the radar on  
IMPORTANT: Do not use the navigator's Demo Mode when the radar is switched on.  
Several menu buttons on the radar display must be activated before the adjustment they control can  
be changed. Here's how they work:  
ƒ
any button displayed in red is already active. Press it, or use the keypad or cursor controls to  
adjust the value.  
ƒ
any button displayed in blue is inactive. Press it once to activate it.  
The radar normally provides a good picture when used in its automatic modes described in  
"Configuring the navigator". In many cases, the picture can be improved by using the Range Rider  
mode.  
Before turning ON the radar for the first time to set it up, check that the vessel's DC primary power  
supply is within the recommended range of 10.8 V to 16 V for a 12 V system, or 21.6 V to 32 V for a 24 V  
system.  
Check that everyone is outside the radiation hazard area and any rotation hazard area, then turn ON  
the radar. (The power switch is located on the scanner unit.)  
Turn ON the radar processor by installing the fuse or turning ON the circuit breaker to the radar  
system  
Turn ON the navigator (display) unit. The power switch is on the front panel.  
14.1.3 Turn the radar off  
Be sure to turn the scanner OFF before servicing the scanner or working in the vicinity of a rotating  
open array.  
Turn the radar OFF by removing the fuse or by switching OFF the radar's dedicated circuit breaker.  
Depending on the power switch configuration, the radar may automatically turn OFF when the  
navigator (display) unit is turned OFF.  
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14.2 Configure the navigator communications  
IMPORTANT: If you are going to operate the radar without a heading sensor, ignore this section and  
set up the radar as described in "Disable the header sensor input".  
To enable the radar to communicate with the navigator, set up the radar option on the navigator's  
PORT 2 SETUP screen as follows:  
1. Press STAR several times to display the OPTIONS/SERVICE INFO screen.  
2. Press Port Setup Options.  
3. Press Port 2 Setupand use the Cursor Pad to select the Output Formatline.  
4. Press Edit, then use the Cursor Pad to select Radar.  
5. Press Enter. The change is made immediately and you do not need to restart the  
navigator.  
14.3 Heading sensor requirements  
The heading sensor can be a stand-alone unit or may be integrated into an auto-pilot system,  
provided that it supplies the NMEA 0183 HDG, HDT, OSD, HCC, HCD or HDM heading sentences to the  
navigator. It must output data at a 10Hz update rate.  
If the heading sensor requires sea trial calibration, perform the manufacturer's recommended  
calibration procedure before you calibrate the radar heading.  
Heading calibration should be performed during initial setup, annually, and after any major structural  
changes to the vessel.  
The Northstar 6000i and 6100i accepts the following standard NMEA 0183 sentences from a heading  
sensor (such as the Northstar HS02 or HS03 Heading Sensor) to obtain the following heading  
information: HDG, HDT, OSD, HCC, HCD, and HDM.  
For sensor installation and calibration instructions, see the sensor manufacturer's Installation Manual.  
In addition, the navigator must be calibrated to the heading sensor (see the section "Set the heading  
calibration" in this manual and, for a 6000i or 6100i system installation also see "GM6KIM Rev D (6000i  
Installation Manual)" or the new "MN000320A Northstar 6000i & 6100i Installation Manual" or, for an  
8100i system installation, see "Northstar 8000i System Setup Manual".  
14.3.1 Disable the heading sensor input  
The heading sensor is configured by default when the navigator is configured for radar.  
If a heading sensor is NOT installed and connected, you must remove its configuration as follows:  
1. Turn on the navigator and wait for it to complete its power-up sequence.  
2. Press RADAR to display the radar screen on the 6000i or 6100i.  
3. The system asks if you want to turn on the scanner. Press Enterto turn it on.  
4. Press Page 2, Page 3, Page 4, and Install... to show the installation screen.  
5. Press Hdg Sensor Installedto change its displayed status to No.  
6. Press STAR to display the alarm screen, then press Clear Alarm. This clears the  
heading sensor alarm.  
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14.4 Calibrating the radar  
You must calibrate the newly installed radar by adjusting the trigger delay and the heading  
calibration.  
To evaluate medium and short range returns, you are recommended to perform the calibration at sea  
in a normal operating environment and under fair weather conditions. There should be an area of at  
least 3 nautical miles forward of the vessel, containing known targets including the coastline. A wave  
height of about one to two feet (half a meter) to create some sea clutter, is ideal. Do not perform the  
calibration in an enclosed or busy area such as a boatyard.  
Attempts to tune and calibrate under less than recommended conditions may lead to substandard  
performance. A sea trial that allows the selection and use of all the ranges is highly desirable.  
14.4.1 Prepare for calibration  
Prepare for calibration as follows:  
1. Press RADAR to display the radar screen on the 6000i or 6100i.  
2. The unit may ask if you want to turn on the scanner. If it does, turn it on. You should see  
range rings displayed on the screen or the scanner warm-up countdown followed by a  
message saying "Radar is OFF". If nothing appears, the radar control box is not powered up  
or not properly interfaced to the navigator. Check the power wiring, interface wiring, and  
navigator communications configuration.  
3. Press Page 2, Page 3, Page 4, then Restore....  
4. Press Restore factory settings. (A new Northstar 6000i or 6100i is shipped with  
standard factory settings that are appropriate for basic operation.)  
5. Press Return.  
14.4.2 Tune the radar  
The Northstar radar uses a fully automatic tuning procedure that continuously checks for optimum  
adjustment during operation. Northstar recommends using auto tuning mode for normal operation.  
For special situations requiring manual tuning, see the section on "Manual Tuning Mode".  
Tune the radar so that the radar receiver frequency matches the transmitter frequency.  
For normal operation of a Northstar radar, you're recommended to set the tuning mode to Auto.  
To tune the unit manually see the section "Manual tuning procedure for the 6000i or 6100i system".  
To check the tuning mode or change it to Auto:  
1. Press RADAR to display the radar screen on the 6000i or 6100i.  
2. Press Page 2, Page 3, Page 4, then Install... and then Tune... .  
3. If necessary, press Tune mode repeatedly until it displays Auto.  
14.4.3 Set the STC Curve  
The STC (Sensitivity Time Control) attempts to compensate for the high strength of nearby echoes  
compared with the very much weaker echoes from distant objects. It lowers the receiver gain when  
the pulse is transmitted, and raises the gain as echoes return from longer distances. Ideally, the result  
is that all echoes are displayed with strengths proportional to the reflectivity of the objects. A graph  
showing the receiver gain plotted against time is called the STC curve. You can select different curve  
shapes, if required for special applications.  
The height of the scanner affects the STC curve shape needed for the sea control to effectively reduce  
sea clutter. The STC curve shape corresponds to the scanner's height (in meters) above the waterline;  
for example, if the scanner is 20 ft (6 m) above the waterline, select STC curve 6.  
Curve 4 is the default, and represents a scanner 13 ft (4 m) above the waterline.  
To select a different curve:  
1. Press RADAR to display the radar screen on the 6000i or 6100i.  
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2. Press Page 2, Page 3, Page 4 then Install... and then Tune... .  
3. Press STC Curvethen use the keypad to enter a curve number from 0 to 8.  
14.4.4 Set the trigger delay  
There are two methods that you can use to set the trigger delay. The two methods should produce  
very similar settings. Method 1 is easier to perform but Method 2 may produce more accurate results.  
You can use either, or both, methods.  
Set the trigger delay after you have restored the factory settings (see "Prepare for calibration") OR  
manually turn off the Interference Rejection, Trails and Expand functions.  
14.4.4.1 Method 1  
Use this method when the vessel is in open water with few or no nearby echoes.  
1. Display the main radar screen then press Page 2.  
2. Press zoom IN several items to zoom in to the maximum magnification.  
3. If necessary, press Modeto make it read Manual.  
4. Press Rain Clutter, then press 0 twice to set the rain clutter value to zero.  
5. Press Sea Clutter, then press 0 three times to set the sea clutter value to zero.  
6. Press Gain, then press 1, 5, 0 to set the gain to 150. If you're using standard screen  
colors, the display will show a green ring with a black center or solid green circle. If it  
doesn't, try changing the gain value until you can see the green ring and black center  
clearly. (If the gain is set too high, the display may be saturated.)  
7. Press Page 3, Page 4, and Install... .  
8. Press Trigger Delay, then press 000 on the keypad to set the trigger delay to zero.  
9. Increase the trigger delay by pressing the Cursor Pad to the right (or enter a larger number  
on the keypad). The black circle will shrink as you increase the trigger delay. Set the trigger  
delay so that the black center just disappears, with only one or two dots remaining in the  
center of the display.  
14.4.4.2 Method 2  
Use this method when the vessel is about 50 to 100 yards (45 to 90 m) from a straight-walled jetty or  
similar feature that produces a straight line echo on the display.  
1. Adjust the gain setting until a reasonably good image of the jetty echo is displayed.  
2. Adjust the Trigger Delay to make the jetty echo appear as a straight line on the display,  
as shown:  
14.4.5 Set the heading calibration (heading sensor installed)  
The heading calibration rotates the radar image on the screen to line it up with the displayed chart  
and the compass. Accurate heading calibration is particularly important when the radar image is  
overlain onto the chart.  
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IMPORTANT: Make sure the heading sensor is calibrated according to the manufacturer's  
recommendations.  
1. When performing a sea trial of the vessel, set a straight course for a solid object such as a  
lighthouse, jetty or radar navigation marker that is at least 1 nautical mile distant as  
referenced on the chart.  
2. Press CHART to display the chart then press Overlay to show the radar echoes overlain  
on the chart.  
3. Set the chart rotation to North-Up by pressing Rotateseveral times until North-Up is  
displayed.  
4. Find a target at least 1 nautical mile distant that appears on both the chart and the radar  
overlay. Do not choose a beach or a buoy as a target; instead, choose an obvious land  
pattern or solid object with a fixed reference point such as a jetty, lighthouse, or pier.  
5. Zoom in as necessary to place identifiable objects near the outer edge of the screen.  
6. Press Control so that it displays Radar.  
7. Press Page 2, Page 3, Page 4, and Install....  
8. Press Heading Calibrate then press the Cursor Padleft and right to rotate the  
radar image so that the radar target matches its compass heading on the chart and lines up  
on top of the position shown on the chart.  
9. If possible, check targets in all quadrants to ensure accurate adjustment.  
14.4.6 Set the heading calibration (heading sensor not installed)  
The heading calibration rotates the radar image on the screen so that a target dead ahead  
corresponds to a bearing of 0° on the screen.  
1. Press RADAR so that the navigator displays radar only.  
2. Find a target at least 1 nautical mile distant. Choose an obvious land target or solid object  
with a fixed reference such as a jetty, light house or pier. Steer the vessel until the reference  
target is directly head up then maintain this heading.  
3. Zoom in as necessary to place the reference target near the outer edge of the screen.  
4. Press Page 1, Page 2  
5. Check that the chart rotation (Rotatebutton) is set to Hdg Up.  
6. Press Page 2, Page 3, Page 4 and Install... .  
7. Press Heading Calibrate then press the cursor pad left and right to rotate the radar  
image so that the reference target is at 0° (vertical from the centre of the radar sweep).  
14.5 Adjust the appearance settings  
The Mode, Rain Clutter, Sea Clutter and Gain are usually set to automatic mode to obtain an excellent  
image under most conditions and, by default, allow you to see any approaching weather rain cells for  
maximum safety. However, these settings may need minor adjustments depending on the location of  
the radar.  
To access these controls, press Page 2 from the main radar screen.  
The Mode key determines how the gain and clutter keys work. It has the following settings:  
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Auto 1 and Auto 2 are for normal, open-water conditions. The two automatic modes  
can be optimized for two different conditions.  
Harborautomatically optimizes the radar settings for use in a harbor. This is the default  
setting.  
Range Rider is a Northstar exclusive feature recommended for use when manual  
settings are required. You can make changes to the clutter and gain settings for different  
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ranges, and the Range Rider will store these settings for each range. Then, when you select  
a particular range again, the settings are already optimized.  
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Manualis a fully manual function in which you will usually need to adjust the settings  
manually each time you change the range.  
Gain and Sea Clutter appearance settings are available in Auto1, Auto 2 and Harbor modes.  
These can be accessed by pressing the Gain or Sea Clutter buttons while in Auto1, Auto 2 or Harbor  
mode with Gain or Sea Clutter set to Auto.  
The default appearance setting is 25 for both Gain and Sea Clutter for all ranges.  
The appearance settings can be adjusted between 0 and 50. This represents a +/- 25 step offset away  
from the nominal Auto mode setting. The value set will be applied only to the current range.  
14.6 Restore all the factory settings  
If you need to restore ALL of the radar settings (except trigger delay, heading calibration and whether  
or not a heading sensor is installed) to their factory settings, do the following:  
1. From the main radar page, press Page 1.  
2. Press Restore... .  
3. Press Restore factory settingsto return the unit to its state when it was shipped  
with the exception of the following:  
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trigger delay  
heading calibration  
whether or not a heading sensor is installed  
parking calibration  
This function is used before performing manual tuning (see Appendix B) or at any time it's necessary  
to restore the unit to a known state.  
14.6.1 Restore the factory appearance settings  
Appearance settings and manual settings can be restored to values that normally produce a useful  
picture as follows:  
1. From the main radar page, press Page 1.  
2. Press Restore... .  
3. Press any or all of Restore Auto, Restore Harbor, Restore Range Rider, and  
Restore Manualto return to the factory appearance settings.  
This completes the installation calibration. Note that the heading correction may need to be adjusted  
slightly after the gain is optimized to provide a better picture.  
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15 Maintenance  
Before doing any maintenance work, always ensure that the radar system is turned OFF at the main power source.  
If a rectifier unit is used, turn OFF the power supply to this too. Remember that high voltages from the rectifier  
unit are always present, even if the radar is not operating, and these can cause severe injury or death.  
15.1 General maintenance  
Proper maintenance of the radar system will keep it in good condition and minimize breakdowns.  
Periodically:  
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remove any dust, dirt, or sea salt from the external surfaces with a dry, lint-free cloth.  
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check that the radar components are held securely in place and that the screws, nuts and  
bolts have not worked loose. Tighten and re-apply marine paint where necessary to prevent  
corrosion.  
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check that all the radar cabling is not frayed, bent, or cut and that the radar system cable  
connections are secure, tight and waterproof.  
15.2 Scanner maintenance  
Before working on the scanner, remove your watch and any magnetic cards, because the modulator circuit in the  
magnetron emits a strong magnetic field that can badly affect such items.  
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Remove any dust, dirt, or sea salt from the external surfaces, particularly the front side of the  
scanner, with a lint-free cloth dampened with alcohol or water. Do NOT use petrol,  
gasoline, benzene, thinner, or similar solvent to dampen the cloth as these cause  
deterioration of the external surfaces.  
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At least once every six months, apply grease (Mobilux 2 or equivalent) evenly to the  
lubricating gears, with a brush or knife. More frequent application is desirable to maximize  
the life of the lubricating gears.  
The drive motor brush has an expected life of 2,000 hours. Replace it when half of the  
overall length has worn away. The drive motor carbon brush can be removed easily by  
unclipping the two caps located on both sides of the bottom part of the drive motor.  
Clean any carbon powder off the drive motor commuter with a dry brush or, if this will not  
remove it, use sand paper #250 to #400.  
15.3 Other maintenance items  
Re-set the heading calibration annually and after any major structural changes to the vessel.  
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16 Troubleshoot the radar  
This appendix gives information on fixing possible problems with the radar. Many problems are  
caused by:  
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faulty or loose contacts at switches and relay points  
poor adjustment of the radar (particularly inadequate tuning adjustment)  
poor maintenance (particularly of the cables)  
You'll save yourself a considerable amount of time if you check these items before placing a call to  
Northstar; plus, you may find the problem right away.  
16.1 Technical support, service and repairs  
Northstar products are manufactured and serviced by BNT Marine Electronics.  
The product is covered by a warranty which is supplied as a separate document.  
If you need technical support, or answers to other questions after you've followed the instructions in  
this manual, you can:  
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contact your Northstar distributor or  
see the inside back cover of the manual or  
Before you make contact, be sure to have:  
the serial number of the hardware (usually shown on the faceplate of the unit).  
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When you describe the problem, be as complete and as accurate as possible.  
16.2 Radar is not operating correctly  
If the scanner is working but no image appears on the display:  
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replace the receiver unit. (see the Service Manual)  
If the display shows only noise:  
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check that the tuning is adjusted correctly.  
check the magnetron and replace if necessary (see the Service Manual)  
check the modulator circuit and replace if necessary (see the Service Manual)  
check the receiver circuit and replace if necessary (see the Service Manual)  
check that the scanner and open array (if applicable) are fitted correctly  
If radar reception is poor:  
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check for physical damage to the cables (such as fraying) and for any loose connections  
check for water damage to the radiator or to the cables between the radar components  
check that the tuning is adjusted correctly  
check the magnetron and replace if necessary (see the Service Manual)  
check the modulator circuit and replace if necessary (see the Service Manual)  
check the receiver circuit and replace if necessary (see the Service Manual)  
check for interruptions in the pulse switching signal  
If an image appears on the display but the direction of the radar image is not stable:  
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the direction standard signal (BZ) is being interrupted (see the Service Manual)  
check for water damage to the radiator or cables between the radar components.  
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16.3 If the scanner fails to turn  
If the scanner fails to turn, it is possible that there has been a breakdown of either the motor unit  
inside the scanner or the safety switch of the scanner unit.  
Turn the power OFF and investigate as follows:  
1. Visually check for, and remove, any external obstruction.  
2. If there is no external obstruction, check that the remote power connections or relay in the  
junction box are sound.  
3. Check the motor fuse in the radar processor box.  
4. Open the scanner dome or array and perform an internal inspection.  
5. Check to make sure that nothing is interfering with the motor and gears, is binding, or  
preventing the antenna from turning.  
6. Check for any disconnected, pinched or broken wires.  
7. Check for worn or broken motor brushes.  
8. Verify that the scanner cable is correctly pinned, all wires are in the correct locations and the  
connectors are correctly locked to the mating connectors on the modulator board.  
9. Check the motor and the safety switch and replace any faulty component. (See the Service  
Manual for information on replacing the motor or safety switch.)  
10. Check the wiring of the interconnection cable between the scanner and the radar processor.  
11. Checking these connections is especially important if the installer removed the connectors  
for easy routing when installing the scanner cable.  
16.4 How to reduce noise and interference  
If other electronic equipment on the vessel is being affected by noise interference from the radar,  
check that the radar is actually the source of the problem by switching it off, running the other  
electronic equipment for a while to see if the noise interference has disappeared, and then switching  
the radar on again.  
If the radar is causing the noise interference, check that:  
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the affected piece of equipment and/or the antenna is not located within the radar beam.  
(See the section "Install the radar" for information about the optimum installation height  
and the radar beam width)  
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the cables supplied with the equipment have been installed correctly. In particular, check  
for loose connections and loose or missing shield meshwork at the cable ends  
the covers of the scanner and radar processor box are securely screwed and/or fastened in  
place, so that the internal shielding is effective  
each piece of radio equipment is grounded to the closest ground location, and that other  
devices are grounded to the closest ground location on the hull  
the radar cabling has not been bundled with the VHF radio cabling and/or with the  
direction finder cabling. The radar cabling must always be separate.  
16.5 Make sure the power is present and correctly wired  
Check the in-line fuse.  
Re-verify that the correct system voltage is being used for the radar processor box model and that the  
power is properly wired. If the radar processor has incorrect power, the system may not initialize  
properly or the radar processor may be damaged.  
16.6 Confirm the equipment installed  
1. Confirm the type of navigator used with the radar (6000i, etc).  
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Serial number:___________________  
Software version:_________________  
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2. Confirm that the NMEA Port 2 interface option is set to RADAR.  
3. Confirm the type of radar installed:  
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2 kW dome  
4 kW dome  
6 kW open array  
10 kW open array  
25 kW open array  
4. Make sure the voltage input and radar processor are correct for the system being installed, as  
follows:  
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2 kW - 12 V DC - Radar Processor NS004780  
4 kW - 12 V DC or 24 V DC - Radar Processor NS004781  
6 kW - 12 V DC or 24 V DC - Radar Processor NS004782  
10 kW - 24 V DC - Radar Processor NS004783  
25 kW - 24 V DC - Radar Processor NS004784.  
16.7 Are Range Rings displayed?  
Yes, range rings are displayed.  
1. Confirm that the installation set up had been performed.  
2. Verify that the array is turning. If it's a dome, with the power off, remove the dome cover  
(weather permitting). Apply power to the system. After the warn-up countdown has  
completed, and the transmit option is set to ON, verify that the array is turning.  
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3. If the antenna does not turn, skip to the section "If the scanner fails to turn".  
No, range rings or range scale information are not displayed.  
1. Verify that the serial data cable wiring is correct for the communications cable as shown in  
the section "Connect the communications cable to the junction box".  
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17 Manual tuning procedure for the 6000i or 6100i  
system  
NOTE: The following manual tuning procedure is provided only for possible situations where the  
unit's automatic tuning does not perform well with a Northstar 6000i or 6100i system. At present,  
Northstar is not aware of any such situation and recommends that automatic tuning be used, unless a  
reason is found to use this manual procedure.  
Begin by restoring all radar settings to their factory settings (except trigger delay, heading calibration  
and whether or not a heading sensor is installed), as follows:  
1. From the main radar page, press Page 1.  
2. Press Restore... .  
3. Press Restore factory settingsto return the unit to its state when it was shipped  
(with the exception of trigger delay, heading calibration and whether or not a heading  
sensor is installed).  
4. Press Return and Done to return to the main radar screen.  
Next, set the rain clutter and sea clutter to 0 and the gain to 150 as follows:  
1. From the main radar page, press Page 2.  
2. If necessary, press Mode to make it read Manual.  
3. Press Rain Clutterto activate the control.  
4. If necessary, press Rain Clutteragain to make it read Manual.  
5. Press 0 twice on the keypad to set the rain clutter value to zero.  
6. Press Sea Clutter.  
7. Press 0 twice on the keypad to set the sea clutter value to zero.  
8. Press Gain to activate the control.  
9. If necessary, press Gain again to make it read Manual.  
10. Press 1, 5, and 0 on the keypad to set the gain to 150.  
11. Press Return and Done to return to the main radar screen.  
Next, set the scale to 1/8 nautical miles as follows:  
1. Press zoom IN several times to access the 1/8 nautical miles scale. (The current scale is  
shown in the upper left corner of the screen, identified as "RNG").  
2. From the main radar page, press Page 2, Page 3, Page 4, and Install... .  
3. Press Tune... to display the tuning screen.  
4. Press Tune Mode(repeatedly if necessary) to set it to Manual.  
5. Set the rough tune value to 128 (if necessary) by selecting Tune Presetand typing 128  
on the keypad.  
6. Press Tune.  
7. Adjust the tune preset value upwards by pressing the up arrow key on the cursor pad until  
the quantity and strength of visible targets is maximized.  
8. If the quantity and strength of targets does not increase, return to 128 by typing 128. Then  
adjust the tune preset value upwards by pressing the down arrow key on the cursor pad  
until the quantity and strength of visible targets is maximized.  
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18 25 kW radar system specifications  
NS-RDR1257MO  
25 kW scanner  
Scanner type  
Open array  
DC input  
21.6 V to 31.2 V (DC 24 V systems ONLY)  
Scanner dimensions  
Scanner weight  
Vibration  
7.45 ft [2270 mm] (swing circle) by 1.2 ft (H) [356(H) mm]  
119 lb (54 kg) 10%  
Amplitude 2 x 13.2 Hz, 0.03" [1 mm] 10%  
Amplitude 13.2 Hz to 100 Hz, gravity acceleration 0.7 m/sec²  
IPX6  
Waterproof  
Plane of polarization  
Preheating time  
Power consumption  
Emission type  
Horizontal  
Minimum 3 minutes  
180 W (maximum) at maximum wind velocity  
P0N. Passed JRC FCC/IC/R&TTE Type Certification:  
FCC ID: CKENKE2252  
IC ID: 768C-NKE2252  
R&TTE: QQ-RTTE-05/04-02  
Peak power output  
25 kW 50% under any pulse condition  
Transmitter frequency 9410 30 MHz  
Transmitter tube  
Magnetron NJR Model M1568B(J)  
Horizontal beam width 1º 10% (-3 dB width)  
Vertical beam width  
Side lobe level  
20º 20% (-3 dB width)  
Below -26 dB maximum (within 10º)  
Below -30 dB maximum (outside 10º)  
Rotation rate  
Approximately 24 rpm (minimum 20 rpm at 70 knot wind  
maximum)  
Pulse length/PRF  
0.07μs 30% 2250 Hz 5%  
0.20μs 25% 2250 Hz 5%  
0.40μs 25% 1400 Hz 5%  
0.80μs 25% 750 Hz 5%  
1.0μs 25% 650Hz 5%  
1.2μs 25% 510Hz 5%  
Duplexer  
Circulator H-6AJRD0001 FCS-68 and diode limiter  
Model NJRC NJS6930  
Mixer  
MIC front-end Model Toshiba S-RX24  
Center frequency 60 MHz 3 MHz  
2 0 MHz 3 MHz (0.07μs)  
IF amplifier  
IF bandwidth  
6 MHz 2 MHz (0.25μs, 0.40μs)  
3 MHz 1 MHz (0.8μs, 1.0μs, 1.2μs)  
Log  
IF characteristic  
IF output  
- 2 V for 100 dB typical  
Bandwidth controlled by serial port  
RS485 9600bps Half Duplex  
Defined in NKE-2252 Digital COM specification-  
Minimum 90 dB  
Com port  
Gain  
Noise figure  
Toshiba S-RX24 @ 6 dB (average) at front-end input  
-25ºC to +55ºC -25ºF to 131ºF (–15ºC to +55ºC)  
93% at 104ºF (+40ºC)  
Temperature range  
Relative humidity  
Relative wind velocity 51.5 m/sec (100 knots)  
Sector blank  
Up to 3  
25 kW Radar processor specifications  
Radar system  
NS-RDR1257MO  
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Processor model  
NS004784  
Processor dimensions  
Width 5.6" (142 mm)  
Height 2.2" (56 mm)  
Length 7.9" (200 mm)  
1.9 lbs (870 g)  
Processer weight  
Vibration  
EN60945  
Waterproof  
No rating  
Temperature range  
Relative humidity  
Power up time  
DC input  
+5ºF to +131ºF (–15ºC to +55ºC)  
95% at 104ºF (+40ºC)  
Approximately 35 seconds  
10.8 V to 36 V (DC 12/24 V system)  
3 W (when operating)  
Leakage current <200 μA (when off, with a remote power input)  
Power consumption  
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25 kW Installation back Cover ADD ARTWORK  
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