RADAR PLOTTING and ARPA

The purpose of this module is to give the trainees sufficient

knowledge of the fundamental principles of radar and the
knowledge and understanding of the factors that affect the
reliability and performance of the radar
HISTORY
Radar is an object-detection system which
uses electromagnetic waves—specifically radio
waves—to determine the range, altitude,
direction, or speed of both moving and fixed
objects such as aircraft, ships, spacecraft, guided
missiles, motor vehicles, weather formations,
and terrain. The radar dish, or antenna, transmits
pulses of radio waves or microwaves which bounce off
any object in their path. The object returns a tiny part
of the wave's energy to a dish or antenna which is
usually located at the same site as the transmitter.
The military applications of radar were developed in
secret in nations across the world during World War II.
The term RADAR was coined in 1940 by the U.S.
Navy as an acronym for radio detection and ranging.
The term radar has since entered the English and
other languages as the common noun radar, losing all
capitalization. In the United Kingdom, the technology
was initially called RDF (range and direction finding),
using the same initials used for radio direction finding
to conceal its ranging capability
Fundamental Theory wavelengths and frequencies used

Radio waves are

electromagnetic motions
and consist of Crests and
Troughs

The wavelength is the

distance between two
successive crest s of waves
it is measured between 0.1
– 30000-mm
Fundamental Theory wavelengths and frequencies used

Frequencies are number

crest, which passes a fixed
point per unit time

Frequencies are closely

associated

If the wavelength is far

apart it is Low frequency
And if more wavelength
passes per second it is
called High Frequency
Fundamental Theory Radar bands
S band radars (10 cm) operate on a
wavelength of 8-15 cm and a
frequency of 2-4 GHz. Because of
the wavelength and frequency, S
band radars are not easily
attenuated. This makes them useful
for near and far range weather
observation. The National Weather
Service (NWS) uses S band radars
on a wavelength of just over 10 cm.
The drawback to this band of radar
is that it requires a large antenna
dish and a large motor to power it.
It is not uncommon for a S band
dish to exceed 25 feet in size.
Fundamental Theory Radar bands
C band radars (5cm) operate on a wavelength of 4-8 cm and a
frequency of 4-8 GHz. Because of the wavelength and frequency,
the dish size does not need to be very large. This makes C band
radars affordable for TV stations. The signal is more easily
attenuated, so this type of radar is best used for short range
weather observation. The frequency allows C band radars to create
a smaller beam width using a smaller dish.
Fundamental Theory Radar bands
X band radars (3 cm) operate on a wavelength of 2.5-4 cm and a frequency of
8-12 GHz. Because of the smaller wavelength, the X band radar is more sensitive
and can detect smaller particles. These radars are used for studies on cloud
development because they can detect the tiny water particles and also used to
detect light precipitation such as snow. X band radars also attenuate very easily, so
they are used for only very short range weather observation. Also, due to the small
size of the radar, it can therefore be portable like the Doppler on Wheels. (DOW)
Most major airplanes are equipped with an X band radar to pick up turbulence and
other weather phenomenon.
Radar Components ANTENNA
It transmits the radio wave in a
concentrated beam
It rotates by the help on a rotor
The signals which returns via the
antenna are converted into lower
frequency signal, which are amplified
Signal becomes visible to the
operator in the form of a radar
picture
Radar Components POWER SUPPLY
If the ships main power supply is
run by DC, power must be
supplied Via a converter
If the ship’s main is in AC power
to the radar must by supplied
via a transformer

Radar echoes are displayed on a

Cathode-Ray Tube (CRT) it is
utilized by A-scan or short
persistence Tube
Plan position Indicator
Raster Scan Display
Radar Components POWER SUPPLY
•In a radar receiver the incoming signal is fed to a series
of amplifiers and further to a detector or demodulator
which smoothes out the signal
•The greatest problem is to keep the noise level down
•On the radar noise appears as speckled background on
the screen and must be kept as low as possible for the
navigator to see weak echoes
•The main task of the receiver is to amplify the reflected
weak echoes and make them suitable for transmission to
the indicator.
Radar Components POWER SUPPLY
•The trigger transfer pulses to the modulator
•The magnetron converts the input into high frequency
oscillations
•High frequency oscillation are fed via a wave-guide or
coaxial cable to the transmitter / receiver switch

•Duration of the transmitted radar pulse may vary from

less than 0.1 microsecond to as much as 1.5 – 2
microseconds. Intervals between the pulses are typically
between 500 to 4000 microseconds
Radar Components Five main Parts
•It is not necessary for the operator to know all the details about
each radar components
•A basic understanding of how radar works its capabilities and
limitations is minimum requirements

•Antenna
•Transmitter with
Magnetron,
modulator and trigger
•Receiver with Mixer,
amplifier Equalizer
and video amplifier
•Display unit
•Power supply with
power transformer
Radar Components Five main Parts
•Radar sweep is the
transmission of one radar pulse
only

• Radar scan is one complete

360 degrees rotation of the
antenna

Parameters in taking up
targets
•Antenna Height
•Height of target
•Size of target Radar range varies with the following
•Target reflecting area •Vertical beam width
•Material of the target •Selected pulse range
•Shape of the target •Height of antenna
•Installation of antenna
•Weather condition
•Ship’s trim
Normal tranmission of radar Waves
•We have normal transmission of radar waves when conditions are such that
the radar range is approximately 10-15% greater than the distance to the
optical horizon
•Such conditions normally exist with cold air masses.
•The longer the wavelength, the greater the tendency to bend round objects.
Hence you can expect the 10cm radar to have greater range than the 3 cm
radar.
Sub-refraction
•When warm moist air remain over cold water. The air is cooled from
below and fog often the result
•Temperature and humidity will increase with altitude and the radar wave
will bend upwards ; decreasing the radar range and this is called Sub-
refraction
SUB-REFRACTION DECREASE RADAR RANGE

•With conditions of light and low clouds over cold water we often get a
condition called “Ducting”
•That is radar beam is reflected several times between the fog and sea
surface, the radar ran can be increased considerably. Ducting can be expected
to take place when temperature inversion exist s and the atmosphere is calm
Radar Blockout
•With conditions of considerable ground fog we can gat a total radar blackout
•All radar waves are reflected from the top of the fog
•Stationary warm air masses located on top of cold sea.
•If the height of the fog is less than the height of the radar antenna, a total refraction
of the radar signal from the top of the fog may take place.

•Be particularly watchful during conditions when warm air masses can be expected
to move in over cold sea. When this occurs, together with rapid changes in air
moisture content, the situations should be carefully observed.
Weather Condition
•During weather condition including heavy rain,
thunderstorms etc. S-Band radar is a better
choice than the X-Band radar
Weather Condition

SEA CLUTTER – echoes are caused by

reflection of the radar pulse against the sea
waves marine radars are equipped with
rejection system to minimize the effect of the
sea clutter. This control is often named
“Anti0Clutter Sea” or “STC”

RAIN CLUTTER - rain squalls and showers

appear on the screen as a woolly mass.
An intense rainstorm can be detected up to 25
miles Echoes inside the rainstorm will be
obscured by rain clutter
False Echoes and disturbances
•Own ship’s antenna receives signals from
another radar .
•Fan shape broken lines emanating from the
center of the screen

Most radar equipment and disturbance on the

radar screen may have many different
appearance and causes

Some faults can affect the accuracy, so

whenever disturbances are observed be
especially aware of this possibility.
False Echoes and disturbances
If the radar signal is reflected
from objects onboard own
ship in such a way that the
pulse hits a target it may
receive a false echo at
almost the same distance as
to the real target but in a
different bearing. This false
echo often be located on the
ships blind sector

It is advisable that the

navigator knows the exact
location of his blind sectors.
This is important in order to
take actions to minimize the
effect of the blind sectors
Blind Sector
Antenna not placed at the
ships highest point
Structures above antenna
will create blind sectors on
radar screen. Objects within
these sectors will normally
be invisible in the radar
screen

It is relatively easy to plot the

blind sector s if this is done
during a period with a lot of
sea clutter. the blind sectors
can be seen as distinctly dark
sector in the sea clutter area.
Plot each sector on a plotting
sheet and place this so it can
easily be seen from the radar
observers position.
Multiple Echoes
Multiple echoes can be
created by reflection
between own ships and an
object before the scanner
finally collects its energy
A line of target on the same
bearing and with equal
distance between them. True
echoes is the one nearest to
the ship The shapes of
multiple echoes are less
defined than that of the
original echo and they are
weakening in intensity
outwards.
Reduction of gain and clutter
will remove the false echo
before the true echo
Side Echoes
Side echoes are caused
by the side echoes
Nearby targets are
picked up by the side
lobes as well as by the
main lobe
It is impossible to design
a scanner without side
lobes although the
construction of an aerial
affects the magnitude of
the side lobes. however
today many slotted
wave guides scanners
have almost eliminated
the visual effect of side
echoes
Heading Marker Error

Correct
Early
Late activation
activation
activationof
ofofHM-switch
HM-switch
HM-switch
Heading Marker Error
Radar waves transmit in a straight
line radar coastline echo appearance
will be determined by the
topography. The radar picture can be
quite different from the map. radar
picture at low tide will be very
different from that at high tide if
there is Large difference between
high and low water knowledge of
the topography affects on the radar
picture can be of great importance
whenever own ship’s position
determination must be based only
on information form the radar
display.
Another important reason for the
difference between sea map and the
radar image is the radar range and
bearing discrimination parameters,
i.e. how much the radar “magnifies”
the echo in range and bearing.
Measurement of Range
The range accuracy of the
radar is generally high. Range
can be measured on radar
with reference to fixed range
rings equally spaced around
own ship’s position on the
radar screen. For more
accurate measurement of
range modern radars provide
a variable range ring which
can be positioned in any
range on the screen. It should
be constantly check for
accuracy against fixed rings
which is more stable.
Fixed range rings can be used
when the need for high
accuracy is not important.
RADAR Controls

POWER

ANTENNA

RADAR

ANTENNA
POWER
RADAR WARNING
FAILURE
FAILURE 12v
ROTATION
LOW When
MAGNITUDE UNSTABLE
flashing
CURRENT When
thisWhen
LOW warning
flashing
button
this warning
indicates
flashing this indicates
a serious
warning somepower
problems
indicates failure
some with
from
thethe
problems radar
main
with the
power
antenna
radar supply to the radar
RADAR Controls
This is the main power To stop transmission
Radar switch for the radar and is Radar and high tension Scanner Starts and stop
ON/OFF normally connected to a St. by supply while keeping ON/OFF the scanner
timing device , which the filaments warm
automatically provides the thus having the radar
warm up time necessary ready for use within
prior to operation seconds
RADAR Controls
The brilliance or video control adjust the signal
Brilliance Brillance intensity of the PPI
+ -
Correct the adjustment when the sweep is barely
visible on the screen
RADAR Controls
The control can be compared at the volume control
Gain Gain on the radio
+ -
Correct the gain setting is when the noise is barely
visible on the screen
RADAR Controls
The control can be compared at the tuning control on
Tunning Tunning the radio
+ For optimal receiver sensitivity the “transmitter”
- must tuned must be tuned as accurately as possible
On some radars this control is automatic.
RADAR Controls
This control determines the sharpness and clarity of
Focus Focus the radar picture focus setting is easy with the range
+ ring on.
- On some radars this control is automatic.
RADAR Controls
Whenever excessive sea echoes are presented, sea clutter
should be applied so that only few sea echoes remains on the
Sea clutter Sea clutter radar screen
+ - This function is active only to a distance of 4-5 n.mi. do not
operate the radar with the radar with the sea clutter in a fixed
position
RADAR Controls
The purpose of this function is to reduce echoes from rain.
Rainclutter Rainclutter This function activates a differentiator which automatically breaks
p large echoes to enable visibility of other objects. Do not operate
+ - the radar with a fixed anti clutter rain setting
RADAR Controls

Range Rings Range Rings This control switches adjust the fixed range ring
intensity The intensity of the rings should be kept to
+ - a minimum at all times. If not in used, keep it
switched off
RADAR Controls

EBL EBL The variable electronic bearing line is utilized to

+ obtain bearing information mainly used when own
- ship is not located in the center of the display
RADAR Controls

VRM VRM The variable range marker or ring is used to obtain the
+ distance from sweep center to any position on the
- display
RADAR Controls

Manual Drift
Manual
Gyro
Log
Direction
Speed
ON/OFF
Speed

Used together with the roller ball to increase of decrease

Used
Connect
the Connect
together orfor
with disconnect
the
or disconnect
required value roller
the Gyro
manual log
ball tofrom
compass
speed the
specify
Specify
input radar
estimated
drift
from
to the
the radar
radar
drift direction
magnitude
RADAR Controls

Fixed Rings
Panel
Bearing
Cursor
A/N
Illum.
ON/OFF
Scale
Brill.

Used
Used together
Usedtogether with
togetherwith the
withthe roller
theroller ball
balltoto
rollerball adjust
toregulate theintensity
adjust the fixed
range
of the rings
background
illumination illumination
of the
thebearing
electronic A/N
cursor
displayed
ofon
thethe
scale pushdisplay
databuttons
RADAR Controls

Relative
Course
North
Head
True
Motion
Up

When
When lit, lit,
thisthis button
button indicates
indicates thethe relative
a stabilisedMotion
North
un-stabilised
Course
true motion Up
HeadUp
Up presentation
presentation
presentation isis selected
is selected
selected
RADAR Controls

Range
+-

Afterglow
+-

Every time this button is pressed, the range is increased/

decreased by one step. This switch also controls the
selection of the
Every time pulse length
button is as all ranges
pressed from 6 n.mi.
the afterglow and
time is
below are given
decreased
increased byone
by a short
one step. pulse while all ranges above 6
step.
n.mi. received a long pulse settings
RADAR Controls

Reset
H/L
Set
Supress
Center

This function
Pressing is usedwill
this button to remove
place thethe heading
sweep lineinfor
center a
the
short period
position of thetomarker
see if weak echoes are hidden. The switch
is spring-loaded so it cannot be left in the off position.
Pressing this button will reset the sweep center in the
default position
RADAR Controls

The roller ball is used to position marker in required

The
TheEBL
VRMControl
Control
is used
is used
to position
to position
thethe
electronic
variablebearing
range
position used for example to define new sweep center
line
marker
in theinrequired
the required
position
range
ARPA
Basically an ARPA is a computerized radar
plotting system, which can perform radar
plotting manually or automatically
according to the operators' choice

ARPA is an abbreviation for:

AUTOMATIC RADAR PLOTTING AID
RADAR Plotting
Modern radar now-a-days are
equipped with an electronic plotting
feature known as ARPA this feature
makes plotting directly on the radar
display very convenient and replaced
the need for the reflection plotter or
plotting sheet.
Principal ARPA System
Computer based radar
system have been used on
board naval vessels since
the 1950’s but not until the
end of the 1960’s did
systems for merchant
maritime use come onto
the market

These system were well

received because of new,
more economical technology
and good business conditions
for shipping.
Principal ARPA System
It is not by chance that the
transition from
conventional radar to ARPA
has been compared to the
pre- and post-radar era
onboard ships. We can
expect some of the same
problem as in that first
transition if proper and
thorough training is not
received.

When it works properly< ARPA is a fantastic tool in the hands of a

qualified navigator with proper training. In the hands of untrained
personnel, it is a dangerous tool, which can add to the cause of
collision.
Principal ARPA System
One main requirement
for all users of ARPA is to
have good knowledge of
the principles of manual
plotting in order to
understand the
information given by the
instrument.
on the same principles,
it is necessary to obtain
maximum usage of the
equipment in a safe and
responsible manner
Principal ARPA System
Since the first computerized radar
system was introduced up to this
present time many different ways of
presenting the information has been
developed, produced and delivered,
today, regardless of graphic
presentation, all ARPA systems must
be able to present target information in
form of both relative and true vectors
Both types of vectors shoould be time
adjustable, in addition to displaying
targets information graphically, all
ARPAs also display targets information
digitally on the traffic display or on a
separate screen.
Principal ARPA System
Since the first in addition a number of graphical symbols are used fro
different purposes

Z
•Defining Stationary targets
•Indicating Navigational Marks
•Sailing Routes
•Pointing out targets that causes alarms
ARPA Display Information
Warning about the technical problem of the ARPA
Defining stationary targets
Indicating navigational landmarks
Sailing routes
Pointing out targets that causes alarms etc.

True speed vector indicates he targets speed

TV and course

Relative speed vector indicates targets

RV relative course and speed

Track History should be provided on

TH request to indicate the targets pass
track history

Point of possible collision is the point at

PPC which a collision could take place

Predicted Area of danger is the area to be

PAD avoided based on CPA and TCPA setting and
relative target speed
ARPA Display Information
000
Range Pulse
340
350 010
020 CURSOR: ( T) 102.8° 08° 45.879 N
6 LP 330 030
5.4 n.mi. 121° 25.574 E
Ship Data
RM (T) H Up
320 040 HDG: 240.5°
R Ring
SPD: 20.4 kn
310 050 COG: 241.3°
SOG: 20.0 kn
300 060

290 070

280 080

270 090

260 100

110
250

240 120

230 130

220 140
GPS

210 150 LAT: 24° 15’ N

LONG: 124° 37’ E
200 160
190 180 170
ARPA Display Information
Most ARPA system today has 2 ot 3 type s of acquisition for plotting

Manual Manual Auto

Acq. Acq.

Manual mode means that the

operator by a means of a pointing
device place a acquisition symbol on
top of an ARPA echo and presses the
MANUAL bottom to tell the computer
to register time and position

After a few minutes the operator

must re position the mouse on top of
the echo and press the acquisition
again , the computer will now
calculate target information and
present to the operator in form of a
symbol of target vector.
ARPA Display Information
Most ARPA system today has 2 ot 3 type s of acquisition for plotting

Manual Manual Auto

Acq. Acq.

Manual acquisition means that

the operator by a means of a
pointing device place a
acquisition symbol on top of an
ARPA echo and presses the
MANUAL ACQUISITION bottom

After a some time normally less

than 60 seconds the computer
presented the operator with the
calculated target information.
ARPA Display Information
Most ARPA system today has 2 ot 3 type s of acquisition for plotting

Manual Manual Auto

Acq. Acq.

Before ARPAS can be operated in

Automatic Acquisition Mode. The
search criteria must be specified

The operator should remember

that most ARPA systems are more
sensitive in manual mode that in
automatic mode. This is
particularly important under
difficult operational conditions Guard Ring
such as during restricted visibility.
ARPA Display Information
Most ARPA system today has 2 ot 3 type s of acquisition for plotting

Manual Manual Auto

Acq. Acq.

Before ARPAS can be operated in

Automatic Acquisition Mode. The
search criteria must be specified

The operator should remember that

most ARPA systems are more
sensitive in manual mode that in
automatic mode. This is particularly
important under difficult operational
conditions such as during restricted
visibility.
Search Area
ARPA Display Information
Most ARPA systems can operate in
several acquisition modes , when
operating the ARPA system in
manual or manual acquisition mode
the operator decide all the time how
many echoes should be plotted. Since
the capacity of the tracking system
are limited the operator should make
it a working habit to cancel target
that are no longer required
When operating the ARPA in
automatic acquisition mode, the
operator must be aware of the
following tracking system limitations
Normally the sensitivity of the ARPA
tracking system is r educed when
operating in Automatic Acquisition
Mode
ARPA Display Information

Guard
Ring

When the Guard Ring

Philosophy is used by the
ARPA tracking system,
echoes can escape
acquisition because they
are detected by the
radar at a range closer
than the distance to the
inner guard ring or the
echoes remain between
guard rings
ARPA Display Information

Search
Area

When the search Area philosophy is

used, echoes can escape acquisition
because they are outside the
specified area or too many echoes are
picked up, resulting in system
overload.
ARPA Display Information
When the operator is acquiring the target
what he it actually doing is telling the ARPA
to search a target in that position since a
target is hit by several radar sweep the area
pointed should have several target size
range and bearing. This area is called
Tracking gate or tracking window

The number of sweeps digitized in each

tracking gate depends on the tracking
philosophy used by the actual ARPA
manufacturer. Several sweep is always
required.

In order to start digitising the analogue radadr echo, the echo must have a
certain size or amplitude. Another important requirement is that the echo is
not lost by too many scans during a specified time, as this will result in
rejection of defining the echo as a possible target and no further processing
will be executed
ARPA Display Information
As soon as the ARPA tracking system
defined a target as a “manoeuvring target”
the fast filter is connected, this means that
the updating of the information presented
to the operator represents the average
target data calculated from the last 3 to 5
scans depending of ARPA manufacturers
software configurations. In other words, it
takes time before the ARPA detects a
manoeuvre, once the manoeuvre is
detected the ARPA will update the
information more often, but the information
will always be behind the real situation.

The information on the ARPA is always delayed in relation to “real Life” and
this fact must be taken into account at all times

Only a few samples are used for calculations of target data during target
manoeuvring. Still what you see in the ARPA is history
ARPA Display Information

VECTOR VIEW

Familiarization with the

target presentation on your Z

ARPA is very important.

Use the ARPA in good
visibility to understand
better the system
limitations.
ARPA Display Information

PAD VIEW

Familiarization with the

target presentation on your Z

ARPA is very important.

Use the ARPA in good
visibility to understand
better the system
limitations.
ARPA Display Information
The ARPA should clearly warns the
operator of Lost targets

Reasons for losing targets

• Target moved outside radar
range
•Target Lost in Clutter
•Target entering Blind Sector
•The target is a submarine

The operator should make it a habit to try

to figure out the reason for a lost target as
this can help to understand the ARPA
system limitations
In the ARPA manual technical conditions
for triggering a lost target should be given
Often this is related to a fixed number of
“no hits” during specified number of scans
ARPA Display Information
The ARPA system starts up procedure varies from system to system however, the following
points outline the minimum of what must be checked before ARPA is operated in basic
mode, i.e. For traffic surveillance.
Overlooking one or more of these points may cause serious consequences
ARPA Display Information
• switch on the ARPA and check that the required
radar in connected and properly adjusted
•Check that the ships corrected course is feed up
into the system, i.e. Correct the gyro course if
necessary
•Check the radar antenna alignment is correct, if
not correct it.
•Check that the required log is selected (the log
should provide speed through water, no correction
for drift and current)
•Select required radar mode, normally True
motion course Up or True Motion North Up should
be used for traffic surveillance purposes.
•Select required range. Vector length and collision
warning criteria
•Familiarize yourself with the ARPA manufacturers
recommended start up procedures and other
recommendations.
ARPA Display Information
If a navigation features are available on your ARPA and you intend to use
them, the following additional points must be checked

•Date and time should be

displayed correctly on the
ARPA information system
•Own ship position input
must be kept correct on the
ARPA at all times, otherwise
all positions calculated by
the ARPA will be incorrect
•In coastal area, navigation
check-points should be
marked on the ARPA in order
to assist the navigator in
detecting a possible
positioning error as soon as
possible.
•Special requirements
pointed out by the ARPA
manufacturer.
ARPA Display Information
If a navigation features are available on your ARPA and you intend to use
them, the following additional points must be checked
•The main purpose of the ARPA is to provide the navigator with the best possible overview of
the traffic situation at all times, in order to do so nowadays ARPA can display any traffic
situation which is easy to understand mode
• today's navigator prefers the True motion course up true vector sea stability mode
ARPA View

•the ARPA picture is stabilized at 240 degrees, own ship’s heading is 240 degrees, speed 15
kn, selected vector length is 12 minutes.
ARPA View

•the ARPA picture is stabilized at 240 degrees, own ship’s heading is 240 degrees, speed 15
kn, selected vector length is 12 minutes.
ARPA View

•the ARPA picture is stabilized at 240 degrees, own ship’s heading is 240 degrees, speed 15
kn, selected vector length is 12 minutes.
ARPA View

•Same traffic situation but the ship change course to 30° to starboard observe that not
rotation that ARPA display has change. Observe that radar picture remains stabilized on the
intended course during avoiding actions.
ARPA View

•Own motion
•True ship is course up is without
now steady to 270° a and
doubt
onthe
thebest
ARPApresentation
the coursefor uptraffic surveillance
reference and for
has change to
maintaining overview
same reference 270°. of
thethe situation
change canaround the
be done at ship
any at all as
time times
the navigator feels to do so.
•True motion, course Up, true Vector is the closest we can get to what is referred to as
positive “Instrumentation”. That is, the instrument should provide the simplest and best
possible overview of the information provided to the operator at all times
ARPA View

•Whenever CPA / TCPA information is needed this can be graphically easily obtained by
pressing the spring loaded relative vector button. Target CPA/TCPA is also available in alpha
numerical format on the screen.
ARPA View

•Same situation as before the course change was executed to course up but the ARPA is
stabilized relative to North. When this mode is used the navigator has to turn the image 180 in
his head in order to correct the direction of the image,
•Many navigators don’t like the North stabilised picture, especially sailing on southerly courses,
as they get the feeling of sailing in the wrong direction from this ARPA presentation
ARPA View
240° 15 kts

•This presentation is available to some ARPA system. However it is not recommended. As long
as Course Up or North Up is available. The main reason being that the picture is very much
distort is being caused by the ships yawing and course changes
•An unstabilized True Motion presentation should be regarded as a last resort, i.e. an
emergency presentation to be used when stabilized presentation are failing for one reason or
another.
ARPA View
240° 15 kts

•The relative motion north up is good presentation for navigation, however is cannot
recommended for traffic surveillance as it is not giving any information about calculating
target aspect.
•The relative motion presentation is difficult to interpret correctly during dense traffic requiring
frequent course alterations, taking about traffic surveillance by ARPA, this presentation should
only be used when true motion is not available.
ARPA View
240° 15 kts

•The relative motion head up can be defined as the ARPA emergency mode. Only
recommended when everything else is failing. Not recommended and not suitable for traffic
surveillance at all.
•Relative motion – Head Up is the presentation which gives the shipping industry the phrase
“Radar assisted collision”. Off course, the radar did not cause he many collision, the collision
took place because the navigator did not understand the information provided by the ARPA
and does not have sufficient time to do proper plotting.
ARPA View
240° 15 kts

•All radar ARPA presentation presented so far can be classified so far as pure radar ARPA
presentation. overtime it is strongly recommended only to use pure ARPA presentation as
impure or mixed presentation can get you into real trouble. A mixed presentation is actually
what is presented in the screen during critical situation. This can also be used but use it
correctly during short intervals
•Mixed presentation should be used with utmost care, several collisions can be traced back to
the use of mixed radar/ARPA presentation over the past 15-20 years.
ARPA View
240°

Own ship;s speed through water 15 kts

Head current 3kn

•When using ARPA for traffic surveillance purposes own ship speed through the water is highly
recommended as input to the ARPA system, no corrections should be made for current or drift
the main reason for this is as this is the only way in acquiring target calculated aspect.
•Avoid using speed input from Doppler log or GPS as this normally gives speed over ground.
Fine for navigation, useless for traffic surveillance.
Risks of over reliance on ARPA
•Raster scan ARPA display “Lock Up”
•Mixing trial and real time information
•Wrong speed input or overlooking type of speed
input in the ARPA
•No correction for gyro course error before input
to ARPA
•Misinterpreting of display symbols may caused
severe problems
•Operating long periods in “impure
presentations” may cause serious consequences
•Exclusive reliance on ARPA will sooner or later
give your a problem.

•Remember that ARPA is only a navigational aid

and that its limitations including those of its
sensor. Makes exclusive reliance on ARPA
dangerous
Risks of over reliance on ARPA
•The majority of ARPA systems
manufactured today provide an
automatic acquisition feature.
The feature may reduce the
navigator's workload during
busy period and thus
contributing positively to safer
sailing.
•However the operator should
be aware of the fact that most
ARPA system are less sensitive
in auto acquisition mode than in
manual acquisition mode. This is
one good reason not to rely on
the new target warning system
•When operating an ARPA system in auto acquire
only but in regular intervals
mode, visual observations of the ARPA screen is
visually observe the ARPA
not only required, but also very much a question
screen to make sure that all
about good seamanship and common sense.
targets are acquired.
ARPA View
•Wrong speed input to an ARPA system working in True motion True vector mode can seriously
affect target calculated aspect.

•All ARPA operators must at all times be aware of what speed is used on their ARPA and the
accuracy of this speed.

Calculated results as given by different speed input sources

SHIP B SHIP C SHIP D
RESULTS CO/SPD CO/SPD CO/SPD

Electronic log which

gives correct speed Correct Calculated
Elec. LOG Aspect 040° – 2,0 210° -7,0 270° – 5,0
through the water

Manual Speed
input, miscalculated Manual Small Errors 032° – 2,4 212° – 6,4 272° – 5,0
by + 0.5 knots

Doppler Log provides speed

over ground without Dangerous
compensating for traverse Doppler 1
Errors
119° – 1,2 204° – 8,7 248° – 7,2
drift

Doppler Log provides speed

over ground and Dangerous
compensates for traverse
Doppler 2
Errors
220° – 0,5 213° – 9,5 253° – 7,2
drift
ARPA View
SHIP B SHIP C SHIP D
RESULTS CO/SPD CO/SPD CO/SPD
Correct
Elec. LOG Calculated 040° – 2,0 210° -7,0 270° – 5,0
Aspect

Manual Small Errors 032° – 2,4 212° – 6,4 272° – 5,0

Dangerous
Doppler 1
Errors
119° – 1,2 204° – 8,7 248° – 7,2
Dangerous
Doppler 2
Errors
220° – 0,5 213° – 9,5 253° – 7,2
ARPA View
SHIP B SHIP C SHIP D
RESULTS CO/SPD CO/SPD CO/SPD
Correct
Elec. LOG Calculated 040° – 2,0 210° -7,0 270° – 5,0
Aspect

Manual Small Errors 032° – 2,4 212° – 6,4 272° – 5,0

Dangerous
Doppler 1
Errors
119° – 1,2 204° – 8,7 248° – 7,2
Dangerous
Doppler 2
Errors
220° – 0,5 213° – 9,5 253° – 7,2
ARPA View
SHIP B SHIP C SHIP D
RESULTS CO/SPD CO/SPD CO/SPD
Correct
Elec. LOG Calculated 040° – 2,0 210° -7,0 270° – 5,0
Aspect

Manual Small Errors 032° – 2,4 212° – 6,4 272° – 5,0

Dangerous
Doppler 1
Errors
119° – 1,2 204° – 8,7 248° – 7,2
Dangerous
Doppler 2
Errors
220° – 0,5 213° – 9,5 253° – 7,2
ARPA View
SHIP B SHIP C SHIP D
RESULTS CO/SPD CO/SPD CO/SPD
Correct
Elec. LOG Calculated 040° – 2,0 210° -7,0 270° – 5,0
Aspect

Manual Small Errors 032° – 2,4 212° – 6,4 272° – 5,0

Dangerous
Doppler 1
Errors
119° – 1,2 204° – 8,7 248° – 7,2
Dangerous
Doppler 2
Errors
220° – 0,5 213° – 9,5 253° – 7,2
ARPA Standard Symbols
Past
Manual
Track
Target
Area
Course position
target
for
and of
entering
speedtarget
acquisition
Auto withouton ARPA:
Acquisition:
guard
graphics:and
vectorAt
zone: least
plotting:
The or four
Ifthe equally
Apicture:
facilities
graphic:
graphicsflashing
acanThe
Course
Test target
CPA
time-spaced
and being
Speed
superimposed
/past
TCPA tackled
Vector:
Warning:
position to
during
Indicating
on the
behave
the
shown
target’s
life
Aaafixed
flashing
on time
initial
predicted
request as
true orthe
take relative
form motion,
of a which
shape may
such as hexagon scale
or or
cross
A
equilateral
clear
letter are
“X”
state:
Lost
Ground
dots shall
visible
provided
at the triangle,
be
A broken
target dot
used
bottom
warning.
Referencing:
onManoeuvre:
an ARPA. Plot for
(such
as
ofapex
suppression
square
position
time-adjusted
thetheas
Symbols down,
cursor
a
display
Aletter
shall
scale. around
diamond
be negative
and
3,4 shall
of
indentifiedfor
on
the
shall
and be
the
by
Trial
Data
equilateral
ellipse.
test target Requirement:
The triangle,
vector
shall is flash.
The
origin
During A
isapex
tosquare
be
aa linestop
trial “T”
definedis
manoeuvreto
shall
shall bybe
be
a
manual
video
an
9 used
The acquisition,
vector or
associated
target
annotated
flash. toorigin
acquisition
different
mark
The plot
indicatescontinues
withthe
tonumber
be
diamond color)
target.
theon
defined byan
adjacent
the overARPA
Atobe
small
target
letter
shall guard
Rdot
thethe
shall
orand
thezone
be
initial
under
and
formed ifcenter
plot
the
andaused
flash
of used
smalllettersatto
dot
circle, as
the
or
“XT”
the
subsequently a bottom
mark
the
circlesymbol
shall
shallthe
centerappear
have
adjacent toaleast
of
target,
of
at
to mark
the
thecircle
at vector
2the
mm the
display
in ofinat
bottom data
addition,
leastof
diameter.
origin. the
OnThe
shall
target
used
ATA consist
and
acquisition
more towhich
define
for of is continuous
the
distinguishable
plotting
and limits
initial on an
stage outside
lines
EPAofwith bounding
from,
which
tracking
2mm
display
EPA theinthan
position offrom
the
diameter.
the
past one
own
plot two target
ship
reading
target
positionequal
shall
may is
always
target
may be
notused,
triangles
bebeindicated
flashed
equally by aR1,
dot
time-
symbols
R2, the
auto
R3,
spaced, area
4A,
acquisition
before
etc.
and are chosen
4B and astern
5by
is the
steady-state
not shown suppressed
navigator
tracking
of ones own ship

Standard Symbols

Supplementary Symbols
T X XX

Z F S D P RP
ARPA Standard Symbols
Past
Manual
Track
Test
Target
Area
Course position
target
target
for
and of
entering
speedtarget
acquisition
Auto
on without on ARPA:
agraphics:
Acquisition:
synthetic
guard and
vectorAt
zone: least
plotting:
The picture:
or four
Ifthe equally
Apicture:
facilities
graphic:
graphicsflashing
aThe
canThe
Course
Test target
CPA
time-spaced
and being
Speed
superimposed
/past
TCPA tackled
Vector:
Warning:
position to
during
Indicating
on the
behave
the
shown
target’s
life
Aaafixed
flashing
on time
initial
predicted
request as
true orthe
take relative
form motion,
of a which
shape may
such as hexagon scale
oror
cross
A
letter
equilateral
clear
letter are
“X”
state:
Lost
Ground
dots “XX”
shall
an visible
provided
at
target the at
triangle,
be
A broken the
dot
used
bottom
warning.
Referencing:
onManoeuvre:
ARPA. Plot for
bottom
(such
as
ofapex
suppression
square
position
time-adjusted
thetheas down,
ofcursor
display
Aletter a
around
diamond
Symbols
shall
scale. be the
negative
and
3,4 shall
of
indentifiedfor
on
the
shall
and be
the
by
Trial
Data
equilateral
ellipse.
test target Requirement:
The triangle,
vector
shall is flash.originThe
During A
isapex
tosquare
be
aa lines
trialtop “T”
definedis
manoeuvreto
shall
shall by be
be
a
manual
video
display
an
9 used
The acquisition,
vector or
associated
target
annotated
flash. toorigin
shall
acquisition
different
Themark
plot flash.
to continues
the
be
number
indicates
with
diamond color)
During
target.
on
defined
the byan
adjacent
the overARPA
aAtobe
small
target
letter
shall trial
guard
Rdot
thethe
shall
orand
thezone
initial
under
and
formed ifbe
center
plot
the
andaused
flash
of used
smalllettersatto
dot
circle, as
the
theor
“XT”
subsequently a bottom
mark
the
circlesymbol
shall
shallthe
centerappear
have
adjacent toaleast
of
target,
of
at
to mark
the
thecircle
at vector
2themm the
display
in ofinat
bottom data
addition,
least
diameter.
origin. of the
OnThe
shall
target
manoeuvre
used
ATA consist
and
acquisition
more towhich
define
for of
the
is continuous
the
distinguishable
plotting
and letters
limits
initial on “XXT”
an
stage outside
lines
EPA shall
ofwith bounding
from,
which
tracking
2mm
display
EPA theinthan
position offrom
the
diameter.
the
past one
own
plot two target
ship
reading
target
positionequal
shall
may is
always
target
may be
notused,
triangles
bebeindicated
flashedequally by aR1,
time-dot
appear
symbols
R2, the
auto
R3,
spaced, area
at4A,
acquisition
the
before
etc.
and are chosen
4Bbottom
and astern
5by
isofthe
steady-state
not shown suppressed
the
of navigator
display.
tracking
ones own ship

Standard Symbols

T X XX
ARPA Supplementary Symbols

Reference Position: Mark active

Dashed
Target
Prohibited
Heading
Electronic
Danger
Off-shoremap
Anchorage:
with
Navigation
Standard
reference aLines:
specify
Area:
Zone:
Line: speed
bearing
installation:
Buoy:
map
marks
specify
position mark
specify
Line:
marks
own mp
Anchorage
moving
danger
used marks
used
marks
the
ship
to less
Prohibited
to
area
theareas
than
heading
map
select
area
of a
calculated
Special
Fixed Areas:mark
target: specifya Special area
stationary target
information,
area
line
bearingboundaries
boundaries
information,
ofto for
for1example
boundaries
anselected
relativenavigation
off-shore
range knot
example a a10position
objects/
and meter
installation
buoy.
bearing coastline
of a S
boundaries DRP
P F
Z
depth contour selected object

Supplementary Symbols

Z F

S D P RP
Principal ARPA System
It is not by chance that the
transition from conventional
radar to ARPA has been
compared to the pre-and-
post radar era on board
ships. We can expect some
of the same problems as in
that first transition if proper
and thorough training is not
received.
When it works properly,
ARPA is a fantastic tool in the
hands of a qualified
navigator with proper
training. In the hands of
untrained personnel, it is a
dangerous tool, which can
add to the cause of collision.
Aspects
The aspect is defined red on the
port side and green on the
starboard side
Aspect is measures from dead
ahead to 180o targets relative
bearing of own vessels taken
from the target.
RADAR Plotting
Plotting has two main purposes:
It can show whether danger of
collision exist, how close we will pass
the target and how much time there
is left before this will take place.
Approximate determination of
the course and speed of the other
vessel , so that sensible avoiding
action can be taken when needed.
Plotting can be done with Head
Up or North Up display. Regardless of
radar selected presentation it is
advantageous to plot with North Up.
True plotting gives a natural and
easily understood picture of the
course and events. It can be done
directly in the chart if the scale is
large enough to give a clear picture J
RADAR Plotting
Heading – is defined as the direction
in which the bow of the vessel is
pointing expressed as angular
distance from north

Relative Bearing – if the relative

bearing of an approaching target
remains the same over time, collision
danger is observed

True Bearing – are mainly used for

position fixing

Bearing – on a ship bearing can be

relative or true. In connection with
traffic surveillance. Relative bearing
are often used
RADAR Plotting

CPA– must not be mixed with

point where the target crosses
own ship heading. Often
referred as BCP (bow crossing
position or point)

TCPA– is the time estimated,

as measured along the echo
line from the present position
to the closest point of
approach
RADAR Picture
The radar picture is a plain picture of
the ship’s surroundings as seen from
the scanner

The use of radar to assist in

navigation can be divided into three
categories.
•Making landfall
•Coastal navigation
•Pilotage

•Racons used by the maritime

industry are only triggered by x-
bands radars
Error source in manual plotting
Possible Error source
•Error in Bearing
•Error in range
•Error in between plots
•Low relative speed
•Error in own ship speed
•Error in own ship heading
•Error caused by own ship yawing
•Error due to own ship manoeuvring
Principal ARPA System

The roller ball is used to position marker in required

TheEBL
The VRM Controlused
Control is used to position the variablebearing
range
position used foris example
to position
to definethe electronic
new sweep center
marker
line in theinrequired
the required range
position
Principal ARPA System WARNINGS

Coll.
Warning

Lost
Target

System
Warning

Audibleand
Audible andflashing
flashingwarning
warningactivated
activatedwhen
whenever
whenever a
a pre-set
the
traced
system
limit target
is violated
no violates
longer the pre-set
can track a targetcollision criteria
Principal ARPA System OPTIONS

NAV.

Over
lays

System
Param.

Access to Navigation features, i.e. map, fairways,

Selection
Access to of information
adjustment layers
of system parameters
positioning, etc.
Principal ARPA System ARPA MODE

Course
Up

Head
Up

North
Up

Rel.
Mot.
ARPA display stabilised withwhen
un-stabilised, North to the
ships top ofpointing
heading the
ARPA Selection
display
Selection aof
stabilised
relative motion
on shipsselection
ordered
of true motion presentation course
to the top
screen. of the screen
True
Mot.
Principal ARPA System ARPA MODE
True
Vector

Vector
ON/OFF

Rel.
Vector

Vector
Del.

Vector

- True
Selection ofTarget
Select
Reduce
Increase
Remove Vector
Relative
Default
the target
Target
Vector Presentation
TargetVector
VectorVector
Vector
from presentation
Length
Length
the Target

Vector
+
Principal ARPA System DISPLAY
Range
_

Range
+

Range
Del.

Set
Center

Reset
Center Reset Sweep center with heading marker through the
Place theReduce
Sweep
Switch
IncreaseRange
Select
Center
the Display
Default
in the
Pointer
Range Range
position
ON
Display / OFFof the Marker
center of the screen
Marker
ON/OFF
Principal ARPA System TRACKING
Target
Data

Target
History

Ref.
Target

Acquire
Target

Auto
Acq.
DisplaysManual
calculated
Activate
Cancel
Activate
Activate acquisition
radarTarget
tracking
target data
of feature
positioning
automaticof
history target
selected feature.
target
acquisition of target

Cease
Track
Principal ARPA System TRIAL

Port

Star
Board

Turn
Rate

2nd
Manoeuv.

Speed
+ Switching
Change
Change between
trial
trial course
course pre-set
to Port
turn rates
to starboard
Activate
Increasing
Reducing
second manoeuvre
trial
Trial Speed
Speed Setting
feature
Setting

Speed
-
Principal ARPA System TRIAL

TTM
+

TTM

Trial
ON/OFF

Speed
+
Setting
Switch
Increasing
required
the
Specified trail
trialtrial
Reduce trial
feature
time
trialtime
speed
ON
tosetting
manoeuvre
and OFF
manoeuvre
speed setting
Speed

-
Principal ARPA System SYSTEM CONTROL

System
Alarm

Radar
Standby

Radar
ON/OFF

Warning
Keeps the
about
SetsARPA
the
theARPA
ready
technical
On
forand
use
problem
Off
in a short
of the
notice
ARPA
Principal ARPA System SYSTEM CONTROL

Brill.

Gain

Tun.

Focus

Sea
Clutter
Regulates
Reduce
Reduce
Shape
Sets
the
Adjust
the
the
the
brightness
effect
effect
over
correct
theof
all
of
focus
echoes
echoes
radar
frequency
of display
the
picture
from
from
picture
sea
rain

Rain
Clutter
Glossary
•ARPA – Automatic radar Plotting Aid
•Acquisition Tracking – the process of selecting a target or targets and
initiating their tracking
•Acquisition Area – an area set up by the observer which should
automatically acquire a target when it enters such an area
•Azimuth stabilised display – a display in which the azimuth orientation
relative to a nominated true bearing is fixed
•Automatic – relating to an activity which is performed wholly by a machine

•Bow Passing prediction – the situation associated with target which is crossing or
predicted to cross ahead of own ship
•Bad echo – associated with a tracked target which appears to have been
temporarily lost or which a poorly defined radar aspect, so that it does not have
tracking ability.
•Bearing – the direction of one terrestrial point from another, expressed as a
angular distance from north

•Course up display – an azimuth stabilized display in which a line connecting the

center with the top of the display is own ships intended course
Glossary
•Course p display – an azimuth stabilized display in which a line connecting the
center with the top of the display is own ships intended course
•CPA / TCPA – closest point of approach and time to closest point of approach
limits from own ship as defined by the observer, to give warning of when a tracker
target or targets will close to within these limits
•Competent Authority – a authority designated or otherwise recognized as such by
the government of the state for a specific purpose

•Detection – the recognition of the presence of a target

•Default value – the input parameter or control value that is assumed by a
program, if no value is explicitly given.
•Display – the plan position presentation of ARPA data

•Echo – a facility for indicating that a particular fixed navigational mark, which is
being tracked, is to be used as ground stabilized reference
•ERBL – the electronic range and bearing line used to measure the bearings and /
or ranges
Glossary
•Ground stabilization – a mode of display whereby own ship and all targets are
referenced to the ground, using ground track or set and drift input

•Heading – the direction in which the bow of the ship are pointing expressed as an
angular displacement from north.
•History – equally time spaced past position of targets, which is being tracked, the
history may be relative or true.

•IEC - International Electrotechnical Commission

•Lost target – the name associated with target that is no longer being tracked due
to having been lost or obscured.

•Map lines – the navigational facility whereby the observer can define lines to
indicate channels or traffic separation schemes. Sometimes called Nav. Lines, these
lines require ground stabilization to stop them from drifting.
•Mathematical model – a mathematical representation of a process or device, f. Ex.
A ship’s movement.
Glossary
•North up display – an azimuth stabilized display in which a line connecting the
center with the top of the display is north true bearing

•PAD – the predicted area of danger defined around a predicted close quarter
situation area. The size is determined by speed ratios between own ship and the
target in question and CPA distance limits as defined by the observer.
•Predicted point of collision - a graphical representation of where predicted
collision intercept points lie with respect to own ship and other targets.

•Radar plotting – the whole process of target detection, tracking, calculations of

parameters and display of information
•Relative Course – the direction of motion of a target relative to own ships’
position expressed as an angular displacement from north.
•Relative speed – the speed of the target relative to own ship’s position
•Relative motion – the combination of relative course and relative speed
•Relative Bearing – the direction of a target from own ship expressed as an angular
displacement from own ship’s heading
Glossary
•Relative Motion display – a display on which the position of own ship remains
fixed and all targets move relative to own ship
•Relative Vector – the predicted movement of a target relative to own ship.
•Suppressed Area – an area set up by the observer within which targets are not
acquired.
•Sea stabilization – a mode of display whereby own ship and all targets are
referenced to the sea, using gyro heading and single axis log water speed inputs.

•Target Motion Trend – a early indication of the targets predicted motion

•Tracking – the computer process of observing the sequential changes in the
position of a target in order to establish its motion
•Target Swop – a situation in which the incoming radar data for tracked targets
becomes incorrectly associated with another tracked targets or non-tracked radar
echo.
•Target – any object fixed or moving whose position and motion is determined by
measurements of range and bearing on radar.
•Trails – tracks displayed by the radar echoes of targets in form of a synthetic
afterglow. The trails may be either relative or true. The true trails may be sea or
ground stabilized.
Glossary
•True Course – the true direction of motion of a target expressed as an angular
displacement from North.
•True speed – the speed of a target obtained by vector combination of target
relative motion ad own ship’s true motion.
•True Motion – the combination of true course and speed.
•True Motion display – a display across which own ship and each targets moves
with its own true motion
•True bearing – the direction of a target from another target expressed as an
angular displacement from North
•Targets Predicted Motion – a prediction of future target motion based on linear
extrapolation from its present motion as determined by past measurements of its
range and bearing on the radar.
•True Vector – the predicted true motion of a target as a result of own ship’s
direction and speed input. The true vector may be either displayed with reference
to the water or to the ground.
•Trial manoeuvre – a facility to assist the observer in making the correct
manoeuvre for navigation and collision avoidance purposes.
Glossary
•VLCC – very large Crude Carrier

•Quality – the quality of an item or equipment means its possibility to perform the
functions for which it has been designed.