Raymarine Pathfinder Radar RL70C PLUS User Manual

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Chapter 3: Standard Radar Operations
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R
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3.6 MARPA
Introduction to MARPA
The 
hsb
2
 series displays include a MARPA (Mini Automatic Radar Plotting 
Aid) function for target tracking and risk analysis. This section gives an 
introduction to the Pathfinder Plus Radar MARPA system and shows you how 
to use the MARPA functions, you should also read Section 7.5.
MARPA improves the standard of collision avoidance by obtaining detailed 
information for several automatically tracked targets. MARPA provides 
continuous, accurate and rapid situation evaluation.
You can acquire up to ten targets, which are then automatically tracked by the 
MARPA system. MARPA calculates target bearing and range, true speed and 
course, CPA (Closest Point of Approach), and TCPA (Time to Closest Point of 
Approach).
Each tracked target can be displayed with a vector depicting approximate 
target speed (vector length) and course (vector direction). The calculated 
target data can also be shown on the screen. Each target is continually assessed 
and you are warned if one becomes dangerous or is lost.
Effective MARPA operation is dependent on accurate own ship’s heading, 
plus SOG and COG. The better the quality of the heading data, the better 
MARPA will perform. (MARPA functions without SOG and COG data but 
only relative vector, CPA and TCPA are shown; target course and speed 
cannot be calculated). For more information on heading sensors, and how to 
connect them to your display, refer to Heading and Position Data on page 1-9 
anAppendix E.
SAFTEY NOTICES
MARPA can improve collision avoidance when used wisely. It is the 
user’s responsibility to exercise common prudence and navigational 
judgements.
There are conditions where acquiring a target may become difficult. These 
same conditions may be a factor in successfully tracking a target. Some of 
the conditions are:
The target echo is weak.
The target is very close to land, buoys or other large targets.
The target or your own ship is making rapid manoeuvres.
Choppy sea state conditions exist and the target is buried in excessive 
sea clutter or in deep swells.