Garmin introduces new xHD2 Open-Array Radar Series

by Garmin International Inc.
 on 20 Nov 2014 Garmin, the global leader in satellite navigation, has announced its next generation of open-array digital radars – the GMR™ 424, 624/626 and 1224/1226 xHD2.

Continuing to set the standard for open-array radars, the xHD2 series offers brand new features and capabilities that provide better precision, targeting and performance while transmitting power at four, six and 12 kilowatts respectively.

'The new GMR xHD2 series of open-array radars truly encompasses all the power, features and capabilities that a mariner needs in a radar system,' said Dan Bartel, Vice President of Worldwide Sales. 'Whether sport fishing, cruising or docking, the boater can rest assured that these powerful scanners provide the clarity and reliability to show what’s near the vessel or on the horizon.'

With every type of boater and angler in mind, the GMR xHD2 series of open-array radars boasts performance and feature improvements, a high level of reliability and continued ease of use. The powerful 6-foot GMR 626 xHD2 and 1226 xHD2 concentrate energy within a 1.1-degree horizontal and 25-degree vertical beamwidth, offering pristine clarity, target resolution and definition. The GMR 424 xHD2, 624 xHD2 and 1224 xHD2 focus within a 1.8-degree horizontal and 25-degree vertical beamwidth. All new xHD2 open-array radars have a maximum range of 72 nautical miles and offer the option of selectable rotation speeds of 24 or 48 RPM for rapid and precise target updating.

Not only is the new xHD2 series significantly quieter than previous generations, they now boast a dedicated Bird Mode that allows for the boater to easily locate flocks of birds, thus providing the boater better insight as to where fish may be congregating. Additionally, dual radar support is introduced. With the capability of running dual xHD2 radars or xHD domes on board, the boater enables radar redundancy and allows for more flexibility to view different ranges on independent multifunction displays (MFD), chartplotters and combination units.

Dual range adds an extra level of security to the vessel and anyone on board. With dual range, the mariner is provided simultaneous views of both short and long ranges, giving the ability to maintain what’s immediately in the vessel’s path and what’s on the horizon. Without requiring the boater to toggle between views, weather patterns, land and structure can always be observed. Dual range is an available option for the GPSMAP® 8000 series and the newly announced GPSMAP 7400 series.

Dynamic Auto Gain and Dynamic Sea Filter allow the xHD2 series to perform at peak levels, no matter the boating environment. The radars will continuously adjust to surroundings, water and weather conditions to provide optimal performance while reducing excess noise and clutter. Coupled with vibrant 8-bit true colour, the boater receives a much more precise and accurate representation of what weather patterns or obstructions that may be approaching.

Locate and track targets that might pose a threat for collision with the xHD2 series. MARPA identifies approach and timing of nearby targets, allowing the mariner to adjust the vessel’s route for safety. Alerts are also given for when targets become dangerous or breach certain proximities of the boat, keeping everyone on board aware of their surroundings.

The new xHD2 series seamlessly integrates with compatible Garmin chartplotters, combination units or MFDs, including our newly announced GPSMAP 7400 series.

Prices for the GMR xHD2 start from £3649.00.

The GMR xHD2 series will be available Q1 of 2015. For additional information about the GMR xHD2 open-array radars, visit Garmin.

Garmin’s portfolio includes some of the industry’s most sophisticated chartplotters and touchscreen multifunction displays, sonar, high-definition radar, autopilot, high-resolution mapping, sailing instrumentation and other products and services that are known for innovation, reliability, and ease-of-use.

For 25 years, Garmin has pioneered new GPS navigation and wireless devices and applications that are designed for people who live an active lifestyle. Garmin serves five primary business units, including automotive, aviation, fitness, marine, and outdoor recreation.