Radar Systems

TÜV SÜD’s marine radar system testing services are recognised by maritime authorities around the world. If you need accredited testing for X-Band and S-Band Marine Radar systems, we are the UK’s only provider and one of only a few around the world. We also offer an over sea radar performance test facility that meets the relevant IEC 62388 radar range requirements.

What are Radar Systems?

It is a mandatory requirement for vessels subject to IMO Safety of Life At Seas (SOLAS) to have a Radar system as part of their Navigational equipment; their purpose is to track targets, other vessels and fixed infrastructure, such as oil platforms and wind turbines in order to avoid collisions.

The largest (Category 1) ships/craft, weighing >10,000 GT, require more radar performance than lesser vessels, they require larger radar screens as well as auto acquisition of targets and the ability to track a larger number of targets.

There are two types of Maritime Radar, X-Band and S-Band. X-band radars (operate in 9,2-9,5 GHz) provide high discrimination, good sensitivity and tracking performance for closer targets, whereas S-Band Radars (operate in 2,9-3,1 GHz) ensure that target detection and tracking capabilities are maintained for longer ranges.

Why is Radar System Testing Important?

The performance requirements and methods of testing for SOLAS Radars are specified in IEC 62388; the requirements are extensive and ensure that these devices are fit for purpose when deployed in the challenging conditions faced by such vessels. IEC 62388 specifies a wide range of tests from verifying the environmental performance of the Radar parts, through to verifying that the Radar sensitivity can detect and discriminate between targets and ensuring that the Radar screen displays the appropriate images correctly.

Why choose TÜV SÜD for Radar System Testing?

TÜV SÜD are the only UK provider, and one of only a handful of sites around the globe, to provide accredited testing for X-Band and S Band Marine Radar systems. Our over sea radar performance test facility, located at the Ministry of Defence (MoD) Shoeburyness Test Site, in Essex on the Thames Estuary that meets the relevant IEC 62388 radar range requirements; supplementary testing is provided via Octagon House in Fareham, Hampshire or at customer premises.

TÜV SÜD’s RADAR test reports are recognised by maritime authorities globally, including shipping classification societies, EU Marine Equipment Directive (MED) Notified Bodies and UK Marine Regulations Approved Bodies.

TÜV SÜD SERVICES

TÜV SÜD provide UKAS ISO 17025 accredited testing for SOLAS Marine RADAR systems in accordance with the requirement of IEC 62388 - Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems - Shipborne radar - Performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results.

Want to know more about our marine radar performance test services?

Please contact us and a member of our team will be happy to discuss your requirements.