The antenna portion of the unit has four directional receivers that correspond to the four relative bearing display light bars on the control unit. A ship operating radar in a frequency from 3 to 10 centimeters emits a stream of microwave pulses. When these pulses strike one or more of the detectors in the C.A.R.D. antenna, they are processed to light up the corresponding display. The intensity of the signal will determine the number of lights that will be illuminated. Current and voltage requirements, .045 amps at 12 volts.
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CARDmonitor Power Antenna
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Radar transmissions travel line-of sight, so the distance at which a target is detected is dependent primarily on two factors:
  1. height of the transmitting antenna
  2. height of your receiving antenna

To activate the system and set the level of sensitivity, simply turn the dial clockwise.

 C.A.R.D. does not define range but shows contact movement. The reception is adjustable by changing the sensitivity control dial.

If the C.A.R.D. antenna is mounted on your stern rail and has an unobstructed view, you should receive an indication if there are any radar emitting ships. The overall range is    5 - 8 NM for most merchant traffic.