Noise from From Radome DRS4DNXT

[Seabum]

Just finished an instillation of a solid state dome to replace an older Furuno dome. The new system seen to have a noticeable but faint noise while in the transmit mode. I am wondering if this noise is common or do I have an issue?

 

[Johnny Electron]

When in transmit the motor start to run and turn the array (making sound), if that is what you mean by noise. Or do you mean RF noise on the radar screen or other item?

 

[Seabum]

I can hear rotational noise coming from the dome itself. My old Furuno analog dome was much more quiet and I am concerned that the noise from the new system may be from a bad bearing - Or maybe I am just being overly concerned

 

[Melville]

At short ranges the antenna will turn at higher speeds up to 48rpm. Your old dome only turned at 24rpm. Try ranging out and see if the noise diminishes.

 

[Seabum]

The sound does vary in frequency as I change range settings. This noise is not overly offensive, but I had never noticed it with the old unit and now it is clearly audible.

 

[seaveepete]

I have the NXT dome also. I can hear the motor/bearings but only when the boat is on the trailer. It's pretty quiet and unless you are trying to hear it you wouldn't.
Also, I've never heard the noise on water when the engines are running, etc.

 

[Johnny Electron]

I doubt you have any problem unless someone was inside the dome. Sometimes the radar mounting used can resonate or amplify sounds making it seem louder than it would otherwise.

 

[Taniwani]

I have a DRS6A-NXT, and noticed that it sounds way different than my old unit. I think the reason is the the new radars use brushless stepper motors which turn in small increments and the noise is typical for that. I feel that mine is louder than the old way outside near the unit, but inside in the cabin underneath, I can’t hear it, whereas the old unit was audible there as a grinding noise. No need to worry I think.