Overview

The Simrad 000-15948-001 is a HALO 300X open-array radar system built around a 130 W solid-state pulse compression transmitter with an RI-50 interface module, supplied without an antenna array. It is intended for 12 V or 24 V DC boats with power fed into the RI-50 (10.8 to 15 V DC on 12 V systems, 20 to 31.2 V DC on 24 V systems) and radar data/control carried over Ethernet.

On the water, it covers both close-in work and long runs: targets can be shown from as close as 6 m (20 ft) out to 96 nautical miles. Features such as Dual Range let you watch a tight area around the boat and a longer-range view at the same time, and Doppler target highlighting helps separate moving targets from the background.

This package is meant for boats that want open-array performance but need to select the antenna length separately. The pedestal is rated IPX6 for washdowns, the RI-50 is rated IPX5, and the operating temperature range is -25°C to +55°C. Plan mounting clearance around the rotating array and keep the compass safe distance in mind (1.0 m).

Key features

• 130 W solid-state pulse compression open-array radar system supplied without an antenna array
• Instrumented range from 6 m (20 ft) out to 96 nautical miles for close-quarter awareness and offshore scanning
• Runs on 12 V or 24 V DC input to the RI-50 (10.8 to 15 V DC on 12 V systems, 20 to 31.2 V DC on 24 V systems)
• Ethernet (10/100 Base-T RJ-45) connection for radar data and control to a compatible Simrad display/network
• Rotation speed from 16 to 48 rpm, depending on operating mode, for a radar picture that can be tuned to conditions
• Beam sharpening mode support, with beam widths that depend on the chosen 3 ft, 4 ft, or 6 ft antenna length
• Radar modes include Harbour, Offshore, Weather, Bird, and Bird+
• Environmental protection rated IPX6 for pedestal and antenna, and IPX5 for the RI-50 interface module
• Wind rating up to 80 knots at 48 rpm when installed with a 3 ft, 4 ft, or 6 ft antenna

Compatibility and system integration

The radar connects to a compatible Simrad multifunction display over Ethernet, with the RI-50 acting as the interface between vessel power and the radar pedestal. On multi-device networks, the Ethernet run may go directly to the display or through an onboard Ethernet switch, depending on how the rest of the electronics are laid out.

For the best on-screen alignment and tracking behavior, a steady heading source on NMEA 2000 is typically part of the overall setup. If your boat already has a heading sensor and backbone in place, confirm there is an available drop location and that the display is configured to use that heading source.

Installation and setup

Because this is an open-array system, mounting location matters. Choose a rigid, level spot with clear 360° rotation, then verify swing-circle clearance based on the antenna length you plan to add (3 ft model: 1142 mm, 4 ft model: 1443 mm, 6 ft model: 2047 mm). The pedestal height is 429 mm (with antenna mounted), and the pedestal weight is 20.3 kg, so the structure underneath needs to be solid.

Mount the RI-50 in a protected area inside the boat where the status LEDs are visible and wiring can be serviced. It carries an IPX5 rating, so it tolerates splashes and drips, but it should not live in a bilge or a place that stays wet. From a cold power-off state, power-up to transmit is typically 30 to 40 seconds; standby operation draws about 11 W on average.

What's included

• HALO 300X pedestal (scanner)
• RI-50 interface module (power and network interface)
• 10 m interconnection cable (power and Ethernet)

Use on board

This setup fits boats that spend time threading channels and marinas but also run offshore, where you want a longer-range picture for traffic and weather. It also makes sense when you want the sharper presentation of an open-array radar and prefer to choose a 3 ft, 4 ft, or 6 ft antenna length based on hardtop width, mounting height, and rotation clearance.