X-Band Marine Radar Transponder – Clear AtoN Identification for Detailed Navigation

The DX-RACON-02 X-Band Marine Radar Transponder is designed for marine Aids to Navigation where clear target discrimination and recognizable radar identification are important.

Its X-band response supports detailed radar navigation in ports, channels, coastal waters and other areas where vessels need to distinguish the correct AtoN among nearby targets.

X-band uses a shorter wavelength than S-band, allowing finer radar detail and better separation of nearby targets.

This is particularly useful when the radar picture contains small vessels, navigation buoys, breakwaters, shorelines, port structures or multiple closely spaced targets.

For vessels operating in confined or traffic-intensive waters, X-band provides the level of detail needed to make faster and clearer navigation decisions.

A conventional radar reflector passively reflects radar energy and helps make a target more visible.

A RACON adds active identification.

When interrogated by a compatible marine radar, the DX-RACON-02 returns a coded response that can be associated with the designated AtoN.

Selectable Morse Code Identification includes:

A–Z · 0–9 · NW · NE · SW · SE

This allows operators not only to detect a radar target, but also to confirm which navigation mark or location the response represents.

The DX-RACON-02 has been verified using an actual vessel radar system in Bangkok, Thailand.

During the customer test on the Chao Phraya River, the RACON response was observed directly on the vessel's PPI radar display during repeated radar scans.

The test demonstrated the complete operating chain:

Radar Interrogation → RACON Response → Radar Display

This real onboard verification provides a practical reference for how the RACON response appears under actual vessel radar conditions, beyond laboratory or specification-based evaluation.

Related Case:
Thailand RACON On-Vessel Radar Verification

The X-band function is especially relevant for:

• Port and harbour approaches
• Narrow channels and waterways
• Coastal navigation
• High-traffic vessel areas
• Bridge and offshore structure marking
• Navigation points surrounded by multiple radar targets
• Projects where clear short-range target discrimination is important

These are environments where identifying the correct target matters as much as detecting the target itself.

The DX-RACON-02 is designed for long-term marine installation.

Its engineering plastic radome protects the antenna and internal electronics, while the 316 stainless steel base provides a durable mounting structure.

IP68 protection, low average power consumption, wide DC input, waterproof connection and RS485 communication support practical integration into marine AtoN systems.

Does the RACON transmit continuously?

No. The RACON normally responds when it receives a compatible radar interrogation signal rather than transmitting continuously.

Can the DX-RACON-02 be tested before deployment?

Yes. Laboratory testing can verify equipment operation and response characteristics.

For practical detection performance, onboard or field verification is more representative because radar type, installation height, radar settings, weather and surrounding conditions can affect the final radar presentation.

What should be confirmed before ordering?

The project should confirm the required frequency band, identification code, power supply, mounting arrangement, expected operating range and any project-specific authority requirements.

Does the DX-RACON-02 also support S-band?

Yes. DX-RACON-02 is a dual-band RACON supporting both X-band and S-band. This page focuses on its X-band application value.