Radar Operation

[R Baker]

I've read the Garmin manual, but I can't seem to get much useful information from the unit. As far as I know the radar is operating properly. Are there some expert radar operators out there that can give some basic instruction. Thanks.

 

[knotflying]

If you put your screen entirely on radar and go out on a good day you can fiddle with the settings and see what changing each will do. You can then look outside and see what is out there and how it relates to your screen and become familiar with is so when in actual conditions you are comfortable. I often do a split screen on good days just to keep my familiarity of things proficient. When in actual conditions I prefer a split screen to the overlay. I feel that there is too much information on one screen using the overlay and I want to spot targets easily. The closer you make your rings, the larger the targets get and smaller ones will show up better.
I agree, for someone not familiar with the functions the Garmin manual is lacking. For me many of the features I do not use. I just want to see targets and avoid them. When it is raining out or seas ar rough there are settings you can use to filter out the noise.

 

[Crewdog]

I can't add to what Knotflying said, but I've wondered if an online marine radar study course such as this is worthwhile:

http://www.globalmarinenet.com/product/marine-radar-online-course/

 

[JamesTXSD]

Perhaps the least expensive start would be Garmin's YouTube video, "How to Understand Radar Screens":

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHO0WkkZe6g

If you have an active US Power Squadron in your area, they offer classes. One is a course called Advanced Piloting that covers the use of radar, as well as "the practical use of additional electronic navigation systems." Since that is an advanced course, I would imagine the Basic Seamanship and Piloting courses would be a prerequisite. Good training by members with hands-on experience.