Today's radars are so sophisticated they can think for themselves. They place target images over electronic charts, tune themselves automatically, and, in the case of Simrad's award-winning Remote Commander, can even be controlled by a wireless remote handheld. Prices range from $1,000 to $22,000, and the scope of features available is just as broad. Radars come in two basic types: multifunction systems and stand-alone units, which are best suited for small, open boats like center consoles with T-tops. The models in the stand-alone category include short-range, 16-mile units from Furuno, Raymarine and Si-Tex, although these companies are gradually moving away from these models and making more long-range units. Yet most radar users only "look out" about three miles. The skippers of the big, offshore sportfishing boats are the ones who want 42- and 72-mile units that can spot birds at a great distance.
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