Garmin GMR 2536 xHD3 6′ 25kW Open Array Radar

Description

The Garmin GMR 2536 xHD3 is a high-definition 25 kW magnetron open-array marine radar with a six-foot antenna and pedestal. It is designed for compatible Garmin chartplotters using Garmin Marine Network or Garmin BlueNet connectivity and provides a maximum instrumented range of 96 NM. The six-foot open array provides a narrow 1.1-degree horizontal beamwidth to help separate targets at longer ranges and distinguish traffic, coastlines, channels, and weather returns.

The system includes the radar pedestal, six-foot antenna array, power cable, network cable, and mounting hardware. It uses traditional high-power pulsed magnetron radar technology rather than solid-state pulse compression or Doppler. Features include dual-range operation, scan averaging, Dynamic Sea Filter, dynamic auto gain, Bird Gain, true echo trails, guard zones, and MARPA support when compatible heading, position, and display requirements are met.

Key Specifications

• High-definition 25 kW magnetron open-array marine radar with six-foot antenna and pedestal.
• Provides a maximum instrumented range of up to 96 NM and a minimum range of approximately 20 m.
• Uses a six-foot array with approximately 1.1-degree horizontal and 23-degree vertical beamwidth.
• Supports 24 RPM and 48 RPM antenna rotation speeds.
• Uses traditional pulsed magnetron radar technology with scan averaging and Dynamic Sea Filter.
• Supports dual-range operation, dynamic auto gain, Bird Gain, true echo trails, guard zones, and compatible MARPA tracking.
• Operates from 10V to 32V DC, with approximately 70W transmit consumption and 18W standby consumption.
• Includes 15 m power and network cables, weighs approximately 32.6 kg as a complete six-foot scanner system, and has IPX6 protection.

Radar Integration

The GMR 2536 xHD3 requires a compatible Garmin chartplotter or multifunction display and Garmin Marine Network or Garmin BlueNet connection for radar video and control. NMEA 2000 can provide compatible heading, GPS, AIS, autopilot, and sensor information, but radar video is carried through the high-speed Garmin network.

MARPA and radar overlay require compatible heading and position data. Bird Gain can help enhance bird returns, while scan averaging and Dynamic Sea Filter can improve display clarity in changing conditions; results depend on the scanner installation, sea clutter, weather, radar settings, target size, and vessel movement. Radar is a navigation aid and does not replace a proper lookout, safe speed, official charts, local notices, or collision-regulation compliance.

Installation Considerations

Mount the pedestal and six-foot array on a rigid level platform with enough structural capacity and full rotating-array clearance. Install the radar at a practical height above the waterline, align it parallel to the waterline, and keep it clear of crew areas, masts, rigging, antennas, lights, exhaust, and other obstructions. Maintain manufacturer-specified personnel safe distance and compass-safe distance. Route the supplied power and network cables away from heat, chafe, standing water, high-current wiring, and moving equipment. Radar installation and commissioning should be completed by a qualified marine-electronics technician.

Warranty and Saltwater Care

Garmin marine warranty coverage varies by region, distributor, proof of purchase, product registration, installation method, and intended use. Confirm the applicable local warranty terms, exclusions, and service process before purchase.

The radar is designed for marine exposure and has IPX6 water-ingress protection, but this does not guarantee immunity from saltwater corrosion. Rinse salt deposits with fresh water where appropriate, avoid high-pressure spray at cable glands and connectors, inspect the pedestal, antenna array, fasteners, mounting platform, and cable seals regularly, and use compatible marine-grade hardware plus manufacturer-approved isolation methods to reduce galvanic-corrosion risk.

Before Ordering

Confirm compatible Garmin chartplotter support, Garmin Marine Network or BlueNet connection, suitability of the included 15 m cable route, 10V to 32V power supply, six-foot array rotation clearance, structural mounting-platform capacity, mounting height, personnel and compass-safe-distance requirements, heading and GPS source for MARPA or radar overlay, optional AIS integration, and qualified installation requirements before purchase.