Garmin GMR xHD3 4kW Radar Power Pedestal Only

Description

The Garmin GMR xHD3 4 kW Radar Power Pedestal Only is a high-definition magnetron radar pedestal for a custom Garmin open-array radar installation. It requires a separately selected compatible four-foot or six-foot xHD3 antenna array, Garmin chartplotter, Garmin Marine Network or BlueNet connection, radar cable kit, and structurally suitable radar platform. This pedestal-only unit cannot operate as a complete radar system without the matching radiator array and display equipment.

The 4 kW pedestal supports a maximum instrumented range of up to 72 NM, rotation speeds of 24 RPM or 48 RPM, and radar features such as dual-range operation, scan averaging, Dynamic Sea Filter, dynamic auto gain, Bird Gain, true echo trails, and MARPA support when configured with compatible Garmin display, heading, and position data. Practical detection performance depends on the selected array, installation height, target size, sea state, weather, radar settings, and local interference.

Key Specifications

• High-definition 4 kW magnetron radar pedestal only for compatible Garmin xHD3 open-array systems.
• Requires a separately selected compatible four-foot or six-foot Garmin xHD3 antenna array.
• Provides a maximum instrumented range of up to 72 NM and a minimum range of approximately 20 m when used in a complete system.
• 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, echo trails, guard zones, and compatible MARPA tracking.
• Operates from 11V to 32V DC, with approximately 55W transmit consumption and 18W standby power.
• Weighs approximately 19.7 kg, has IPX6 protection, and does not include an array, chartplotter, power cable, network cable, mount, GPS source, or heading sensor.

Radar Integration

The pedestal must be paired with a compatible Garmin xHD3 four-foot or six-foot antenna array and a supported Garmin chartplotter or multifunction display. Garmin Marine Network or Garmin BlueNet carries radar video and control. NMEA 2000 supports connected heading, GPS, AIS, autopilot, and other marine-data sources but does not carry radar video.

MARPA tracking and radar overlay require compatible heading and position data. The pedestal does not include the antenna radiator, so beamwidth and some practical performance characteristics depend on whether a four-foot or six-foot array is installed. Radar is a navigation aid and does not replace a proper lookout, safe speed, official charts, local notices, or collision-regulation compliance.

Installation Considerations

Install the pedestal and selected array on a rigid level platform with adequate structural strength and full rotating-array clearance. Position the completed radar scanner at a practical height above the waterline, aligned parallel to the waterline and clear of crew, masts, rigging, antennas, lights, exhaust, and other obstructions. Maintain manufacturer-specified personnel safe distance and compass-safe distance. 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 pedestal 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 the cable gland and connectors, inspect the pedestal base, fasteners, antenna connection, cable seals, and mounting platform regularly, and use compatible marine-grade hardware plus approved isolation methods to reduce galvanic-corrosion risk.

Before Ordering

Confirm selected compatible xHD3 antenna length, supported Garmin chartplotter, Garmin Marine Network or BlueNet connection, 11V to 32V supply, 55W transmit circuit capacity, mounting-platform strength, full array rotation clearance, mounting height, personnel and compass-safe-distance requirements, heading and GPS source for MARPA or radar overlay, radar cable kit, and qualified installation requirements before purchase.