"Geoff Schultz" wrote in message
.. .
Wayne.B wrote in
:

On Tue, 06 Jan 2009 11:23:34 -0600, Geoff Schultz
wrote:

In an attempt to discuss something related to cruising, can someone
explain the differences between X-band and S-band radar systems? From
what I know, S-band is used on large ships and X-band is used on
vessels less than 300 tons.

-- Geoff
www.GeoffSchultz.org

The key difference is that they operate in two completely different
frequency ranges, much like the difference between VHF and UHF
television. X-band is from is from 7 to 12.5 GHz, S-band is at a
lower frequency (longer wavelength) between 2 and 4 GHz.

Because of the shorter wavelength, X band radar can resolve between
smaller objects but usually has less range because of increased signal
attenuation. S band typically has greater range but requires much
larger antennas, too large for the average small to mid size pleasure
boat.

Wayne,

Thanks for actually answering the question instead of providing a
smart-ass
answer that didn't provide any useful information.

-- Geoff
www.GeoffSchultz.org

Please allow me to correct this shortcoming:

The difference is that one is spelled with an "X"...