JRC NCE-5171 for JRC JMA 5312 RADAR KEYBOARD

The JRC NCE-5171 is the dedicated keyboard unit specifically designed for use with the JRC JMA-5312 Radar system. This peripheral device serves as the primary human-machine interface for controlling and operating the complex functions of the JMA-5312 radar. It features a comprehensive array of dedicated buttons, a trackball or joystick, and possibly a rotary encoder, all ergonomically arranged to allow radar operators to efficiently manage radar range, gain, sea clutter, rain clutter, acquire targets, plot courses, access menus, and perform all necessary radar adjustments and operations. Its robust construction is typical of marine bridge equipment, ensuring durability and reliability in a demanding operational environment. Essentially, the NCE-5171 is the physical command center through which users interact with and extract critical navigational and collision avoidance information from the JRC JMA-5312 radar.

Technical Specification

General:

Purpose: Dedicated control and input unit for the JRC JMA-5312 Radar system.
Compatibility: Exclusively designed for and fully compatible with the JRC JMA-5312 Radar series. Not generally compatible with other radar models or brands.

Input Devices:

Keys/Buttons:
- Dedicated function keys for radar operations (e.g., Range Up/Down, Gain, Sea/Rain Clutter, Brilliance, Acquisition, ARPA functions, VRM/EBL, Guard Zones).
- Alphanumeric keypad for data entry (e.g., waypoint input, target naming).
- Menu navigation keys (Up/Down/Left/Right, Enter/Exit).
- System control keys (e.g., Power On/Off, Display Mode).
- Dedicated push-buttons for quick access to critical functions.
Pointing Device: Typically includes an integrated trackball or a joystick/roller-ball for cursor control and target manipulation on the radar display.
Rotary Controls: Often features one or more rotary encoders for fine adjustment of parameters like gain, clutter, or brilliance.

Interface & Connectivity:

Connection to Radar Processor: Connects directly to the JRC JMA-5312 radar’s main processing unit (or display unit) via a dedicated, proprietary cable. This is typically a multi-core cable with specialized connectors at both ends.
Data Protocol: Communicates using JRC’s internal, proprietary data protocol.
Power Supply: Powered directly from the connected JRC JMA-5312 radar system; does not require a separate power supply.

Physical Characteristics:

Design: Ergonomic layout for ease of use during watchkeeping.
Illumination: Backlit keys for clear visibility in all lighting conditions (day and night). Illumination is typically dimmable.
Construction: Robust, marine-grade construction to withstand the demanding bridge environment.
- Material: High-quality plastics, possibly with metal reinforcing for durability.
Mounting: Designed for flush mounting into a bridge console or surface mounting on a desktop.
Dimensions: Varies, but designed to be compact enough for bridge integration while providing sufficient space for controls. (Exact dimensions would be in the JMA-5312 radar system’s manual).
Weight: Relatively lightweight, suitable for console integration.

Environmental:

Operating Temperature: Typically $- 1 5^{\circ} C$ to $+ 5 5^{\circ} C$ (5°F to 131°F), standard for marine bridge equipment.
Storage Temperature: $- 2 5^{\circ} C$ to $+ 7 0^{\circ} C$ (-13°F to 158°F).
Humidity: Up to 95% non-condensing.
Ingress Protection (IP) Rating:
- Front Panel: Typically IPX5 or IPX4 (protected against water jets or splashing water from any direction), suitable for bridge use where splashes might occur.
- Rear: Usually lower IP rating as it’s installed within a console.
Vibration & Shock: Conforms to marine standards (e.g., IEC 60945) for vibration and shock resistance.