Description
The FURUNO DRS4W 1st Watch Wireless Radar is a compact 19-inch, 4 kW pulse radar designed around a very different installation concept from a conventional network radar. The radome requires vessel power, but radar data is transmitted wirelessly to supported Furuno GP1871F/GP1971F chartplotters or compatible iOS devices. That makes the DRS4W particularly attractive for smaller boats, refits and installations where pulling a dedicated Ethernet/data cable from the radome to the helm would be difficult.
- Wireless radar data: Sends radar imagery by wireless LAN to supported displays, reducing the amount of cabling required between the antenna and the viewing device.
- 4 kW magnetron transmitter: Proven X-band pulse radar architecture provides strong coastal target detection in a compact radome.
- 24 NM maximum range: Covers typical recreational coastal navigation, harbour approaches, traffic awareness and weather observation.
- 19-inch radome: Compact antenna footprint is well suited to hardtops, arches and smaller vessels where mounting space is limited.
- Multiple viewing options: Supports Furuno’s GP1871F/GP1971F and the Furuno Marine Radar app on compatible iOS devices, with up to two supported iOS displays used simultaneously.
A Radar Built Around Wireless Viewing
The DRS4W’s defining feature is that the radar picture does not need a conventional wired data path to the display. Once the radome has DC power and the wireless connection is configured, a supported iPhone or iPad can become the radar display. This allows the operator to move around the boat while maintaining a radar view and makes the unit useful on boats where there is no convenient space for a permanent dedicated radar display.
The wireless approach also makes retrofit installations simpler. Instead of routing both power and a data/network cable through a mast, arch, liner or cabin structure, the installation can focus on getting the correct Furuno power cable to the radome and establishing reliable wireless coverage to the viewing location.
Traditional 4 kW Pulse Radar Performance
Unlike Furuno’s NXT solid-state radar family, the DRS4W uses a conventional 4 kW magnetron transmitter. The benefit is familiar pulse-radar behaviour and a 24 NM maximum range in a small 19-inch radome. For collision avoidance and navigation, the radar can show shorelines, buoys, vessels, rain cells and other radar-reflective targets that may be difficult or impossible to see visually at night or in reduced visibility.
Touch Control on iOS
Furuno designed the Marine Radar app around familiar touchscreen gestures. Range and display adjustments are handled from the mobile device rather than through a separate radar keyboard. The app can also establish a guard zone so the operator can be alerted when a radar target enters the selected area. This can be useful while cruising, drifting or working elsewhere on the vessel, but it should complement—not replace—a proper navigation watch.
Integration with GP1871F and GP1971F
The DRS4W can also be paired with Furuno GP1871F and GP1971F combination chartplotter/fish-finder displays. In that arrangement the radar becomes part of a permanent helm installation and can be viewed alongside the chartplotter and sounder functions. For a small fishing or cruising boat, that provides a practical path to radar without moving into a full NavNet Ethernet architecture.
Power Cable Selection
The radar data path may be wireless, but the antenna still requires DC power. Furuno sells dedicated DRS4W power cables in different lengths; the 15 m 001-266-010-00 is one of the common choices. Cable length, voltage drop, routing, watertight entry and service access should be considered before mounting the radome. The cable is not included with the DRS4W sensor.
Wireless Range and Installation Planning
Wireless performance depends on the vessel layout. Metal structures, enclosed wheelhouses, distance, other radio equipment and mounting position can affect reception. The radar should therefore be tested at the intended viewing positions before the installation is considered finished. The radome itself still needs normal radar siting: a clear horizontal view, a rigid mounting surface, suitable separation from people and other transmitting antennas, and minimal obstruction from towers or masts.
Who the DRS4W Is For
This radar is best suited to a boat that values straightforward installation, compact size and flexible viewing. It is not the same product category as an NXT NavNet sensor with Doppler Target Analyzer or high-end network functions. Buyers deciding between DRS4W and DRS2D-NXT/DRS4D-NXT should base the choice on the overall electronics architecture: DRS4W prioritizes wireless simplicity, while NXT prioritizes advanced radar processing and system integration.
What’s in the Box
- DRS4W 19-inch wireless radar sensor
- Standard mounting / installation hardware
- Installation documentation
Specifications
- Radar type: X-band pulse radar
- Antenna: 19-inch enclosed radome
- Transmit power: 4 kW magnetron
- Maximum range: 24 NM
- Power: 12/24 VDC
- Radar data connection: Wireless LAN
- Supported Furuno displays: GP1871F and GP1971F
- Mobile viewing: Compatible iOS devices using Furuno Marine Radar app
- Simultaneous mobile displays: Up to two supported iOS devices
- Guard zone: Supported through compatible app/display operation
- Power cable: Sold separately
- Typical use: Coastal navigation, collision awareness and weather observation on recreational vessels
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