Parallel Indexing (PI)

Question 1

Purpose of PI’s

Answer 1

A method to keep a fixed target running parallel to the ships track on your radar.

Question 2

What do PI’s do?

Answer 2

It is a quick and effective way to monitor track tendency in both poor and good visibility.

Question 3

What is a PI?

Answer 3

A line running parallel to the ships course at a fixed distance

Question 4

Setting up a PI

Answer 4

Choose a suitably radar conspicuous object

Within the radar operating range

Note the distance required to pass the target while maintaining chosen course

Question 5

What mode must the radar be operating in?

Answer 5

Relative Motion is ideal (relative matches ECDIS)

Compass stabilised (ground stabilised) to give us an indication of tidal currents present,