heading sensor

[tboy1978]

I was going to buy autocomp 1000 for my radar overlaying purposes but now I got a bargain offer for a raymarine heading sensor ( #M92649 ) which by looking at the specs should work.

Compatability: NMEA 0183 compatible equipment
Accuracy: +/- 0.5°
Gimbal Range: Pitch = +33°, Roll + 45°
Data Output (NMEA):
*HDM (Magnetic Compass Heading)
*(10Hz) HDG (Heading only)

Has anyone used that raymarine unit , does it work ok or does it have some known flaws?
I know ppl have used autocomp with good results so I know that works for sure!

[cheapboxer]

Something else to think about. I am also adding electronics with tracking that need a heading sensor.

My electronics are close to my magnetic compass. Most requirements I have seen are to have the magnetic compass 18- 24" from metal objects. In my case this is impossible. If I was to move the compass forward it would be to close to the windshield wiper motor. I have little faith in the compass and was going to have the compass (swung) adjusted and create a deviation card once everything is installed.

I was reading up on the KVH autocomp 1000 heading sensor and found it for $363. They also have a combo unit which is a digital compass with a remote heading sensor. This would solve both of my problems. I found that unit for $413. After talking to them this is a better fit for me for about $40 more and no deviation card needed. Ever have someone put there cell phone or a metal fishing lure near your magnetic compass? Boy will that drive you crazy! LOL When I need that compass I want it dead on.

[thataway]

You would probably have a better result a gyro rated compass--more accurate and stable. I suspect that you will find out how the unit works--and it should.

Our local West Marine had an Com Nav flux gate compass for $40 (Silva Nexus)--Some sort of close out, but apparently not NMEA. Fine for a readout and auto compensating. It is still a good idea to have a magnetic compass. I do my own compensation, and use a sun compass to check it peroidically.

[prodigalson]

Placement of the actual sensor is REALLY important, and not hard to do, requiring nothing more than a cheap Handheld compass.

NOTE! make sure the compass is good. put it down on a table, away from any metal, note the heading indicated, and bring a screwdriver or other mass of metal close enough to deflect it 90 degrees or more. remove the screwdriver, and make sure that the compass swings back to the same heading as before. You can use this trick to check your main steering compass, too.

[lugger]

my kvh is in down buy my fuel tank , and if you stick a hand held compas down there it will change 15 degres , my kvh auotcomp is down there 4 inches away and automatic corrects the issue . its spot on even being in a bad mag enviorment .
it runs the lra 2000 radar overlay sweet
great product