GPS Sounder install

[donald]

Hi all
Has anyone heard of not installing one of these units close to a compass?
I read somewhere that that it should not be within a foot of the compass as it will cause problems with the compass!
The installation instruction don't say anything about not installing it near a compass!
Any input will be welcome!
Thanks!
Don

[biggerseagar]

Don ...knowing in general where your compass is on your boat and then where you are going to put your GPS- DF, I don't think you will have a problem.

Is this a flush mount or stand mount? Whatever your the position you are not going to be close to your compass. You are going to use your GPS compass reading anyway so I wouldn't worry!

Good luck and send us a picture of the final install of your unit.

Roger

[donald]

Good Morning!
Thanks Bigger: Thats what I was thinking, but I read somewhere hat it interfer with the compass and just wanted someone elses thoughts!
Have a good day!
Thanks agian!
Don

[donald]

Hi Everyone!
Justan update!
"Lowrance states No Less Than 24 Inches!"
Thanks to all!
Dopn

[shrew]

I assume you're referring to the Display, not the sounder, since that would be either in the hull or mounted on the transom.

Any device which uses electricity is going to give of an electrical field unless well insulated. I would assume placing the display too close to the compass will impact the compass.

Install it and see if you can calibrate the compass with the display on. Then take the boat out with an accurate hand-held compass, away from interference and determine the amount and degree of deviation. If the deviation can't be calibrated with the compass settings, keep the deviation in your head.

Technically the amount of deviation may vary depending on heading (more so when North, then South). Determine an average and use that offset in your head. We're not navigating across oceans trying to hit an island 1,000+ miles away. The few miles covered will be impacted more by tide and wind than compass deviation.

Accuracy is not as critical as you think.

[donald]

Good Morning Shrew!
I know what you are saying, I am one of those that if it is there it needs to work!
I would take it off if It would not leave a rather large hole in the helm area, and I was not one of these people that can't tell N from E from S from S on a cloudy day!
So it stays where it is!!
Just have to hope I don't have a GPS failure so I have to rely on the compass!
Can't wait to get the boat back so I can play with installing this thing and maybe a break in the weather to try it out!
Thanks alot!
Don