Furuno SC50 Satellite Compass

Overview Furuno SC50 Satellite Compass

Furuno SC50 Satellite Compass is a satellite compass designed to provide stable heading and motion data without the upkeep of a traditional gyrocompass. According to the source data, it uses Tri-Antenna GPS Kinematic + 3-Axis Rate Sensor and delivers Typical 0.8° (High Precision).

This type of sensor is used to feed radar, AIS, ECDIS, sonar, and autopilot systems with heading, course, and motion information. The source also notes a settling time of 3 to 4 Minutes and outputs for connected bridge equipment.

Key Features

• Tri-Antenna System: The three-antenna configuration effectively filters out the mechanical noise caused by vessel movement (pitch, roll, and yaw), providing a more reliable heading than dual-antenna alternatives.
• Hybrid GPS & 3-Axis Rate Sensor: The internal rate sensor maintains heading data during brief satellite signal interruptions, ensuring uninterrupted performance for Radar/ARPA and Autopilot systems.
• GPS WAAS Data: The Furuno SC50 provides accuracy for Speed Over Ground (SOG), Course Over Ground (COG), Rate of Turn (ROT), and Latitude/Longitude position.
• Analog Pitch and Roll Output: This specific output provides critical stabilization data directly to Furuno Sonar systems, compensating for ship motion to deliver clearer, more accurate sonar returns.
• Maintenance-Free Operation: With no moving parts, gimbals, or rotating meters, this satellite compass is free from the wear-and-tear associated with traditional gyrocompasses.

Applications

Used where stable heading output is needed for radar overlays, AIS presentation, ECDIS, autopilot input, and sonar stabilization. It is relevant for commercial boats, larger cruising vessels, and bridge systems that need more consistent heading data than a magnetic compass can provide.

It can also serve as a primary heading source on non-compulsory vessels or as a backup heading reference in larger installations.

Specifications

What’s Included

• 1x Furuno SC50 4.5-inch Silver Bright LCD Display Unit
• 1x High-Performance Processor Unit
• 1x Tri-Antenna Sensor Unit with Cable
• 1x Standard Installation Materials and Hardware Kit
• 1x Protective Suncover for Display Unit