RD-30 Issue

A

Anonymous

Guest
Whenever I boot my RD-30 up, there's no position. However, after a period of time (could be 30 min, could be an hour) the system registers.

What could be the problem?
 
Since the RD30 is just a repeater of NMEA 0183 information the first place you need to look is the GPS input device.
Does it have a dedicated antenna or is it coming from an MFD?
 
There's a dedicated (Furuno) antenna. The RD30 feeds the MFD, which is a Raymarine C120W. If the RD30 isn't on or working, the C120W doesn't function either.
 
It certainly sounds like an antenna issue. Check to see if there are lose/corroded connections and check the cable for damage.
A local authorized Furuno dealer might be able to check the unit or supply a test antenna to plug in.
 
The antenna seems fine as it functions properly once it decides to. Another poster on another board suggested the internal battery may need replacing. Does this make sense?
 
The problem wouldn't be in the RD-30. It would be in the antenna. It sounds like the antenna has lost sensitivity. This can happen if someone mounts the antenna in the radar beam or too close to any other RF transmitting source. Once damaged, the unit has to be replaced. If you put another in the same bad location it too will eventually go bad. GPS antennas can also go bad if you don't keep then in the upright position. They are not water proof in other positions so don't lay them over in storage etc or water can get inside.
 
Back
Top