711C AP and SCX-20 compass ?

T

Tasclean

New member
Investigating new autopilot for displacement cruiser and one dealer suggests we use the scx-20 masthead/external aerial unit instead of a rate compass like PG700.

Plainly an external compass above flybridge is going to experience much more movement than traditional compass mounted somewhere down around the boat's roll/pitch axis.

So has anyone used scx-20 for AP control and can they confirm boat's roll/pitch etc does not affect AP steering (or sounder display) ? :questions
 
I don’t have it but it will go on my sport boat versus a rate compass. Pitch and roll should have no affect on the data as it has 4 gps’s/antennas doing the work. As long as you have a clear look at the sky you should be good. Added benefits are it calculates pitch and roll which would help stabilize your sounders if they are capable to use the data. Personally I’m a north up type of user so you’ll have True North data going into all your equipment. It’s all a win/win as far as I can see. The boat that I drive to make my living uses its big brother the SC-70. The only problem I’ve had with it and various SAT compasses, JRC et cetera is seagulls sitting on the antennas. We glue bird spikes to keep the gulls off.
 
Hopefully some of the new SCX20 owners on the forum will chime in. I have heard of some other brands having problems with pitch/roll slewing the heading but I don't think you will find that with this unit. The largest problem with the SCX20 right now is getting your hands on one. They are very hot item right now. If you have the TZT3 the heaving data from the SCX20 will also be used by your sounder to stabilize the sounder picture. TZT2 can also use it for it's external sounders for heaving. I know the Furuno SC33 has been way up pitching/rolling on large sports fishers and heading wasn't a problem. I expect the same from the SCX20. I am sure given a few days some of the current owners will provide their experience with it.
 
Thank you both for yr replies - still spending this gear and didn’t actually ask the dealer who recommended the sci aerial if they stock ! Look fwd to some more comment..
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top