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Meridian Gyrocompass

Meridian gyro compass

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)

373 views76 pages

Meridian Gyrocompass

Meridian gyro compass

Uploaded by

Zaw Khaing Win

We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.

Available Formats

Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

You are on page 1/ 76

S G Brown

A Division of TSS (UK) Limited

Meridian Gyrocompass
System Manual

SG Brown
1 Garnett Close
Greycaine Industrial Estate
Watford
Hertfordshire WD2 4JL UK
The information in this Manual is subject to
change without notice and does not represent

Telephone +44 (0)1923 470800

Facsimile +44 (0)1923 470838

a commitment on the part of SG Brown

Document P/N 060070
Issue 2.0
SG Brown May 2000

Abcdef

Contents

CAUTIONARY NOTICES
Your attention is drawn to the following cautionary notices that apply throughout this Manual.
WARNING
The Meridian Gyrocompass weighs 15.5kg. To avoid personal injury, take proper precautions if you lift or move the equipment.
CAUTION
The Meridian Gyrocompass includes precision components and bearings. To avoid
causing damage to any part of the System, handle all items with care.
Retain the original transit cases so that you can use them to transport the system when
necessary. You will void the warranty if you use improper packing during transportation.
CAUTION
Severe damage to the Meridian Gyrocompass can occur if you move the gyrocompass
while the rotor is still spinning without the servo system in operation.
Note that the gyro rotor continues to spin for approximately ten minutes after you
power-off the system.
To avoid potential damage to the Meridian Gyrocompass, always allow a period of ten
minutes after power-off for the gyro rotor to come to rest before you attempt to move
the gyrocompass.
CAUTION
During operation, the gyrocompass must remain level to within 45. If it experiences
tilt greater than 45 in any direction, it will topple. Safety routines in the gyro software
will then power-off the gyro rotor and show alarm conditions on the RCU. To restore
normal operation, establish a level operating attitude and then power-on the gyrocompass normally.
Never apply a tilt of more than 45 with the gyro rotor spinning or during the gyrocompass initialisation procedure. Note that the gyro rotor continues to spin for approximately ten minutes after you power-off the System.
CAUTION
If you install the gyrocompass in an enclosed space, make certain there is sufficient
ventilation and circulation of free air to allow effective cooling.
CAUTION
Do not make any connections to the gyrocompass with power on the supply cable.

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Meridian Gyrocompass
CAUTION
You will void the warranty if you make any modifications to this equipment without
prior permission from SG Brown.
DO NOT modify this equipment in any way without obtaining permission from SG
Brown.

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Contents

CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 System Description
1.1.1 Gyrocompass
1.1.2 Remote Control Unit
1.1.3 Auxiliary Inputs
1.1.4 Heading Outputs
1.2 Principle of Operation

11
13
13
14
15
15
15

2 INSTALLATION
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection
2.2 Physical and Electrical Installation
2.2.1 Selecting a location
2.2.2 Gyrocompass installation
2.2.3 External Remote Control Unit
2.2.4 Set the Gyrocompass DIP Switches
2.3 Alignment
2.4 Final Gyrocompass Installation Tests
2.5 Installation Drawings

21
22
23
23
24
29
210
212
213
214

3 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
3.1 Control Features
3.2 Initial Power-on
3.3 Operating Procedure
3.3.1 Latitude correction
3.3.2 Speed correction
3.3.3 DG operating mode
3.4 Error Modes
3.4.1 Loss of GPS
3.4.2 Loss of speed log
3.4.3 Gyrocompass failure
3.5 Operating Considerations
3.5.1 General Operating Considerations
3.5.2 Operating Considerations for High Speed Craft

31
32
33
34
34
34
35
35
35
36
36
38
38
38

4 TECHNICAL DATA
4.1 Specifications
4.1.1 Power Requirements
4.1.2 Performance (definitions as in ISO 8728)
4.1.3 Compensation
4.1.4 Environment
4.1.5 Signal Inputs
4.1.6 Signal outputs
4.1.7 Dimensions and Weight
4.1.8 Standards
4.2 Data Formats
4.2.1 NMEA 0183 Serial Data Formats General information
4.2.2 Inputs

41
41
41
41
41
41
41
42
42
42
43
44
45

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Meridian Gyrocompass
4.2.2.1 NMEA 0183 input signals
4.2.2.2 Pulsed input
4.2.3 Outputs
4.2.3.1 NMEA output signals
4.2.4 Course Recorder Output
4.2.5 NMEA 0183 sentence with Checksum
4.2.6 Other Output Formats
4.2.6.1 Synchro Output
4.2.6.2 Resolver Output
4.2.6.3 Stepper S-Code
4.2.6.4 Rate of Turn

45
49
410
410
414
415
415
415
415
416
416

5 MAINTENANCE
5.1 Built-in Test Equipment
5.1.1 Azimuth Drift Adjustment
5.1.2 Azimuth Bias Adjustment
5.2 Test Connector

51
52
53
53
54

A OPERATING THEORY
A.1 North-seeking Gyroscope
A.2 Gyrocompass Corrections
A.2.1 Latitude Correction
A.2.2 Gyro Damping
A.2.3 Speed Error
A.3 Summary

A1
A2
A5
A5
A5
A6
A7

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Contents

TABLE OF AMENDMENTS
Old Issue

New Issue

Date

2.0
2.0A
2.0B
2.0C

11 May 2000
12 Dec 2000
1 Mar 2001
23 Apr 2001

DPN 060070

Details
New release. Corrected identification of Azimuth Bias potentiometer and other details. Include DIP switch default settings.
Modify power connection details.
Add notification to avoid product modifications.

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1 Introduction

1 INTRODUCTION
The Meridian Gyrocompass is a master heading reference instrument that applies the characteristics of a dynamically tuned gyroscope and the effects of gravity and earth rotation to provide a true north reference.
The Meridian Gyrocompass specification makes the System ideal for installation and operation on board vessels of almost any size and in a wide range of applications.
Among the standard features of the Meridian Gyrocompass are:

A short settling time

Operation from a 24V DC electrical supply

This Manual is an important part of the Meridian Gyrocompass. It describes the System and
contains full installation and operating instructions. You should retain the Manual with the
System for use by personnel who will install and operate it.
Installation and operation of the Meridian Gyrocompass are not complex tasks. However, you
should spend time to familiarise yourself with the contents of this Manual before you start to
install or use the System. Time spent in identifying the task sequence now will ensure your
System is operational in the minimum of time.
WARNINGS
Where appropriate, this Manual includes important safety information highlighted as
WARNING and CAUTION instructions. You must obey these instructions:
WARNING instructions alert you to a potential risk of death or injury to users of the
System.
CAUTION instructions alert you to the potential risk of damage to the System.
For your convenience, the Table of Contents section includes copies of all the
WARNING and CAUTION instructions included in this Manual.
Throughout this Manual all measurements conform to the SI standard of units unless otherwise indicated.
For your convenience, this Manual includes several sections, each of which describes specific
features of the Meridian Gyrocompass:
You should read sections 1 and 2 before you attempt to install the System:
Section 1 contains introductory notes and describes those items supplied as standard.
Section 2 describes how to select a suitable location for the gyrocompass. This section
includes full instructions to install the System and connect it to external equipment.

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You should read sections 3 and 4 before you use the System:
Section 3 describes how to operate the Meridian Gyrocompass.
Section 4 includes the System specifications and descriptions of the data formats.
You should read sections 5 if you suspect a fault on the System:
Section 5 describes how to use the internal 60-way test connector and explains how to conduct simple adjustments with the gyrocompass housing removed.
This Manual also contains the following appendices:
Appendix A explains how a gyroscope can be made north seeking for use in a gyrocompass.
CAUTION
You will void the warranty if you make any modifications to this equipment without
prior permission from SG Brown.
DO NOT modify this equipment in any way without obtaining permission from SG
Brown.

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1 Introduction

1.1 SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

The Meridian Gyrocompass comprises two sub-assemblies:

The gyrocompass housing

The Remote Control Unit (RCU)

Figure 11 shows the combined gyrocompass housing with the RCU included as an integral
unit.
The Meridian Gyrocompass applies dynamic tuning to settle automatically to within 0.7 of
the meridian within 45 minutes of power-on. Due to the physical principles of a north-seeking
gyrocompass, achievable accuracy depends on the operating latitude and the vessel dynamics.
To optimise its performance, the Meridian Gyrocompass uses information supplied by external
equipment, for example a GPS receiver and a speed log, to apply latitude and speed corrections.
Refer to Appendix A for a simplified explanation of the gyrocompass theory of operation.

1.1.1 Gyrocompass
Figure 11: Gyrocompass housing with
integral RCU

Figure 11 shows the gyrocompass

housing, which contains the following
items:

True north seeking dynamically

tuned precision gyroscope and
gimbal suspension assembly.

Power supply board.

Digital and analogue control

boards.

RFI filter and distribution board.

It is a relatively simple operation to

install the gyrocompass and you
should be able to accomplish this
quickly without the need for specialised personnel or equipment. However, note that the gyrocompass
weighs 15.5kg and you must take due
care when you lift and move it.
The care that you take when you align the gyrocompass housing with the surveyed fore-aft
axis of the vessel will have a direct impact on the accuracy of heading measurements delivered
by the System. Since the Meridian Gyrocompass is an ideal source of heading information for
use by other systems on board, such as radars and satellite communication antennas, the accu-

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Meridian Gyrocompass
racy of its heading measurements will have a wide impact throughout the vessel. You should
therefore take care when you install and align the gyrocompass. Refer to Section 2 for full
instructions to install, connect and align the Meridian Gyrocompass.
The only component available for user servicing is a 3A line fuse inside the gyrocompass
housing. In case of failure, refer to Section 5 for instructions to renew this fuse and check the
PSU board supplies.

1.1.2 Remote Control Unit

Figure 12: Remote Control Unit

The Remote Control Unit (RCU) provides all the functions and indicators necessary to control
and operate the Meridian Gyrocompass.
The four-character LED can show a range of information:

Heading information, for example 012.3 when in the READY mode

Source of speed signal when in SPEED mode

Value of manually set speed when in SPEED mode with manual speed selected

Source of latitude signal when in LAT mode

Value of manually set latitude when in LAT mode with manual latitude selected

Status of gyro when in ALARM mode

Status of GPS when in ALARM mode

Status of ships log when in ALARM mode

Software version when in SOFTWARE VERSION mode

Refer to Section 3 for instructions to operate the Meridian Gyrocompass.

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1 Introduction

1.1.3 Auxiliary Inputs

Auxiliary inputs may be used for the Meridian Gyrocompass to apply latitude and speed corrections.
Ideally, the Meridian Gyrocompass should accept latitude and speed information from external sources such as a GPS receiver or a speed log. However, you may supply this information
manually if external sources are not available. The advantage of using GPS or a speed log to
provide correction signals is that they allow the Meridian Gyrocompass to apply corrections
automatically.
Section 2 includes instructions to connect and configure the external sources of latitude and
speed information.
Section 3 includes instructions to set the latitude and speed manually.

1.1.4 Heading Outputs

The Meridian Gyrocompass is a self-contained precision navigation instrument that is capable
of supplying heading reference information simultaneously to a wide range of equipment on
board the vessel. Throughout a typical vessel, applications that can use information supplied
by the Meridian Gyrocompass include:

Autopilot

Radars

GPS

Radio direction finder

Course plotter and recorder

Satellite communication systems

Satellite television

To support this wide range of equipment types, the Meridian Gyrocompass can supply heading
information simultaneously through multiple channels using any of the common transmission
formats.
Refer to Section 3 for a description of the available output channels and their data formats.

1.2 PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION

In the absence of external influences, a free-spinning gyroscope will try to maintain a fixed
orientation in space. The Meridian Gyrocompass exploits this property and uses gravity control and earth rotation to align the gyroscope spin axis with the meridian, i.e. the true north
direction.
Refer to Appendix A for the general theory of gyrocompass operation.

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2 Installation

2 INSTALLATION
To obtain the best performance from the Meridian Gyrocompass you must take care when you
install and connect it. This section includes all the information and instructions you will need
to complete these tasks.
You should read this section carefully and understand the important instructions that it contains before you begin to install or connect the equipment.
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection

Page 2

Explains the inspection checks that you should perform as you unpack the Meridian Gyrocompass.
2.2 Physical and Electrical Installation

Page 3

Choose a suitable location to install the Meridian Gyrocompass. Connect the system to an
electrical supply and to external equipment.
2.3 Alignment

Page 12

The care that you take as you align the Meridian Gyrocompass with the fore-aft datum on the
vessel will have a direct influence upon its accuracy.

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Meridian Gyrocompass

2.1 UNPACKING AND INSPECTION

WARNING
The Meridian Gyrocompass weighs 15.5kg. To avoid personal injury, take proper precautions if you lift or move the equipment.
CAUTION
The Meridian Gyrocompass includes precision components and bearings. To avoid
causing damage to any part of the System, handle all items with care.
Retain the original transit cases so that you can use them to transport the system when
necessary. You will void the warranty if you use improper packing during transportation.
CAUTION
Severe damage to the Meridian Gyrocompass can occur if you move the gyrocompass
while the rotor is still spinning without the servo system in operation.
Note that the gyro rotor continues to spin for approximately ten minutes after you
power-off the system.
To avoid potential damage to the Meridian Gyrocompass, always allow a period of ten
minutes after power-off for the gyro rotor to come to rest before you attempt to move
the gyrocompass.
The Meridian Gyrocompass undergoes a full series of electrical and mechanical tests during
manufacture and before dispatch. The packing case has a special design to protect the contents
against shock during transit so that the equipment should arrive without damage or defect.
As soon as possible after you have received the system, check all items against the shipping
documents. Inspect all sub-assemblies carefully to check for any damage that may have
occurred during transportation. If you see any damage file a claim with the carrier and immediately notify SG Brown.
To avoid loss or damage to any components of the system, store all sub-assemblies safely in
the transit case until you need to install them. Obey the storage temperature limits listed in
Section 4.
Notify SG Brown immediately if there are any components missing from the shipment.
The title page of this Manual lists the contact details for SG Brown.

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2 Installation

2.2 PHYSICAL AND ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION

2.2.1 Selecting a location
There are certain guidelines that you should follow to install the Meridian Gyrocompass successfully:
CAUTION
During operation, the gyrocompass must remain level to within 45. If it experiences
tilt greater than 45 in any direction, it will topple. Safety routines in the gyro software
will then power-off the gyro rotor and show alarm conditions on the RCU. To restore
normal operation, establish a level operating attitude and then power-on the gyrocompass normally.
Never apply a tilt of more than 45 with the gyro rotor spinning or during the gyrocompass initialisation procedure. Note that the gyro rotor continues to spin for approximately ten minutes after you power-off the System.

The gyrocompass weighs 15.5kg. Choose a mounting location that is level, flat and sufficiently strong to support the unit without flexing or experiencing extreme vibration. The
mounting location can be open, as on a chart table, or enclosed within a cabinet.
CAUTION
If you install the gyrocompass in an enclosed space, make certain there is sufficient
ventilation and circulation of free air to allow effective cooling.

Choose a location that protects the Meridian Gyrocompass from damage.

Do not install or operate the Meridian Gyrocompass where the ambient temperature could
fall below 0C or rise above +45C, or where rapid changes of temperature can occur.

Do not install the Meridian Gyrocompass close to strong mechanical or electrical noise
sources, or in a location susceptible to vibration or shock.

Allow a minimum distance of 1.3m between the gyrocompass housing and any standard
magnetic compasses.

Choose a location that allows convenient access to install, connect and service the Meridian Gyrocompass. Refer to Figure 26 for clearance dimensions.

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Meridian Gyrocompass

2.2.2 Gyrocompass installation

You must align the Meridian Gyrocompass so that its fore-aft axis is parallel to the foreaft datum on the vessel. Any misalignment between the gyrocompass housing and the
vessel will have a direct effect on the accuracy of heading measurements delivered by
the system.
To install the Meridian Gyrocompass you will need the following tools:

Screwdriver 5.5mm 150mm

Screwdriver 3mm 75mm

Nut spinner 5.5mm

Combination spanner 10mm

Hexagon key 2mm

Adjustable spanner opening to at least 33mm

Suitable cables for the installation as indicated in Table 21.

Table 21: Suitable cable types

Purpose

Suitable cable

Power supply

7/0.5mm (1.5mm2) HOFR sheathed to BS6883

Synchro heading output

Resolver heading output
Stepper S-code output

7/0.4mm (1.0mm2) butyl or EP rubber insulated, CSP

sheathed, wire braided and CSP oversheathed.

Serial data heading output

Serial data speed input
Serial data latitude input

1/0.85mm (0.6mm2) twisted pair, butyl or EP rubber insulated,

CSP sheathed, wire braided and CSP oversheathed.

There should be no need to remove the gyrocompass cover during installation. You may gain
access to make power and signal connections by removing the gland plate assembly, comprising the Gland Plate and the Distribution Board. There is a removable panel on the top of the
gyrocompass that allows access to the internal DIP switches and a 60-way test connector.
1. During installation you must align the Meridian Gyrocompass so that its fore-aft axis is
parallel with the fore-aft datum on the vessel. It is not necessary for the gyrocompass to be
on the vessel centre line. There are alignment marks on the base of the Meridian Gyrocompass to help you achieve the correct alignment.
2. Three elongated securing holes machined into the gyrocompass base allow you to make
fine adjustments to alignment after installation. With the gyrocompass positioned accurately, mark the supporting surface with the centre positions for the three securing holes.
Refer to Figures 25 and 26 for dimensions.

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2 Installation
3. Remove the gyrocompass and drill three 8.5mm diameter holes, using the marks you have
just made on the supporting surface as hole centres. Deburr the holes and remove any
swarf.
4. Reposition the gyrocompass and align it to the fore-aft datum. Use three M8 bolts with
washers and nuts to secure the gyrocompass in position.
5. Connect a 24V electrical supply (acceptable range 18V to 36V DC) to the Meridian Gyrocompass at J1, the three-pin power inlet on the Gland Plate. Figure 21 shows the Gland
Plate.
Figure 21: Gyrocompass gland plate

CAUTION
Gland plate release screws
Cover plate release screws

Before removing the cover or the RCU

unit, remove the gland plate and
disconnect the RCU cable (TB1/17-22)
from the distribution board.

Fuse
3.15AF

Mfg. Date
Watford, England.
Serial No.
Build Standard No.
Compass Min. Safe Dist.
m

CAUTION
Do not make any connections to the gyrocompass with power on the supply cable.
6. Connect the ships safety ground to the earthing stud adjacent to the power connector.
7. Make all necessary signal connections to the Meridian Gyrocompass at the Distribution
Board. The Distribution Board accepts open tails for all connections. Pass cables through
available glands in the Gland Plate. Glands A, D, E, F and J (identified in Figure 25)

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Meridian Gyrocompass
accept cables up to 18mm diameter, while all other glands accept cables up to 14mm diameter. Refer to Figure 23, and Tables 23 and 24 for cable connection details.
8. To maintain EMC compliance, connect all the wire braiding on the cables to the grounding
posts on the inside surface of the Gland Plate as shown in Figure 22.
Figure 22: Termination of wire braided cables

9. Refit the Gland Plate, making certain there are no trapped wires or cables.
Figure 23: Gyrocompass distribution board

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2 Installation
Table 22: J1 Power supply input pin details
Pin

Description

Protective ground

+24V DC

Table 23: Input signals

Signal description

Signal type

Distribution Board connector

TB1/1

TB1/2 (0V)

GPS input

NMEA 0183 RS232

TB1/3

TB1/4 (0V)

GPS input

NMEA 0183 RS422

TB1/5 (+)

TB1/6 ()

Log input

NMEA 0183 RS232

TB1/7

TB1/8 (0V)

Log input

NMEA 0183 RS422

TB1/9 (+)

TB1/10 ()

TB1/11

TB1/12 (0V)

TTL pulses

TB1/13 (+)

TB1/14 (0V)

Voltage free contact close

TB1/15 (+)

TB1/16 (0V)

RCU in

TB1/17 (+)

TB1/18 ()

RCU On/Off

TB1/19 ()

TB1/20 (+)

TB1/21 (A)

TB1/22 (B)

TB1/23

TB1/24

Log OK
Log
Log relay

RCU Communications
Spare

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Table 24: Output signals
Signal description

Signal type

Distribution Board connector

Channel 2

NMEA 0183 RS232 (all data)

TB2/1

TB2/2 (0V)

Channel 1

NMEA 0183 RS232 (all data)

TB2/3

TB2/4 (0V

Channel 2

NMEA 0183 RS422 (all data)

TB2/5 (+)

TB2/6 ()

Channel 1

NMEA 0183 RS422 (all data)

TB2/7 (+)

TB2/8 ()

TB2/9 (5V)
TB2/11 (L2)
TB2/13 (0V)

TB2/10 (L1)
TB2/12 (L3)

Heading

TTL S-type

Heading

Synchro/resolver

Gyro fail

Voltage free contact closure

TB2/14 (36V) res

TB2/15 (26V) syn
TB2/16 (0V) syn/res
TB2/17 (S1) syn
TB2/18 (S1) res
TB2/19 (S2) syn/res
TB2/20 (S3) syn/res
TB2/21 (S4) res
TB2/22 (CC)
TB2/23 (NO)
TB2/24 (NC)

System Fail

TTL

Gyro ready

Voltage free contact closure

Gyro ready

TTL

TB3/23 (+)

TB3/24 ()

Rate of turn

Analogue 10V

TB3/25

TB3/26 (0V)

NMEA 0183 RS232

TB3/27

TB3/28 (0V)

Course recorder

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SG Brown

TB2/25

TB2/26 (0V)

TB2/27 (CC)
TB2/28 (NO)
TB2/29 (NC)

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2 Installation

2.2.3 External Remote Control Unit

The standard Meridian Gyrocompass has the Remote Control Unit (RCU) mounted integrally
and available for immediate operation.
There may be applications where you prefer to install the RCU at some distance from the
gyrocompass unit. A mounting kit, part number 929190, is available to use in these circumstances. The kit includes the following items:

RCU housing

Mounting bracket

Blanking plate for the gyrocompass housing

There is no need to remove the gyrocompass cover to install the RCU externally:
1. Release and remove the four M3 screws at the corners of the RCU that secure it to the
gyrocompass housing.
2. Remove the seven Gland Plate release screws marked ! in Figure 21. Remove the Gland
Plate. Note the connection sequence of the RCU cable at TB1/1722 so that you can
restore the same connections through the extension cable.
3. Disconnect the RCU cable at TB1/1722 .
4. Lift the RCU away from the gyrocompass and install it at the remote location.
The cable run between the RCU and the remote location must not exceed 100 metres.
5. Use the bracket with the mounting kit to fix the RCU to a desk or to a bulkhead. You may
also flush mount the RCU in a panel. Choose a suitable location to mount the RCU:

The mounting surface can be vertical or horizontal according to requirements.

Avoid installing the RCU where it might experience severe shock or vibration.

Choose a location for the RCU that allows a clear view of the display in all conditions.

6. Use the two star knobs supplied to fit the RCU into the mounting bracket. Tilt the unit to a
convenient viewing and operating angle and then lock it in place by tightening both star
knobs.
7. Supply and fit a cable to connect the RCU to TB1/1722 on the Distribution Board . The
cable must have three screened twisted pairs and should not exceed 100 metres in
length.Route the cable through a vacant cable gland on the Gland Plate and make the correct connections to the TB1 terminals.
8. Refit the Gland Plate and secure it in place using the seven release screws.
9. Fit the blanking plate to fill the gap left in the cover by the RCU.

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Meridian Gyrocompass

2.2.4 Set the Gyrocompass DIP Switches

1. Power-off the gyrocompass before you make any changes to the DIP switch settings.
2. There is a removable panel on top of the gyrocompass that allows access to the two internal DIP switches (shown in Figure 24) without the need to remove the main gyrocompass
cover. Release and remove the three securing screws to lift off the panel.
3. Refer to Tables 25 and 26 set the DIP switches carefully for the specific requirements of
your installation. Do not adjust the settings of other preset controls inside the gyrocompass.
4. Refit the access panel to the top of the gyrocompass cover
Figure 24: Location of DIP switches.

Azimuth bias potentiometer

Tilt bias
potentiometer

DIP
switches

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2 Installation
Table 25: SW1 DIP switch settings
Switch number
and setting
1 = on, 0 = off

Function

1
1
0
1
0*

Speed Log Input

100 pulses per nautical mile
200 pulses per nautical mile
400 pulses per nautical mile
LOG NMEA*

2
1
1
0
0*
3
1*
0

Channel 1 Baud rate

4800*
9600

4
1*
0

Channel 2 Baud rate

4800*
9600

5
1
0*

Channel 1 update rate

10 Hz
1 Hz*

6
1
0*

Channel 2 update rate

10 Hz
1 Hz*

7
1*
0

NMEA sentence format for heading output

HDT*
VHW

8
1*
0

Directional gyro mode

DG mode not selected*
DG mode selected

Notes: 1. If you set a 10Hz update rate, the heading output defaults to HDT + ROT format only.
2. Factory default settings appear in bold and are marked with an asterisk in this table.

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Meridian Gyrocompass
Table 26: SW2 DIP switch settings
Switch number
and setting
1 = on, 0 = off

Function

1
1*
0

Execute software version

Operational software*
Illegal setting

2
1
0*

Heading output resolution

Two decimal places
One decimal place*

3
1
0*

Checksum selector
Checksum NOT selected
Checksum selected*

4
1
0*

Channel 2 output selector

NMEA 0183 HDT only
NMEA 0183 all data*

Switches 5 to 7
8
1
0*

Not used
Test mode
Factory test mode selected
Normal operational mode*

2.3 ALIGNMENT
It is important to align the gyrocompass to the vessel accurately. Any misalignment between
the housing and the vessel will appear directly as a fixed error in heading measurements.
Because measurements from the Meridian Gyrocompass are available for use by diverse systems around the vessel, any misalignment between the gyrocompass and the fore-aft datum
might have a significant impact in many other areas of application.
There are several methods you may use to align the gyrocompass to the vessel fore-aft datum:

Align the gyrocompass to the fore-aft datum using a known reference line, such as a surveyed bulkhead or frame member. The marks on the gyrocompass base plate are precision
indicators of the gyrocompass alignment orientation.

Use the services of a marine surveyor to align the gyrocompass precisely with the fore-aft
datum.

Remove any residual misalignment by making minuscule adjustments to the gyrocompass

mounting plate. When you have achieved perfect alignment, tighten the securing bolts fully to
lock the gyrocompass in position.

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2 Installation

2.4 FINAL GYROCOMPASS INSTALLATION TESTS

After you have installed the gyrocompass and power supplies are available to it, perform the
following installation tests:
1. Power-on the gyrocompass by following the instructions in sub-section 3.2. Wait for three
hours before you perform the following tests.
2. Check the vessel heading against a known reference mark on a chart. Typically this could
be the alongside position of the fitting-out dock. Alternatively, accurately survey an object
at least five kilometres ahead of the vessel using the fore-aft line as a datum.
3. Check the displayed gyrocompass heading at intervals to make certain it is consistent with
the surveyed vessel heading.
4. If there is an error larger than 0.5, re-check the vessel fore-aft datum to confirm that it is
correct.
5. Check that all the repeaters are accurately aligned with the gyrocompass heading and make
certain they maintain their alignment at all times while the gyrocompass is powered-on.

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0
14

150

160

170 180 190 200

210

22
0

0
23

240

13
0

SG Brown
W

260 270 280 290

250
300

31
0

NE
N
350 0

10 20

NW
340
330

80 90 100 110
70
120

Page 14 of 18
0
32

CAUTION
Before removing the cover or the RCU
unit, remove the gland plate and
disconnect the RCU cable (TB1/17-22)
from the distribution board.

24VDC

Fuse
3.15AF

Mfg. Date
Watford, England.
Serial No.
Build Standard No.
Compass Min. Safe Dist.
m

Figure 25: Gyrocompass installation Sheet 1

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3 Operating Instructions

3 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
This section explains how to power-on and configure the Meridian Gyrocompass after installation. Refer to Section 4 for an explanation of the data formats relevant to the System.
3.1 Control Features

Page 2

The RCU provides all the controls you will need to operate the Meridian Gyrocompass. It also
includes a four-character display panel that shows the heading indication and any alarm messages and error codes.
3.2 Initial Power-on

Page 3

Explains how to power-on the Meridian Gyrocompass after installation and describes the initialisation sequence.
3.3 Operating Procedure

Page 4

Explains how to select the latitude and speed correction sources, and how to set the latitude
and speed manually if necessary.
3.4 Error Modes

Page 5

Identifies the system error modes. Use these indicators to identify a possible fault condition.
3.5 Operating Considerations

Page 8

Includes general advice for operating the Meridian Gyrocompass on a vessel and on high
speed craft.

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3.1 CONTROL FEATURES

Figure 31: RCU front panel features

The RCU front panel includes all the operator controls for the Meridian Gyrocompass:
Table 31: RCU Control and Indicator functions
Control

Function

Power switch. This is a press-to-make, press-to-break switch, recessed to prevent accidental

operation.

Selection button Up. This is a press-to-make, release-to-break button.

Selection button Down. This is a press-to-make, release-to-break button

Latitude selection button. This is a press-to-make, release-to-break button. Use this button,
together with the increase and decrease selection buttons to apply latitude correction manually.

Speed selection button. This is a press-to-make, release-to-break button. Use this button,
together with the increase and decrease selection buttons to apply speed correction manually.

Alarm. This is a press-to-make, release-to-break button. Use this button to cancel an audible
alarm.

012.3
Power lamp (red)
Ready lamp
(green)

Page 2 of 10

Four-character display to indicate heading and system status.

Indicates 24V DC nominal power received by the Meridian Gyrocompass.
Indicates that the Meridian Gyrocompass has settled to indicate the true heading.

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3 Operating Instructions

3.2 INITIAL POWER-ON

The Meridian Gyrocompass starting cycle is fully automatic after power-on. All operator controls are on the RCU. In the following instruction sequence, the display description G.Y.R.O. +
. .O.N., for example, means that the four-character display alternates between showing G.Y.R.O.
and . .O.N..
1. Check that there is a nominal 24V DC electrical supply available to the gyrocompass. The
acceptable supply range is 18V to 36V DC.
The gyrocompass draws 3A from the DC supply during start-up. To ensure continuous
operation, the power supply for this unit must have a 200W power rating.
2. To start the Meridian Gyrocompass press the power switch on the RCU.
3. Check that the red Power lamp on the RCU illuminates. This lamp indicates only that the
Meridian Gyrocompass is receiving power and does NOT indicate a settled condition.
Check that the instrument illumination is at maximum during the initialisation sequence.
Even at its maximum setting, the instrument illumination may be difficult to see in bright
ambient lighting.
4. The RCU will sound an alarm briefly and the display indicates TEST while the system
performs a series of self tests. On successful completion of the self-tests, the alarm will
silence and the display will flash the heading until the gyrocompass provides a stable north
reference.
5. Wait for the gyrocompass to settle. This will occur automatically and will take between 24
and 45 minutes to complete. The Meridian Gyrocompass signifies its settled condition by
illuminating the green Ready lamp and by showing a stable heading on the RCU display.
6. Set the source of latitude information by following the instructions in sub-section 3.3.1.
7. Set the source of speed information by following the instructions in sub-section 3.3.2.
8. Use the increase and decrease selection buttons to adjust the RCU illumination level to a
comfortable setting.
9. If necessary, you can view the software versions of the main and the control panel processors by pressing both the Up and the Down selection buttons simultaneously. The display
will toggle between indications of the main processor software version (with prefix M)
and the control panel software (with prefix R). The display will continue to toggle for a
further six seconds after you release the buttons and will then return to the heading indication.

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3.3 OPERATING PROCEDURE

The Meridian Gyrocompass will settle automatically after power-on, taking a maximum of 45
minutes to provide a true north reference. The system requires only latitude and speed correction, applied manually or from external sources, to perform to the specified accuracy.
Ideally, the Meridian Gyrocompass should accept latitude and speed information from external sources such as a GPS receiver or a speed log, which allow the System to apply corrections
automatically.

3.3.1 Latitude correction

1. Press and hold the Latitude selection button.
2. Use the up and down selection buttons "# to set the local latitude manually. The display
will show the latitude in one-degree increments in the range 80N to 80S, for example
L.70.N.

To select automatic latitude compensation from a GPS receiver, use the up or down selection buttons "# to scroll beyond 80N or 80S until the display shows L.GPS. Disregard
the DG setting, which sets the directional gyrocompass operating mode explained in subsection 3.3.3.
If there is no valid input available from a GPS receiver, the display will flash and the
Meridian Gyrocompass will not accept the selection as an input source.

3. Release both buttons to set the latitude to the displayed value or to set the gyrocompass to
use GPS as the source of automatic latitude correction. The display will indicate the latitude setting for a further three seconds and will then return to the normal heading display.
If you input the operating latitude manually, remember to change the setting when necessary. Note that, in medium latitudes, a 10 error in setting the operating latitude will
result in a compass error of approximately 0.3.

3.3.2 Speed correction

1. Press and hold the Speed selection button.
2. Use the up and down selection buttons "# to set the speed manually in the range zero to
90 knots.

To select automatic speed compensation from a GPS receiver or a speed log, use the up
selection button " to scroll beyond 90 knots until the display shows S.GPS or S.LOG.
If there is no valid input available from a speed log or GPS receiver, the display will
flash and the Meridian Gyrocompass will not accept the selection as an input source.

3. Release both buttons to set the speed to the displayed value or to set the gyrocompass to
use GPS or a speed log as the source of automatic speed correction. The display will indicate the latitude source for a further three seconds and will then return to the normal heading display.

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3 Operating Instructions
If you input the vessel speed manually, remember to set the average vessel speed and
to change the setting when necessary. Return the setting to zero on completion of the
voyage. For a vessel steaming in a northerly direction, a 5-knot error in speed setting
will generate an error of approximately 0.5.

3.3.3 DG operating mode

Follow the instructions in sub-section 3.3.1 to set the latitude correction to the Directional
Gyro (DG) mode. In this mode you can use the Meridian Gyrocompass as a direction indicating instrument all the way up to the poles. If the gyrocompass has settled on north immediately
prior to entering the DG mode, it will continue to provide a useful indication of the northerly
direction for a period, but will not continue to seek north. The length of time that the direction
indication remains valid depends entirely on the gyro drift characteristics.
Note that the gyrocompass will not north seek while operating in the DG mode.

3.4 ERROR MODES

The Meridian Gyrocompass has three possible Error modes:
1. Loss or corruption of GPS signal
2. Loss or corruption of speed log signal
3. Gyrocompass failure

3.4.1 Loss of GPS

This failure mode can occur when you have selected GPS as the source of speed or latitude
information and the signal corrupts or becomes lost for a period of two minutes. You can recognise this condition by the following indications:

The display flashes S.GPS + FAIL or L.GPS + FAIL at one-second intervals.

An audible alarm will sound.

Press the Alarm button to cancel the audible alarm. This will have two effects:
1. The audible alarm will cancel.
2. The RCU will automatically select the manual source for its speed or latitude input signal.
It will use the most recent valid value supplied by the GPS source for the initial setting,
although you can adjust this if necessary.
If a signal is available from a speed log, you may set this as the speed source.

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3.4.2 Loss of speed log

This failure mode can occur when you have selected the speed log as the source of speed information and the signal corrupts or becomes lost for a period of two minutes. You can recognise
this condition by the following indications:

The display flashes S.LOG + FAIL at one-second intervals.

An audible alarm will sound.

Press the Alarm button to cancel the alarm. This will have two effects:
1. The audible alarm will cancel.
2. The RCU will automatically select the manual source for its speed input signal. It will use
the most recent valid value supplied by the speed log for the initial setting, although you
can adjust this if necessary.
If speed information is available from a GPS receiver, you may set this as the speed source.

3.4.3 Gyrocompass failure

The Meridian Gyrocompass has a built-in system that monitors operation of the gyrocompass.
If it detects a fault condition, it will use three methods to alert you:

The display flashes GYRO + FAIL at one-second intervals.

An audible alarm will sound.

The Ready lamp will extinguish.

Press the Alarm button to cancel the audible alarm.

The RCU uses the decimal points at each display character position to identify the cause of the
failure.
Figure 32: Gyrocompass failure codes

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3 Operating Instructions
If your system develops a fault condition as indicated by the display, refer to sub-section 5.1
for some simple checks that you can make. If necessary, contact SG Brown or an approved
local service agent for assistance.

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3.5 OPERATING CONSIDERATIONS

3.5.1 General Operating Considerations

You should leave the Meridian Gyrocompass running continuously. Power-off the system
only during long periods of lay-up, for example during vessel dry-docking. To power-off
the Meridian Gyrocompass, press the Power button. The heading display will go blank
and the front panel lamps will switch off. The gyro rotor will take approximately ten minutes to come to rest.

If you intend to leave the system powered-off for an extended period, you should arrange
to run the gyrocompass for a period of at least thirty minutes at intervals of six months or
less.

The Meridian Gyrocompass has full protection against interruption of its electrical supply.
It will re-start and align itself automatically on restoration of electrical power. The heading
indication will be accurate when the RCU Ready lamp is on.

Monitor the Meridian Gyrocompass performance regularly. When functioning correctly,

and provided the correct Speed and Latitude compensations are applied, the heading error
in latitudes up to 60 and for speeds up to 25 knots will normally be less than 0.75 regardless of the vessel manoeuvres.

Never move the gyrocompass with the gyro rotor spinning unless you leave the servos
operational. Note that the gyro rotor continues to spin for a period of approximately ten
minutes after you power-off the gyrocompass.

3.5.2 Operating Considerations for High Speed Craft

The gyrocompass gravity control gives rise to errors whenever the gyrocompass accelerates or decelerates along the north-south line, that is whenever the northerly speed or
course changes. These errors are caused by the inertia of the pendulous element of the
gyro, which produces a torque about the horizontal axis and therefore a precession in azimuth. This effect, called ballistic deflection, causes an increase in error during acceleration.

The precession in tilt that arises from the damping component of gravity control is called
ballistic tilt. The combined effects of ballistic tilt and ballistic deflection cause the gyrocompass to tilt downwards. Because of the factors that guide the behaviour of a damped
gyroscope, the gyro spin axis will return to the settled position by the normal anticlockwise spiral after the acceleration has ceased.

In the Meridian Gyrocompass, gravity control comes from an accelerometer (pendulum),

which generates an electrical signal related to the tilt of the gyro spin axis. This devices
has two important design features; it is heavily damped and the range of output is restricted
to a small angle.
The use of accelerometer damping by the Meridian Gyrocompass is of prime importance
in the reduction of a particularly serious form of ballistic error called inter cardinal rolling
error. This type of error occurs most noticeably when the vessel steams on an inter cardinal
heading while rolling simultaneously through a significant angle.

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3 Operating Instructions
If the gyrocompass is installed at some distance above the vessel centre of roll rotation, as
is usually the case on commercial vessels, the resulting lateral acceleration components
along the east-west and north-south axes of the gyrocompass combine to build an error in
the northerly settle point.
If the effect persists for long enough, this error might become as large as several degrees.
However, by damping the accelerometer using a time constant several times larger than the
vessel rolling period, inter cardinal rolling errors are significantly reduced.

Another form of ballistic error arises from north-south accelerations generated by vessel
manoeuvres. Such accelerations can arise from changes in speed and/or course. By limiting the angular output of the accelerometer, the Meridian Gyrocompass reduces the error
potential typically to less than one degree.

It is also possible to eliminate the effects of acceleration by operating the gyrocompass

temporarily in the directional gyro (DG) mode. In this mode, the gyrocompass uses gravity
control for tilt corrections only, so that ballistic effects would cause negligible heading
error during short-term periods of acceleration.
You can set the DG mode manually from the RCU. The gyrocompass will automatically
set the DG mode if the accelerometer signal exceeds a pre-set threshold. The gyrocompass
will remain in the DG mode until the accelerometer signal falls below the threshold value
for more than 30 seconds. The alarm will activate if the accelerometer signal exceeds the
threshold setting for more than 30 minutes.

The Meridian Gyrocompass complies with all requirements of IMO Resolution A.821(19),
Performance Standards for Gyrocompasses for High-Speed Craft.

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4 Technical Data

4 TECHNICAL DATA
4.1 SPECIFICATIONS
4.1.1 Power Requirements
Voltage

24V DC (acceptable range 18V to 36V DC)

Maximum power consumption

3A at power-on (The power supply capacity

should exceed 200W)

To comply with the requirements of IMO Resolution A.821(19), Performance Standards for
Gyrocompasses for High Speed Craft, power to the gyrocompass should be delivered by an
uninterruptable power supply, for example the SGBrown UPS part number 929128.

4.1.2 Performance (definitions as in ISO 8728)

Settle point error

0.25 sec latitude

Static error

0.1 sec latitude RMS

Dynamic accuracy

0.6 sec latitude (Scorsby and

Intercardinal motion tests)

Settle point repeatability

0.25 sec latitude

Follow up speed

200/s

Time to settle within 0.7

Less than 45 minutes

4.1.3 Compensation
Latitude compensation range

80N to 80S

Speed compensation range

0 to 90 knots

4.1.4 Environment
Operating environment

EN 6095:1997 designated category weather protected

Operating temperature

0C to +45C (to ISO 8728)

15C to +55C (with reduced accuracy)

Storage temperature

25C to +80C

4.1.5 Signal Inputs

Latitude

NMEA 0183 via RS232 or RS422 from GPS

Speed

Pulse or contact closure at 100, 200 or 400 per

nautical mile from speed log.
NMEA 0183 via RS232 or RS422 from GPS or
speed log

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4.1.6 Signal outputs

S-type heading

1 step-by-step, 6 steps per degree (TTL level)

Synchro heading

1 26V 400Hz (11.8V maximum line-to-line),

sector value 360

Resolver heading

1 36V 400Hz (8V maximum per phase),

sector value 360

Analogue rate of turn

1 rate of turn 20/s (10V)

Serial data outputs

6 RS232
11 RS422

Serial data formats

NMEA 0183 (all data) at 1Hz or 10Hz.

Course recorder outputNMEA 0183 (heading,
date, time)

Status/alarm

5V TTL power/gyro failure

Voltage free power/gyro failure contacts
5V TTL system ready
Voltage free system ready contacts

4.1.7 Dimensions and Weight

Dimensions

344mm (H) 267mm (W) 440mm (D)

Weight

15.5kg

RCU size (when mounted externally)

96mm (H) 192mm (W) 108mm (D)0

RCU weight

0.75 kg

4.1.8 Standards
The Meridian Gyrocompass is designed to meet the requirements of the following:

IMO Resolution A.424 (XI), Performance Standards for Gyrocompasses

IMO Resolution A.821 (19), Performance Standards for Gyrocompasses for High Speed
Craft

BS EN 60945 (January 1997), General Requirements - Methods of testing and required

test results

BS EN ISO 8728:1999, Shipbuilding Marine Gyrocompasses

BS 6217:1981, Graphical Symbols for use on Electrical Equipment

CE marking

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive

The Marine Equipment Directive 96/98/EC

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4 Technical Data

4.2 DATA FORMATS

Set the DIP switches according to your specific input and output requirements. You will find
the instructions to do this in sub-section 2.2.4.
Inputs Refer to sub-section 4.2.2
Acceptable input formats:
Latitude information using serial NMEA 0183 GLL, GGA or RMC sentences. If more
than one of these formats is available, the Meridian Gyrocompass makes its selection in
the stated preference order. Refer to Figures 42, 43 and 44 respectively for a description of these formats.

Speed information using serial NMEA 0183 VTG, VHW or RMC sentences. The sentences can contain speed information using knots and/or km/h. The Meridian Gyrocompass will use the speed in knots if available, and will calculate the speed in knots if the
sentence contains only speed in km/h. Refer to Figures 48, 49 and 44 respectively for a
description of these formats.

TTL-compatible pulsed speed input with a TTL-level signal on contact closure.

Outputs Refer to sub-section 4.2.3

Serial output formats:
The Meridian Gyrocompass transmits all available information through RS232 and RS422
serial lines using the NMEA 0183 format. The serial transmission rate can be either 4800 or
9600 baud, with updates occurring at 1Hz or 10Hz as defined by the setting of the DIP
switches. The serial output contains all available NMEA sentences transmitted consecutively
and in the following order:

Heading using either HDT or VHW sentence formats as selected by the DIP switches.
Refer to Figures 410 and 49 respectively for a description of these formats.

Rate of turn using the ROT sentence format. Refer to Figure 412 for a description of this
format.

Speed using VTG, VHW or RMC sentences determined by the available input format.
Refer to Figures 48, 49 and 44 respectively for a description of these formats.

Latitude using GLL, GGA or RMC sentences determined by the available input format.
Refer to Figures 42, 43 and 44 respectively for a description of these formats.

Data and time using the ZDA sentence format. Refer to Figure 417 for a description of
this format

Other output formats:

Synchro Heading Output

Resolver Heading Output

Stepper S-code Heading Output

Rate of turn using a bipolar analogue voltage in the range 10V

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The following sub-sections describe each of the formats supported by the Meridian Gyrocompass.

4.2.1 NMEA 0183 Serial Data Formats General information

The Meridian Gyrocompass accepts and transmits asynchronous serial data using 8 data bits,
one stop bit and no parity through RS232 and RS422 transmit-only lines. The data bits occur
in each packet with the least significant bit first. The most significant bit of the 8-bit character
will always be zero.
Figure 41: Serial data format

All data is interpreted as ASCII characters that form NMEA sentences split into individual
fields. All fields, including null fields, are separated by commas.
The NMEA format supports an optional checksum if included, the checksum occurs as an
additional field immediately before the carriage return line-feed characters. It consists of an
asterisk (*) followed by a checksum derived by exclusive OR-ing the eight data bits of each
valid character preceding the asterisk, but excluding the $ symbol, in the sentence. The absolute value of the checksum is transmitted in ASCII characters representing the value in HEX.
For circumstances where the Meridian Gyrocompass retransmits serial data using the same
NMEA sentence format supplied by an external source, it will recalculate any checksum and
insert the new value into the output sentence.
NMEA sentences are usually transmitted once per second, however you can set a DIP switch
to select a transmission rate of 10 per second. The outputs are grouped into two channels that
can be set independently to either 1Hz or 10Hz updates.

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4 Technical Data

4.2.2 Inputs
4.2.2.1 NMEA 0183 input signals
In the following descriptions of input sentences, the Meridian Gyrocompass uses the data
fields marked XXX in the NMEA sentence. The system does not use the fields marked ???
and their descriptions are included here for completeness only. The gyrocompass will recognise the arriving sentence format and will extract the required data from it automatically.
GPS Interface (see Table 23 for connection details)
The Meridian Gyrocompass can accept speed, latitude, date and time inputs at the GPS interface in NMEA 0183 format using GLL, GGA, RMC, VTG, VHW and ZDA sentences.
Figure 42: NMEA 0183 GLL sentence structure

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Figure 43: NMEA 0183 GGA sentence structure

Notes for the NMEA 0183 GGA sentence:

Note 1: GPS quality indicator:
0 = Fix not available or is invalid
1 = GPS SPS mode, fix valid
2 = Differential GPS, SPS mode, fix valid
3 = GPS PPS mode, fix valid
Note 2: Geoidal Separation The difference between the WGS-84 earth ellipsoid and mean
sea level (geoid). A negative character precedes the value if the mean sea level is below
the ellipsoid.
Note 3: Time in seconds since the last SC104 Type 1 or Type 9 update. Null field when DGPS
is not in use.

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4 Technical Data
Figure 44: NMEA 0183 RMC sentence structure

Notes for the NMEA 0183 RMC sentence:

Note 1: Easterly variation (E) subtracts from true course. Westerly variation (W) add to true
course.
Note 2: The positioning system mode indicator field supplements the positioning system status
field (see Note 3), which will be set to V = invalid for all values of mode indicator
except for A = Autonomous and D = Differential. These fields will never be empty.
Note 3: Positioning system mode indicator:
A = Autonomous mode
D = Differential mode
E = Estimated (dead reckoning) mode
M = Manual mode
S = Simulator mode
N = Data not valid
Figure 45: NMEA 0183 VTG sentence structure

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Figure 46: NMEA 0183 VHW sentence structure

Figure 47: NMEA 0183 ZDA sentence structure

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4 Technical Data
Log Interface (see Table 23 for connection details)
The Meridian Gyrocompass can accept speed inputs at the Log interface in NMEA 0183 format using VTG and VHW sentences only.
Figure 48: NMEA 0183 VTG sentence structure

Figure 49: NMEA 0183 VHW sentence structure

4.2.2.2 Pulsed input

The Meridian Gyrocompass can accept a speed input as a series of pulses or contact closures
occurring at a frequency of 100, 200 or 400 per nautical mile as selected by a DIP switch. The
gyrocompass determines the vessel speed by reference against the microprocessor timing circuits. The speed pulses do not need to have a particular mark/space ratio, although they should
be TTL-level. Contact closures should be of good quality and electrically floating.

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4.2.3 Outputs
4.2.3.1 NMEA output signals
The Meridian Gyrocompass can output serial data through RS232 and RS422 transmit-only
serial lines using the NMEA 0183 format. The output includes all the following information in
the order stated:

Heading information uses can use either the NMEA 0183 HDT or the VHW sentence format as determined by the setting of a DIP switch. The resolution of the heading output can
be set to one or two decimal places at the DIP switches. Refer to Figures 410 and 411
respectively for a description of these output formats.

Rate of turn uses the NMEA 0183 ROT sentence format. Refer to Figure 412 for a
description of this output format.

Speed uses the NMEA 0183 VTG sentence format, described in Figure 413, if the gyrocompass is configured for a manual or a pulsed log speed input, or if this sentence is supplied by the external speed source. If speed information arrives at the gyrocompass using
either the NMEA 0183 VHW or the RMC format then the gyrocompass will retransmit
this format, modifying the sentence to include the talker identifier HE. Refer to Figures
411 and 414 respectively for a description of these formats.
If you have selected NMEA 0183 VHW as the heading output sentence and a valid NMEA
0183 VHW format sentence is available from a GPS or speed log source, the Meridian
Gyrocompass inserts the heading information into the received sentence so that it transmits only one sentence containing both heading and speed. Note that the heading output
will default to the NMEA 0183 HDT format if you set a 10Hz update rate for either Channel 1 or Channel 2.

Latitude output uses the NMEA 0183 GLL sentence format, described in Figure 415, if
the gyrocompass is configured for a manual latitude input or if the GPS source uses this
sentence format. If latitude information arrives at the gyrocompass using either the
NMEA 0183 RMC or the GGA format then the gyrocompass will retransmit this format,
modifying the sentence to include the talker identifier HE. Refer to Figures 414 and 4
16 respectively for a description of the NMEA 0183 RMC and GGA output formats.

Date and Time output uses the NMEA 0183 ZDA sentence format described in Figure 4
17. If this information is available from a GPS source, then the gyrocompass will retransmit this format, modifying the sentence to include the talker identifier HE. If there is no
valid date and time information from an external source, the gyrocompass will transmit the
NMEA 0183 ZDA output sentence with empty data fields.
If you set a 10Hz update rate for either Channel 1 or Channel 2, the output format on
that channel will default to NMEA 0183 HDT + ROT only. Optionally you can set Channel
2 to transmit NMEA 0183 HDT only.

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4 Technical Data
Figure 410: NMEA 0183 HDT output sentence structure

Figure 411: NMEA 0183 VHW output sentence structure

Note: The field before M is reserved for magnetic heading information. Magnetic heading is
not used, but the M character is still transmitted.
Figure 412: NMEA 0183 ROT output sentence structure

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Figure 413: NMEA 0183 VTG output sentence structure

Figure 414: NMEA 0183 RMC output sentence structure

Notes for the NMEA 0183 RMC output sentence:

4.2.6 Other Output Formats

4.2.6.1 Synchro Output
The synchro heading output is available continuously at TB2 on the Distribution Board while
the gyrocompass is powered-on refer to Table 24 for connector details. The output is at
11.8V maximum line-to-line voltage derived electrically from a 1:1 resolver driven directly by
the gyrocompass azimuth gimbal. The synchro reference voltage is a nominal 26V 400Hz supply generated internally.
Electrical loading specification:

Not less than 5k between any two S lines.

Not less than 1k between the two R lines.

4.2.6.2 Resolver Output

The resolver heading output is available continuously at TB2 on the Distribution Board while
the gyrocompass is powered-on refer to Table 24 for connection details. The output is at 8V
maximum voltage per phase signal from a 1:1 resolver driven directly by the gyrocompass azimuth gimbal. The resolver reference voltage is a nominal 36V 400Hz supply generated internally.
The resolver sine and cosine outputs must be electrically isolated from each other.
Contact the SG Brown Service Department for technical advice if necessary.
Electrical loading specification:

Not less than 5k between any two S lines.

Not less than 1k between the two R lines.

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4.2.6.3 Stepper S-Code

The stepper S-code output is available continuously at TB2 on the Distribution Board while
the gyrocompass is powered-on refer to Table 24 for connection details.
The stepper output is a TTL compatible S-encoded signal with a 10mA sink capacity.

4.2.6.4 Rate of Turn

The ROT output is calculated by the internal processor and made available continuously at
TB3 on the Distribution Board while the gyrocompass is powered-on refer to Table 24 for
connection details.
The ROT output is a bipolar analogue voltage in the range 10V to represent rates of turn from
20 to +20 per second. Positive rates of turn are to starboard.

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5 Maintenance

5 MAINTENANCE
WARNING
There is a danger of serious injury from voltages inside the Meridian Gyrocompass. Do
not remove the gyrocompass cover unless you have the necessary skills and experience to perform maintenance work on a system of this nature. Always power-off the
system before you remove the cover for maintenance work.
Observe all local safety regulations as you work on the equipment. Reconnect the
safety grounding straps and refit all safety covers to the equipment before you poweron the system.
CAUTION
Perform these simple maintenance instructions only if you have the skills and experience required, and only when necessary. Inappropriate tampering with the internal controls and components of the gyrocompass can lead to damage or serious performance
degradation.
NEVER open the gyrocompass cover or make any adjustments inside the gyrocompass unless you are entirely confident in your actions.
There is very little need for user maintenance on the Meridian Gyrocompass and you should
never need to remove the covers.
The following sub-sections explain some very basic procedures that you may attempt if you
suspect the system has developed a fault. If you are in any doubt, contact SG Brown for advice
and technical assistance before you begin any maintenance work on the system.
5.1 Built-in Test Equipment

Page 2

The Meridian Gyrocompass performs a self-test routine during the initialisation sequence and
monitors its status continually during normal operation. Any deviation from normal operation
appears as an error message, with the cause declared as a sequence of decimal points on the
four-character display panel. This sub-section explains some very basic tests and adjustments
that you may perform on the system.
5.2 Test Connector

Page 4

There is a 60-way test connector that allows you to measure critical voltages and signals.
Perform the tests described in this section of the manual and have the results available when
you contact SG Brown for technical assistance.

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5.1 BUILT-IN TEST EQUIPMENT

Figure 32 is a list of nine failure codes delivered by the built-in test equipment if it detects a
fault in the gyrocompass. In these fault conditions, the four-character display will show G.Y.R.O.
+ F.A.I.L. with the illuminated decimal points at positions 1 to 4 identifying the detected failure.
If the built in test equipment detects a fault, use the following table to investigate the cause.
You can measure the voltages and signals on the pins of the 60-way test connector (refer to
Table 52 for details of the test connector).
Table 51: Test measurements
Failure Code

Measure

Expected value

Signal source

0001
Failure of DC
power supply

DC supply
42 (+ve) to 43
44 (+ve) to 43
17 (+ve) to 18
50 (+ve) to 51
52 (+ve) to 51
45 (+ve) to 18

18V DC to 36V DC
+24V DC 0.5V DC
24V DC 0.5V DC
+5V DC 0.1V DC
+15V DC 0.2V DC
15V DC 0.2V DC
+5V DC (+0.2V/0.7V DC)

Ships mains/PSU
DC/DC PSU
DC/DC PSU
DC/DC PSU
Control Board analogue
Control Board analogue
Control Board analogue

0010
Failure of AC
power supply

19 to 43
20 to 43
21 to 43
58 to 43
57 (+ve) to 18

2.5V AC 0.125V AC @ 19.2kHz

10V AC 1V @ 480Hz (18V AC 1.5V at start (1-min))
10V AC 1V @ 480Hz (18V AC 1.5V at start (1-min))
12V AC 0.2V @ 400Hz
+5V DC 0.2V DC

Control Board analogue

Control Board analogue
Control Board analogue
Control Board analogue
Control Board analogue

0100
High tilt pick-off
signal

10 (+ve) to 18
16 (+ve) to 18
37 (+ve) to 51

+5V DC 0.2V DC (0V DC 0.2V DC at start (1-min))

+5V DC 0.2V DC (0V DC 0.2V DC at start (2-min))
0V DC 1V DC

Control Board digital

Control Board digital
Control Board analogue

0101
High azimuth
pick-off signal

10 (+ve) to 18
16 (+ve) to 18
38 (+ve) to 51

+5V DC 0.2V DC (0V DC 0.2V DC at start (1-min))

+5V DC 0.2V DC (0V DC 0.2V DC at start (2-min))
0V DC 1V DC

Control Board digital

Control Board digital
Control Board analogue

0110
Failure of
synchro-todigital converter

58 to 43
53 (+ve) to 51
54 (+ve) to 51

12V AC 0.2V @ 400Hz

(5.4V DC 0.5V DC) sin heading
(5.4V DC 0.5V DC) cos heading

Control Board analogue

Control Board analogue
Control Board analogue

0111
High pendulum
signal

26 (+ve) to 51
28 (+ve) to 51

(10V DC 0.2V DC) sin local latitude

(8.5mV DC 0.5mV DC) speed(kts) sin hdg tan
local lat
North = +ve latitude; South = ve latitude

Control Board analogue

Perform the azimuth drift test see sub-section 5.1.1

1000

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Check connections between:

Distribution PCB TB1/21 and RCU S+
Distribution PCB TB1/22 and RCU S

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5 Maintenance

5.1.1 Azimuth Drift Adjustment

You may use the following procedure to measure and, if necessary, adjust the azimuth drift:
1. Ensure that the gyrocompass is static and is operating in DG mode with the Speed input set
manually to zero and the Latitude set to local latitude. Use the DIP switches to set DG
mode refer to Table 25. Refer to sub-sections 3.3.1 and 3.3.2 to set the latitude and
speed.
2. Note the initial heading (H1) shown on the RCU display.
3. Wait for one hour and then note the heading (H2) shown on the RCU display.
4. Calculate the azimuth drift rate (H2 H1) degrees per hour.
5. Use a digital meter set to measure DC volts and monitor the Tilt Bias between pins 30 and
51 of the 60-way test connector (with the positive test lead on pin 30).
6. Adjust the Tilt Bias potentiometer RV7 by 400mV drift rate (/hr). You must turn the
potentiometer anticlockwise to compensate for azimuth drift towards higher readings. Figure 24 shows the location of the Tilt Bias potentiometer.
7. Repeat steps 1 and 2 above to ensure that the calculated drift rate is less than 0.2/hr.

5.1.2 Azimuth Bias Adjustment

You may use the following procedure to eliminate small angles of heading error from the
Meridian Gyrocompass. Measure and, if necessary, adjust for azimuth drift as described in
sub-section 5.1.1 above before you adjust the azimuth bias.
Take care when you adjust azimuth bias make only small adjustments each time and
then allow the gyrocompass to settle for three hours before you make any further
adjustments. Note the original position of the azimuth bias control before you start so
that you can restore the starting condition if necessary.
1. Use a digital meter set to measure DC volts and monitor the Azimuth Bias between pins 29
and 51 of the 60-way test connector (with the positive test lead on pin 29).
2. Adjust the Azimuth Bias potentiometer RV9 to cause a change in the azimuth bias voltage
that will produce the necessary change in compass heading. Figure 24 shows the location
of the Azimuth Bias potentiometer.
3. Turn the Azimuth Bias potentiometer anticlockwise to cause the heading to change
towards a lower reading. A 60mV DC change in Azimuth Bias will produce a 1-degree
change in heading

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5.2 TEST CONNECTOR

There is a sixty-way test connector accessible behind the removable panel on the top of the
gyrocompass cover. Release and remove the securing screws and lift off the panel to see the
two DIP switches and the test connector. A test box (SG Brown part number 929195) is available to facilitate connection to the 60-way test connector.
Table 52: Sixty-way test connector
Pin

Name

Function

S1_SYNCHRO

11.8V RMS 400Hz synchro S1 phase

S2_SYNCHRO_RES

11.8V RMS 400Hz synchro S2 phase

S3_SYNCHRO_RES

11.8V RMS 400Hz synchro S3 phase

26V_SYNCHRO_R1

26V RMS 400Hz synchro R1 reference

0V_SYNCHRO_RES

26V RMS 400Hz synchro R1 reference

GA_MODE

Directional gyro mode control (+5V logic)

GC_MODE

Gyrocompass mode control (+5V logic)

AA_MODE

Auto alignment mode control (+5V logic)

LAT_NS

Latitude north selection control (+5V logic)

SERVO_EN

Tilt and azimuth servo enable control (+5V logic)

WHEEL_BOOST

Gyro wheel supply boost control (+5V logic)

LOG_OK

Speed log OK flag (+5V logic)

GPS_OK

GPS OK flag (+5V logic)

SYS_FAIL

System fail flag (+5V logic)

GYRO_RDY

Gyrocompass ready flag (+5V logic)

PREPARE

Prepare mode (servo nulling) (+5V logic)

VCC

5V DC supply

GND

5V DC supply return

PICK_OFF_SUPPLY_1

Gyro pick off supply 2.5V RMS 19.2kHz sine wave

WHEEL_SUPPLY_1

Gyro wheel supply 0 phase 10V (18V) RMS 480Hz square wave

WHEEL_SUPPLY_2

Gyro wheel supply 90 phase 10V (18V) RMS 480Hz square wave

PWMO

Compass card illumination PWM control 5V 85Hz square wave

Gravity control signal 150mV DC/min T=60s

10V

10V DC positive voltage reference

_10V

10V DC negative voltage reference

LAT_TORQ

Latitude torquing input signal (10 sin[latitude])V DC

SPEED_N_TORQ

Speed N torque i/p signal (7.3e3 speed(kts) cos[heading])

SPEED_E_TORQ

Speed E torque i/p signal (8.5e3 speed(kts) sin[heading] tan[latitude]V DC

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5 Maintenance
Table 52: Sixty-way test connector (Continued)
Pin

Name

Function

AZ_BIAS

Bias ad.j to azimuth torquer 2.2V DC (60mV/deg heading)

TILT_BIAS

Bias adj. to tilt torquer 2.2V DC (400mV/deg/hour heading)

TILT_TEMP

Bias adj. to tilt torquer proportional to temperature (400mV/deg/hr heading)

AZ_TEMP

Bias adj. to azimuth torquer proportional to temperature (60mV/deg/hr heading)

Temperature ref (non-inverted) from gimbal thermistor (DC V proportional to temp)

Temperature ref (inverted) from gimbal thermistor (DC V proportional to temp)

TILT_TORQUER_LO

Tilt torquer signal 0.013V DC/mA (torquer scale factor 10/hr/mA)

AZ_TORQUER_LO

Azimuth torquer signal 0.006V DC/mA (torquer scale factor 10/hr/mA)

TILT_PICK_OFF_DC

Demodulated gyroscope tilt pick-off signal

AZ_PICK_OFF_DC

Demodulated gyroscope azimuth pick-off signal

NOT USED

24V

24V DC positive supply

Supply return for 24V DC

24V

24V DC negative supply

PSU_LO

PSU (+5V DC and 15V DC) under voltage flag (+5V DC logic)

NOT USED

ROT

Analogue rate of turn output (0.5V DC/deg/s (10V DC max) CW +ve; ACW ve

15V

15V DC positive supply

0Va

Supply return for 15V DC

15V

15V DC negative supply

SIN_DC

Analogue voltage proportional to sin(heading) (0.1V DC/deg heading)

COS_DC

Analogue voltage proportional to cos(heading) (0.1V DC/deg heading)

RS232_RX_TEST

RS232 receive port reserved for product testing

RS232_TX_TEST

RS232 transmit port reserved for product testing

AC_OK

AC supply (19kHz, 480Hz and 400Hz) OK flag (+5V DC logic)

400_REF_HI

Reference supply 12V RMS 400Hz

AZ_MOTOR_HI

Drive to azimuth follow-up DC servo motor

TILT_MOTOR_HI

Drive to tilt follow-up DC servo motor

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Figure 51: Simplified functional block diagram

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5 Maintenance
Table 53: Spares list for Meridian Gyrocompass 929060
SG Brown P/N

Description

929033

Gimbal assembly

929066

Control Board Analogue

929083

Control Board Digital

929049

Control Board Remote

929045

Display Board

929074

DC/DC Power Supply

856000

Filter #1

929160

Filter #2

346808

Fuse link 3.15A 250V

929164

Gland Plate assembly

929190

RCU Mounting Kit

929194

Transit case

929195

Test box

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A Operating Theory

A OPERATING THEORY
A gyrocompass is a navigational instrument that provides a true north indication without reference to the earths magnetic field. For its operation, the gyrocompass depends upon the following:

The inertial properties of a freely spinning gyroscope.

The rotation of the earth about its own axis.

Gravity.

Figure A1 shows a free-spinning gyroscope mounted in a balanced gimbal suspension. The

suspension allows unrestricted movement about the vertical and horizontal axes so that the
gyro rotor can adopt any orientation.
Figure A1: Free-spinning gyroscope

With the gyro rotor stationary, it is easy to turn the gimbal suspension about either axis and
allow it to remain there in a balanced condition.
However, when it is spinning, the gyro rotor exhibits a property called gyroscopic inertia. This
property causes the spin axis of the rotor to remain pointing in the same arbitrary direction in
space and to resist any influence that tries to redirect that axis.
For simplicity, this explanation assumes the gyro rotor continues to spin perpetually at a constant speed. In a practical gyrocompass, the gyro rotor is the specially designed spindle of a
motor that rotates at a constant speed.
To an observer on the surface of the earth, the free spinning gyroscope would appear to tumble in its gimbal suspension once in every 24-hour period. This apparent deviation occurs
because, although the spin axis actually remains fixed in space, the earth rotates relative to it.

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The apparent movement seen by the observer would depend on the location of the gyroscope
and the initial direction of the spin axis.
To an observer at the equator:

With an initial spin axis alignment level and parallel to a meridian (so that it points in a
true north-south direction), there would be no observable effect on the gyroscope during
the 24-hour period.

With an initial spin axis alignment level and perpendicular to a meridian (so that it points
in the east-west direction), the spin axis would appear to tumble about its horizontal axis
with the eastern end of the spin axis rising. After 24 hours, the gyroscope would complete
a single revolution in its gimbal suspension so that the spin axis would again point in the
original direction relative to the observer.

With an initial spin axis alignment somewhere between these two extremes, the gyroscope
would appear to tumble about its horizontal and its vertical axes to complete one single
revolution in 24 hours.

To an observer at one of the geographic poles:

With an initial spin axis alignment vertical (so that it aligns with the axis of earth rotation),
there would be no observable effect on the gyroscope during the 24-hour period.

With the initial spin axis level, the gyroscope would appear to turn clockwise (at the north
pole) or anticlockwise (at the south pole) about its vertical axis once in 24 hours.

To an observer at some intermediate latitude with the gyroscope oriented in some arbitrary initial direction:

The gyroscope would tumble about the north-south direction at cos and about the
east-west direction at sin , where is the earth rotation rate (15 per hour) and is the
latitude of the gyroscope.

A.1 NORTH-SEEKING GYROSCOPE

Given a constant spin rate and frictionless gimbals, the gyroscope described above will always
maintain its initial alignment relative to free space. To an observer on the surface of the earth,
the revolutions that such a gyroscope performs every 24 hours would make it difficult to use as
an instrument of navigation.
The ideal situation is for the gyroscope to align perfectly with the spin axis of the earth so that
it maintains a north-south orientation with no apparent tumbling during each 24-hour period.
To make the gyroscope north seeking, the gyrocompass uses gravity control and an effect
called precession.

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A Operating Theory
Consider the example shown below where the gyroscope rotates about its spin axis in the
direction shown.
Precession

When an externally applied torque acts on the gyroscope suspension in the direction shown, a
point on the circumference of the rotor at 'O' will attempt to move in two directions simultaneously:

It will accelerate in the direction OA under the influence of the applied torque.

It will continue to move in the direction OB as the rotor spins.

The net result of these two movements actually starts to move the point on the circumference
of the rotor in the direction OC, which is the resultant of the two perpendicular influences.
Since every point on the circumference of the rotor experiences the same effect as it passes
through point O, it follows that the rotor will rotate about an axis that lies at right angles to the
axis of applied torque. This is the axis of precession. In this example, precession will act in the
direction shown.
Eventually, the spin axis of the gyroscope will turn sufficiently so that its spin axis coincides
with the axis of applied torque, at which point there will no further tendency for the gyroscope
to rotate about the precession axis.
Summary:
If a free spinning gyroscope comes under the influence of a torque whose axis is perpendicular to the spin of the gyro rotor, a precession results that tends to align the spin axis with the
axis of applied torque. The direction of this precession is such that, should alignment occur,
the gyroscope spin direction will be the same as the direction of applied torque.

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Consider the example shown in Figure A2(a), which shows a free spinning gyroscope aligned
so that its spin axis is level with the horizon. In this example, the spin axis of the gyroscope
aligns with the local meridian so that its north end points north. In the balanced condition
shown, the weight suspended from the gyroscope bearings has no effect on operation and the
gyroscope will maintain its alignment with the meridian.
Figure A2: Gravity control of a gyroscope

It is more common for the initial alignment of the gyroscope to be at some angle away from
true north. Two conditions are therefore possible:
1. Gyroscope initially level and aligned to the west of north.
With the spin axis of the gyroscope initially level but with the north end pointing to the west of
true north, the arrangement would briefly be balanced as shown in Figure A2(a).
However, over time the north end of the spin axis would begin to tilt downwards. This is
because the earth rotates while the gyroscope maintains a fixed orientation in space. In this
off-balanced condition, shown in Figure A2(b), the weight would try to return to its central
location and, in doing so, would apply an anticlockwise torque to the gyro suspension.
With the gyroscope spinning in the direction shown, precession arising from the anticlockwise
torque would move the north end of the rotor eastwards. Therefore, because this condition
arises from a westerly misalignment between the gyroscope and the meridian, the effect of the
bottom weight is to drive the gyro rotor towards closer alignment with the meridian.
2. Gyroscope initially level and aligned to the east of north.
With the spin axis of the gyroscope initially level but with the north end pointing to the east of
true north, the arrangement would briefly be balanced as shown in Figure A2(a).
However, over time the north end of the spin axis would begin to tilt upwards with rotation of
the earth. In this off-balanced condition, shown in A2(c), the weight would apply a clockwise
torque to the gyro suspension.

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A Operating Theory
Precession arising from the clockwise torque would move the north end of the rotor further
west and therefore into closer alignment with the meridian.
In practice, modern gyrocompasses, such as the Meridian Gyrocompass, exercise gravity control by an indirect method. Tilt is detected by an electronic pendulum or accelerometer and the
resultant electrical signals are used to produce torques that have the same effect as a suspended
weight.

A.2 GYROCOMPASS CORRECTIONS

A.2.1 Latitude Correction
Sub-section A.1 explains how the addition of gravity control to the gyroscope gives it the
north-seeking characteristic necessary for use in a gyrocompass.
When operating at the equator, such a simple gravity control would be sufficient to maintain
alignment with the meridian with no further need for corrections.
However, as the operating latitude increases towards either of the poles, there is a greater tendency for the gyroscope to experience azimuth drift with time.
The rate of change of azimuth due to the earths rotation is constant for a given latitude. Therefore, the gyrocompass must apply a controlling correction torque, perpendicular to the spin
axis, to cancel the drift caused by the earths rotation. To generate this correction torque the
gyrocompass needs to know the operating latitude.

A.2.2 Gyro Damping

Whenever the gyroscope does not align perfectly with the meridian, precession caused by
gravity control and the horizontal component of the earths rotation will cause the north end of
the gyro rotor to trace out an anticlockwise elliptical path.
The application of latitude correction causes this elliptical path to be symmetrical about a
point projected from the north end of the gyro rotor when horizontal and aligned with the
meridian. For a given gyroscope, the ratio between the major and minor axes of this error
ellipse is constant. The size of the ellipse depends on the initial displacement of the gyro axis
away from the meridian and the horizontal plane.
By reducing the amplitude of ellipsoidal excursion in one plane, it follows that the amplitude
of excursion in the other plane reduces proportionately to settle the gyro horizontally and in
the meridian.
In the gravity controlled gyroscope, a tilt of the rotor spin axis produced a torque about the
horizontal axis to drive the spin axis towards alignment with the meridian. However, to produce a workable gyrocompass, there must be some form of damping.
One practical method for doing this is to include electrical feedback so that a tilt in the rotor
spin axis also produces a torque about the vertical axis. The sense of this torque would be to
cause a precession that would drive the spin axis towards the horizontal.
This would cause the vertical axis of the error ellipse to reduce progressively towards zero,
reducing the horizontal axis simultaneously. This process results in the north end of the gyro

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rotor tracing a decreasing spiral path, eventually settling with the gyroscope horizontal and
aligned with the meridian.

A.2.3 Speed Error

Figure A3 shows that the north end of a meridian-aligned free spinning gyro will appear to
rise as it moves northwards from the equator. This upward tilt is independent of the earths
rotation. If left uncorrected, this effect would interfere with the north-seeking properties of the
gyrocompass because the compass would be unable to determine whether the tilt came from a
misalignment or from the northward motion.
If left uncorrected therefore, the northward travel would cause an upward tilt that would cause
the gyroscope to precess towards the west and then to go into a settling spiral. Eventually,
given a constant speed of northward movement, the gyro would settle slightly to the west of
true north.
Figure A3: Gyrocompass speed error

Speed-related error is directly proportional to the north-south component of speed, and

inversely proportional to the cosine latitude. This means that any error when the compass is on
the equator would become twice as large at latitude 60, three times as large at latitude 70,
and nearly six times as large at latitude 80. At latitudes above 80 the gyrocompass becomes
virtually unusable as a north seeking instrument.
The north-south component of speed is the product of actual speed and the cosine of the
course made good. Speed related errors are therefore greatest when travelling in a northerly or
a southerly direction.
To correct for these effects, the compass must know the direction and speed of travel. While it
uses its own self-generated heading information to determine the direction of travel, speed
information must come from an external source such as a speed log or a GPS receiver, or be
applied manually.

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A Operating Theory

A.3 SUMMARY

A gyrocompass will indicate the true north direction after an appropriate settling period.

To maintain correct true north alignment, the gyrocompass must receive additional information concerning its operating latitude.

Also to maintain accuracy the gyrocompass needs to know its direction of travel, which it
generates itself, and the speed of travel. Speed information must arrive from an external
source, or be applied manually.

A gyrocompass becomes progressively less effective as a north seeking instrument at

higher latitudes. Note that the Meridian Gyrocompass can be used successfully in high latitudes with the DG mode selected. In this mode, the gyrocompass acts as a directional
gyro. A directional gyro does not north seek, but can maintain a reference heading for a
short period. Follow the instructions in sub-section 3.3.3 to set the DG operating mode.

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Contents

A
Adjustments
Azimuth bias 53
Azimuth drift 53
Test connector 54
Alignment 24, 212
Analogue rate of turn output 416
Auxiliary inputs 15
Azimuth bias adjustment 53
Azimuth drift A5
Azimuth drift adjustment 53

C
Cable types 24
Connections 27
Continuous operation 38
Control unit. See RCU
Controls 32
Correction
Speed A6
Corrections 34
Latitude 34, A5

D
Data formats 43
Analogue rate of turn output 416
Resolver output 415
Serial NMEA 44
Stepper S-code 416
Synchro output 415
DIP switches 210
Distribution Board connections 27

E
Error modes 35
GPS 35
Gyro failure 36
Speed log 36

F
Fault identification 52

G
GPS 15
GPS failure 35
Gravity control A2
Gyro damping A5

DPN 060070

Gyro failure 36
Gyrocompass configuration 210
Gyroscopic inertia A1

I
Installation
Alignment 24, 212
Cable types 24
Choosing a location 23
Connections to Distribution Board 27

L
Latitude correction 15, A5
Latitude correction. See Corrections
Loss of GPS 35
Loss of speed signal 36

M
Maintenance
Error modes 35
Test connector 54
Manual speed input 35

N
NMEA data formats 44
North-seeking gyroscope A2

O
Operation
Continuous operation 38
Lay-up 38
Power failure 38
Power-off 38
Power-on 33
Operation during lay-up 38

P
Power failure 38
Power-off 38
Power-on 33
Precession A2

R
Rate of turn analogue output 416
RCU
Controls and indicators 32

Issue 2.0C

SG Brown

Page 1 of 2

Meridian Gyrocompass
External location 29
Remote Control Unit. See RCU
Resolver output format 415

S
Speed correction 15, A6
Speed correction. See Corrections
Speed log failure 36
Stepper S-code output 416
Synchro output format 415

T
Test connector 54
Toppling 23

Page 2 of 2

SG Brown

Issue 2.0C

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