ComNav Commander P2 & P2VS Installation & Operation System Overview
Document PN 29010074 V4.1 - 29 -
Compasses
The Compass is a critical component in the proper operation of the Commander P2 Autopilot
System.
The autopilot system’s ability to steer the boat to a given Heading desired by the
Operator can only be as accurate as the Compass.
The Commander P2 system is capable of using a variety of different compasses. These are
discussed below. Various combinations of these compasses are often desirable.
Vector G2 and G2B GPS Compasses
PN 11210001
or
11210002
(G2, 15 or 30 metre cable)
PN 11210004
or
11210005
(G2B, 15 or 30 metre cable)
The ComNav Vector GPS Compasses are state-of-the-art devices which can provide
accurate 2D Heading & Position data to autopilots, sonar, chartplotters, AIS transponders,
and other NMEA 0183 devices.
Figure 6 – Vector G2 GPS Compass
Built-in DGPS processing capability provides sub-meter Position accuracy. DGPS source
options in the G2 & G2B include standard SBAS systems (WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS, GAGAN,
etc.), and external RTCM SC-104; the G2B can also use terrestrial DGPS Radiobeacon
signals (IEC 61108-4), via an internal Beacon receiver module.
The Vector features fast start up times, Heading & Position updates at up to 20 Hz, and will
work correctly at sustained turn rates up to 90° per second.
The Vector comes with a choice of mounting styles: a flat-surface base, or a pole-mount
base. The entire unit is fully waterproof. The Vector provides dual, independently
configurable, NMEA 0183 data outputs, each available at both the NMEA 0183 Standard’s
output voltages, and at PC-friendly “COM port” voltages.
One feature of the Vector is especially useful in marine applications: Heading is determined
by mathematical computation, directly from the RF signals from the GPS satellites, rather
than sensing the Earth’s magnetic field – and thus there are no local magnetic deviation
effects from metal objects, electrical devices & wiring, and so on. As well, Heading is
available at high Latitudes.
The Vector contains a solid-state Gyro sensor, which is used to provide short-term Heading
data in situations where GPS signal reception is subject to transient interference and/or
blockage. The Vector also measures the boat’s pitch (or roll, depending on which way the
unit is mounted), and the data is available for use by other equipment on board.
The Vector is connected to the Commander P2 at one of the SPU’s two NMEA Input ports.
The standard cable lengths are 15 metres (50’) or 30 metres (100’); custom lengths are also
available.
Note: no GPS Compass is suitable as the Heading sensor in a Commander P2VS
system, when a Rudder Follower Unit is not used.
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