Airmar G2183 GPS - Manual (Page 8)

8
Choosing the Mounting Location
For a reliable GPS signal, selecting the best location for the sensor is very
important. It can be mounted on a pole, rail, or flat surface. Choose a location that
balances the requirements below.
• The sensor must have a clear view of the sky to the horizon in all directions to
receive satellite signals. Be sure there are no obstructions from buildings,
boats, etc. However, the lower it can be mounted, the more stable it will be. It
will better track satellites low on the horizon.
• Do not mount on top of a sailboat mast. The sway will cause jitter in the data.
• Mount it as far as possible from high-powered transmitting antennas to avoid
mutual interference (see Figure 1).
• Mount it lower than any on-board INMARSAT communications antenna.
• Mount above or below any radar beam. Do not mount within a radar beam.
• Mount reasonably level with the earth’s surface—not tilted to one side.
• Do not mount where the sensor could be a tripping hazard or be tread upon.
Note that frozen water spray on the unit may degrade reception.
• Be sure there is access to the underside of the mounting surface.
• Be sure the cable(s) can be routed to reduce electrical interference from other
electrical wiring and any on-board equipment with a strong magnetic field such as
radar equipment, radio transmitters, engines, generators, etc. Separate the cables
by at least 1 m (3').
Figure 1. Minimum distance from sensor
Courtesy of Northstar, Acton, MA
Min. 2m
antenna insulator
metal hull /deck
1.5m
Min.
Min. 2m
G2183