Meridian Gyrocompass Surveyor

Meridian Surveyor
User Manual
Covers Software Version 1.6x
TSS (International) Ltd

1 Garnett Close
Greycaine Industrial Estate
Watford
Hertfordshire WD24 7GL UK
Telephone +44 (0)1923 470800
Facsimile +44 (0)1923 470838
24 hr Customer Support +44 (0)7899 665603
The information in this Manual is subject to e-mail: [email protected]
change without notice and does not represent
a commitment on the part of TSS (International) Ltd
Document P/N 060079

Issue 2.10
© TSS (International) Ltd January 2008 Abcdef
Contents
CAUTIONARY NOTICES
Your attention is drawn to the following cautionary notices that apply throughout this
Manual.
WARNING
The Meridian Surveyor weighs 15.5kg. To avoid personal injury, take
proper precautions if you lift or move the equipment.
WARNING
There is a danger of serious injury from voltages inside the Meridian
Surveyor. 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 power-on the system.
WARNING
Do not dispose of by fire or compacting, as toxic fumes, dust or liquids
may be released.
CAUTION
You will void the warranty if you make any modifications to this
equipment without prior permission from TSS (International) Ltd.
DO NOT modify this equipment in any way without obtaining
permission from TSS (International) Ltd.
CAUTION
The Meridian Surveyor 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 Surveyor 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 five
minutes after you power-off the system.
To avoid potential damage to the Meridian Surveyor, always allow a
period of five minutes after power-off for the gyro rotor to come to rest
before you attempt to move the gyrocompass.
DPN 060079 © TSS (International) Ltd Issue 2.10 Page 1 of 6

Meridian Surveyor
CAUTION
During operation, the gyrocompass must remain level to within ±45°. If
it experiences tilt greater than 45° in any direction, it will ‘topple’.
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 five 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
Remove power from the gyrocompass before making any connections
to external equipment.
CAUTION
You will void the warranty if you operate the gyrocompass outside the
environmental conditions detailed in Section 4 and in BS EN 60945.
CAUTION
The Meridian Surveyor should be supplied with power from an SELV
source as defined in IEC/EN 60950. The power supply source should be
switched and protected by a suitable circuit breaker.
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 gyrocom-
pass 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.
Page 2 of 6 Issue 2.10 © TSS (International) Ltd DPN 060079

Contents
CONTENTS
1 Introduction 1–1
1.1 System Description 1–3
1.1.1 Gyrocompass 1–3
1.1.2 Remote Control Unit 1–4
1.1.3 Auxiliary Inputs 1–5
1.1.4 Heading Outputs 1–5
1.2 Principle of Operation 1–5
2 Installation 2–1
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection 2–2
2.2 Physical and Electrical Installation 2–3
2.2.1 Selecting a location 2–3
2.2.2 Gyrocompass installation 2–4
2.2.3 External Remote Control Unit 2–10
2.2.4 Set the Gyrocompass DIP Switches 2–11
2.3 Alignment 2–15
2.4 Final Gyrocompass Installation Tests 2–16
2.5 Installation Drawings 2–17
3 Operating Instructions 3–1
3.1 Control Features 3–2
3.2 Initial Power-on 3–3
3.3 Operating Procedure 3–4
3.3.1 Latitude correction 3–4
3.3.2 Speed correction 3–5
3.3.3 DG operating mode 3–5
3.4 Error Modes 3–6
3.4.1 Loss of GPS 3–6
3.4.2 Loss of speed log 3–6
3.4.3 Gyrocompass system warnings and failures 3–7
3.5 Operating Considerations 3–9
3.5.1 General Operating Considerations 3–9
3.5.2 Corrections for Speed and Latitude 3–9
3.5.3 Operating at Extremes of Latitudes 3–9
3.5.4 Operating Considerations for Vessel Dynamics 3–10
4 Technical Data 4–1
4.1 Specifications 4–1
4.1.1 Power Requirements 4–1
4.1.2 Performance (definitions as in ISO 8728) 4–1
4.1.3 Compensation 4–1
4.1.4 Environment 4–1
4.1.5 Signal Inputs 4–2
4.1.6 Signal outputs 4–2
4.1.7 Dimensions and Weight 4–2
4.1.8 Listener load requirement 4–3
4.1.9 Talker drive capability 4–3
4.1.10 Standards 4–3
4.2 Data Formats 4–4
4.2.1 IEC 61162 Serial Data Formats – General information 4–5

Meridian Surveyor
4.2.2 Inputs 4–6

4.2.2.1 IEC 61162 input signals 4–6
4.2.2.2 Pulsed input 4–10
4.2.3 Outputs 4–11
4.2.3.1 IEC 61162 output signals 4–11
4.2.4 IEC 61162 sentence with Checksum 4–15
4.2.5 Other Output Formats 4–16
4.2.5.1 Robertson serial output 4–16
4.2.5.2 SG Brown ASCII serial output 4–17
4.2.5.3 Synchro Output 4–18
4.2.5.4 Resolver Output 4–18
4.2.5.5 Stepper S-Code 4–18
4.2.5.6 Rate of Turn 4–18
5 Maintenance 5–1
5.1 Built-in Test Equipment 5–2
5.1.1 Azimuth Drift Adjustment 5–3
5.1.2 Azimuth Bias Adjustment 5–3
5.2 Test Connector 5–4
5.3 Diagnostic Output Sentence 5–6

Contents
TABLE OF AMENDMENTS
Old Issue New Issue Date Details

- 1.0 27 Jun 2000 New release.
1.0 1.0A 12 Dec 2000 Corrected identification of Azimuth Bias potentiometer and
other details. Include DIP switch default settings.
1.0A 1.0B 1 Mar 2001 Amendments to J8 configuration. Amendments to NMEA

format definitions.
1.0B 1.0C 23 Apr 2001 Add notification to avoid product modifications.
1.0C 2.0 Aug 2002 Substantial amendments to reflect product enhancements
2.0 2.1 Sept 2002 Completion of enhancement features including compliance with
IEC 61162
2.1 2.2 Jan 2003 Minor amendments and description of Diagnostic Output
Sentence.
2.2 2.3 Feb 2003 Modification to specifications and addition of Appendix B to

demonstrate Certificate of Type Approval.
2.3 2.4 Mar 2003 Minor amendments to a display warning and a note referring to
confirming software release.
2.4 2.5 July 2003 Note added regarding modification kit available for alternative
orientations when attempting correct speed compensation.
2.5 2.6 August 2003 Minor amendments to specifications throughout
2.6 2.7 March 2004 Amendments to alarms warning / failure designation
2.7 2.8 June 2006 Revised Company Logo
2.8 2.9 December 2006 Removed references to B929033 and 929033.
2.9 2.10 January 2008 Replaced manual setting of DG Mode on distribution board with
Alarm Acknowledgement functionality. This enables
compatibility with the Compass Changeover System.

Meridian Surveyor

1 – Introduction
1 INTRODUCTION
The Meridian Surveyor 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 Surveyor 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 Surveyor are:
❐ A short settling time
❐ Operation from a 24V DC electrical supply
This Manual is an important part of the Meridian Surveyor. 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 Surveyor 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 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.
IEC61162 and NMEA0183 are equivalent standards for interfacing marine electronic
devices. Throughout this Manual IEC61162 is used.
DPN 060079 © TSS (International) Ltd Issue 2.10 Section 1 Page 1 of 6

Meridian Surveyor
For your convenience, this Manual includes several sections, each of which describes
specific features of the Meridian Surveyor:
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.
You should read sections 3 and 4 before you use the System:
Section 3 describes how to operate the Meridian Surveyor.
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.
Appendix B contains copies of Type Approval Certificates.
CAUTION
You will void the warranty if you make any modifications to this
equipment without prior permission from TSS (International) Ltd.
DO NOT modify this equipment in any way without obtaining
permission from TSS (International) Ltd.
Section 1 Page 2 of 6 Issue 2.10 © TSS (International) Ltd DPN 060079

1 – Introduction
1.1 SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

The Meridian Surveyor comprises two sub-assemblies:
❐ The gyrocompass housing
❐ The Remote Control Unit (RCU)
Figure 1–1 shows the combined gyrocompass housing with the RCU included as an
integral unit.
The Meridian Surveyor applies dynamic tuning to settle automatically to the meridian.
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 Surveyor 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 1–1: Gyrocompass housing
with integral RCU
Figure 1–1 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 Surveyor is an ideal
source of heading information for use by other systems on board, such as radars and
satellite communication antennas, the accuracy of its heading measurements will

Meridian Surveyor
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 Surveyor.
The only component available for user servicing is a 3.15A line fuse inside the
gyrocompass housing. In case of failure, refer to Section 5 for instructions for
instructions on fault diagnosis and maintenance.
1.1.2 REMOTE CONTROL UNIT
Figure 1–2: Remote Control Unit
The Remote Control Unit (RCU) provides all the functions and indicators necessary to
control and operate the Meridian Surveyor.
The four-character LED can show a range of information:
❐ Heading in Degrees. 000.0 to 359.9
❐ Latitude. 80S to 80N
❐ Latitude Source
❐ Speed in Knots. 00 to 90
❐ Speed Source
❐ Alarms and Status information
❐ Separate LED indicators show Power On and Compass Ready conditions
Refer to Section 3 for instructions to operate the Meridian Surveyor.

1 – Introduction
1.1.3 AUXILIARY INPUTS

Auxiliary inputs may be used for the Meridian Surveyor to apply latitude and speed
corrections.
Ideally, the Meridian Surveyor 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 automatic
corrections to be applied without operator intervention.
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 Surveyor 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 Surveyor 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 Surveyor can supply
heading information simultaneously through multiple channels using any of the
common transmission formats.
Refer to Section 4 for a description of the available output channels and their data
formats. Refer to Section 2 for details on how to interconnect to other equipment.
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 Surveyor 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

Meridian Surveyor

2 – Installation
2 INSTALLATION
To obtain the best performance from the Meridian Surveyor 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
Surveyor.
2.2 Physical and Electrical Installation Page 3
Choose a suitable location to install the Meridian Surveyor. Connect the system to an
electrical supply and to external equipment.
2.3 Alignment Page 15
The care that you take as you align the Meridian Surveyor with the fore-aft datum on
the vessel will have a direct influence upon its accuracy.

Meridian Surveyor
2.1 UNPACKING AND INSPECTION

WARNING
The Meridian Surveyor weighs 15.5kg. To avoid personal injury, take
proper precautions if you lift or move the equipment.
CAUTION
The Meridian Surveyor 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 Surveyor 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 five
minutes after you power-off the system.
To avoid potential damage to the Meridian Surveyor, always allow a
period of five minutes after power-off for the gyro rotor to come to rest
before you attempt to move the gyrocompass.
The Meridian Surveyor 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 TSS (International) Ltd.
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 TSS (International) Ltd immediately if there are any components missing from
the shipment.
The title page of this Manual lists the contact details for TSS (International) Ltd.

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 Surveyor
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’.
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 five 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 Surveyor from damage.
❐ Do not install or operate the Meridian Surveyor where the ambient temperature
could fall below 0°C or rise above +45°C, or where rapid changes of temperature
can occur.
❐ Do not install the Meridian Surveyor close to strong mechanical or electrical noise
sources, or in a location susceptible to vibration or shock.
❐ Allow a minimum distance of 0.4m between the gyrocompass housing and any
standard magnetic compasses.
❐ Choose a location that allows convenient access to install, connect and service
the Meridian Surveyor. Refer to Figure 2–4 for clearance dimensions.

Meridian Surveyor
2.2.2 GYROCOMPASS INSTALLATION

You must align the Meridian Surveyor so that its fore-aft axis is parallel
to the fore-aft 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 Surveyor you will need the following tools:
❐ Screwdriver 5.5mm × 150mm
❐ Screwdriver 3mm × 75mm
❐ Nut spinner 5.5mm
❐ 8.5mm drill
❐ 3 x M8 bolts of suitable length complete with washers and nuts
❐ Combination spanner 10mm
❐ Adjustable spanner opening to at least 33mm
❐ Suitable cables for the installation as indicated in Table 2–1.

Table 2–1: Suitable cable types
Purpose Suitable cable
Power supply 7/0.5mm (1.5mm2) HOFR sheathed to BS6883
Synchro heading output 7/0.4mm (1.0mm2) butyl or EP rubber insulated, CSP

Resolver heading output sheathed, wire braided and CSP oversheathed.
Stepper S-code output
Serial data heading output 1/0.85mm (0.6mm2) twisted pair, butyl or EP rubber insulated,
Serial data speed input CSP sheathed, wire braided and CSP oversheathed.
Serial data latitude input
There should be no need to remove the gyrocompass cover during installation. The
Connector Panel allows you to make all necessary power and signal connections to
the Meridian Surveyor. 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 Surveyor 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 Surveyor 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 2–3 and 2–4 for dimensions.
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.

2 – Installation
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
Surveyor at J1, the three-pin power inlet on the Connector Panel. Figure 2–1
shows the Connector Panel.
To prevent any possibility of damage to the gyrocompass while the

vessel is moving it is recommended that an uninterruptable electrical
supply is used to power the Meridian Surveyor.
6. Connect the ship’s safety ground to the earthing stud adjacent to the electrical
supply inlet J1.
7. Make all necessary signal connections to the Meridian Surveyor at the Connector
Panel. To maintain EMC compliance you should terminate all wire braiding on the
cables at the D-type back shells.
Figure 2–1: Gyrocompass connector panel
CAUTION
Gland plate release screws Before removing the cover or the RCU
unit, remove the gland plate and
disconnect the RCU cable (TB1/17-22)
Cover plate release screws from the distribution board.
24VDC Fuse
3.15AF
Mfg. Date Watford, England.
Serial No.
Build Standard No.
Compass Min. Safe Dist. m
CAUTION
Remove power from the gyrocompass before making any connections
to external equipment.

Meridian Surveyor
Table 2–2: J1 – Power supply input pin details
Pin Description
1 Protective ground
2 +24V DC
3 0V
Table 2–3: Ports on the connector panel
Port Function Style
J1 Electrical supply inlet AMP-style square flange mounting
J2 Synchro/S-type outputs – See Table 2–4 15-pin D-type socket
J3 Rate of turn output – See Table 2–5 9-pin D-type socket
J4 Serial data (Channel 1) outputs – See Table 2–6 25-pin D-type socket
J7 Serial data inputs – See Table 2–9 25-pin D-type plug
J8 Log input – See Table 2–10 9-pin D-type socket
J9 Status and alarm outputs – See Table 2–11 15-pin D-type plug
Table 2–4: J2 - Synchro/S-type outputs pin details
Pin Description
1 Protective ground
2 0V Synchro/Resolver
3 26V Synchro R1
4 S3 Synchro Resolver
5 S2 Synchro Resolver
6 S1 Synchro
8 0V
12 L3
13 L2
14 L1
15 5V

2 – Installation
Table 2–5: J3 - Rate of turn output pin details
Pin Description
1 Protective ground
2 Rate of turn
3 ROT 0V
4 RCU 24V IN (+)
5 RCU 24V IN (–)
6 RCU IN (–) (N/C)
7 RCU ON/OFF
8 RCU RS422A (S+)
9 RCU RS422B (S-)
Table 2–6: J4 - Serial data (Channel 1) outputs pin details
Pin Description
1 Protective ground
3 RS232 Signal
7 RS232 Return
11 20mA Signal
12 20mA Return
18 RS422 (B)
19 RS422 (A)
Pin Description
1 Protective ground
3 RS232 Signal
7 RS232 Return
11 20mA Signal
12 20mA Return
18 RS422 (B)
19 RS422 (A)

Meridian Surveyor
Pin Description
1 Protective ground
3 RS232 Signal
7 RS232 Return
11 20mA Signal
12 20mA Return
18 RS422 (B)
19 RS422 (A)
Table 2–9: J7 - Serial data inputs pin details
Pin Description
1 Protective ground
2 GPS RS232 Signal
7 GPS RS232 Return
14 Log RS422 Return (B)
15 Log RS422 Signal (A)
16 Log RS232 Return
17 Log RS232 Signal
18 GPS RS422 Signal (B)
19 GPS RS422 Return (A)
Table 2–10: J8 - Log inputs pin details
Pin Description
1 LOG (TTL) 0V
2 LOG (TTL) Signal
4 Protective ground
5 LOG (contact closure) Signal
6 LOG (contact closure)
8 LOG OK 0V
9 LOG OK Signal

2 – Installation
Table 2–11: J9 - Status and Alarm outputs pin details
Pin Description
3 Gyro Ready relay (open when not ready, closes when ready)
4 Gyro Ready relay CC
5 Gyro Ready relay (closed when not ready, opens when ready)
6 Fail relay (normally closed, opens on failure)
7 Fail relay CC
8 Fail relay (normally open, closes on failure)
11 Alarm Acknowledge (0V)
12 Alarm Acknowledge ACK
13 Gyro Ready Return
14 Gyro Ready TTL
Pin Description
1 Protective ground
3 RS232 Signal
7 RS232 Return
11 20mA Signal
12 20mA Return
18 RS422 (B)
19 RS422 (A)
Pin Description
1 Protective ground
3 RS232 Signal
7 RS232 Return
11 20mA Signal
12 20mA Return
18 RS422 (B)
19 RS422 (A)

Meridian Surveyor
2.2.3 EXTERNAL REMOTE CONTROL UNIT

The standard Meridian Surveyor 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. Lift the RCU away from the gyrocompass housing as far as its cable will allow.
3. Reach inside the gyrocompass housing and disconnect the RCU cable at TB1 on
the Distribution Board.
4. Lift the RCU away from the gyrocompass.
The cable run between the Gyrocompass and the RCU 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 J3 pins 4 to 9 on the Connector
Panel (refer to Table 2–5 for pin details of this port). The cable must have three
screened twisted pairs and should not exceed 100 metres in length.
8. Fit the blanking plate to fill the gap left in the cover by the RCU.
Section 2 Page 10 of 20Issue 2.10 © TSS (International) Ltd DPN 060079

2 – Installation
2.2.4 SET THE GYROCOMPASS DIP SWITCHES

1 There is a removable panel on top of the gyrocompass that allows access to the
two internal DIP switches (shown in Figure 2–2) without the need to remove the
main gyrocompass cover. Release and remove the three securing screws to lift off
the panel.
2. Refer to Tables 2–14, 2–15, 2–16 and 2–17 to set the DIP switches for the specific
requirements of your installation. Do not adjust the settings of other preset
controls inside the gyrocompass.
3. Refit the access panel to the top of the gyrocompass cover.

Figure 2–2: Location of DIP switches

Meridian Surveyor
Table 2–14: SW1 DIP switch settings – Poles 1 to 6 (Channel 1 configuration)

SW2 DIP switch settings – Poles 1 to 6 (Channel 2 configuration)
Factory default settings appear in bold and are marked with an asterisk in this table
The DIP switch settings described in this table are only applicable to
gyrocompasses fitted with software versions BPR 0115 (Main) and BPR
0114 (RCU) or later. If necessary, you can view the software versions of
the main and the RCU 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 RCU software (with prefix 'R'). The display will
continue to toggle for several seconds after you release the buttons
and will then return to the heading indication.
6 5 4 3 2 1
Data Format Baud Rate Update Rate C-Sum Decimal Places ROT
1= ON 0 = OFF
(as marked on switch)
1 1 1 1 1 1 IEC 61162 4800 1 Y 1 N
1 1 1 1 1 0 IEC 61162 4800 1 N 1 N
1 1 1 1 0 1 IEC 61162 4800 10 Y 1 N
1 1 1 1 0 0 IEC 61162 4800 10 N 1 N
1 1 1 0 1 1 IEC 61162 4800 1 Y 2 N
1 1 1 0 1 0 IEC 61162 4800 1 N 2 N
1 1 1 0 0 1 IEC 61162 4800 10 Y 2 N
1 1 1 0 0 0 IEC 61162 4800 10 N 2 N
1 1 0 1 1 1 IEC 61162 4800 1 Y 1 Y
1 1 0 1 1 0 IEC 61162 4800 1 N 1 Y
1 1 0 1 0 1 IEC 61162 4800 10 Y 1 Y
1 1 0 1 0 0 IEC 61162 4800 10 N 1 Y
1 1 0 0 1 1 IEC 61162 4800 1 Y 2 Y
1 1 0 0 1 0 IEC 61162 4800 1 N 2 Y
1 1 0 0 0 1 IEC 61162 4800 10 Y 2 Y
1 1 0 0 0 0 IEC 61162 4800 10 N 2 Y
1 0 1 1 1 1 IEC 61162 9600 1 Y 1 N
1 0 1 1 1 0 IEC 61162 9600 1 N 1 N
1 0 1 1 0 1 IEC 61162 9600 10 Y 1 N
1 0 1 1 0 0 IEC 61162 9600 10 N 1 N
1 0 1 0 1 1 IEC 61162 9600 1 Y 2 N
1 0 1 0 1 0 IEC 61162 9600 1 N 2 N
1 0 1 0 0 1 IEC 61162 9600 10 Y 2 N

2 – Installation
6 5 4 3 2 1
1= ON 0 = OFF
1 0 1 0 0 0 IEC 61162 9600 10 N 2 N
1 0 0 1 1 1 IEC 61162 9600 1 Y 1 Y
1 0 0 1 1 0 IEC 61162 9600 1 N 1 Y
1 0 0 1 0 1 IEC 61162 9600 10 Y 1 Y
1 0 0 1 0 0 IEC 61162 9600 10 N 1 Y
1 0 0 0 1 1 IEC 61162 9600 1 Y 2 Y
1 0 0 0 1 0 IEC 61162 9600 1 N 2 Y
1 0 0 0 0 1 IEC 61162 9600 10 Y 2 Y
1 0 0 0 0 0 IEC 61162 9600 10 N 2 Y
0 1 1 1 1 1 IEC 61162 38400 1 Y 1 N
0 1 1 1 1 0 IEC 61162 38400 1 N 1 N
0 1 1 1 0 1 IEC 61162 38400 10 Y 1 N
0 1 1 1 0 0 IEC 61162 38400 10 N 1 N
0 1 1 0 1 1 IEC 61162 38400 50 Y 1 N
0 1 1 0 1 0 IEC 61162 38400 50 N 1 N
0 1 1 0 0 1 IEC 61162 38400 1 Y 2 N
0 1 1 0 0 0 IEC 61162 38400 1 N 2 N
0 1 0 1 1 1 IEC 61162 38400 10 Y 2 N
0 1 0 1 1 0 IEC 61162 38400 10 N 2 N
0 1 0 1 0 1 IEC 61162 38400 50 Y 2 N
0 1 0 1 0 0 IEC 61162 38400 50 N 2 N
0 1 0 0 1 1 IEC 61162 38400 1 Y 1 Y
0 1 0 0 1 0 IEC 61162 38400 1 N 1 Y
0 1 0 0 0 1 IEC 61162 38400 10 Y 1 Y
0 1 0 0 0 0 IEC 61162 38400 10 N 1 Y
0 0 1 1 1 1 IEC 61162 38400 50 Y 1 Y
0 0 1 1 1 0 IEC 61162 38400 50 N 1 Y
0 0 1 1 0 1 IEC 61162 38400 1 Y 2 Y
0 0 1 1 0 0 IEC 61162 38400 1 N 2 Y
0 0 1 0 1 1 IEC 61162 38400 10 Y 2 Y
0 0 1 0 1 0 IEC 61162 38400 10 N 2 Y

Meridian Surveyor
6 5 4 3 2 1
1= ON 0 = OFF
0 0 1 0 0 1 IEC 61162 38400 50 Y 2 Y
0 0 1 0 0 0 IEC 61162 38400 50 N 2 Y
0 0 0 1 1 1 Robertson 9600 50 N/A 1 N/A
0 0 0 1 1 0 SGB(10th) 4800 10 N/A 1 N/A
0 0 0 1 0 1 SGB(6th) 4800 10 N/A 1 N/A
0 0 0 1 0 0 SGB(10th) 9600 10 N/A 1 N/A
0 0 0 0 1 1 SGB(6th) 9600 10 N/A 1 N/A
0 0 0 0 1 0 SGB(10th) 38400 10 N/A 1 N/A
0 0 0 0 0 1 SGB(6th) 38400 10 N/A 1 N/A
0 0 0 0 0 0 All Data* 4800* 1* Y* 1* Y*
Note: 1. For full IEC 61162 compliance, a checksum must be transmitted.
Table 2–15: SW1 DIP switch settings – Pole 7 (Analogue ROT Scaling)
Factory default settings appear in bold and are marked with an asterisk in this table.
1=ON 0=OFF Analogue ROT Scaling
1 +/- 60 deg/min = +/- 10V
0* +/- 20 deg/s = +/-10V*
Table 2–16: SW1 DIP switch settings – Pole 8 (Vessel Dynamics)

Factory default settings appear in bold and are marked with an asterisk in this table.
1=ON 0=OFF Vessel Dynamics
For HSC applications. Refer to 3.5.4

1
(for gyrocompasses with serial numbers later than 3500)
0* Standard Control Mode*

2 – Installation
Table 2–17: SW2 DIP switch settings – Poles 7 and 8 (Speed log input type)
Factory default settings appear in bold and are marked with an asterisk in this table
7 8
1=ON 0=OFF Speed Log Input Type
1 1 100 pulses/nm
0 1 200 pulses/nm
1 0 400 pulses/nm
0* 0* LOG Serial Data*
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 Surveyor 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.
To achieve correct speed compensation, the gyrocompass must be

orientated so that the connector plate faces the forward end of the
vessel. Note that modification kits are available for alternative
gyrocompass orientations.
❐ 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.

Meridian Surveyor
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.

0 180 190 200
60 17
0 1 2 10
15 S
0 22
0
14
0
23
0
13
SW
SE
240
1 20
250
E
W
80 90 100 110
70
260 270 280 290
60
3 00
NW
31
50
NE
0
32
40 N 0
330
30
0 350
340
10 2 0
CAUTION
Before removing the cover or the RCU
from the distribution board.
24VDC Fuse
3.15AF
Figure 2–3: Gyrocompass installation – Sheet 1
2.5 INSTALLATION DRAWINGS
2 – Installation
DPN 060079 © TSS (International) Ltd Section 2 Page 18 of 20Issue 2.10
170 180 190 200
16 0 210
1 50 S 22
0 0
14
0
23
0
13
SW
SE
24
120
0
0 25
0
E
90 100 11
W
80
70
260 270 280 290
60
300
NW
31
50
0
NE
32
40 0
N 330
30 340
10 20 0 350
CAUTION
Before removing the cover or theRCU
from the distribution board.
24VDC Fuse
3.15AF
Figure 2–4: Gyrocompass installation – Sheet 2
Meridian Surveyor
2 – Installation
Figure 2–5: RCU installation – Table mount

Meridian Surveyor
Figure 2–6: RCU installation – Flush mount

3 – Operating Instructions
3 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
This section explains how to power-on and configure the Meridian Surveyor 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 Surveyor. It
also includes a four-character display panel that shows the heading indication, any
alarm messages and error codes.
3.2 Initial Power-on Page 3
Explains how to power-on the Meridian Surveyor 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 6
Identifies the system error modes. Use these indicators to identify a possible fault
condition.
3.5 Operating Considerations Page 9
Includes general advice for operating the Meridian Surveyor on a vessel and on high
speed craft.

Meridian Surveyor
3.1 CONTROL FEATURES

Figure 3–1: RCU front panel features
The RCU front panel includes all the operator controls for the Meridian Surveyor:
Table 3–1: RCU Control and Indicator functions
Control Function
Power switch. Recessed to prevent accidental operation.
Selection Up. Press to increase display brightness.
Selection Down. Press to decrease display brightness
Latitude selection button. Press to display current Latitude source and correction value.
Use in conjunction with the Selection Up and Selection Down buttons to pre-set Latitude source
and correction value.
Speed Selection. Press to display current Speed source and correction value. Use in conjunction
with the Selection Up and Selection Down buttons to pre-set Speed source and correction value.
Alarm. Press to silence the audible alarm.
012.3 Four digit alphanumeric display.

Note: The display can show additional information by alternating the display contents at 0.5Hz.
This is indicated throughout the manual as, for example, L52N + SGPS
Power lamp (red) Indicates that the Meridian Surveyor is switched on when 24V DC nominal power is
connected.
Ready lamp Indicates that the Meridian Surveyor has settled and a True Heading is available.
(green)
Table 3–2: RCU display formats
Format Function
Heading
0123.4 Heading Only
0123.4 + DG Heading with DG mode set at the RCU
0123.4 + DG_L Heading with DG mode set by latitude greater than 80 deg

Table 3–2: RCU display formats
Format Function
Speed (by pressing the Speed button)

S_01 + S.MAN Speed value with Manual selected speed source
S_01 + S.GPS Speed value with GPS selected speed source
S_01 + S.LOG Speed value with LOG selected speed source (serial data input)
S_01 + P.LOG Speed value with LOG selected speed source and Pulse Log DIP switch set
(pulse input)
Latitude (by pressing the Latitude button)

L.52N + L.MAN Latitude value in the Northern Hemisphere with Manual selected Latitude
source
L.52S + L.MAN Latitude value in the Southern Hemisphere with Manual selected Latitude
source
L.52N + L.GPS Latitude value with GPS selected Latitude source
3.2 INITIAL POWER-ON

The Meridian Surveyor starting cycle is fully automatic after power is applied. For
correct operation Latitude and Speed correction must be applied.
1. Check that there is a nominal 24V DC electrical supply available to the
gyrocompass. The acceptable supply range is 18V to 36V DC.
To ensure continuous operation, the power supply for this unit should have a
200W power rating.
2. To start the Meridian Surveyor 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 Surveyor is receiving power and does NOT indicate a settled
condition. The instrument illumination will be 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 activate the audible alarm for about 1 second. The display will
indicate T.E.S.T. and the ‘Ready’ lamp will be lit for about 10 seconds while the
system performs a series of self-tests. After successful completion of the self-
tests, the display will show the current Gyrocompass dial heading and the ‘Ready’
lamp will go off until the Gyrocompass has settled.
Initially the indicated heading could be inaccurate by as much as 180°.

The indicated heading should not be relied on until the Gyrocompass
has settled, indicated by an illuminated ‘Ready’ lamp.
5. Set the source of latitude information by following the instructions in sub-section

3.3.1.
6. Set the source of speed information by following the instructions in sub-section

3.3.2.

Meridian Surveyor
7. Use the Selection Up and Selection Down buttons to adjust the RCU illumination
level to a comfortable setting.
8. Wait for the gyrocompass to settle. This will occur automatically and will take
upwards of 24 minutes depending on initial heading offset and sea conditions. The
Meridian Surveyor signifies its settled condition by illuminating the green ‘Ready’
lamp.
9. If necessary, you can view the software versions of the main and the RCU
processors by pressing both the Selection Up and the Selection Down buttons
simultaneously. The display will toggle between indications of the main processor
software version (with prefix ‘M’) and the RCU software (with prefix ‘R’). The
display will continue to toggle for several seconds after you release the buttons
and will then return to the heading indication.
3.3 OPERATING PROCEDURE

The Meridian Surveyor will settle automatically after power-on, 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 Surveyor 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 Selection Up and Selection Down buttons to set the local latitude
manually. The display will show the latitude in one-degree increments in the range
80°N to 80°S, for example L70N
❐ To select automatic latitude compensation from a GPS receiver, use the up or

down selection buttons to scroll beyond 80°N or 80°S until the display shows
LGPS.
If there is no valid input available from a GPS receiver, the display will
indicate a LGPS alarm after 30 seconds.
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 and latitude source for several 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 0.5°.

3.3.2 SPEED CORRECTION

1. Press and hold the Speed selection button.
2. Use the Selection Up and Selection Down 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 Selection Up button to scroll beyond 90 knots until the display shows SGPS or
SLOG.
If there is no valid input available from a speed log or GPS receiver, the
display will indicate a SLOG or SGPS alarm after 30 seconds.
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 speed setting and speed source for
several seconds and will then return to the normal heading display.
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

❐ To select Directional Gyro (DG), use the Selection Up and Selection Down buttons
to scroll beyond 80°N or 80°S until the display shows DG.
In this mode you can use the Meridian Surveyor 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.
DG mode will be automatically enabled for latitudes settings greater
than 80° applied from the GPS input.
The gyrocompass will not north seek while operating in the DG mode.

Meridian Surveyor
3.4 ERROR MODES

The Meridian Surveyor has three possible Error modes:
1. Loss or corruption of GPS signal
2. Loss or corruption of speed log signal
3. Gyrocompass system warnings and failures
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 30
seconds. You can recognise this condition by the following indications:
❐ The display shows S.GPS + FAIL for the loss of speed correction information.
❐ The display shows L.GPS + FAIL for the loss of latitude correction information.
❐ The audible alarm will sound.
Press the Alarm button to cancel the audible alarm.

1. The Gyrocompass will use the last valid speed and latitude values.
2. The RCU will continue to show the alarm message until a valid input signal is re-
established or a different input source is selected.
3. If the valid input signal has not been established within a period of 30 minutes the
audible alarm will be enabled.
3.4.2 LOSS OF SPEED LOG

This failure mode can occur when you have selected speed log as the source of
speed information and the signal corrupts or becomes lost for a period of 30 seconds.
You can recognise this condition by the following indications:
❐ The display flashes SLOG + FAIL for the loss of selected serial data source
information.
❐ The display flashes PLOG + FAIL for the loss of pulsed selected source
information.
Press the Alarm button to cancel the alarm.

1. The Gyrocompass will use the last valid speed value.
2. The RCU will continue to show the alarm message until a valid input signal is re-
established or a different input source is selected.
If a valid input signal has not been established within a period of 30 minutes the
audible alarm will be enabled.

3.4.3 GYROCOMPASS SYSTEM WARNINGS AND FAILURES

The Meridian Surveyor has a built-in system that monitors operation of the
gyrocompass. The functions that this system checks are split into two categories.
❐ Warning conditions
❐ Failure conditions
A failure condition will result in the Gyroscope power supply being

disabled. Refer to the maintenance section 5 before activating the
Power Supply.
Warning Conditions
If the gyrocompass detects a warning condition, it will use two methods to alert you:
❐ The display shows <Message> + FAIL
Press the Alarm button to cancel the audible alarm.

Table 3–3: Gyrocompass warning codes
<Message>
Definition of warning code
RCU Screen
dc + fail Internal DC power supply is outside operating limits
ac + fail Internal AC power supply is outside operating limits
rdc + fail Loss of internal timing signals
Temp + fail Over or under operating temperature range
rMT + fail Loss of serial communication link with the RCU
The RCU will continue to show the alarm message until the fault condition has been
removed. If the fault condition has not been removed within a period of 30 minutes the
audible alarm will be enabled. Refer to sub-section 5.1 which outlines some simple
checks that you can make to rectify these fault conditions. If necessary contact TSS
(International) Ltd or an approved local service agent for assistance.

Meridian Surveyor
Failure Conditions
If the Meridian Surveyor detects a failure condition, it will use six methods to alert you:
❐ The display shows <Message> + FAIL
❐ The ‘Ready’ lamp will extinguish.
❐ The Gyro Fail relay will activate.
❐ Serial output will transmit empty sentences.
❐ Stepper output will transmit an illegal code.
❐ Press the Alarm button to cancel the audible alarm.
Table 3–4: Gyrocompass failure code
<Message>
Definition of failure code
RCU Screen
rot + Fail Rate of Turn exceeds 300o/s
This failure is considered to be an unrecoverable fault condition, possibly due to a

component failure.
To prevent damage to the Gyroscope the power supplies to it will be disabled.
The Gyrocompass will be disabled until it has been reset by the

operator. Refer to the maintenance section 5 before activating the
Power Switch.

3.5 OPERATING CONSIDERATIONS

3.5.1 GENERAL OPERATING CONSIDERATIONS
❐ You should leave the Meridian Surveyor running continuously. Power-off the
system only during long periods of lay-up, for example during vessel dry-docking.
To power-off the Meridian Surveyor, press the ‘Power’ button. The heading display
will go blank and the front panel lamps will switch off. The gyro rotor will take
approximately five 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 Surveyor 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 Surveyor 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 five minutes after you power-off the gyrocompass.
3.5.2 CORRECTIONS FOR SPEED AND LATITUDE

❐ Gyrocompass operational accuracy depends, to a large extent, upon accurate
corrections for speed and latitude being applied.
❐ Most users find that the facilities for the automatic application of speed and
latitude corrections, via signal inputs from GPS and/or ships log, are a convenient
method of applying corrections.
❐ However, users should be aware that if the input signal contains the wrong
information, then the wrong corrections will be applied. For instance, it has been
noted that some GPS installations, under certain circumstances, will output a
“valid” signal with the speed and latitude fields set to all zeros indicating that the
vessel is stationary on the equator.
❐ An incorrect input of speed and/or latitude will cause the gyrocompass to indicate
an incorrect heading and in the case of extreme errors could cause, in certain
circumstances, the gyrocompass to come out of the “Ready mode”.
3.5.3 OPERATING AT EXTREMES OF LATITUDES

❐ As latitude increases (north or south) the magnitude of the horizontal component
of the Earth’s rotation rate reduces in proportion to the cosine of latitude.
Consequently, the effectiveness of the gyrocompasses north seeking action
reduces with increasing latitude.
❐ At latitudes greater than 80o it is recommended that the gyrocompass be operated

in the DG (directional gyro) mode.
❐ If correction for the effect of latitude on the vertical component of Earth’s rotation is
made manually via the RCU, then correction is available to 80o. Thereafter, the

Meridian Surveyor
directional gyro mode should be manually selected. Errors in the indicated

heading will increase with time and increasing latitude above 80o to a maximum of
approximately 0.25o /hour. To re-align the gyrocompass, operating latitude must
be reduced below 80o and the gyrocompass mode of operation re-selected.
❐ If correction for the effect of latitude on the vertical component of Earth’s rotation is
made automatically via a serial data input, then correction is available above 80o
and directional gyro mode is automatically selected above this latitude. The
compass will still be subject to small inherent drifts while operating in this mode.
Reversion to the gyrocompass mode will be made automatically when the serial
data latitude input falls below 80o.
3.5.4 OPERATING CONSIDERATIONS FOR VESSEL DYNAMICS

❐ 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 Surveyor, gravity control comes from an accelerometer

(pendulum), which generates an electrical signal related to the tilt of the gyro spin
axis. This device 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 Surveyor 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.
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 Surveyor
reduces the error potential typically to less than one degree.
❐ It is also possible to eliminate acceleration effects by temporarily operating the

compass in the DG (Directional Gyro) mode. In this mode gravity control is used
for tilt corrections only, so that ballistic effects would cause negligible heading

error during short-term acceleration periods. The DG mode can be selected

manually from the control panel.
❐ If the special gyro control mode for HSC is selected, the DG mode will be applied
automatically in conditions of high accelerations.
This mode of control is recommended for High Speed Craft and other
vessels which may be subjected to high accelerations induced by rapid
changes of speed or heading.
Under these conditions, operation in the standard control mode can
cause automatic reversion to the settle mode and consequently larger
dynamic heading errors.
❐ The Meridian Surveyor complies with all requirements of IMO Resolution
A.821(19), Performance Standards for Gyrocompasses for High-Speed Craft.

Meridian Surveyor

4 – Technical Data
4 TECHNICAL DATA
4.1 SPECIFICATIONS
CAUTION
You will void the warranty if you operate the gyrocompass outside the
environmental conditions detailed in Section 4 and in BS EN 60945.
4.1.1 POWER REQUIREMENTS

Voltage 24V DC (acceptable range 18V to 36V DC)
Power consumption 3A at power on, 1.2A continuous (The power
supply capacity should exceed 200W)
CAUTION
The Meridian Surveyor should be supplied with power from an SELV
source as defined in IEC/EN 60950. The power supply source should be
switched and protected by a suitable circuit breaker.
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.
4.1.2 PERFORMANCE (DEFINITIONS AS IN ISO 8728)
Settle point error 0.1° sec latitude
Static error 0.05° sec latitude RMS
Dynamic accuracy 0.2° sec latitude (Scorsby and
Intercardinal motion tests)
Settle point repeatability 0.1° sec latitude
Follow up speed 200°/s
Time to settle within 0.7° Less than 45 minutes with a ±30° initial
heading offset
4.1.3 COMPENSATION
Latitude compensation range 80°N to 80°S
Speed compensation range 0 to 90 knots
4.1.4 ENVIRONMENT
Operating environment EN 60945:1997 designated category
‘weather protected’
Operating temperature 0°C to +45°C (to ISO 8728)
–15°C to +55°C (with reduced accuracy)
Storage temperature –25°C to +80°C

Meridian Surveyor
4.1.5 SIGNAL INPUTS

Latitude IEC 61162 message string via RS232 or
RS422 from GPS
Speed Pulse or contact closure at 100, 200 or 400
per nautical mile from speed log
IEC 61162 message string at 4800 baud via
RS232 or RS422 from speed log
Alarm Acknowledgement Voltage free alarm ACK contacts
4.1.6 SIGNAL OUTPUTS
S-type heading 1 × step-by-step, 6 steps per degree (TTL
level) update limited to 20o/s to prevent
repeater misalignment
Synchro heading 1 × 26V 400Hz (11.8V maximum line-to-line),
sector value 360°
Analogue rate of turn 1 × rate of turn ±60°/min (±10V) or ±20°/s
(±10V)
Serial data outputs 5 × RS232
5 × RS422
5 × 20mA digital current loop
Serial data formats IEC 61162, Robertson, SGB ASCII at 1Hz,
10Hz or 50Hz.
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)
RCU weight 0.75 kg
Disposal
WARNING
Do not dispose of by fire or compacting, as toxic fumes, dust or liquids
may be released.
❐ Units contain electrical and electronic components which should be disposed of in

accordance with current waste disposal practices.
Units may be returned to the manufacturer for safe disposal.

4.1.8 LISTENER LOAD REQUIREMENT

The gyrocompass presents a listener load of 1.6mA typical at 2V or 3.5mA typical at
5V to all serial data input signals.
Figure 4–1: Listener input circuit
4.1.9 TALKER DRIVE CAPABILITY

The gyrocompass has a talker drive capability of 150mA to ground.
Derived from 26C31 line drivers.
4.1.10 STANDARDS
The Meridian Surveyor 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 (2002), 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
❐ IEC 61162-1:2000(E) Maritime navigation and radio communication equipment
and systems - Digital interfaces. Note that IEC 61162-1:2000(E) is closely aligned
with NMEA 0183 version 2.30
❐ USCG, United States Coast Guard Type Approval

Meridian Surveyor
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 IEC 61162 GNS, RMC, GLL or GGA sentences. If
more than one of these formats is available, the Meridian Surveyor makes its
selection in the stated preference order. Refer to Figures 4–3, 4–4, 4–5 and 4–6
respectively for a description of these formats.
❐ Datum reference using IEC 61162 DTM sentence. The latitude offset is not used
to correct the gyroscope latitude information, however the DTM sentence is re-
transmitted.
❐ Speed information using serial IEC 61162 VBW, RMC, VTG or VHW sentences.
The sentences can contain speed information using knots and/or km/h. The
Meridian Surveyor will use the speed in knots if available, in preference to speed
in km/h. If more than one of these formats is available, the Meridian Surveyor
makes its selection in the stated preference order. Refer to Figures 4–8, 4–4, 4–9
and 4–10 respectively for a description of these formats.
❐ If an RMC sentence is used it must contain both speed and latitude information.
❐ TTL-compatible pulsed speed input with a TTL-level signal or contact closure.
Outputs – Refer to sub-section 4.2.3

Serial output formats:
The Meridian Surveyor transmits selected information through RS232 and RS422
serial lines using the IEC 61162 format. The serial transmission rate can be either
4800, 9600 or 38400 baud, with updates occurring at 1Hz, 10Hz or 50Hz as defined
by the setting of the DIP switches.
Other output formats:
❐ Synchro Heading Output
❐ Stepper S-code Heading Output
❐ Rate of turn using a bipolar analogue voltage in the range ±10V
The following sub-sections describe each of the formats supported by the Meridian
Surveyor.

4.2.1 IEC 61162 SERIAL DATA FORMATS – GENERAL INFORMATION

The Meridian Surveyor 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 4–2: Serial data format
All data is interpreted as ASCII characters that form IEC 61162 sentences split into
individual fields. All fields, including null fields, are separated by commas.
The IEC 61162 format requires a 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 Surveyor
retransmits serial data using the same IEC 61162 sentence format supplied by an
external source, it will recalculate any checksum and insert the new value into the
output sentence.
IEC 61162 sentences are usually transmitted once per second, however you can set
a DIP switch to select a transmission update rate of either 1, 10 or 50 per second. The
outputs are grouped into two channels that can be set independently. The All Data
output option of heading, latitude, speed, datum, rate of turn and time sentences will
always be transmitted at 1Hz.

Meridian Surveyor
4.2.2 INPUTS
4.2.2.1 IEC 61162 INPUT SIGNALS
The Meridian Surveyor will accept sentences in both IEC 61162-1:2000(E) and NMEA
version 2.1 data formats.
In the following descriptions of input sentences, the Meridian Surveyor uses the data
fields marked ‘XXX’ in the IEC 61162 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 2-9 for connection details)
The Meridian Surveyor can accept speed, latitude, date and time inputs at the GPS
interface in IEC 61162 format using GNS, RMC, GLL, GGA, VTG, VHW and ZDA
sentences.
Figure 4–3: IEC 61162 GNS input sentence structure
$??GNS,??????.??,XXXX.XX,X,?????.??,?,X--X,??,?.?,?.?,?.?,?.?,?.?*??[CRLF]
East/West
Mode Indicator
HDOP
Total number of satellites in use, 0-99
Checksum field
Longtitude
Antenna altitude, m, re:mean-sea-level (geoid)
Geoidal seperation, m
Age of differential data
Carriage return Line-feed characters

Differential reference station ID
Latitude (ddmm.mm)
North/South
UTC of position
Talker identifier (any characters)
Mnemonic for GNSS fix data
Start character
Figure 4–4: IEC 61162 RMC input sentence structure

$??RMC,??????.??,X,XXXX.XX,X,?????.??,?,X.X,?.?,??????,?.?,?,X[CRLF]
Mode Indicator

Date of fix
Status, A= valid, V=Nav. Receiver warning
Mnemonic for North or South
Course over ground in degrees

Latitude (ddmm.mm
UTC of position (hhmmss.ss)
Longitude (dddmm.mm)
Ground speed in knots
Magnetic variation in degrees

Mnemonic for Recommended Min GPS data
Start character
Mnemonic for East or West
Magnetic variation indicator east or West

Start character Start character Start character
Talker identifier Talker identifier (any characters) Talker identifier (any characters)
Mnemonic for Datum reference Mnemonic for GPS fix data Mnemonic for geographical Lat and Lon
DPN 060079
Local datum
Local datum subdivision code Latitude (ddmm.mm)
Latitude offset
Mnemonic for North or South

North/South
Longitude offset Latitude (ddmm.mm Longitude (dddmm.mm)
East/West
Altitude offset, m Mnemonic for North or South Mnemonic for East or West
© TSS (International) Ltd

Reference datum Longitude (dddmm.mm)
Checksum field
Mnemonic for East or West
Carriage return Line-feed characters GPS quality indicator Status
Figure 4–5: IEC 61162 GLL input sentence structure
Figure 4–7: IEC 61162 DTM input sentence structure

Figure 4–6: IEC 61162 GGA input sentence structure
Issue 2.10
$??DTM,???,?,?.?,?,?.?,?,?.?,???*hh[CRLF]
Number of satellites in use (00 - 12) Mode Indicator
Horizontal dilution of precision Carriage return Line-feed characters

$??GLL,XXXX.XX,X,?????.??,?,??????.??,X,X[CRLF]
Antenna altitude relative to mean sea level

Mnemonic for metres
Geoidal separation
Mnemonic for metres
Age of differential GPS data
Differential reference station (0000 - 1023)

$??GGA,??????.??,XXXX.XX,X,?????.??,?,X,??,?.?,?.?,?,?.?,?,?.?,????[CRLF]
Section 4 Page 7 of 18
Start character Start character
Talker identifier (any characters) Talker identifier (any characters)
Mnemonic for ground course and speed Mnemonic for Dual ground/water speed
Course in degrees and tenths Longitudinal water speed, knots

Mnemonic for True heading Transverse water speed, knots
Course in degrees and tenths
Status: water speed, A= valid, V= not valid
Mnemonic for Magnetic heading
Longitudinal ground speed, knots
Speed in knots
Transverse ground speed, knots
Mnemonic for knots
Status: ground speed, A= valid, V= not valid
Speed in km/h
Stern transverse water speed, knots
Mnemonic for km/h Status: stern water speed, A= valid, V= not valid
Mode indicator
Stern transverse ground speed, knots
Issue 2.10
Status: stern ground speed, A= valid, V= not valid
$??VTG,?.?,?,?.?,?,X.X,X,XX.X,X,X[CRLF]
Figure 4–9: IEC 61162 VTG input sentence structure
Figure 4–8: IEC 61162 VBW input sentence structure
Figure 4–10: IEC 61162 VHW input sentence structure

Checksum field

$??VBW,?.?,?.?,?,X.X,?.?,X,?.?,?,?.?,?*hh[CRLF]

DPN 060079
Meridian Surveyor
Start character Start character Start character
Talker identifier (any characters) Talker identifier (any characters) Talker identifier (any characters)
Mnemonic for ground course and speed Mnemonic for Dual ground/water speed Mnemonic for Time and Date
DPN 060079
Course in degrees and tenths Longitudinal water speed, knots
Mnemonic for True heading Transverse water speed, knots UTC (hhmmss.ss)
Course in degrees and tenths Status: water speed, A= valid, V= not valid
Mnemonic for Magnetic heading Day of month (01 to 31)

Speed in knots Month of year (01 to 12)
Mnemonic for knots
Status: ground speed, A= valid, V= not valid Year
Speed in km/h

Stern transverse water speed, knots Local zone hours (00 to ±13)
Mnemonic for km/h Status: stern water speed, A= valid, V= not valid
Mode indicator Local zone minutes (00 to +59)
Carriage return Line-feed characters Carriage return Line-feed characters
$??VTG,?.?,?,?.?,?,X.X,X,XX.X,X,X[CRLF]
$??ZDA,XXXXXX.XX,XX,XX,XXXX,??,??[CRLF]
Issue 2.10
Figure 4–11: IEC 61162 ZDA input sentence structure
Figure 4–13: IEC 61162 VTG input sentence structure

Figure 4–12: IEC 61162 VBW input sentence structure
Checksum field
format using VBW, VTG and VHW sentences only.

Log Interface (see Table 2–3 or connection details)
$??VBW,?.?,?.?,?,X.X,?.?,X,?.?,?,?.?,?*hh[CRLF]
The Meridian Surveyor can accept speed inputs at the Log interface in IEC 61162
Meridian Surveyor
Figure 4–14: IEC 61162 VHW input sentence structure
4.2.2.2 PULSED INPUT

The Meridian Surveyor 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. Refer to Table 2–17. 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.

4.2.3 OUTPUTS
4.2.3.1 IEC 61162 OUTPUT SIGNALS
The Meridian Surveyor can output data through RS232 and RS422 transmit-only
serial lines using IEC 61162-1:2000(E) format. The output is presented on two
channels. The output of each channel can be set independently, using DIP switches,
to contain either:
1. Heading and Rate of turn - as described below, OR
2. All data - all information described below, transmitted in the order stated.
❐ Heading information is transmitted using an HDT format sentence. The resolution

of the heading information can be set to one or two decimal places at the DIP
switches. Refer to Figure 4–15 for a description of this output format.
❐ Rate of turn information is transmitted using a ROT format sentence. Refer to

Figure 4–16 for a description of this output format.
❐ Speed information is transmitted using a VTG format sentence if the gyrocompass

is configured for manual or a pulsed speed log input. The VTG sentence also has
provision for Heading and this is inserted at a resolution as set by the DIP
switches. Refer to Figure 4–13 for a description of this output format. If the
gyrocompass is configured for a GPS speed input and the speed information
arrives at the gyrocompass in either VBW, RMC, VTG or VHW format, then the
gyrocompass will retransmit the received format modifying the sentence to include
the HE talker identifier. Refer to Figures 4–17, 4–21, 4–18 and 4–19 for a
description of these output formats.
❐ Datum reference is re transmitted if the DTM sentence is received on the GPS

input. The gyrocompass will re-transmit the received sentence modifying it to
include the HE talker identifier. Refer to Figure 4–24 for a description of this output
format.
❐ Latitude information is transmitted using a GLL format sentence if the

gyrocompass is configured for manual latitude input. Refer to Figure 4–22 for a
description of this output format. If the gyrocompass is configured for a GPS
latitude input and the latitude information arrives at the gyrocompass in either
GNS, RMC, GLL, or GGA format, then the gyrocompass will retransmit the
received sentence modifying the sentence to include the HE talker identifier. Refer
to Figures 4–20, 4–21, 4–22 and 4–23 for a description of these output formats.
❐ Date and time information is transmitted using a ZDA format sentence. The
gyrocompass will transmit the ZDA sentence including the HE talker identifier. If
this information is received from a GPS source, all fields will be re-transmitted. If
there is no valid date and time from an external source, the gyrocompass will
transmit the ZDA sentence with empty data fields. Refer to Figure 4–25 for a
description of this output format.
If “All Data” output format is selected at the DIP switches, the

transmission update rate for that channel will be at 1Hz regardless of
the setting of the channel update rate.
This output format is not suitable for High Speed Craft applications.
In the following descriptions of output sentences, the gyrocompass sets the contents
of fields marked XXX and leaves unchanged the fields marked ???

Start character
Mnemonic for Dual ground/water speed
Longitudinal water speed, knots
Transverse water speed, knots

Status: water speed, A= valid, V= not valid

Status: ground speed, A= valid, V= not valid
Stern transverse water speed, knots
Status: stern water speed, A= valid, V= not valid
Issue 2.10
Checksum field
Figure 4–15: IEC 61162 HDT output sentence structure
Figure 4–16: IEC 61162 ROT output sentence structure
Figure 4–17: IEC 61162 VBW output sentence structure

$HEVBW,?.?,?.?,?,?.?,?.?,?,?.?,?,?.?,?*hh[CRLF]

DPN 060079
Meridian Surveyor
Start character
Talker identifier (any characters) Start character
Mnemonic for GNSS fix data
Mnemonic for vector heading and water speed
DPN 060079
Heading in degrees and tenths
UTC of position
Mnemonic for True heading
Heading in degrees and tenths
Latitude (ddmm.mm) Mnemonic for Magnetic heading
Speed in knots
North/South
Mnemonic for knots

Longtitude Speed in km/h
Mnemonic for km/h

East/West Carriage return Line-feed characters
$HEVHW,???.?,?,???.?,?,??.?,?,??.?,?[CRLF]
Issue 2.10
Mode Indicator
Figure 4–18: IEC 61162 VTG output sentence structure
Figure 4–20: IEC 61162 GNS output sentence structure

Figure 4–19: IEC 61162 VHW output sentence structure
Total number of satellites in use, 0-99
HDOP
In GPS mode, only the talker identifier is changed
Antenna altitude, m, re:mean-sea-level (geoid)

In manual mode, the magnetic course fields are empty.
Geoidal seperation, m
Age of differential data
Differential reference station ID

Checksum field
$HEGNS,??????.??,????.??,?,?????.??,?,????,??,?.?,?.?,?.?,?.?,?.?*??[CRLF]
Meridian Surveyor
Figure 4–21: IEC 61162 RMC output sentence structure
Figure 4–22: IEC 61162 GLL output sentence structure
In GPS mode, only the talker identifier is changed

In manual mode, the longitude and UTC fields are empty
Figure 4–23: IEC 61162 GGA output sentence structure

Figure 4–24: IEC 61162 DTM output sentence structure

$HEDTM,???,?,?.?,?,?.?,?,?.?,???*hh[CRLF]
Latitude offset
Checksum field
Local datum
Local datum subdivision code
Altitude offset, m
Reference datum

Longitude offset
East/West
Talker identifier
Mnemonic for Datum reference
Start character
North/South
Figure 4–25: IEC 61162 ZDA output sentence structure

$HEZDA,??????.??,??,??,????,??,??[CRLF]
Year
Local zone minutes (00 to +59)

Local zone hours (00 to ±13)
Talker identifier
UTC (hhmmss.ss)
Day of month (01 to 31)

Month of year (01 to 12)
Mnemonic for Time and Date
Start character
4.2.4 IEC 61162 SENTENCE WITH CHECKSUM

When the checksum is to be sent with any of the above IEC 61162 sentences, it
appears as an extra field inserted before the carriage return character as shown by
example in Figure 4–26.
Figure 4–26: IEC 61162 sentence with optional checksum
The checksum consists of an asterisk followed by the checksum calculated by

exclusive OR-ing the eight data bits of each valid character preceding the asterisk,
but excluding the ‘$’ symbol, in the sentence. The Meridian Surveyor transmits the
absolute value of the checksum in ASCII characters representing the value in HEX.

Meridian Surveyor
4.2.5 OTHER OUTPUT FORMATS

4.2.5.1 ROBERTSON SERIAL OUTPUT
The Robertson format includes heading information as a BCD-encoded four-byte
ASCII string. The Robertson output updates at 50Hz.
Figure 4–27: Robertson serial output format
Within each of the four bytes in the string:

❐ Bits 7 and 6 are always zero
❐ Bits 5 and 4 identify the order of magnitude for the included heading information
❐ Bits 3 to 0 include the heading information

4.2.5.2 SG BROWN ASCII SERIAL OUTPUT

The SG Brown format includes heading information as a six-character ASCII string
terminated with the carriage-return line-feed sequence. The SG Brown format
updates at 10Hz.
Figure 4–28: SG Brown format (1/6th)
Figure 4–29: SG Brown format (1/10th)

Meridian Surveyor
4.2.5.3 SYNCHRO OUTPUT

The synchro heading output is available continuously at J2 on the Connector Panel
while the gyrocompass is powered-on – refer to Table 2–4 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.
4.2.5.4 RESOLVER OUTPUT

The resolver heading output is available continuously at J2 on the Connector Panel
while the gyrocompass is powered-on – refer to Table 2-4 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, which is
generated internally, can be set nominal 36V 400Hz or 10V 400Hz by jumper JP30 on
PCB929066. The factory default setting is 36V 400Hz.
The resolver sine and cosine outputs must be electrically isolated from
each other. Contact the TSS (International) Ltd 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.
4.2.5.5 STEPPER S-CODE

The stepper S-code output is available continuously at J2 on the Connector Panel
while the gyrocompass is powered-on – refer to Table 2–4 for connection details.
The stepper output is a TTL compatible S-encoded signal with a 10mA sink capacity.
4.2.5.6 RATE OF TURN
The ROT output is calculated by the internal processor updated at 10Hz and made
available continuously at J3 on the Connector Panel while the gyrocompass is
powered-on – refer to Table 2–5 for connection details.
The ROT output is a bipolar analogue voltage in the range ±10V to represent rates of
turn from –60° to +60° per minute or –20° to +20° per second by DIP-switches. Refer
to 2–15. Positive rates of turn are to starboard.

5 – Maintenance
5 MAINTENANCE
WARNING
There is a danger of serious injury from voltages inside the Meridian
Surveyor. 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 power-on 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 gyrocom-
pass 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 Surveyor 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 TSS
(International) Ltd for advice and technical assistance before you begin any
maintenance work on the system.
5.1 Built-in Test Equipment Page 2
The Meridian Surveyor 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
message 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.
A test box (TSS (International) Ltd part number 929220) is available to facilitate
connection to the 60-way test connector.

Meridian Surveyor
5.1 BUILT-IN TEST EQUIPMENT

In Subsection 3.4.3 there are a list of five warning codes and one failure codes
delivered by the built-in test equipment if it detects a fault in the gyrocompass. In
these conditions, the four-character display will show <Message> + FAIL
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 5–2 for details of the test connector).
Table 5–1: Test measurements
Failure Code Measure Expected value Signal source
dc+fail DC supply 18V DC to 36V DC Ship’s mains/PSU

Failure of DC 42 (+ve) to 43 +24V DC ±0.5V DC DC/DC PSU
power supply 44 (+ve) to 43 –24V DC ±0.5V DC DC/DC PSU
17 (+ve) to 18 +5V DC ±0.1V DC DC/DC PSU
50 (+ve) to 51 +15V DC ±0.2V DC Control Board analogue
52 (+ve) to 51 –15V DC ±0.2V DC Control Board analogue
45 (+ve) to 18 +5V DC (+0.2V/–0.7V DC) Control Board analogue
ac+fail 19 to 43 2.5V AC ±0.125V AC @ 19.2kHz Control Board analogue

Failure of AC 20 to 43 14V AC ±1V @ 480Hz (18V AC ±1.5V at start (1-min)) Control Board analogue
power supply 21 to 43 14V AC ±1V @ 480Hz (18V AC ±1.5V at start (1-min)) Control Board analogue
58 to 43 12V AC ±0.2V @ 400Hz Control Board analogue
57 (+ve) to 18 +5V DC ±0.2V DC Control Board analogue
rdc+Fail 58 to 43 12V AC ±0.2V @ 400Hz Control Board analogue

Failure of 53 (+ve) to 51 (5.4V DC ±0.5V DC) × sin heading Control Board analogue
synchro-to- 54 (+ve) to 51 (5.4V DC ±0.5V DC) × cos heading Control Board analogue
digital converter
rMT+fail 50 way IDC Cable (Part Number B929157)

Loss of RCU + 5V DC Power Supply
communication 5 way Cable Loom (Part Number B929161)
ROT+fail >300o/s Check Gyro connection to the analogue PCB

Rate of turn
exceed limit
Temp+fail <-20oC Check operating environment and ventilation

Temperature
>+60oC
exceeds operat-
ing range

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. Refer to sub-sec-
tions 3.3.1, 3.3.2 and 3.3.3 to set the latitude speed and DG mode.
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 2–2 shows the location of the Tilt Bias potentiometer.
7. Repeat steps 2 and 6 above until the calculated drift rate is less than 0.2°/hr.
8. Refer to sub-section 3.3.3 and de-select DG mode.
5.1.2 AZIMUTH BIAS ADJUSTMENT

You may use the following procedure to eliminate small angles of heading error from
the Meridian Surveyor. 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 2–2
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.

Meridian Surveyor
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 (part number
929220) is available to facilitate connection to the 60-way test connector.
Table 5–2: Sixty-way test connector
Pin Name Function
1 S1_SYNCHRO 11.8V RMS 400Hz synchro S1 phase
2 S2_SYNCHRO_RES 11.8V RMS 400Hz synchro S2 phase
3 S3_SYNCHRO_RES 11.8V RMS 400Hz synchro S3 phase
4 26V_SYNCHRO_R1 26V RMS 400Hz synchro R1 reference
5 0V_SYNCHRO_RES 26V RMS 400Hz synchro R1 reference
6 GA_MODE Directional gyro mode control (+5V logic)
7 GC_MODE Gyrocompass mode control (+5V logic)
8 AA_MODE Auto alignment mode control (+5V logic)
9 LAT_NS Latitude north selection control (+5V logic)
10 SERVO_EN Tilt and azimuth servo enable control (+5V logic)
11 WHEEL_BOOST Gyro wheel supply boost control (+5V logic)
12 LOG_OK Speed log OK flag (+5V logic)
13 GPS_OK GPS OK flag (+5V logic)
14 SYS_FAIL System fail flag (+5V logic)
15 GYRO_RDY Gyrocompass ready flag (+5V logic)
16 PREPARE Prepare mode (servo nulling) (+5V logic)
17 VCC 5V DC supply
18 GND 5V DC supply return
19 PICK_OFF_SUPPLY_1 Gyro pick off supply 2.5V RMS 19.2kHz sine wave
20 WHEEL_SUPPLY_1 Gyro wheel supply 0 phase 10V (18V) RMS 480Hz square wave
21 WHEEL_SUPPLY_2 Gyro wheel supply 90 phase 10V (18V) RMS 480Hz square wave
22 PWMO Compass card illumination PWM control 5V 85Hz square wave
23 ACC Gravity control signal ±150mV DC/min T=60s
24 10V 10V DC positive voltage reference
25 _10V 10V DC negative voltage reference
26 LAT_TORQ Latitude torquing input signal (–10 sin[latitude])V DC
27 SPEED_N_TORQ Speed N torque i/p signal (7.3e–3 × speed(kts) × cos[heading])
28 SPEED_E_TORQ Speed E torque i/p signal (–8.5e–3 × speed(kts) × sin[heading] × tan[latitude]V DC

5 – Maintenance
Table 5–2: Sixty-way test connector
Pin Name Function
29 AZ_BIAS Bias adj. to azimuth torquer ±2.2V DC (60mV/deg heading)
30 TILT_BIAS Bias adj. to tilt torquer ±2.2V DC (400mV/deg/hour heading)
31 TILT_TEMP Bias adj. to tilt torquer proportional to temperature (400mV/deg/hr heading)
32 AZ_TEMP Bias adj. to azimuth torquer proportional to temperature (60mV/deg/hr heading)
33 T Temperature ref (non-inverted) from gimbal thermistor (DC V proportional to temp)
34 T_ Temperature ref (inverted) from gimbal thermistor (DC V proportional to temp)
35 TILT_TORQUER_LO Tilt torquer signal 0.013V DC/mA (torquer scale factor 10°/hr/mA)
36 AZ_TORQUER_LO Azimuth torquer signal 0.006V DC/mA (torquer scale factor 10°/hr/mA)
37 TILT_PICK_OFF_DC Demodulated gyroscope tilt pick-off signal
38 AZ_PICK_OFF_DC Demodulated gyroscope azimuth pick-off signal
39 18V10V Gyro wheel positive supply
40 -18V10V Gyro wheel negative supply
41 UP_DOWN Accelerometer - Slave comparator
42 24V 24V DC positive supply
43 0V Supply return for ±24V DC
44 –24V 24V DC negative supply
45 PSU_LO PSU (+5V DC and ±15V DC) under voltage flag (+5V DC logic)
46 NOT USED
47 ACC_COS_LAT Latitude weighted gravity control signal (150/cos latitude) mV DC/min
48 SLAVE Slave accelerometer gravity control signal (10mV/bit)
49 ROT Analogue rate of turn output (0.5V DC/deg/s (10V DC max) CW +ve; ACW –ve
50 15V 15V DC positive supply
51 0Va Supply return for ±15V DC
52 –15V 15V DC negative supply
53 SIN_DC Analogue voltage proportional to sin(heading) (±0.1V DC/deg heading)
54 COS_DC Analogue voltage proportional to cos(heading) (±0.1V DC/deg heading)
55 RS232_RX_TEST RS232 receive port reserved for product testing
56 RS232_TX_TEST RS232 transmit port diagnostic output sentence
57 AC_OK AC supply (19kHz, 480Hz and 400Hz) OK flag (+5V DC logic)
58 400_REF_HI Reference supply 12V RMS 400Hz
59 AZ_MOTOR_HI Drive to azimuth follow-up DC servo motor
60 TILT_MOTOR_HI Drive to tilt follow-up DC servo motor

Meridian Surveyor
5.3 DIAGNOSTIC OUTPUT SENTENCE

An ASCII character diagnostic sentence, delivered via RS232 line standard at 4800 baud, is
available at test connector PL6/56-18(GND).
Note that this sentence information is only valid for gyrocompasses fit-
ted with software of the following version or newer: BPR 115 (main) and
BPR 114 (RCU).
It may be useful to monitor this sentence when communicating with TSS (International) Ltd for
technical assistance. The sentence string may be read using "Microsoft Terminal" or similar
ASCII reader.
Sentence Structure
Gyro Control 1 = slave accelerometer (new hardware)
S = special gyro control mode for HSC (for gyrocompasses
with serial numbers later than 3500)
R = real accelerometer (original hardware)
A = special applications only (original hardware)
Mode L = level
A = alignment
C = compass
D = DG
Status F = fail
R = ready
S = settle
Latitude (degrees) xx
Hemisphere N or S
Speed (knots) xx
Average Accelerometer (bits) Paxxx
ADC 1 (bits) rxxx
ADC 2 (bits) hxxx
ADC 3 (bits) txxx
ADC 4 (bits) axxx
ADC 5 (bits) Txxx
DAC 1a (bits) xxx

DAC 1b (bits) xxx
DAC 2a (bits) xxx
DAC 2b (bits) xxx
DAC 3a (bits) xxx
DAC 3b (bits) xxx
Heading (degrees) $HEHDT,xxx.xx,T
Sentence Example
R CR 51N 06 Pa128r128h128 t128a128 T096 160 198 000 000 128 128 $HEHDT,000.00,T
During start-up, the Mode and Status characters will change in the following sequence:
1. LS for about 4 minutes
2. AS for 25 - 60 minutes (dependent upon initial heading misalignment)
3. CR in READY mode and functioning
Ensure that the Latitude and Speed values in the sentence correspond with the automatic or
manually set values applied to the gyrocompass. Ensure that the Heading value in the
sentence is correct.

5 – Maintenance
Figure 5–1: System Block Diagram

Z
1. Damper
2. Gyro spin motor
H
3. Tilt torquer
4. Azimuth torquer
5. Accelerometer
6. Azimuth pickoff
7. Tilt pickoff
8. Thermistor
9. Tilt motor 1
10. Azimuth motor
2 3
5
4
H
6
8 7
N-S
Issue 2.10
9 Y
Figure 5–2: Gimbal Assembly Functional Diagram
10
Resolver

Azimuth Temperature Tilt Tilt Azimuth 400Hz Sin H Cos H Azimuth Torquer Accelerometer Tilt Torquer
Pickoff Sensor Signal Motor Pickoff Motor Control Signal Signal (Acc) Control Signal
Signal Drive Signal Signal Drive Signal
DPN 060079
Meridian Surveyor
5 – Maintenance
Figure 5–3: Analogue Control Board Block Diagram

Meridian Surveyor
Figure 5–4: Digital Control Board/Remote Control Board Block Diagram

5 – Maintenance
Table 5–3: Spares list for Meridian Surveyor
SG Brown P/N Description
Refer to TSS (International) Ltd Gimbal assembly

Service Dept
929066 Control Board Analogue
929083 Control Board Digital
929049 Control Board Remote
929045 Display Board
929074 DC/DC Power Supply
856000 Filter #1 (Schaffner)
929160 Filter #2 (Vicor)
346808 Fuse link 3.15A 250V
929382 Connect/distribution assembly
929190 RCU Mounting Kit
930626 Transit case
929220 Test box

Meridian Surveyor

Index
A G
Adjustments GPS
Azimuth bias 5–3 Baud Rates 4–2
Azimuth drift 5–3 Corrections for gyrocompass 1–3, 1–5
Test connector 5–4 Data formats 4–4
Tilt bias 5–3 Input socket connections 2–8
Alignment 2–15 Loss of GPS 3–6
Analogue Rate of Turn Gyro failure 3–7
DIP-switch settings 2–14 Gyrocompass configuration 2–11
Output connection 2–7
Specification 4–2, 4–18 H
Azimuth bias adjustment 5–3
High Speed Craft
See Vessel Dynamics
C
Cable types 2–4 I
Cautions IEC61162
All i–1 Data Format 4–5
Handling 2–2 Input data formats 4–6
Making external connecting 2–5 Specification 4–3
Operating limitations 4–1 Inputs
Power supply 4–1 Connections 2–8
Removing power 2–2 Power connections 2–6
Repair and adjustment 5–1
Pulsed speed log 4–10
See Warnings Speed log 4–9
Tilt limits 2–3 Installation
Ventilation 2–3
Alignment 2–15
Controls 3–2 Choosing a location 2–3
Corrections DIP switches 2–11
See Latitude Correction
Installation Drawings 2–17
See Speed Correction Suitable cables 2–4
Tools 2–4
D Vessel Dynamics 3–10
DG Directional Gyro 3–5
DIP switches 2–11 L
Dip switches Latitude Correction
Analogue rate of turn 2–14 Automatic 1–5
Outputs 2–12 Enabling 3–4
Vessel dynamics 2–14 GPS data formats 4–4
Manual 3–4
E RCU display formats 3–2
Error modes
GPS 3–6 M
Gyro failure 3–7, 3–8 Maintenance
Relay output connections 2–9 Error modes 3–6
See Maintenance Operation during lay-up 3–9
Speed log 3–6 Test box 5–1
Test connector 5–4
DPN 060079 © TSS (International) Ltd Issue 2.10 Index Page 1 of 2

Meridian Surveyor
N Resolver output 4–18

NMEA
Data Format 4–5 S
Input data formats 4–6 Speed Correction
Log input data formats 4–9 Automatic 1–5
Output data formats 4–11 Enabling 3–5
Specification 4–3 GPS data formats 4–4
NMEA data formats 4–5 Input connections 2–8
Log Data formats 4–9
O Pulsed log input 4–10
Operation RCU display formats 3–2
Continuous operation 3–9 Speed Log
During lay-up 3–9 Baud Rate 4–2
Power failure 3–9 Input connections 2–8
Power-off 2–2, 3–9 Loss of speed signal 3–6
Power-on 3–3 Serial data formats 4–9
Vessel Dynamics 3–10 Stepper S-code output 4–18
Output formats Synchro output 4–18
Analogue rate of turn output 4–18 Synchro output connections 2–6
Resolver 4–18
Robertson’s 4–16 T
Serial NMEA / IEC61162 4–5 Test box 5–1
SGB ASCII 4–17 Test connector 5–4
Stepper S-code 4–18 Tilt bias adjustment 5–3
Synchro 4–18
Outputs
Application 1–5
V
Connections 2–7, 2–8 Vessel Dynamics
Data formats 4–4 Dip switches 2–14
Operating considerations 3–10
P
Power
W
Before switching-on 3–3 Warnings
Supply requirements 4–1 All i–1
Switching off 2–2, 3–9 Disposal 4–2
Lifting 2–2
Safety of personnel 5–1
R See Cautions
Rate of Turn See Error Messages
See Analogue Rate of Turn
Serial data format 4–12
RCU
Controls 3–2
Description 1–4
Dimensions and Weight 4–2
Display formats 3–2
External connections 2–7
External location 2–10
Installation Drawing 2–19
Index Page 2 of 2 Issue 2.10 © TSS (International) Ltd DPN 060079

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Meridian Surveyor

TSS (International) Ltd

Document P/N 060079

DPN 060079 © TSS (International) Ltd Issue 2.10 Page 1 of 6

Page 2 of 6 Issue 2.10 © TSS (International) Ltd DPN 060079

DPN 060079 © TSS (International) Ltd Issue 2.10 Page 3 of 6

4.2.2 Inputs 4–6

Page 4 of 6 Issue 2.10 © TSS (International) Ltd DPN 060079

Old Issue New Issue Date Details

1.0A 1.0B 1 Mar 2001 Amendments to J8 configuration. Amendments to NMEA

1.0B 1.0C 23 Apr 2001 Add notification to avoid product modifications.

1.0C 2.0 Aug 2002 Substantial amendments to reflect product enhancements

2.2 2.3 Feb 2003 Modification to specifications and addition of Appendix B to

2.5 2.6 August 2003 Minor amendments to specifications throughout

2.6 2.7 March 2004 Amendments to alarms warning / failure designation

2.7 2.8 June 2006 Revised Company Logo

2.8 2.9 December 2006 Removed references to B929033 and 929033.

DPN 060079 © TSS (International) Ltd Issue 2.10 Page 5 of 6

Page 6 of 6 Issue 2.10 © TSS (International) Ltd DPN 060079

❐ Operation from a 24V DC electrical supply

CAUTION instructions alert you to the potential risk of damage to the

DPN 060079 © TSS (International) Ltd Issue 2.10 Section 1 Page 1 of 6

Section 1 Page 2 of 6 Issue 2.10 © TSS (International) Ltd DPN 060079

1.1 SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

❐ The Remote Control Unit (RCU)

Figure 1–1 shows the

❐ Power supply board.

❐ Digital and analogue control

It is a relatively simple operation to

DPN 060079 © TSS (International) Ltd Issue 2.10 Section 1 Page 3 of 6

❐ Alarms and Status information

❐ Separate LED indicators show Power On and Compass Ready conditions

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

Section 1 Page 4 of 6 Issue 2.10 © TSS (International) Ltd DPN 060079

1.1.3 AUXILIARY INPUTS

❐ Radio direction finder

❐ Course plotter and recorder

❐ Satellite communication systems

1.2 PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION

DPN 060079 © TSS (International) Ltd Issue 2.10 Section 1 Page 5 of 6

Section 1 Page 6 of 6 Issue 2.10 © TSS (International) Ltd DPN 060079

DPN 060079 © TSS (International) Ltd Issue 2.10 Section 2 Page 1 of 20

2.1 UNPACKING AND INSPECTION

Section 2 Page 2 of 20 Issue 2.10 © TSS (International) Ltd DPN 060079

2.2 PHYSICAL AND ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION

❐ Choose a location that protects the Meridian Surveyor from damage.

DPN 060079 © TSS (International) Ltd Issue 2.10 Section 2 Page 3 of 20

2.2.2 GYROCOMPASS INSTALLATION

❐ Screwdriver 3mm × 75mm

❐ Nut spinner 5.5mm

❐ 3 x M8 bolts of suitable length complete with washers and nuts

❐ Combination spanner 10mm

❐ Adjustable spanner opening to at least 33mm

❐ Suitable cables for the installation as indicated in Table 2–1.

Purpose Suitable cable

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

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

Section 2 Page 4 of 20 Issue 2.10 © TSS (International) Ltd DPN 060079

To prevent any possibility of damage to the gyrocompass while the

DPN 060079 © TSS (International) Ltd Issue 2.10 Section 2 Page 5 of 20