| Gyrocompass
Main source for determining direction thus indicating true north. Gyroscope – rapidly spinning body having three axes of angular freedom. Must be lit off a minimum of 4 hours prior to use. Checked for error at least once daily while ship is underway. Proper function if error is 2 degrees or less. Powered by electricity and consists to two main components. Master gyrocompass consists of a control cabinet, power supply, speed unit, alarm unit, and transmission unit that is located within the ship’s hull where it is least affected by pitch and roll. Repeaters receive
signal transmitted from master gyro for real-time data.
How the Gyrocompass Steers Ships..............Compass explained |
"Navigator's Balls"
The two spherical
iron balls located at each side of the compass.
Their real name is
Horizontal Stabilizers.