Meridian Surveyor Issue 2.1 Sept 2002

A Division of TSS (UK) Limited
Meridian Surveyor
System Manual
Covers Software Version 1.6x
VT TSS (SG Brown division) Ltd

1 Garnett Close
Greycaine Industrial Estate
Watford
Hertfordshire WD24 7JZ UK
Telephone +44 (0)1923 470800
The information in this Manual is subject to Facsimile +44 (0)1923 470838
change without notice and does not represent
a commitment on the part of SG Brown
Abcdef
Document P/N 060079
Issue 2.1
© SG Brown September 2002
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 precau-
tions 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 transporta-
tion.
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 min-
utes after power-off for the gyro rotor to come to rest before you attempt to move the
gyrocompass.
CAUTION
During operation, the gyrocompass must remain level to within ±45°. If it experiences
tilt greater than 45° in any direction, it will ‘topple’. Safety routines in the gyro software
will then power-off the gyro rotor and show alarm conditions on the RCU. To restore
normal operation, establish a level operating attitude and then power-on the gyrocom-
pass normally.
Never apply a tilt of more than 45° with the gyro rotor spinning or during the gyrocom-
pass initialisation procedure. Note that the gyro rotor continues to spin for approxi-
mately ten minutes after you power-off the System.
CAUTION
If you install the gyrocompass in an enclosed space, make certain there is sufficient
ventilation and circulation of free air to allow effective cooling.
CAUTION
Do not make any connections to the gyrocompass with power on the supply cable.
DPN 060079 Issue 2.1 © SGBrown Page 1 of 6

Meridian Surveyor
CAUTION
You will void the warranty if you make any modifications to this equipment without
prior permission from SG Brown.
DO NOT modify this equipment in any way without obtaining permission from SG
Brown.
Page 2 of 6 © SGBrown Issue 2.1 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 2–15
2.5 Installation Drawings 2–16
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 3–4
3.3.3 DG operating mode 3–5
3.4 Error Modes 3–5
3.4.1 Loss of GPS 3–5
3.4.2 Loss of speed log 3–6
3.4.3 Gyrocompass system warnings and failures 3–6
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 High Speed Craft 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

Meridian Surveyor
4.1.10 Standards 4–3

4.2 Data Formats 4–4
4.2.1 IEC 61162 Serial Data Formats – General information 4–5
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 4–17
4.2.5.4 Stepper S-Code 4–17
4.2.5.5 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
A OPERATING THEORY A–1

A.1 North-seeking Gyroscope A–2
A.2 Gyrocompass Corrections A–5
A.2.1 Latitude Correction A–5
A.2.2 Gyro Damping A–5
A.2.3 Speed Error A–6
A.3 Summary A–7

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 for-

mat 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

Meridian Surveyor

1 – Introduction
1 INTRODUCTION
The Meridian Surveyor is a master heading reference instrument that applies the characteris-
tics 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 con-
tains 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 Table of Contents section includes copies of all the
WARNING and CAUTION instructions included in this Manual.
Throughout this Manual all measurements conform to the SI standard of units unless other-
wise indicated.
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.
DPN 060079 Issue 2.1 © SG Brown Chapter 1 Page 1 of 6

Meridian Surveyor
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 con-
duct simple adjustments with the gyrocompass housing removed.
This Manual also contains the following appendices:

Appendix A explains how a gyroscope can be made north seeking for use in a gyrocompass.
CAUTION
You will void the warranty if you make any modifications to this equipment without
prior permission from SG Brown.
DO NOT modify this equipment in any way without obtaining permission from SG
Brown.
Chapter 1 Page 2 of 6 © SG Brown Issue 2.1 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 Sur-
veyor 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 special-
ised personnel or equipment. How-
ever, 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 have a wide impact throughout the vessel. You should there-

Meridian Surveyor
fore take care when you install and align the gyrocompass. Refer to Section 2 for full instruc-
tions to install, connect and align the Meridian Surveyor.
The only component available for user servicing is a 3A line fuse inside the gyrocompass
housing. In case of failure, refer to Section 5 for instructions to renew this fuse and check the
PSU board supplies.
1.1.2 Remote Control Unit

Figure 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
❐ Seperate 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 correc-
tions.
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 oper-
ator 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 3 for a description of the available output channels and their data formats.
1.2 PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION

In the absence of external influences, a free-spinning gyroscope will try to maintain a fixed
orientation in space. The Meridian 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 con-
tains 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 electri-
cal 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 ves-
sel 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 precau-
tions 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 transporta-
tion.
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 min-
utes 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 manu-
facture 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 imme-
diately notify SG Brown.
To avoid loss or damage to any components of the system, store all sub-assemblies safely in
the transit case until you need to install them. Obey the storage temperature limits listed in
Section 4.
Notify SG Brown immediately if there are any components missing from the shipment.
The title page of this Manual lists the contact details for SG Brown.

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 success-
fully:
CAUTION
During operation, the gyrocompass must remain level to within ±45°. If it experiences
tilt greater than 45° in any direction, it will ‘topple’. Safety routines in the gyro software
will then power-off the gyro rotor and show alarm conditions on the RCU. To restore
normal operation, establish a level operating attitude and then power-on the gyrocom-
pass normally.
Never apply a tilt of more than 45° with the gyro rotor spinning or during the gyrocom-
pass initialisation procedure. Note that the gyro rotor continues to spin for approxi-
mately five minutes after you power-off the System.
❐ The gyrocompass weighs 15.5kg. Choose a mounting location that is level, flat and suffi-
ciently 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 0.8m between the gyrocompass housing and any standard
magnetic compasses.
❐ Choose a location that allows convenient access to install, connect and service the Merid-
ian 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
❐ Combination spanner 10mm
❐ Hexagon key 2mm
❐ 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 Sur-
veyor. 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 accu-
rately, mark the supporting surface with the centre positions for the three securing holes.
Refer to Figures 2–3 and 2–4 for dimensions.

2 – Installation
3. Remove the gyrocompass and drill three 8.5mm diameter holes, using the marks you have
just made on the supporting surface as hole centres. Deburr the holes and remove any
swarf.
4. Reposition the gyrocompass and align it to the fore-aft datum. Use three M8 bolts with
washers and nuts to secure the gyrocompass in position.
5. Connect a 24V electrical supply (acceptable range 18V to 36V DC) to the Meridian Sur-
veyor at J1, the three-pin power inlet on the Connector Panel. Figure 2–1 shows the Con-
nector Panel.
Figure 2–1: Gyrocompass connector panel
CAUTION
Do not make any connections to the gyrocompass with power on the supply cable.
6. Connect the ship’s safety ground to the earthing stud adjacent to the electrical supply inlet
J1.
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.

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 DG Return
12 DG Signal
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 circum-
stances. 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 Dis-
tribution Board.
4. Lift the RCU away from the gyrocompass and install it at the remote location.
The cable run between the RCU and the remote location must not exceed 100 metres.
5. Use the bracket with the mounting kit to fix the RCU to a desk or to a bulkhead. You may
also flush mount the RCU in a panel. Choose a suitable location to mount the RCU:
❐ The mounting surface can be vertical or horizontal according to requirements.
❐ Avoid installing the RCU where it might experience severe shock or vibration.
❐ Choose a location for the RCU that allows a clear view of the display in all conditions.
6. Use the two star knobs supplied to fit the RCU into the mounting bracket. Tilt the unit to a
convenient viewing and operating angle and then lock it in place by tightening both star
knobs.
7. Supply and fit a cable to connect the RCU to 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.

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 inter-
nal 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 the DIP switches carefully 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

Azimuth bias potentiometer
Tilt bias
potentiometer
DIP
switches
1 and 2 2
1
DIP switch SW1 DIP switch SW2

8 < poles > 1 8 < poles > 1
ON
OFF

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 2configuration)
Factory default settings appear in bold and are marked with an asterisk in this table.
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
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

2 – Installation
6 5 4 3 2 1
1= ON 0 = OFF
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
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

Meridian Surveyor
6 5 4 3 2 1
1= ON 0 = OFF
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)
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 (Gyro Control)

1=ON 0=OFF Gyro Control
1 Reserved for future use
0* Factory Default Setting*
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 – Installation
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 sur-
veyed 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 aft end of the vessel.
❐ 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.
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.

Meridian Surveyor
2.5 INSTALLATION DRAWINGS

Figure 2–3: Gyrocompass installation – Sheet 1

2 – Installation
Figure 2–4: Gyrocompass installation – Sheet 2

Meridian Surveyor
Figure 2–5: RCU installation – Table mount

2 – Installation
Figure 2–6: RCU installation – Flush mount

Meridian Surveyor

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 and any alarm mes-
sages and error codes.
3.2 Initial Power-on Page 3

Explains how to power-on the Meridian Surveyor after installation and describes the initialisa-
tion sequence.
3.3 Operating Procedure Page 4

Explains how to select the latitude and speed correction sources, and how to set the latitude
and speed manually if necessary.
3.4 Error Modes Page 5

Identifies the system error modes. Use these indicators to identify a possible fault condition.
3.5 Operating Considerations Page 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 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 throughtout 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
0123.4 + DG_X Heading with DG mode set by Distribution PCB connection
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 + S.MAN Latitude value in the Northern Hemisphere with Manual selected Latitude
source
L.52S + S.MAN Latitude value in the Southern Hemisphere with Manual selected Latitude
source
L.52N + S.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. Check
that the instrument illumination is at maximum during the initialisation sequence. Even at
its maximum setting, the instrument illumination may be difficult to see in bright ambient
lighting.
4. The RCU will 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.
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 increase and decrease selection 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 control panel proces-
sors by pressing both the Up and the Down selection buttons simultaneously. The display
will toggle between indications of the main processor software version (with prefix ‘M’)
and the control panel software (with prefix ‘R’). The display will continue to toggle for
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 refer-
ence. The system requires only latitude and speed correction, applied manually or from exter-
nal 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 up and down selection 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 selec-
tion 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 lati-
tude 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 nec-
essary. Note that, in medium latitudes, a 10° error in setting the operating latitude will
result in a compass error of approximately 0.3°.
3.3.2 Speed correction

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

❐ To select automatic speed compensation from a GPS receiver or a speed log, use the up
selection button to scroll beyond 90 knots until the display shows 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 indi-
cate the speed setting and speed source for several seconds and will then return to the nor-
mal 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

Follow the instructions in sub-section 3.3.1 to set the latitude correction to the Directional
Gyro (DG) mode. In this mode you can use the Meridian 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.
Note: DG mode will be automatically enabled for latitudes set greater than 80 deg.
Note: that the gyrocompass will not north seek while operating in the DG mode.
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 recog-
nise 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.

Meridian Surveyor
2. The RCU will continue to show the alarm message until a valid input signal is re-estab-
lished 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 informa-
tion 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 restablished
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 warning will result in the Gyroscope power supply being disabled.
Refer to the maintenance section 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

Table 3–3: Gyrocompass warning codes
<Message>
Definition of warning code
RCU Screen
Temp + fail Over or under operating temperature range
rcu + 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 SG Brown or an approved local
service agent for assistance.
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.
Table 3–4: Gyrocompass failure codes
<Message>
Definition of failure 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
APO + Fail High Azimuth pick-off signal
tpo + Fail High Tilt Pick-off signal
rot + Fail Rate of Turn exceeds 300o/s
These failures are considered to render, or be due to an unrecoverable fault condition, possibly
due to a component failure.

Meridian Surveyor
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 mainte-
nance section 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 ten minutes to
come to rest.
❐ If you intend to leave the system powered-off for an extended period, you should arrange
to run the gyrocompass for a period of at least thirty minutes at intervals of six months or
less.
❐ The Meridian 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° regard-
less 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 cor-
rections, 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
directional gyro mode.

Meridian Surveyor
❐ 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 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 High Speed Craft

❐ The gyrocompass gravity control gives rise to errors whenever the gyrocompass acceler-
ates 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 azi-
muth. This effect, called ballistic deflection, causes an increase in error during accelera-
tion.
❐ 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 gyro-
compass 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 anticlock-
wise 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 devices
has two important design features; it is heavily damped and the range of output is restricted
to a small angle.
The use of accelerometer damping by the Meridian 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 limit-
ing 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 accel-
eration periods. The DG mode can be selected manually from the control panel.
❐ The Meridian Surveyor complies with all requirements of IMO Resolution A.821(19), Per-
formance Standards for Gyrocompasses for High-Speed Craft.

Meridian Surveyor

4 – Technical Data
4 TECHNICAL DATA
4.1 SPECIFICATIONS
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 sup-

ply capacity should exceed 200W)
CAUTION
The Meridian Surveyor contains a non-isolated PSU. Therefore, you should supply it
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, for example the SGBrown UPS part number 929128.
4.1.2 Performance (definitions as in ISO 8728)

Settle point error 0.25° sec latitude
Static error 0.1° sec latitude RMS
Dynamic accuracy 0.6° sec latitude (Scorsby and

Intercardinal motion tests)
Settle point repeatability 0.25° sec latitude
Follow up speed 200°/s
Time to settle within 0.7° Less than 45 minutes 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 6095:1997 designated category ‘weather pro-
tected’
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
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 mis-
alignment
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)0
RCU weight 0.75 kg

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 (January 1997), General Requirements - Methods of testing and required
test results
❐ BS EN ISO 8728:1999, Shipbuilding – Marine Gyrocompasses
❐ BS 6217:1981, Graphical Symbols for use on Electrical Equipment
❐ CE marking
❐ Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive
❐ The Marine Equipment Directive 96/98/EC
❐ IEC 61162-1:2000(E) Maritime navigation and radio communication equipment and sys-
tems - Digital interfaces. Note that IEC 61162-1:2000(E) is closely aligned with NMEA
0183 version 2.30.

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 descrip-
tion 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 sen-
tences 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 prefer-
ence order. Refer to Figures 4-8, 4-4 and 4-10 respectively for a description of these for-
mats.
❐ 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 addi-
tional field immediately before the carriage return line-feed characters. It consists of an aster-
isk (*) 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 optionally set
a DIP switch to select transmission rates of 10 or 50 per second. The outputs are grouped into
two channels that can be set independently to either 1Hz, 10Hz or 50Hz updates.

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 ver-
sion 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 recog-
nise 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
Age of differential data

Antenna altitude, m, re:mean-sea-level (geoid)
Geoidal seperation, m
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
Reference datum Longitude (dddmm.mm)
Figure 4–7: IEC 61162 DTM input sentence structure

Figure 4–6: IEC 61162 GGA input sentence structure
Figure 4–5: NIEC 61162 GLL input sentence structure

Checksum field
Mnemonic for East or West
Issue 2.1
GPS quality indicator Status
$??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
© SG Brown
Mnemonic for metres
Geoidal separation
Mnemonic for metres
Age of differential GPS data
Differential reference station (0000 - 1023)

$??GGA,??????.??,XXXX.XX,X,?????.??,?,X,??,?.?,?.?,?,?.?,?,?.?,????[CRLF]
Chapter 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
Figure 4–9: IEC 61162 VTG input sentence structure

Status: stern water speed, A= valid, V= not valid
Figure 4–8: IEC 61162 VBW input sentence structure
Figure 4–10: IEC 61162 VHW input sentence structure

Mode indicator
Stern transverse ground speed, knots
Status: stern ground speed, A= valid, V= not valid
$??VTG,?.?,?,?.?,?,X.X,X,XX.X,X,X[CRLF]
© SG Brown
Checksum field

$??VBW,?.?,?.?,?,X.X,?.?,X,?.?,?,?.?,?*hh[CRLF]
Issue 2.1
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
Figure 4–11: IEC 61162 ZDA input sentence structure
Figure 4–13: IEC 61162 VTG input sentence structure

Local zone minutes (00 to +59)
Figure 4–12: IEC 61162 VBW input sentence structure

Mode indicator
using VBW, VTG and VHW sentences only.
Carriage return Line-feed characters Carriage return Line-feed characters
Issue 2.1
$??VTG,?.?,?,?.?,?,X.X,X,XX.X,X,X[CRLF]
$??ZDA,XXXXXX.XX,XX,XX,XXXX,??,??[CRLF]
Checksum field
Log Interface (see Table 2–3 or connection details)

$??VBW,?.?,?.?,?,X.X,?.?,X,?.?,?,?.?,?*hh[CRLF]
© SG Brown
The Meridian Surveyor can accept speed inputs at the Log interface in IEC 61162 format
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 occur-
ring at a frequency of 100, 200 or 400 per nautical mile as selected by a DIP switch. The gyro-
compass 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 con-
figured 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 4-12
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 sen-
tence to include the HE talker identifier. Refer to Figures 4-17, 4-20 and 4-18 for a descrip-
tion of these output formats.
❐ Datum reference is retransmitted 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 4-23 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 4-14 for a description of this output
format. If the gyrocompass is configured for a GPS latitude input and the latitude informa-
tion arrives at the gyrocompass in either GNS, RMC, GLL, or GGA format, then the gyro-
compass will retransmit the received sentence modifying the sentence to include the HE
talker identifier. Refer to Figures 4-19, 4-20, 4-21 and 4-22 for a description of these out-
put 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 retransmitted. 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 4-24 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.
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
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

© SG Brown
Checksum field
$HEVBW,?.?,?.?,?,?.?,?.?,?,?.?,?,?.?,?*hh[CRLF]
Issue 2.1
DPN 060079
Meridian Surveyor
Figure 4–18: IEC 61162 VTG output sentence structure
Note In GPS mode only the talker identifier is changed

In manual mode, the magnetic course fields are empty.
Figure 4–19: IEC 61162 GNS output sentence structure

$HEGNS,??????.??,????.??,?,?????.??,?,????,??,?.?,?.?,?.?,?.?,?.?*??[CRLF]
Latitude (ddmm.mm)
North/South
East/West
Mode Indicator
HDOP
Total number of satellites in use, 0-99
Checksum field
UTC of position
Longtitude
Age of differential data

Antenna altitude, m, re:mean-sea-level (geoid)
Geoidal seperation, m

Differential reference station ID
Mnemonic for GNSS fix data
Start character
Figure 4–20: IEC 61162 RMC output sentence structure

Meridian Surveyor
Figure 4–21: IEC 61162 GLL output sentence structure
Note In GPS mode, only the talker identifier is changed

In manual mode, the longtitude and UTC fields are empty
Figure 4–22: IEC 61162 GGA output sentence structure
Figure 4–23: 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 4–24: 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 4–25.
Figure 4–25: 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 ‘$’ sym-
bol, 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 4–26: 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 termi-
nated with the carriage-return line-feed sequence. The SG Brown format updates at 10Hz.
Figure 4–27: SG Brown format (1/6th)
Figure 4–28: SG Brown format (1/10th)
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 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.

Meridian Surveyor
4.2.5.5 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. 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 experi-
ence required, and only when necessary. Inappropriate tampering with the internal con-
trols and components of the gyrocompass can lead to damage or serious performance
degradation.
NEVER open the gyrocompass cover or make any adjustments inside the gyrocom-
pass 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 SG Brown for advice
and technical assistance before you begin any maintenance work on the system.
5.1 Built-in Test Equipment Page 2

The Meridian 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 dis-
play panel. This sub-section explains some very basic tests and adjustments that you may per-
form on the system.
5.2 Test Connector Page 4

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

Meridian Surveyor
5.1 BUILT-IN TEST EQUIPMENT

In Subsection 3.4.3 there are a list of two warning codes and five 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 10V AC ±1V @ 480Hz (18V AC ±1.5V at start (1-min)) Control Board analogue
power supply 21 to 43 10V 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
tpo +fail 10 (+ve) to 18 +5V DC ±0.2V DC (0V DC ±0.2V DC at start (1-min)) Control Board digital
High tilt pick-off 16 (+ve) to 18 +5V DC ±0.2V DC (0V DC ±0.2V DC at start (2-min)) Control Board digital
signal 37 (+ve) to 51 0V DC ±1V DC Control Board analogue
apo+fail 10 (+ve) to 18 +5V DC ±0.2V DC (0V DC ±0.2V DC at start (1-min)) Control Board digital
High azimuth 16 (+ve) to 18 +5V DC ±0.2V DC (0V DC ±0.2V DC at start (2-min)) Control Board digital
pick-off signal 38 (+ve) to 51 0V DC ±1V 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
rcu+fail 50 way IDC Cable (Part Number B929157)

Loss of RCU + 5V DC Power Supply
communication 50 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. Use the DIP switches to set DG
mode – refer to Table 2-17. Refer to sub-sections 3.3.1 and 3.3.2 to set the latitude and
speed.
2. Note the initial heading (H1) shown on the RCU display.
3. Wait for one hour and then note the heading (H2) shown on the RCU display.
4. Calculate the azimuth drift rate (H2 – H1) degrees per hour.
5. Use a digital meter set to measure DC volts and monitor the Tilt Bias between pins 30 and
51 of the 60-way test connector (with the positive test lead on pin 30).
6. Adjust the Tilt Bias potentiometer RV7 by 400mV × drift rate (°/hr). You must turn the
potentiometer anticlockwise to compensate for azimuth drift towards higher readings. Fig-
ure 2–2 shows the location of the Tilt Bias potentiometer.
7. Repeat steps 1 and 2 above to ensure that the calculated drift rate is less than 0.2°/hr.
5.1.2 Azimuth Bias Adjustment

You may use the following procedure to eliminate small angles of heading error from the
Meridian Surveyor. Measure and, if necessary, adjust for azimuth drift as described in sub-sec-
tion 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 (SG Brown part number 929220) is avail-
able 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 (Continued)
Pin Name Function
29 AZ_BIAS Bias ad.j 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 reserved for product testing
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
Figure 5–1: System Block Diagram

Z
1. Damper
2. Gyro spin motor
H
DPN 060079
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
5 – Maintenance
H
6
8 7
Figure 5–2: Gimbal Assembly Functional Diagram
N-S
9 Y
Issue 2.1
10
© SG Brown
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
Meridian Surveyor
Figure 5–3: Analogue Control Board Block Diagram

DIGITAL CONTROL BOARD ANALOGUE CONTROL BOARD GIMBAL ASSEMBLY
Temperature
T+
To Tilt & Azimuth THERMISTOR THERMISTOR
temperature pots AMPLIFIER (temp sensor)
T-
+V Ref TILT TEMP TILT BIAS
PRECISION
T+ T- +V Ref -V Ref
REFERENCE
-V Ref
North seaking
Acc/Cos λ Align
TILT
Run TORQUER
COIL
Latitude correction
ω Sin λ +/-
Hemisphere
Easterly speed correction
V.Sin H.Tan λ +/-
R
Hemisphere
AMPLIFIER TILT
Tilt Pickoff (d.c.) +/- & PICKOFF
Align FILTER COILS
Run
DG SCALING
TILT
& M
MOTOR
SHAPING Servo Enable
COMPARATOR
SCALING
19.2 Khz Ref AZIMUTH
& M
SHAPING MOTOR
Servo Enable Servo Enable
Hemisphere (+/-)
AMPLIFIER AZIMUTH
Azimuth Pickoff (d.c.) +/- & PICKOFF
FILTER COILS
Acc (Low Gain) τ = 60s ACCELEROMETER

(vertical sensor)
Align
Damping
Acc (High Gain) X10
AZIMUTH
DG TORQUER
COIL
Run
V.Cos H Northerly speed correction
R +24V
REG+
T+ T- +V Ref -V Ref
Wheel Boost
-24V AZIMUTH TEMP AZIMUTH BIAS
REG-
19.2Khz Ref
19.2Khz BANDPASS 2.5V 19.2Khz
FILTER Pickoff Supply
10V/18V
ω = earth rotation (15°/hr) ∅1
V = speed (knots x 6080 ft/hr) 480Hz ∅ 0
R = earth radius (20.9 x 106 ft)
λ = local latitude (deg) 3.6Mhz PLD 480Hz ∅ 180
H = gyro heading (deg) 10V/18V 480Hz
τ = time constant 480Hz ∅ 90 Gyro Spin Motor
Supply
Acc = accelerometer signal
480Hz ∅ 270
400Hz 10V/18V ∅2
MONO - BANDPASS 400Hz
AC OK 36V R4
STABLE FILTER Reference
26V R1 RESOLVER
400Hz Ref Phase
ROTOR
26V Synchro
0V R2 36V Resolver
400Hz Ref
8V.Sin H
Rate of Turn RoT +/- 10V RESOLVER
STATOR
8V.Cos H
Sin H +/- S1
400Hz Ref
S3 Heading Outputs
11.8V Synchro
Cos H +/- S4 8V Resolver
400Hz Ref
S2

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

DISTRIBUTION BOARD DIGITAL CONTROL BOARD ANALOGUE
System Fail CONTROL BOARD
System Ready
Stepper O/P
3 x RS232 IEC 61162 ω = earth rotation (15°/hr)
9 x RS422 IEC 61162 V = speed (knots x 6080 ft/hr)
R = earth radius (20.9 x 106 ft)
RS422 Heading/ROT λ = local latitude (deg)
GPS Serial H = gyro heading (deg)
NMEA 0183 All Data τ = time constant
Speed Log Serial Acc = accelerometer signal
OPTO- RS232/ RS422 RS232

Speed Log Pulses
COUPLER RS422 I/F DRIVERS DRIVERS
RS422
DUART
Remote Control DRIVER
DATA BUS
SCN2681 EPROM
MAX487 27C512
AC OK
RX TX P4 CS
ADDR.
P2 CS
ANALOGUE DECODER Temperature
MUX & ADDR. BUS Azimuth Pickoff (d.c.)
P0
10 BIT
ADC Tilt Pickoff (d.c.)
RAM
HM62256 Acc (Low Gain)
PWMO
Azimuth Pickoff (d.c.)
Acc (High Gain)

uCONTROLLER
Tilt Pickoff (d.c.)
Acc (High Gain)
80C552
Acc (Low Gain)
EPROM Sin H
28C16A
Temperature
X1 XTAL
P4 Cos H
400Hz Ref
AC OK CS
PSU Align
DG Mode SUPERVISORY Run
MAX8213 LATCH
LS373 DG
Servo Enable
DC PSU
Hemisphere (+/-)
Wheel Boost
CS CS
Acc (Low Gain)
RESOLVER CS
LATCH
TO DIGITAL
LS373 DAC Acc/Cos λ
CONVERTER
AD7528 ω Sin λ
Sin H
Cos H 10V Ref
400Hz Ref Cos H
CS
CS V.Cos H
DAC R
Course Recorder AD7528
RS232/ DUART
Spare RS422 I/F SCN2681 Sin H
CS
V.Sin H.Tan λ
DAC R
AD7528 Rate of Turn
10V Ref
RS422
EPROM ADDR.
Remote Control DRIVER CS
27C512 DECODER
MAX487
CS
RX TX RAM REMOTE CONTROL BOARD
P2
HM62256
ADDR. BUS
P0 CS
RESET RESET
WATCHDOG EPROM
DATA BUS
MAX813L 28C16A
PWMO
WD1 PFO CS
uCONTROLLER
80C32 DISPLAY
DISPLAY
X1 XTAL DRIVER
P4
CS
SYSTEM
LATCH READY FAIL
KEYBOARD LS373 SOUNDER
CS
LATCH
LS373

Meridian Surveyor
Table 5–3: Spares list for Meridian Surveyor
SG Brown P/N Description
929033 Gimbal assembly
929066 Control Board Analogue
929083 Control Board Digital
929049 Control Board Remote
929045 Display Board
929074 DC/DC Power Supply
856000 Filter #1
929160 Filter #2
346808 Fuse link 3.15A 250V
929382 Connect/distribution assembly
929190 RCU Mounting Kit
929194 Transit case
929220 Test box

A – Operating Theory
A OPERATING THEORY
A gyrocompass is a navigational instrument that provides a true north indication without refer-
ence to the earth’s magnetic field. For its operation, the gyrocompass depends upon the fol-
lowing:
❐ The inertial properties of a freely spinning gyroscope.
❐ The rotation of the earth about its own axis.
❐ Gravity.
Figure A–1 shows a free-spinning gyroscope mounted in a balanced gimbal suspension. The
suspension allows unrestricted movement about the vertical and horizontal axes so that the
gyro rotor can adopt any orientation.
Figure A–1: Free-spinning gyroscope
With the gyro rotor stationary, it is easy to turn the gimbal suspension about either axis and
allow it to remain there in a balanced condition.
However, when it is spinning, the gyro rotor exhibits a property called gyroscopic inertia. This
property causes the spin axis of the rotor to remain pointing in the same arbitrary direction in
space and to resist any influence that tries to redirect that axis.
For simplicity, this explanation assumes the gyro rotor continues to spin perpetually at a con-
stant speed. In a practical gyrocompass, the gyro rotor is the specially designed spindle of a
motor that rotates at a constant speed.
To an observer on the surface of the earth, the free spinning gyroscope would appear to ‘tum-
ble’ in its gimbal suspension once in every 24-hour period. This apparent deviation occurs
because, although the spin axis actually remains fixed in space, the earth rotates relative to it.
DPN 060079 Issue 2.1 © SG Brown Appendix A Page 1 of 8

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

❐ With an initial spin axis alignment level and parallel to a meridian (so that it points in a
true north-south direction), there would be no observable effect on the gyroscope during
the 24-hour period.
❐ With an initial spin axis alignment level and perpendicular to a meridian (so that it points
in the east-west direction), the spin axis would appear to tumble about its horizontal axis
with the eastern end of the spin axis rising. After 24 hours, the gyroscope would complete
a single revolution in its gimbal suspension so that the spin axis would again point in the
original direction relative to the observer.
❐ With an initial spin axis alignment somewhere between these two extremes, the gyroscope
would appear to tumble about its horizontal and its vertical axes to complete one single
revolution in 24 hours.
To an observer at one of the geographic poles:

❐ With an initial spin axis alignment vertical (so that it aligns with the axis of earth rotation),
there would be no observable effect on the gyroscope during the 24-hour period.
❐ With the initial spin axis level, the gyroscope would appear to turn clockwise (at the north
pole) or anticlockwise (at the south pole) about its vertical axis once in 24 hours.
To an observer at some intermediate latitude with the gyroscope oriented in some arbi-
trary initial direction:
❐ The gyroscope would tumble about the north-south direction at – Ω cos λ and about the
east-west direction at Ω sin λ , where Ω is the earth rotation rate (15° per hour) and λ is the
latitude of the gyroscope.
A.1 NORTH-SEEKING GYROSCOPE

Given a constant spin rate and frictionless gimbals, the gyroscope described above will always
maintain its initial alignment relative to free space. To an observer on the surface of the earth,
the revolutions that such a gyroscope performs every 24 hours would make it difficult to use as
an instrument of navigation.
The ideal situation is for the gyroscope to align perfectly with the spin axis of the earth so that
it maintains a north-south orientation with no apparent tumbling during each 24-hour period.
To make the gyroscope north seeking, the gyrocompass uses gravity control and an effect
called precession.
Appendix A Page 2 of 8 © SG Brown Issue 2.1 DPN 060079

Consider the example shown below where the gyroscope rotates about its spin axis in the
direction shown.
Precession
When an externally applied torque acts on the gyroscope suspension in the direction shown, a
point on the circumference of the rotor at 'O' will attempt to move in two directions simultane-
ously:
❐ It will accelerate in the direction OA under the influence of the applied torque.
❐ It will continue to move in the direction OB as the rotor spins.
The net result of these two movements actually starts to move the point on the circumference
of the rotor in the direction OC, which is the resultant of the two perpendicular influences.
Since every point on the circumference of the rotor experiences the same effect as it passes
through point O, it follows that the rotor will rotate about an axis that lies at right angles to the
axis of applied torque. This is the axis of precession. In this example, precession will act in the
direction shown.
Eventually, the spin axis of the gyroscope will turn sufficiently so that its spin axis coincides
with the axis of applied torque, at which point there will no further tendency for the gyroscope
to rotate about the precession axis.
Summary:
If a free spinning gyroscope comes under the influence of a torque whose axis is perpendicu-
lar to the spin of the gyro rotor, a precession results that tends to align the spin axis with the
axis of applied torque. The direction of this precession is such that, should alignment occur,
the gyroscope spin direction will be the same as the direction of applied torque.

Meridian Surveyor
Consider the example shown in Figure A–2(a), which shows a free spinning gyroscope aligned
so that its spin axis is level with the horizon. In this example, the spin axis of the gyroscope
aligns with the local meridian so that its north end points north. In the balanced condition
shown, the weight suspended from the gyroscope bearings has no effect on operation and the
gyroscope will maintain its alignment with the meridian.
Figure A–2: Gravity control of a gyroscope
It is more common for the initial alignment of the gyroscope to be at some angle away from
true north. Two conditions are therefore possible:
1. Gyroscope initially level and aligned to the west of north.

With the spin axis of the gyroscope initially level but with the north end pointing to the west of
true north, the arrangement would briefly be balanced as shown in Figure A–2(a).
However, over time the north end of the spin axis would begin to tilt downwards. This is
because the earth rotates while the gyroscope maintains a fixed orientation in space. In this
off-balanced condition, shown in Figure A–2(b), the weight would try to return to its central
location and, in doing so, would apply an anticlockwise torque to the gyro suspension.
With the gyroscope spinning in the direction shown, precession arising from the anticlockwise
torque would move the north end of the rotor eastwards. Therefore, because this condition
arises from a westerly misalignment between the gyroscope and the meridian, the effect of the
bottom weight is to drive the gyro rotor towards closer alignment with the meridian.
2. Gyroscope initially level and aligned to the east of north.

With the spin axis of the gyroscope initially level but with the north end pointing to the east of
true north, the arrangement would briefly be balanced as shown in Figure A–2(a).
However, over time the north end of the spin axis would begin to tilt upwards with rotation of
the earth. In this off-balanced condition, shown in A–2(c), the weight would apply a clockwise
torque to the gyro suspension.

Precession arising from the clockwise torque would move the north end of the rotor further
west and therefore into closer alignment with the meridian.
In practice, modern gyrocompasses, such as the Meridian Surveyor, exercise gravity control
by an indirect method. Tilt is detected by an electronic pendulum or accelerometer and the
resultant electrical signals are used to produce torques that have the same effect as a suspended
weight.
A.2 GYROCOMPASS CORRECTIONS

A.2.1 Latitude Correction
Sub-section A.1 explains how the addition of gravity control to the gyroscope gives it the
north-seeking characteristic necessary for use in a gyrocompass.
When operating at the equator, such a simple gravity control would be sufficient to maintain
alignment with the meridian with no further need for corrections.
However, as the operating latitude increases towards either of the poles, there is a greater ten-
dency for the gyroscope to experience azimuth drift with time.
The rate of change of azimuth due to the earth’s rotation is constant for a given latitude. There-
fore, the gyrocompass must apply a controlling correction torque, perpendicular to the spin
axis, to cancel the drift caused by the earth’s rotation. To generate this correction torque the
gyrocompass needs to know the operating latitude.
A.2.2 Gyro Damping

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

Meridian Surveyor
rotor tracing a decreasing spiral path, eventually settling with the gyroscope horizontal and
aligned with the meridian.
A.2.3 Speed Error

Figure A–3 shows that the north end of a meridian-aligned free spinning gyro will appear to
rise as it moves northwards from the equator. This upward tilt is independent of the earth’s
rotation. If left uncorrected, this effect would interfere with the north-seeking properties of the
gyrocompass because the compass would be unable to determine whether the tilt came from a
misalignment or from the northward motion.
If left uncorrected therefore, the northward travel would cause an upward tilt that would cause
the gyroscope to precess towards the west and then to go into a settling spiral. Eventually,
given a constant speed of northward movement, the gyro would settle slightly to the west of
true north.
Figure A–3: Gyrocompass speed error
Speed-related error is directly proportional to the north-south component of speed, and

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

A.3 SUMMARY
❐ A gyrocompass will indicate the true north direction after an appropriate settling period.
❐ To maintain correct true north alignment, the gyrocompass must receive additional infor-
mation concerning its operating latitude.
❐ Also to maintain accuracy the gyrocompass needs to know its direction of travel, which it
generates itself, and the speed of travel. Speed information must arrive from an external
source, or be applied manually.
❐ A gyrocompass becomes progressively less effective as a north seeking instrument at

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

Meridian Surveyor

Index
A I
Adjustments Installation
Azimuth bias 5–3 Alignment 2–4, 2–15
Test connector 5–4 Cable types 2–4
Alignment 2–4, 2–15 Choosing a location 2–3
Analogue rate of turn output 4–18
Auxiliary inputs 1–5 L
Azimuth bias adjustment 5–3 Latitude correction 1–5, A–5
Azimuth drift A–5 Latitude correction. See Corrections
Loss of GPS 3–5
C Loss of speed signal 3–6
Cable types 2–4
Continuous operation 3–9 M
Control unit. See RCU Maintenance
Controls 3–2 Error modes 3–5
Correction Test connector 5–4
Speed A–6 Manual speed input 3–5
Corrections 3–4
Latitude 3–4, A–5
N
NMEA data formats 4–5
D
North-seeking gyroscope A–2
Data formats
Analogue rate of turn output 4–18
Serial NMEA 4–5 O
Stepper S-code 4–17 Operation
Synchro output 4–17 Continuous operation 3–9
DIP switches 2–11 Lay-up 3–9
Power failure 3–9
Power-off 3–9
E
Power-on 3–3
Error modes 3–5 Operation during lay-up 3–9
GPS 3–5
Gyro failure 3–6, 3–7
Speed log 3–6 P
Power failure 3–9
Power-off 3–9
G
Power-on 3–3
GPS 1–5 Precession A–2
GPS failure 3–5
Gravity control A–2
Gyro damping A–5 R
Gyro failure 3–6, 3–7 Rate of turn analogue output 4–18
Gyrocompass configuration 2–11 RCU
Gyrocompass data formats Controls and indicators 3–2
Robertson’s 4–16 External location 2–10
SGB 4–17 Remote Control Unit. See RCU
Gyroscopic inertia A–1 Robertson’s data format See Gyrocompass
data formats
DPN 060079 © SG Brown Issue 2.1 Index Page 1 of 2

Meridian Surveyor
S
SGB data format See Gyrocompass data for-
mats
Speed correction 1–5, A–6
Speed correction. See Corrections
Speed log failure 3–6
Stepper S-code output 4–17
Synchro output format 4–17
T
Test connector 5–4
Toppling 2–3
Index Page 2 of 2 Issue 2.1 © SG Brown DPN 060079

Meridian Surveyor Issue 2.1 Sept 2002

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A Division of TSS (UK) Limited

VT TSS (SG Brown division) Ltd

DPN 060079 Issue 2.1 © SGBrown Page 1 of 6

Page 2 of 6 © SGBrown Issue 2.1 DPN 060079

3 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 3–1

4 TECHNICAL DATA 4–1

DPN 060079 Issue 2.1 © SGBrown Page 3 of 6

4.1.10 Standards 4–3

A OPERATING THEORY A–1

Page 4 of 6 © SGBrown Issue 2.1 DPN 060079

Old Issue New Issue Date Details

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

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

DPN 060079 Issue 2.1 © SGBrown Page 5 of 6

Page 6 of 6 © SGBrown Issue 2.1 DPN 060079

Among the standard features of the Meridian Surveyor are:

❐ A short settling time

❐ Operation from a 24V DC electrical supply

DPN 060079 Issue 2.1 © SG Brown Chapter 1 Page 1 of 6

You should read sections 5 if you suspect a fault on the System:

This Manual also contains the following appendices:

Chapter 1 Page 2 of 6 © SG Brown Issue 2.1 DPN 060079

1.1 SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

❐ The gyrocompass housing

❐ The Remote Control Unit (RCU)

Refer to Appendix A for a simplified explanation of the gyrocompass theory of operation.

Figure 1–1 shows the gyrocompass

❐ True north seeking dynamically

❐ Power supply board.

❐ Digital and analogue control

❐ RFI filter and distribution board.

It is a relatively simple operation to

DPN 060079 Issue 2.1 © SG Brown Chapter 1 Page 3 of 6

1.1.2 Remote Control Unit

The four-character LED can show a range of information:

❐ Heading in Degrees. 000.0 to 359.9

❐ Latitude. 80S to 80N

❐ Alarms and Status information

❐ Seperate LED indicators show Power On and Compass Ready conditions

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

Chapter 1 Page 4 of 6 © SG Brown Issue 2.1 DPN 060079

1.1.3 Auxiliary Inputs

Section 3 includes instructions to set the latitude and speed manually.

1.1.4 Heading Outputs

❐ Radio direction finder

❐ Course plotter and recorder

❐ Satellite communication systems

1.2 PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION

Refer to Appendix A for the general theory of gyrocompass operation.

DPN 060079 Issue 2.1 © SG Brown Chapter 1 Page 5 of 6

Chapter 1 Page 6 of 6 © SG Brown Issue 2.1 DPN 060079

2.1 Unpacking and Inspection Page 2

2.2 Physical and Electrical Installation Page 3

2.3 Alignment Page 15

DPN 060079 Issue 2.1 © SG Brown Chapter 2 Page 1 of 20

2.1 UNPACKING AND INSPECTION

Chapter 2 Page 2 of 20 © SG Brown Issue 2.1 DPN 060079

2.2 PHYSICAL AND ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION

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

DPN 060079 Issue 2.1 © SG Brown Chapter 2 Page 3 of 20

2.2.2 Gyrocompass installation

❐ Screwdriver 5.5mm × 150mm

❐ Screwdriver 3mm × 75mm