Maker : FURUNO
Model : 

FURUNO SC-50 Satellite Compass

Complete Marine Technical Guide for Accurate Heading and Position Information

Product Identification

The FURUNO SC-50 Satellite Compass is an advanced marine heading sensor that uses multiple GPS satellites to provide highly accurate vessel heading, position, course, speed, and Rate of Turn (ROT) information without relying on traditional gyrocompass technology.

The SC-50 is widely used aboard merchant ships, offshore vessels, fishing vessels, dredgers, patrol vessels, and workboats where reliable heading information is required.

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Product Introduction

Traditional magnetic compasses and gyrocompasses have been used for decades to determine vessel heading. However, satellite compass technology introduced a new level of accuracy and reliability.

The FURUNO SC-50 utilizes multiple satellite signals and dual-antenna processing technology to calculate:

• True Heading
• Position
• Course Over Ground (COG)
• Speed Over Ground (SOG)
• Rate of Turn (ROT)
• Time & Navigation Data

Unlike magnetic compasses, the SC-50 is unaffected by magnetic interference and unlike gyrocompasses, it requires no spinning gyros.

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Main Product Image

The image above shows a complete FURUNO SC-50 system including the display unit, processor unit, and satellite antenna assembly.

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What Is a Satellite Compass?

A Satellite Compass is a navigation instrument that calculates vessel heading by comparing GPS/GNSS signals received simultaneously by multiple antennas.

Instead of detecting magnetic north or using gyro technology, the SC-50 determines heading mathematically from satellite positioning data.

The system continuously provides:

True Heading

Accurate vessel heading relative to true north.

Position Information

Latitude and Longitude.

Course Over Ground (COG)

Actual direction of movement.

Speed Over Ground (SOG)

Actual vessel speed relative to Earth.

Rate of Turn (ROT)

Vessel turning information.

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Satellite Compass Operating Principle

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Main Features

Highly Accurate Heading Information

Provides heading accuracy typically better than conventional magnetic compasses.

No Gyroscope Required

Eliminates moving mechanical gyro components.

Instant Start-Up

Unlike gyrocompasses, no settling time is required.

True Heading Output

Provides heading relative to true north.

Integrated GPS Receiver

Combines heading and position information in a single system.

Rate of Turn Output

Provides ROT data for navigation systems.

Multi-System Integration

Supports:

• ECDIS
• Radar
• AIS
• Autopilot
• VDR
• Dynamic Positioning Systems

Low Maintenance

Few moving parts and high reliability.

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Navigation Display Functions

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Main Components

1. Satellite Antenna Unit

Installed externally with clear sky visibility.

Functions

• GPS Signal Reception
• Heading Calculation Support
• Position Determination

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2. Processor Unit

Processes satellite signals and calculates heading.

Functions

• Heading Computation
• Position Calculation
• ROT Generation
• Data Distribution

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3. Display Unit

Installed on the bridge.

Functions

• Heading Display
• Position Monitoring
• Alarm Monitoring
• Configuration Management

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4. Communication Interface

Distributes navigation data throughout the vessel.

Supports

• ECDIS
• Radar
• AIS
• VDR
• Autopilot

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5. Power Supply System

Provides stable operation for all modules.

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Typical System Architecture

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Marine Applications

The SC-50 is widely used aboard:

Container Ships

Provides heading information for ECDIS and radar.

Oil & Chemical Tankers

Supports safe navigation and maneuvering.

Bulk Carriers

Enhances navigation accuracy.

Offshore Support Vessels

Supports dynamic positioning systems.

Fishing Vessels

Provides reliable heading and position information.

Passenger Ships

Improves navigational safety.

Dredgers

Supports precision operations.

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Common Problems & Troubleshooting

1. Heading Data Not Available

Possible Causes

• Satellite reception problem
• Antenna cable failure
• Processor malfunction

Corrective Actions

• Verify antenna condition
• Inspect antenna cabling
• Check processor diagnostics

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2. Poor Heading Accuracy

Possible Causes

• Antenna obstruction
• Multipath interference
• Incorrect antenna installation

Solution

• Verify clear sky visibility
• Check antenna mounting
• Inspect installation alignment

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3. GPS Position Lost

Causes

• Weak satellite signals
• Antenna failure
• Power supply issue

Solution

• Verify antenna operation
• Check cable integrity
• Inspect power supply

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4. No Output to Radar or ECDIS

Causes

• Communication failure
• NMEA configuration error

Solution

• Verify interface settings
• Inspect communication cables

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5. ROT Data Unstable

Causes

• Satellite signal interruption
• Processor issue

Solution

• Verify satellite tracking
• Review diagnostic information

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Maintenance Tips

Proper maintenance ensures long-term performance.

Daily Checks

• Verify heading indication
• Confirm position accuracy
• Review alarms

Weekly Checks

• Inspect display operation
• Verify data outputs
• Review event logs

Monthly Checks

• Inspect antenna condition
• Check communication interfaces
• Verify heading performance

Annual Maintenance

Recommended:

• Antenna inspection
• Cable testing
• Output verification
• Complete functional testing

Antenna Care

Regularly inspect the antenna radome for:

• Cracks
• Corrosion
• Water ingress
• Physical damage

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Why Ships Use Satellite Compasses

Modern vessels increasingly rely on satellite compasses because:

Instant Heading Availability

No lengthy gyro settling period.

No Moving Parts

Reduced maintenance requirements.

Accurate True Heading

Provides reliable navigation information.

Integrated Position Information

Heading and GPS data in one system.

Easy Installation

Compact antenna and processor design.

Excellent Reliability

Suitable for commercial marine operations.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does the SC-50 provide?

The SC-50 provides true heading, position, speed, course, and rate of turn information.

Is it a replacement for a gyrocompass?

On many vessels it serves as a heading sensor, although SOLAS requirements depend on vessel type and operational regulations.

Does it work while the vessel is stationary?

Yes. Unlike magnetic compasses, heading can be determined even when the vessel is not moving.

Can it connect to ECDIS and Radar?

Yes. The SC-50 is commonly connected to ECDIS, Radar, AIS, VDR, and Autopilot systems.

Is maintenance difficult?

No. The system has minimal moving parts and generally requires only routine inspections.

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Short Product Description

The FURUNO SC-50 Satellite Compass is a professional marine heading and positioning system that uses advanced GPS/GNSS technology to provide highly accurate true heading, position, speed, course, and rate of turn information. Featuring rapid start-up, low maintenance, and seamless integration with ECDIS, Radar, AIS, Autopilot, and VDR systems, the SC-50 remains a trusted navigation solution for vessels worldwide.

SC – 50
Description : Furuno Satellite Compass SC – 50
Condition : Refurbished

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