Magnetic compass
Tokyo Keiki
New product
The Marine Magnetic Compass is one of the oldest and most reliable navigation instruments used onboard ships. Despite the advancement of modern navigation systems such as ECDIS, GPS, Gyro Compass, AIS, Radar, and Integrated Bridge Systems, the magnetic compass remains a mandatory and essential navigation instrument on vessels worldwide.
Unlike electronic navigation equipment, a magnetic compass requires no satellite signal, no software, and minimal electrical support. It provides a simple and dependable directional reference based on the Earth's magnetic field.
Today, magnetic compasses are installed onboard:
A Marine Magnetic Compass is a navigation instrument that indicates vessel heading by aligning itself with the Earth's magnetic field.
Unlike a gyro compass, which points toward True North, a magnetic compass points toward Magnetic North.
The magnetic compass serves as an independent navigation reference and is often used as a backup navigation system when electronic equipment becomes unavailable.
Major international maritime regulations still require vessels to carry properly adjusted magnetic compasses.
Requires no GPS signal or satellite communication.
Provides constant directional information.
Functions even during complete electrical failure.
Required onboard most commercial vessels.
Can remain operational for decades with proper maintenance.
Reliable and easy to maintain.
Works independently of external communication systems.
Used onboard vessels operating worldwide.
Contains the compass card and magnetic element.
Displays heading information in degrees.
Align with the Earth's magnetic field.
Provides vessel heading reference.
Supports and protects the compass assembly.
Used for deviation correction.
Compensate for vertical magnetic influence.
Allows night-time compass reading.
Marine Magnetic Compasses are commonly used for:
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One of the most important aspects of magnetic compass operation is controlling compass deviation.
Deviation occurs due to magnetic influences onboard the vessel.
Common sources include:
Professional compass adjustment is performed to minimize deviation and maintain navigation accuracy.
Marine engineers and navigators should regularly inspect:
Regular inspections significantly improve navigation safety and reliability.
Even in the era of modern electronic navigation systems, magnetic compasses remain essential because:
Many marine incidents have demonstrated the importance of maintaining a reliable backup navigation system, making the magnetic compass an indispensable instrument onboard.
A magnetic compass points to Magnetic North, while a gyro compass points to True North.
Generally, no. Only the compass illumination may require electrical power.
Yes. It operates completely independently of GPS.
To reduce magnetic deviation caused by vessel structures and equipment.
Yes. International maritime regulations continue to require magnetic compasses on many vessel types.
SM MARINE SERVICE™ can supply magnetic compasses from various international manufacturers, including:
Availability depends on stock and vessel requirements.
A Marine Magnetic Compass is a fundamental ship navigation instrument that provides heading information based on the Earth's magnetic field. It remains one of the most reliable and widely used navigation devices onboard commercial, offshore, fishing, and naval vessels worldwide.
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