SIMRAD GC80 GYRO COMPASS SYSTEM

Marine Gyro Compass | Heading Reference System | Repair, Calibration, Spare Parts & Worldwide Supplier

DESCRIPTION

Manufacturer

SIMRAD Commercial (Navico Commercial / Kongsberg legacy product line)

Country of Origin

Norway

Product Type

Marine Gyro Compass & Heading Reference System

Marine Application

Commercial ships, offshore vessels, tankers, container ships, research vessels, fishing vessels, DP vessels, passenger ships, and naval vessels.

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Product Introduction

The SIMRAD GC80 Gyro Compass is a high-performance marine heading reference system designed to provide accurate true heading information for a vessel's navigation equipment. It is one of the most trusted gyro compass systems used worldwide and interfaces with radar, ECDIS, autopilot, AIS, voyage data recorder (VDR), Dynamic Positioning (DP), and heading repeaters.

The system shown in your photos consists of the GC80 Master Compass and the Compact Control Unit, which continuously calculate and distribute true heading information throughout the vessel. The GC80 is IMO-approved and available in compact, dual, and expanded configurations for both new installations and retrofits.

SM MARINE SERVICE™ supplies complete GC80 systems as well as individual spare parts for worldwide customers.

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What is SIMRAD GC80?

The GC80 is an advanced marine gyro compass that determines True North using a precision gyro element rather than relying on magnetic north. It delivers stable heading information even in rough sea conditions and is designed for continuous marine operation.

Unlike a magnetic compass, the GC80 automatically compensates for vessel movement and provides accurate heading outputs to multiple onboard navigation systems. The control unit supports NMEA outputs, step outputs, GPS/speed inputs, alarm contacts, and integration with repeaters and other bridge equipment.

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Main Features

• IMO Type Approved
• High heading accuracy
• Compact or expanded system configurations
• Automatic latitude and speed compensation
• GPS interface
• NMEA heading outputs
• Step outputs for repeaters
• Autopilot compatibility
• Radar compatibility
• ECDIS compatibility
• DP system compatibility
• Continuous self-monitoring
• Built-in alarm system
• Low maintenance design
• High reliability
• Suitable for retrofit and newbuild vessels

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Main Components

A complete GC80 system normally includes:

• GC80 Master Compass
• Compact or Expanded Control Unit
• Optional Power Supply Unit
• Heading Repeaters
• Remote Operator Panel
• GPS Input Interface
• Speed Log Interface
• NMEA Communication Ports
• Step Output Interface
• Alarm Interface
• Internal Processor Boards
• Gyro Sensitive Element

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Marine Applications

The SIMRAD GC80 is widely used on:

• Bulk Carriers
• Oil Tankers
• Chemical Tankers
• LNG/LPG Carriers
• Container Ships
• Passenger Vessels
• Offshore Supply Vessels
• Platform Supply Vessels
• Research Ships
• Naval Ships
• Tug Boats
• Fishing Vessels
• Dynamic Positioning (DP) Vessels

It provides heading information to:

• Radar
• ECDIS
• Autopilot
• AIS
• VDR
• Voyage Management Systems
• Dynamic Positioning Systems
• Heading Repeaters

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Common Problems

Marine engineers may encounter:

• Gyro settling failure
• Heading drift
• Alarm activation
• Power supply faults
• Internal processor faults
• Communication failure
• GPS input failure
• Speed input failure
• Heading output failure
• NMEA communication loss
• Step output failure
• Sensitive element faults
• Fuse failure
• Internal PCB faults
• Display/control unit malfunction

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Troubleshooting

Before replacing the gyro compass, engineers should verify:

• AC/DC power supply
• Internal fuses
• GPS input
• Speed log input
• NMEA output wiring
• Heading repeaters
• Control unit settings
• Alarm history
• Internal communication
• Grounding
• Cable integrity

Many apparent gyro faults originate from external wiring or interface problems rather than the master compass itself.

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Maintenance Tips

To ensure reliable operation:

• Keep the master compass level and securely mounted.
• Inspect cable connections regularly.
• Check system alarms periodically.
• Verify heading accuracy against known references.
• Test NMEA outputs.
• Inspect repeaters.
• Clean ventilation openings.
• Replace damaged connectors immediately.
• Perform annual functional testing.
• Use qualified personnel for calibration and service.

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Why Ships Still Use SIMRAD GC80

The GC80 continues to be one of the most respected gyro compass systems because it offers:

• Excellent heading accuracy
• Outstanding long-term stability
• IMO compliance
• Reliable operation
• Low maintenance requirements
• Wide compatibility with modern bridge systems
• Proven performance on thousands of commercial vessels worldwide

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the SIMRAD GC80 used for?

It provides true heading information for radar, ECDIS, autopilot, AIS, VDR, and other navigation systems.

Can the GC80 be repaired?

Yes. Many failures involving power supplies, processor boards, communication circuits, control units, and interfaces can be professionally repaired and tested.

Does it support NMEA output?

Yes. The GC80 provides NMEA heading outputs as well as step outputs for marine navigation equipment.

Is it suitable for DP vessels?

Yes. The GC80 is commonly installed on offshore vessels requiring accurate heading information for Dynamic Positioning.

Do you supply complete systems?

Yes. SM MARINE SERVICE™ supplies complete systems, master compasses, control units, spare parts, and professionally reconditioned equipment.

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Short Product Description

The SIMRAD GC80 Gyro Compass is an IMO-approved marine heading reference system providing accurate true heading data for radar, ECDIS, autopilot, AIS, VDR, and DP applications. Known for its stability and reliability, the GC80 remains a preferred gyro compass solution for commercial and offshore vessels worldwide.

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User Manual & Technical Resources

Available documentation includes:

• SIMRAD GC80 Operator Manual
• SIMRAD GC80 Installation Manual
• SIMRAD GC80 Service Manual
• SIMRAD GC80 Maintenance Manual
• SIMRAD GC80 Spare Parts Catalogue
• SIMRAD GC80 Troubleshooting Guide
• SIMRAD GC80 Wiring Diagram
• SIMRAD GC80 Configuration Manual

The official operator manuals and software downloads are available through the manufacturer's download portal.

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SM MARINE SERVICE™

SM MARINE SERVICE™ specializes in marine navigation and automation equipment.

We supply:

• New Equipment
• Used Equipment
• Reconditioned Equipment
• Worldwide Shipping
• Spare Parts
• Repair Services
• Calibration
• Functional Testing
• Technical Support
• Product Sourcing

Bangladesh Office
Samir Market, DT Road, Pahartali, Beside CDA Market, Chattogram, Bangladesh

China Warehouse & Support Center
Shanghai, China

Website: www.smmarineservice.com

Email: info@smmarineservice.com

WhatsApp: +8801818929292

Marketing Contact: Nazmul Hasan Bhuiyan

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