As an alternative to magnetic compass and the very expensive gyrocompasses, FURUNO's satellite compasses can be used as "Transmitting Heading Device" on smaller vessels.
FURUNO's satellite compasses are 'wheel marked' and are used as heading backup for radar, ECDIS and autopilot on many Deep Sea vessels.
The very precise satellitcompass finds its direction by utilizing 2-3 GPS receivers being interconnected and processing the signal in a processor unit, whereby the ship's heading is calculated down to 0.6 -1 degree accuracy.
As alternative to satellite compasses and magnetic compasses, the FURUNO rate sensor compasses, PG-500 and PG-700 are installed in several smaller vessels worldwide providing a reliable and accurate course rate.
Both types contributes to providing heading references to FURUNO's navigation solutions and even communications equipment, where position and heading is required.