Echosounder near Compass

[andrewwoods]

I have an Seafarer SD-100 echosounder and log display which is currently fixed to a washboard. This is less than convenient as I have to put it in and out, and there are trailing wires, athough it does mean it's inside the boat when not in use.

I have a more convenient location for this, but it's right next to (within 4 inches) the compass. Is there a possibility that the electronics in the display will interfere with the compass? Should I extand the cables and fit it the other side of the hatch?

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[Alex_Blackwood]

If your compass is magnetic then the simple is answer is, yes it could cause interference (DEVIATION) in the compass. Any equipment that produces an electromagnetic field can do this, including mobile phones! Any ferrous metal near the compass will have the same effect. You could try them in close proximity on a jury rig and note any effect on the compass. You would of course have to try this on different headings (Swing the compass) as any deviation will vary with heading. It is possible that the instruments themselves may have no effect on the compass but the cables for the instruments may.
It is usually wise to keep the compass at least 0.5mtr clear of other instruments. However it is not always possible if you want to be able to see it!
Sorry not to be of more help.

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[ccscott49]

simple answer, yes it would be too close, move it to the other side.

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[john_morris_uk]

Remember that you are not supposed to alter the length of cables on most echo sounders (well the transducer one anyway)

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[andrewwoods]

OK - you've confirmed my suspicions.

I'll move it to the far side of the hatch instead.

I need to extend the power & log cables. The separate echo sounder cable just needs rerouting.

Thanks for your help.
Andrew

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