DGPS PROBLEM

[thecaptain]

I have a Northstar DGPS/Chartplotter. The chart plotter works fine. It,s right on the money going from waypoint to waypoint. When I scroll through the menu, it reads DGPS not connected.The lat/lon readings constantly change and do not match my compass or auto pilot compass readings. I did notice a break in the sheilding wire from the DGPS antenna. Would that cause the problem of No Connection and the lat/lon readings?

 

[jimchere]

Re: DGPS PROBLEM

Break in the shielding will definitely make the unit susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI). This is especially true if you are operating some sort of radar such as a furuno, and the problem is amplified on a boat where electrical grounds pose a whole different scene. You operating a radar? Frequently keying VHF can cause it too. If you can get to the place where the break in the shielding is, here's a quick poor man's check that sometimes works. Get some aluminum foil and wrap the cable firmly with it tying rubber bands to hold foil in place, covering the cable a few inches beyond the insulation break on each end. Use about 5 layers of foil. See if problem goes away or not. If that don't work, probably a bad unit or interference within the boats wiring system. Tell me what you find.

 

[JB]

Re: DGPS PROBLEM

Ahoy, Captain.<br /><br />I agree with Jim. Your antenna is a loop, and the shielding is part of the circuit. <br /><br />I am going to move this discussion to the new Electronics forum, where it should get more attention.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[thecaptain]

Re: DGPS PROBLEM

Jimchere & JB, Thanks so much for the reply. I'm going to try the Tin foil tonight. I'll let you know the results.