The Jewell Instruments ECS Series eCompass combines a precision 3-axis solid-state magnetometer and a rugged 2-axis electrolytic tilt sensor to provide accurate heading and tilt measurements over a wide range of environmental conditions. The firmware and signal processing algorithms have been refined and improved over three prior generations of compasses.
A key advantage of the ECS is its quick-connect, external serial interface. While the compass is in place, and without disconnecting system wiring, a serial cable or available USB cable can be temporarily connected via the RJ12-style modular receptacle. This allows easy access during installation for calibration and tuning. It also provides a diagnostic port and can be used for an auxiliary read-out when needed. In situations where a fixed installation is not desirable, the RJ12 connection can be used exclusively.
User definable parameters include the selection of NMEA output data and update rate; operating mode as continuous or query-only; and angle data in degrees, mils, radians, or 16-bit integer. Compensation for both hard and soft iron influences is built in.
Applications for the ECS Series eCompass include:
- Unmanned vehicles
- Robotics
- Weather buoys
- Antenna positioning
- Marine navigation
