3 gps antenna installation, Surface mounting, 3 gps antenna installation -4 – Raymarine GPS Plotter User Manual
Page 95: Surface mounting -4

5-4
Raynav 300 GPS Plotter
5.3 GPS Antenna Installation
The GPS Antenna is designed to receive the signals emitted from the 
satellites in a direct path. Ideally, the unit should be mounted horizontally 
in a location that is open and clear of any masts or other structures that 
could block line-of-sight reception of signals. 
The height of the GPS Antenna is not as important as it’s having a clear 
view horizon to horizon for optimum signal reception. In fact, the lower 
the unit can be mounted and have a clear view to satellites, the better. The 
more stable the unit, the easier it is to track satellites lower to the horizon.
Note: Do mount the antenna up a mast as this will cause the antenna to 
swing with the vessel, leading to significant errors in COG and SOG 
readings.
The GPS Antenna can be mounted on a pole. Alternatively, you can use a 
pole mounting bracket or surface mount kit.
When mounting the GPS Antenna flush to a deck surface avoid areas 
where the unit will be trodden upon or where it may present a tripping 
hazard.
The GPS Antenna should be separated by at least 3ft (1m) from other 
antennas and electronic equipment. It should not be mounted in the direct 
path of a Radar’s antenna beam.
When planning the location for the unit, consider finding a convenient 
pathway for running the interconnecting cable between the GPS Antenna 
and the Plotter or to the rest of an integrated system. Ideally the cable 
should be run in a manner such that it is hidden from view and, if possible, 
be in a direct path to the point of connection. It is important to keep the 
cable separated from other cables as far as possible to prevent 
interference pick-up.
Note: DO NOT cut the cable; an extension cable is available from your 
Raymarine dealer.
Surface Mounting
➤
To surface mount the antenna, referring to Figure 5-2:
1. Select a suitable area which allows access to the underside of the
mounting surface for fixing and, using the template supplied in this 
handbook, carefully drill the two 6mm (0.25in) fixing holes marked.
2. If the cable is to pass through the mounting surface drill the 6mm
(0.25in) or 19mm (0.75in) centre hole depending on whether the plug 
is to pass through the surface or not.
If the cable is to exit from the side of the GPS Antenna above the 
81171_4.BOOK Page 4 Thursday, November 29, 2001 11:34 AM
