Airmar 200WX—Ultrasonic WeatherStation® Instrument - Manual (Page 10)

10
Choosing the Mounting Location
For accurate readings and a reliable GPS signal, selecting the best location for
the WeatherStation Instrument is very important. Easy access and appearance
should be secondary considerations. Since each installation is unique, the best
separation distances from other equipment will vary depending on the particular
equipment and how it is configured. Choose a location that balances the
requirements below.
• The WeatherStation Instrument must be mounted in “clear air”—away from
obstructions in any direction that will interfere with air flowing through the unit. If
there is an obstruction, be sure to mount the WeatherStation Instrument at least
2m (6') away. On land, avoid roof tops, chimneys, trees, etc.
• If possible, mount the WeatherStation Instrument higher than any other object.
Mount it a minimum of 500mm (20") above the surrounding surfaces.
Note that the higher the WeatherStation Instrument is mounted, the less accurate
the pitch and roll readings will be.
• To prevent interference to the internal magnetic compass:
- Mount a minimum of 0.3m (1') from other standard and steering compasses.
- Mount away from any structures or equipment that contains ferrous metals.
- Mount away from anything that may create a magnetic field such as
magnetized materials, electric motors, electronic equipment, engines,
generators, power/ignition cables, and batteries. For distances, follow the
respective manufacturer’s recommendations.
• To prevent interference to the internal GPS (see Figure 2):
- It must have a clear view of the sky to receive satellite signals. Check for any
obstructions such as other boats or buildings.
- Mount it as far as possible from high-powered transmitting antennas to avoid
mutual interference.
- Mount it lower than any on-board INMARSAT communications antenna.
- Mount above or below any radar beam. Do not mount within a radar beam.
Min. 2m
antenna insulator
metal hull /deck
1.5m
Min.
Min. 2m
WeatherStation
Figure 2. Antennas (Courtesy of Northstar BNT, Acton, MA)