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

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Raymarine 300 manual GPS Antenna Installation, Surface Mounting