Compass Calibration

Compass Calibration

A magnetic compass is naturally sensitive to external influences. Interference can be caused by:

• Magnetic objects such as screwdrivers, eyeglass cases, AirPods cases, or magnets in clothing

• Electronic devices, including mobile phones

• Nearby infrastructure such as harbors, bridges, locks, tunnels, high-voltage lines, and underground cables

These factors can result in inaccurate heading readings.

Tip: For a stable and reliable heading display—especially in areas with strong magnetic interference—we recommend using the GPS ground course whenever possible.

Magnetic heading

This is the direction the bow of the boat is pointing, relative to magnetic north, as measured by the internal compass in the ControlHead.

• 0° = North

• 90° = East

• 180° = South

• 270° = West

Pitch

Pitch measures the tilt of the bow up or down:

• Positive pitch = bow up

• Negative pitch = bow down

• When the boat is level, pitch should be close to 0°

Roll

Roll measures the tilt from side to side:

• Positive roll = leaning to starboard

• Negative roll = leaning to port

• Should also be close to 0° when the boat is level

Both pitch and roll values are provided by the inertial sensors (IMU) inside the ControlHead.

Alignment

Press the button only when the boat is level and stationary in the harbour to align the internal inertial sensors.

Make sure the ControlHead is permanently mounted before alignment. After pressing the button, Pitch and Roll should both be close to zero.

Magnetic Heading Offset

If the ControlHead is mounted facing straight forward, leave the offset at 0°.

• If mounted sideways:

  • Starboard side: use –90°

  • Port side: use 90°

Compass Lock Calibration

Best performed on open water, away from magnetic interference.

• Sail gentle laps both port and starboard.

• When the heading is stable, enable Compass Lock Calibration.

If you notice inaccurate heading under heeling conditions, consider temporarily unlock — the compass will then re-learn under those conditions.

Calibration Plot

For experts only

On this page you can view a visual representation of the calibration data. You can also configure the lock for both the compass and the accelerometer here.

Calibration Locks

Compass Lock Calibration

It is best to perform this calibration on open water, away from magnetic interference.

• Sail a few gentle loops to both port and starboard.

• When the heading remains stable, you can enable Compass Lock Calibration.

Accelerometer Lock Calibration

This setting should remain locked during normal operation.

Accelerometer calibration is not required under regular conditions. It is performed by us before delivery.

• The process involves placing the ControlHead briefly on each of its six sides.

• This requires the unit to be removed from its installation.

Calibration Type

Select whether you want to calibrate the accelerometer or the compass. Calibration only takes place when the corresponding lock is disabled.

Calibration Parameters

This section shows the current calibration values for both the accelerometer and the compass. When a new calibration is applied, the “age” will be reset.