1 Installation Instructions .................. 16 1.1 Installation Guidelines ..............................16 1.1.1 General and Specific Tools ..........................16 1.1.2 Unpacking of the AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 ......................17 1.1.3 Mounting of Master Compass ..........................18 1.1.4 Fitting Master Compass ............................19 1.1.5 Remove Parts from Master Compass Mounting Ring ..................20 1.1.6 Remove Packing Material from Shock Absorbers ....................
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1.7.5 Balancing the Horizontal ring..........................35 1.7.6 Adjusting True Heading ............................36 1.8 Advanced Settings ................................ 37 1.8.1 Extension Menu overview............................. 38 2 Operation......................43 2.1 Operating panel ................................43 2.2 Explanation of the Operating Panel ..........................44 2.3 Data Indications ................................46 2.3.1 S.S.G and S.S.E ..............................
I Preface The AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 Gyro compasses have been designated for any size of vessel to enhance the navigation capabilities and reliability. The gyro compasses eliminate the inconvenience and limitations of magnetic compasses and provide a variety of electrical outputs to supply accurate and consistent heading information to other navigational equipment.
I.3 Glossary The meaning of standard definitions and terms as used in this manual are explained in the table of Definitions. See below shown table. Definition Explanation External Heading Sensor General term for the Heading Detection Sensor for Magnetic Compass System, Electronic Compass, GPS Compass, etc.
II Caution To safely install and operate this instrument, so as not to adversely affect the warranty, the WARNINGS and CAUTIONS must be adhered to. II.1 Warning Label The following warning label is attached to this system. II.2 Location Warning Label The warning label is attached to the inside of the door of the Control Panel.
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• WARNING - Inverter Failure (alarm code 3) • When checking fuses, turn "OFF" the power switch on the operating panel and disconnect the power cable from the ship’s Distribution Terminal Board. • WARNING • When checking fuses, turn "OFF" the power switch, and further disconnect the power cable from the ship’s distribution terminal board.
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• CAUTION - Setting Latitude Input • When "GYRO" is selected for the latitude input system, latitude is automatically updated by the ship's speed and the Gyro Compass True Heading. (When the ship's speed input system is "MANUAL", it is not updated automatically.) During navigation, confirm once every two hours that the ship's actual latitude coincides with the indicated latitude.
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• Change of the ship's Speed Input System and the Latitude Input System, or large change of the ship's speed and latitude, may cause a large change of the Gyro Compass True Heading. When on automatic steering, first turn the steering mode of the automatic steering system to "MANUAL" to prevent a large course change. Confirm the area around the ship is clear and turn to "AUTO"...
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• When an alarm regarding LOG Contact (alarm code "u") is activated and the Gyro Compass' True Heading has not been determined, first turn the steering mode to "MANUAL" or "Non Follow Up", then determine the True Heading because wrong heading information (repeater signal and serial signal) may be sent out. •...
III Introduction This Gyro Compass provides increased Rate of Turn and a broad range of input/output signals. • WARNING - Operations • Improper operations caused by failure of this product, or malfunctions caused by operator's misunderstanding may cause collision or grounding and may result in property damage and environmental pollution. Also, death or serious injury may happen.
• When an alarm regarding LOG Contact (alarm code "u") is activated and the Gyro Compass' True Heading has not been determined, first turn the steering mode to "MANUAL" or "Non Follow Up", then determine the True Heading because wrong heading information (repeater signal and serial signal) may be sent out. •...
(serial signal or step signal) can be sent from this system by using the external heading sensor. Also when the processing unit for the external heading sensor signal is built into the AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 as an option, the repeater signal (2 circuits for serial signal and 1 circuit for step signal) can be backed up by using the external heading sensor, even if the Gyro Compass stops.
III.11 Ordering of additional items For Service and maintenance related items, please see paragraph 4 Maintenance. Part number Description AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 gyro compass AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 gyro compass (incl. control box) – 24VDC version G-007517 Alphaline MFS G-002741 Alphaline Repeater Display MFS-H grey...
This chapter explains the configuration, specifications and structure of this system. • Fill in CHECK SHEET [Maintenance] sheet when installing a AlphaMidiCourse Mk2, refer to paragraph 6.2. • This will give an overview of your installation regarding for example: Advanced settings, Gyro sphere, slipring and performance of AlphaMidiCourse Mk2.
Special guide screws are shown below and are required for installation of the sphere into the phantom ring. 1.1.2 Unpacking of the AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 The three parts: Master Compass, Sensitive Element and Control Panel are supplied in two boxes as shown in pictures labeled 004 to 007.
1.1.3 Mounting of Master Compass Mounting of the master compass unit is as shown in below. Its housing can be placed in any direction. See installation drawing of Master Compass foundation in paragraph 6.1.7. Figure: Mounting position Inverter Board is located behind this plate Figure: Inverter Board Location 1.
1.1.4 Fitting Master Compass Fitting the Master Compass, as shown in pictures labeled 008 to 011. Fitting the Master Compass part 2, as shown in pictures labeled 012 and 013. 19 | Installation Instructions...
1.1.5 Remove Parts from Master Compass Mounting Ring Remove parts from Master Compass mounting ring as shown in pictures labeled 014 to 018. 1.1.6 Remove Packing Material from Shock Absorbers Remove packing material from shock absorbers as shown in pictures labeled 019 to 021. 20 | Installation Instructions...
Unpack Sensitive Element as shown in pictures labeled 022 to 025. In the box a Gyro sphere settings table is included. Set the shown values in Extension menu of the AlphaMidicourse Mk2 Control Box after installation, see paragraph 1.7.2. Gyro Sphere Settings Form Note Handle with care and keep packaging material for reuse when returning for servicing.
1.1.8 Mounting of Sensitive Element Mount the Sensitive Element as shown in pictures labeled 028 to 031. Mount the Sensitive Element as shown in pictures labeled 032 to 034. 22 | Installation Instructions...
1.1.9 Filling with Damping Oil Fill up container with Damping Oil as shown in pictures labeled 037 to 039. Note Keep the cap of the tube closed and cut the bottom of the Damping Oil tube to reduce spilling. Fill the container half full. 1.1.10 Attach Connector to Sensitive Element Attach Connector and fix securely to Sensitive Element as shown in pictures below.
1.2 Name and Function of Each Unit Names and functions of each unit are described in below table Name Function Master compass The sensitive element is built-in. It is a unit to detect the ship's heading. Control Unit This unit has various indicators for True Heading, Latitude, Rate of Turn, Ship Speed and Alarms, and the operating switches.
1.4 Connecting the AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 Refer to paragraph 6.1.5 Connection Diagram for connections and refer to paragraph 6.1.6 Cable Diagram for cable information. The location of the connection terminals can been seen in below figures. 1. Connect power and signaling cables as indicated in the connection diagram.
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TB1-1 Description Details Description Details MC (B Phase) Encoder Signal + Power Supply +24VDC ECB+ MC (B Phase) Encoder Signal - Power Supply -24VDC ECB- MC Encoder signal Common Inverter Alarm (over current) Frame Ground Inverter Alarm (over voltage) FGND Inverter Alarm (Common) ST11 Step signal (open drain signal)
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Description Details Description Details Not Used CTX+ Serial signal output to BAMS CIN+ (IEC62923-1/2 / 61162-1) Not Used CTX- CIN- Not Used CRX+ Serial signal input from BAMS COUT1 (IEC62923-1/2 / 61162-1) Not Used CRX- COUT2 24V DC Power supply to DGC Serial signal common GND Power supply to DGC ESTX+...
1.5 DIP Switch Settings The AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 Gyro Systems include several Dip Switch Settings. There locations are marked in below figure or refer to paragraph 6.1.4 ICNT Board of Control Unit. Setting of the switches are required to be set during installing of the system, for example there is possibility to change NMEA sentence from HDT to THS.
1.5.2 Dip Switch Settings Control Box Part 1 ICNT Default Details Function Remarks Read Timing NO.1 [ON] Connect External [OFF]: Yes Start Up Power Supply Unit [ON: No NO.2 [OFF] Master Compass [OFF] : Standard Start Up Type [ON] : HSC NO.3 [OFF] Control Box type...
1.5.3 Dip Switch Settings Control Box Part 2 ICNT Default Details Function Read Remarks Timing NO.1 [OFF] Timer Start Up [OFF] : No [ON] : Yes Start Up NO.2 [OFF] Talker ID of [OFF] : "HE" [ON] : "TI" Start Up "ROT"...
1.6 Jumper Settings The AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 Gyro Systems include several Jumpers. There locations are marked in below figure or refer to paragraph 6.1.4 ICNT Board of Control Unit. Jumpers Figure: Jumper location Name Default Details Function OPEN Reset CPU Short: CPU will be reset...
1.7 First Start-up procedure When the AlphaMidicourse Mk2 is installed and the cables are connected to its Control box then the system is ready for the first-time start-up procedure. 1.7.1 Start-up Master Compass Turn ON the system by pressing the POWER button on the Control panel. The following start-up sequence will take place.
1.7.2 Configuring the Gyro sphere Each Sensitive element is tuned to its Master Compass before it is shipped from the factory. This tuning is reflected in a set of parameters specific for this gyrocompass. These parameters are included in the sensitive elements package on the Gyro sphere settings form.
1.7.4 Setting the Speed input source When paragraph 1.7.2 Configuring the Gyro sphere has been carried out the latitude input source can be changed as described below. Press the DISP button until the display shows speed value and speed input. Press SET button once and its upper line in the display starts flashing.
1.7.6 Adjusting True Heading After the AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 has settled the gyrocompass can be calibrated against an external reference for example: • A known target • An astronomical observation • Heading of the pier or quay the vessel is moored to •...
The Extension Menu should not be entered by unauthorized personnel. Incorrect parameters may result in irregular operation of the AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 Gyrocompass This section gives an overview of the Extension Menu, how to enter the menu and how to change parameter values.
1.8.1 Extension Menu overview Main Parameter/description Default Range Category Category value 0.00 – 2.00 1.1.U Damping gain ratio (%) 1.00 Determines the damping (damping operation in north- seeking motion = half cycle attenuation) and actually represents a coefficient (ratio) to the standard value stored in the software. 0.00 –...
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Main Parameter/description Default Range Category Category value (φ) Phi offset (°) -3.00 – 3.00 1.5.L 0.00 A-1 cont. Offset value (°) around the vertical axis of gyro sphere (rotor axis) and the sensitive element. (θ) Theta offset (°) -3.00 – 3.00 1.6.t 0.00 Offset value (°) around the horizontal axis of gyro sphere...
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Main Parameter/description Default Range Category Category value 0.0 – 359.9 2.1.o Bearing offset A (°) Offset value included in the “master bearing” and used for correction of fixed error (°). If the master compass not can be mounted parallel to the vessel’s fore-after line, this parameter is used to compensate for a small mounting error.
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Main Parameter/description Default Range Category Category value A-2 cont. 2.9.G Display/setting of GPS connection bE or Non The following abbreviations are used: bE: GPS connected Non: No GPS connected NOTE: When this value is set to “Non”, GPS cannot be selected as the vessel’s input for speed and latitude.
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Main Parameter/description Default Range Category Category value 4.1.C GPS serial data character length 8 or 7 4.2.P GPS serial data parity bit Even 4.3.S GPS serial data stop bits 1 or 2 5.1.C LOG serial data character length 8 or 7 5.2.P LOG serial data parity bit Even...
2 Operation In this chapter, procedure of operation, starting and stopping of this system are explained. Before operation, confirm that each unit of the master compass and the control unit are properly installed. • WARNING • Matters requiring attention in starting up and operations during progress are described in chapter Operations and are punctuated with a CAUTION or a WARNING, which must be strictly observed.
2.2 Explanation of the Operating Panel Figure: Operating Panel POWER switch Power switch / Power indicator 1. Open cover 2. Press to start/stop system 3. Close cover after start-up, so as not to inadvertently push the button. DISP switch Select the displayed item and the displayed data. 1.
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GYRO switch System selection switch (Gyro). 1. Press to select required system. 2. "GYRO" system is select. 3. For system selection, refer to paragraph 2.6 System Selection EXT switch System selection switch (External). 1. Press to select required system. 2. "External Heading Sensor" system is selected. 3.
Explanation of Display: When pressing the DISP button on the AlphaMidicourse Mk2 Operation panel the system will loop through a display sequence that will show the present settings. The sequence will be depending on whether an external heading sensor is connected.
2.3.1 S.S.G and S.S.E When the sensor of true heading is selected as system either it can be the Gyro Compass Heading sensor or the external heading sensor as True Heading source and it will be displayed as following. For the heading sensor selection, refer to paragraph 2.6 Heading Sensor Selection The indicated value data and code indicators are shown below.
2.3.3 C.P.S Master Compass Heading is displayed without corrections. 2.3.4 Latitude The displayed latitude value is calculated based on the ships true bearing and actual speed. For the latitude input selection, refer to paragraph 1.7.3 Setting the Latitude input source. South Latitude North Latitude Manual latitude as input...
2.3.5 Ship Speed The AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 calculates bearing based on the speed and latitude information that is inputted to the gyro as speed source. For the speed input selection, refer to paragraph 1.7.4 Setting the Speed input source. GPS Speed...
2.3.7 Error The AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 will continually check for faults while the system is running. If an error occurs, an alarm code will be displayed, a led indication will be flashing and an audible alarm will be activated. For the alarm code indication, refer to chapter 2.9 Alarm.
2.4 Start and Stop Sequence The AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 operates in start-up sequence shown in diagram below. For each operation in the sequence, refer to paragraph 2.5 Start and Running and paragraph 2.10 Turning the Gyro Compass OFF. 1. Starting 2. Setting (after start-up) •...
System selection (switching) may cause large change of the True Heading. 2. During automatic steering, first turn the steering mode of the automatic steering system to "MANUAL" to prevent large change of course. 3. Confirm surrounding area of ship is clear and turn to "AUTO" steering again. •...
2.5.2 Set Timer Starting Time The Timer Starting Time function will only be active when it was set by the dipswitch according to paragraph 1.5.3. After turning ON the power and the software version number indicates FINISHED, the display automatically shows current date and time¹.
2.5.3 Set Start Heading After the software version number is displayed, in cases without timer start function, or after departure date and time is shown in cases with timer start function, the display shows "start heading input", as shown below. Set Start Heading: 1.
Note if needed, follow up of the repeaters can be filled in Check Sheet, refer to paragraph 6.2. 4. Turn "OFF" each repeater switch. 5. Adjust it to the Gyro Compass True Heading. 6. Turn "ON" the Repeater Switch. 7. When all repeaters follow up correctly, restart the AlphaMidiCourse Mk2. 55 | Operation...
2.5.6 Settling Time The time to "SETTLE" takes approx. 3 hours maximum depending on the starting condition. 2.5.7 Confirming Ship Speed Input • CAUTION - Setting Speed Input • Change of the ship's input system or large change of ship's speed may cause large change of the True Heading.
However, confirm that the value displayed coincides with "the True Heading" selected by this system, after the repeater switch is turned "ON". 2. By pressing GYRO or EXT together with ACK/ENT switch the AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 will toggle between using the gyrocompass or an external sensor as active sensor.
Heading" selected by this system after the repeater switch is turned "ON". 2.7 Pendulum Function The AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 has a pendulum function that enables the heading to be changed by 180°. To enable this function a dipswitch has to be set, see paragraph 1.5. 2. DIP switch settings.
Perform monitoring while running as follows: 2.8.2 Confirmation of Alarm Status 1. Confirm that the alarm indicator lamp on the operation panel is off. Note When a failure is activated in the system, the alarm indicator blinks and buzzes. 2. Confirm the alarm code displayed in the indicator. 3.
2.9 Alarm • CAUTION - Alarms • When the following alarms are activated, the heading information from this system may not be sent at all, or may have a large error. All units operated by the heading information from this system (in particular, the automatic steering system, etc.) should be operated immediately according to the individual emergency operating procedure.
2.9.1 Alarm List Alarm Alarm Content Possible Cause Code Main power is abnormal When the main power was lost. Power is abnormal When the power supply in the Control Unit went over-voltage or over-current. Inverter is abnormal When the inverter in the Master Compass went over-voltage or over-current. When the "rotor”...
This system provides alert information which meets the specification of the Alert Management System. The alert list below shows alert codes displayed on the Operation Panel of AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 Gyrocompass and the alerts information to be noticed by the Alert Management System.
Recover it before switching the steering mode from manual to automatic). Note The AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 has no alert which priority is specified as Alarm level. 2.9.4 Alert Categories (※5) The Alert Categories are described of the AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 in below shown table.
2.10 Turning the Gyro Compass OFF 1. Press the POWER button on the Control Panel. The light in the Power Button will extinguish. 2. Repress the POWER button again to activate the rotor brake function. The light in the Power Button will light up again. When Rotor brake is active it will be indicated by: Note Display will show a flashing Int 000.0 as shown below: Note A soft clicking sound will be heard from Master Compass.
3 Specifications Refer to the As Built plan kept aboard and table below. Model Description AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 Display Digital with 7 digits Performance Settle point error < 0.3° Settle point repeatability < 0.2° Static accuracy < 0.3° Dynamic accuracy < 0,5°...
4 Maintenance • WARNING - Maintenance • During maintenance or check of the product, touching internal parts may cause electric shock, because the ship's power supply is still connected to the system distribution board, even if the main power switch of this product is turned "OFF".
Note The troubleshooting and repair should be carried out by the engineer according to the results of the checks of the faulty items. 4.2 Periodical Checks Use the periodical check tables for the periodical check. See paragraph 6.3 Periodical Check Tables. Frequency of the checks are: 1.
4.6 Replacement of Sensitive Element S/E • CAUTION • The Sensitive element should only be replaced by authorized personnel in possession of a AlphaMidiCourse certificate. • Use extreme caution when handling the Sensitive Element. Do not tilt the S/E it is filled with damping oil. •...
5 Troubleshooting When a alarm is generated and not removed by pressing the ACK/ENT button further actions should be taken to correct the alarm situation. The following pages present an overview of symptoms and corrective action for falt that may be corrected by the owner of the system.
5.3 Corrective Measures Measures can be taken to rectify some failures. • CAUTION - Corrective Measures • Before checking and replacing of fuses, and disconnecting / connecting of each unit, connector, printed circuit, terminal cable, turn "OFF" the power switch of the operating panel, and disconnect the power cable from the ship’s distribution board, etc.
5.4.2 Alarm code 2: Power Supply Abnormal This alarm code is generated when the Control Unit’s power is over current or over voltage. 1. Turn OFF the power switch. 2. Wait approx. 20 seconds before turning ON again. 3. Take action according to paragraph 2.5.1 Start, if no alarm code 2 was activated. 4.
5.4.6 Alarm code A: System Communication Failure (1) Alarm is generated when there is a failure in communication from the Master Compass to the Control Unit. 1. Turn OFF the power switch. 2. Turn ON again after approx. 20 seconds. 3.
5.4.9 Alarm code E or F: System Internal Communication Failure (1) or System Internal Communication Failure (2) • CAUTION • When these alarms are generated the bearing information from external heading sensor may have large errors. Alarms are generated when the communication of the External Heading sensor has stopped or a failure in its communication. 1.
5.4.14 Alarm code r: E5V Failure 1. Confirm that all equipment connected to this system operates properly. Note Refer to the As Built plan kept on board of the ship for the connected equipment. 2. Operate it according to the particular Operator Manual of the equipment, when a failure has been activated. 3.
5.8 Fuse Replacement • WARNING • When checking fuses, turn "OFF" the power switch on the operating panel and further disconnect the power cable from the ship’s distribution board before checking fuses. Replace a fuse when it has blown according to the following procedure. 1.
5.8.1 Master Compass Inverter Fuse • WARNING • When checking fuses, turn "OFF" the power switch on the operating panel and further disconnect the power cable from the ship’s distribution board before checking fuses. Fuse F1 is located inside the fuse holder in the front of the Master Compass and is ∅6.35 x 31,8mm. See below picture for more information.
6.3 Periodical Check Tables 6.3.1 Periodical Table (Once a day) Once a day: Periodical Check Table (including operation check). Check marks ○ : Normal, AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 △ : Normal after rework or repair Date checked Inspector Name & Function Check items a.
6.3.2 Periodical Table (Once a (halve) year) Once a (halve) year: Periodical Check Table (including operation check). Check marks ○ : Normal, AlphaMidiCourse Mk2 △ : Normal after rework or repair Date checked Inspector Name & Function Check items a. Confirm tightness of fixing...
6.5 Installation Drawing of AlphaHeading+ The AlphaHeading+ is the steering repeater in the AlphaMidiCourse Gyro system. Its installation is as following: 87 | Appendices...
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6.6 Installation Drawing of Bearing Repeater RP-51-1 The Bearing repeater RP-51-1 can be part of an AlphaMidiCourse Gyro system. The bearing repeater can be installed in a compass stand. Its installation is as following. Junction Box To Control Unit Bearing Repeater 88 | Appendices...