Choosing A System Location - NorthStar 951X Installation Manual

SECTION TWO - Installing the unit
Using DGPS with an
AN150 and 8410
ACU
Using the AN205-P
DGPS antenna

Choosing a system location

Page 8
If the unit is equipped with a differential receiver (and you're using the
AN150 GPS antenna, not the AN205-P GPS/DGPS combo antenna), this
receiver must be connected to a Northstar 8410 differential Antenna
Coupling Unit (ACU). The ACU's four-foot whip antenna should be
mounted as high as conveniently possible—but not at the highest
point—and as far away as possible from other antennas. The ACU can be
mounted on a standard marine antenna mount (1" diameter, 14 threads
per inch).
For complete details on the AN150/8410 ACU mounting requirements,
see "Installing an 8410 ACU (for use with the AN150 only)" starting on
page 23.
For details on the DGPS antenna's mounting requirements, see "Choosing
an antenna location" starting on page 15.
The 951/952 unit houses the GPS receiver, optional differential receiver,
computer, power supply, lights, controls and the specially-coated display
screen. The mounting location should be chosen carefully before any
drilling or cutting takes place: Choose a mounting location that allows
good visibility of the unit's screen, is within comfortable reach, and pro-
vides a reasonably direct path for running the required electrical cabling.
Be sure you have easy access to the control panel's keys and that the dis-
play can be clearly seen from the normal vantage point when the user is
navigating. Even though the display screen contains an effective
anti-reflective coating, choose a location that will minimize glare from
windows or other bright objects. Although the 952 is direct-sunlight
viewable, for optimal viewing it is recommended that you install the 952
in a location that's out of direct sunlight.
Although the unit itself is waterproof, the connectors at the back of the
unit aren't immune to corrosion from saltwater spray. Protect the unit
from prolonged exposure to the elements by mounting it in a relatively
dry area, if possible. At the end of the day, the unit can be wiped off with
a damp cloth. When not in use, the unit should be covered with the sun-
shield to protect it from excessive heat.
To help plan the installation, see Figure 1: "951/952 dimensions (side),"
below and Figure 2: "951/952 dimensions (front)," below.
951/952 INSTALLATION MANUAL Revision B