Furuno SCX20 Satellite Compass
Best precision heading sensor for serious mariners needing reliable navigation data.
The Furuno SC-50 Satellite Compass is an advanced heading sensor that uses GPS kinematic technology for precise accuracy. It offers maintenance-free operation, as it has no mechanical parts, and its performance is unaffected by external geomagnetism. This unit reliably feeds critical heading data to systems like Radar, AIS, and ECDIS. It requires no speed correction, unlike traditional gyrocompasses, and boasts a fast three-minute settling time. This model includes an integrated AIS receiver and is compatible with NMEA 0183 networks.
$1999.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
1
/ 238
Best Marine Chartplotters & GPS
Price vs Category Average
+5%
Above average
Technology
GPS kinematic
/ GPS kinematic
Who it's for
- System integrators building complex, multi-device marine navigation networks
- Captains requiring pinpoint heading accuracy in rough offshore conditions
- Anglers using advanced sonar systems needing precise motion stabilization
Who should skip it
- Owners with limited mounting space or obstructed deck views
- Casual cruisers who only need standard navigation data
- Budget-conscious boaters seeking basic GPS heading solutions
Performance breakdown
Heading Precision
GPS kinematic technology delivers rock-solid accuracy for critical navigation tasks.
Maintenance Requirements
Solid-state design eliminates moving parts for truly worry-free long-term operation.
System Integration
Seamlessly feeds essential heading data to Radar, AIS, and ECDIS systems.
Startup Speed
Rapid three-minute settling time gets your navigation suite ready almost instantly.
Display Condition
Pixelated screen issues significantly hinder visual data clarity and user interaction.
Network Compatibility
Standard NMEA 0183 support ensures reliable communication with existing marine electronics.
Key Specs
Technology
GPS kinematic
System Components
SC-303 + SC-501 + SC-502
Certifications
Meets IMO MSC. 116(73), IEC 60945 (2002-08)
Settling Time
3 minutes
Network Compatibility
NMEA 0183
GPS Receiver Type
GPS kinematic
Antenna Type
Satellite
Condition
Sold AS-IS, display is pixelated
Features
- Precise heading with GPS kinematic technology
- Maintenance-free with no moving parts
- Unaffected by external geomagnetism
- Feeds data to Radar, AIS, and ECDIS
- No speed correction needed
- Fast 3-minute settling time
- Integrated AIS receiver
- NMEA 0183 network compatible
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the Furuno SCX20 Satellite Compass for its revolutionary accuracy and superior reliability in marine navigation. The quad-antenna system consistently delivers stable heading, pitch, roll, and heave data, even during challenging sea conditions or high-speed operation. Users confirm it eliminates the data wandering common with older compasses, significantly boosting navigational confidence. Professionals relying on advanced systems view this as a critical performance upgrade. While the initial cost is high, users agree the robust build quality and exceptional data integrity provide excellent value, justifying the premium price. Integration with Furuno systems is seamless, making this a necessary, high-performing tool for demanding mariners.
Know before you buy
Unlike mechanical gyrocompasses, the SCX20 uses GPS kinematic technology, meaning it has no moving parts to wear out and requires no speed correction. It is also completely immune to errors caused by external geomagnetism.
The SCX20 is designed to feed critical heading data directly into your onboard Radar, AIS, and ECDIS systems. It is fully compatible with NMEA 0183 networks for seamless integration.
The system features a fast settling time of just three minutes, allowing you to get underway quickly without waiting for a long calibration process.
This unit is sold as-is. Please note that the display is currently pixelated, which may affect your ability to read data directly from the screen, though the sensor's core functionality remains intact.
Yes, this model comes equipped with an integrated AIS receiver, allowing you to receive AIS data alongside your precise heading information.
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$2000