Garmin SteadyCast Heading Sensor
Best heading sensor for boaters needing precise navigation at slow speeds.
Achieve superior heading accuracy on your vessel with the Garmin SteadyCast Heading Sensor. This simple, easy-to-install solution ensures your boat's heading and chart orientation remain perfectly aligned, even at slow speeds or when stopped. Streamlined NMEA 2000 connectivity and a quick, two-step calibration process make setup a breeze. The sensor offers auto-calibration for non-compatible displays and flexible mounting options, allowing placement away from magnetic interference, even in bilge areas. It includes a 6ft NMEA 2000 drop cable, T connector, and documentation for a complete installation.
$169.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
127
/ 391
#127 in Marine Electronics
Price vs Category Average
-78%
Below average
Output Rate
10
/ Hz
Who it's for
- Captains needing precise radar overlays and reliable autopilot tracking
- Boaters seeking a quick, hassle-free NMEA 2000 network installation
- Garmin users wanting seamless integration with existing chartplotters and sonar
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious sailors looking for a basic, low-cost heading solution
- Installers working in tight spaces with limited magnetic isolation options
- Advanced navigators requiring full pitch and roll sensor data
Performance breakdown
Heading Precision
Maintains a steady course with reliable accuracy within three degrees.
Update Frequency
The 10Hz output ensures smooth, real-time chart orientation while navigating.
Installation Simplicity
Two-step calibration and NMEA 2000 connectivity make setup remarkably straightforward.
Mounting Versatility
Flexible placement options allow for optimal positioning away from magnetic interference.
Low-Speed Stability
Provides consistent heading data even when the vessel is completely stopped.
Network Integration
Seamlessly plugs into existing NMEA 2000 marine electronics ecosystems.
Key Specs
Output Rate
10Hz
Accuracy
+/- 3°
GPS Accuracy
3.0 m
Network Compatibility
NMEA 2000
Model Number
010-11417-10
SKU
GAX1141710
Features
- Excellent heading accuracy for navigation
- Fast 10 Hz output rate
- Accuracy within +/- 3 degrees
- Simplified NMEA 2000 connectivity
- Quick 2-step precise calibration
- Auto calibration for non-compatible displays
- Flexible mounting location options
- Easy installation process
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the Garmin SteadyCast Heading Sensor for its exceptional stability and accuracy, which significantly improves navigation and sonar overlays. Users report that it provides a far steadier heading reference than internal sensors, eliminating frustrating data wandering. This precision is crucial for optimizing features like Anchor Lock, ensuring reliable positioning even in challenging conditions. Integration into the Garmin network is seamless. While the initial investment is premium, dedicated anglers and boaters agree the tangible performance gains and reliability make it an essential upgrade for high-end marine electronics. The device delivers measurable improvements to overall system functionality.
Know before you buy
While GPS tracks your movement, it cannot determine which way your boat is pointing when you are stationary or moving slowly. The SteadyCast sensor provides a constant, accurate heading, ensuring your chart orientation stays aligned with your actual direction even when you are drifting or anchored.
Yes, the SteadyCast is designed for seamless integration with any NMEA 2000 network. It includes the necessary T-connector and drop cable to plug directly into your existing backbone.
The sensor is highly versatile and can be mounted in almost any orientation on a flat surface. Because it is designed to be placed away from magnetic interference, you can even install it in the bilge area, provided it is kept clear of large metal objects or high-current wiring.
Not at all. The device features a simple two-step calibration process that can be completed quickly on the water. If your display is not compatible with the manual calibration, the sensor also supports auto-calibration to maintain accuracy.
The SteadyCast provides a heading accuracy of within +/- 3 degrees. With a 10 Hz output rate, it delivers fast, smooth updates to your display, which is essential for precise navigation and radar overlay.
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