Help w/ Humminbird Marine GPS unit

[DaveC426913]

Anyone here into sailing or boating?

I haven't left my mooring yet, been testing it at anchor but my new Humminbird 383 insists I'm pointing NE when I'm actually pointing SW.

It changes its mind every so often, occasionally it's correct, but seems to return to this position. I've left it for a half hour or more. I've tried hand-holding it and turning it, doesn't seem to register the rotation.

Am I missing something? Is there a configuration I need to go through? (For a while, I wondered if there was a flip northern/southern hemisphere setting or somesuch)I haven't left my mooring yet, been testing it at anchor but my new Humminbird 383 insists I'm pointing NE when I'm actually pointing SW.

It changes its mind every so often, occasionally it's correct, but seems to return to this position. I've left it for a half hour or more. I've tried hand-holding it and turning it, doesn't seem to register the rotation.

Am I missing something? Is there a configuration I need to go through? (For a while, I wondered if there was a flip northern/southern hemisphere setting or somesuch) Does it need a milk-run to get its bearings? (Years go, my car compass wanted me to drive in circles until it locked on North.)


I've checked the GPS satellite display; it seems to be receiving several. There's nothing in the manual.

 

[DaveC426913]

Never mind. Mystery solved.

As soon as we started moving, it immediately knew which way we were pointed. And, the moment we stopped again, it lost track of our orientation.


Conclusion: A GPS device does not determine one's orientation by determining the orientation of the device itself; it determines one's orientation by determining one's movement and then assuming one's orientation is pointed in the direction of movement.

i.e. if you're not moving, you have no orientation.
Also, if you are under power decide to throw it into reverse, presumably the unit will show your orientation as rearward.

 

[quicknote]

I understand your frustration with your new Humminbird GPS unit. It is possible that there may be a configuration or calibration issue that is causing the incorrect readings. I would suggest checking the user manual for any specific instructions on how to calibrate the unit or adjust any settings that may be affecting its accuracy. Additionally, you may want to contact the manufacturer for further assistance or troubleshooting tips. It may also be helpful to reach out to other sailors or boaters who have experience with this particular unit to see if they have encountered similar issues and how they resolved them. Best of luck with your new GPS unit and happy sailing!