Simrad GC80/85 Gyrocompass is a professional gyrocompass solution for the maritime environment, providingheading information for systems such as radar, ARPA, ECDIS, autopilot, AIS, VDR, repeater compass, and other navigation equipment.

series offers configurations for different needs. According to product information,Simrad GC Series includes a variety of gyrocompass and control unit options for different vessel types. Among them,GC80 and GC85 are IMO-compliant solutions for cargo ships, passenger ships, commercial vessels, and offshore service vessels requiring high accuracy, good stability, and flexible integration.

GC80 for standard vessels, GC85 for high-speed vessels

Simrad GC80 is designed for standard vessels according to IMO, suitable for commercial vessels, cargo ships, passenger ships, and vessels requiring a stable heading data source.Simrad GC85 is the version that meets the requirements forHigh-Speed Craft, while still being suitable for standard vessels when a higher performance gyro configuration is needed.

The correct differentiation betweenGC80and in appropriate configurations. These technologies help improve the quality of positioning data when the operating area has corresponding augmented signal support.GC85is very important during inspection, replacement, or system configuration, as each version is designed for different vessel types and operational requirements.

Flexible Compact, Dual, and Expanded configurations

Simrad GC80/85 can be configured with various types of control units, includingCompact, Dual and Expanded. This allows the system to easily adapt to different installation types, from a simple single-gyro configuration to a multi-gyro system for vessels requiring high redundancy.

configuration can be used for systems that require heading source switching when needed, while theconfiguration can be used for systems that require heading source switching when needed, while theconfiguration is suitable for vessels that need multiple signal outputs to supply multiple navigation equipment simultaneously.configuration is suitable for vessels that need multiple signal outputs to supply multiple navigation equipment simultaneously.Heading output for ECDIS, radar, autopilot, and repeaters

The GC80/85 control units support multiple heading output types such as

NMEA 0183NMEA 0183and in appropriate configurations. These technologies help improve the quality of positioning data when the operating area has corresponding augmented signal support.stepper outputAccording to the technical documentation, the Compact configuration can support

4 NMEA 0183 outputs and 1 stepper output, while the Dual/Expanded configuration can support10 NMEA 0183 outputs and 4 stepper outputs10 NMEA 0183 outputs and 4 stepper outputs, depending on the actual system configuration.

Sealed sensitive element, high stability

Simrad GC80/85 usesfully sealed sensitive element, which increases stability and reliability in the marine environment. This technology is designed to limit the need for complex periodic maintenance and support long-term operation on vessels.

Some technical sources also describe the GC80/85 series as a low-maintenance gyrocompass, requiring no traditional annual maintenance and no periodic oil changes like some older gyro systems.

Suitable for DP vessels and offshore applications

Simrad GC80/85 is used in many professional marine applications, including commercial vessels, passenger ships, andOffshore Service Vessel – OSV. For vessels requiring a dynamic positioning systemDP – Dynamic Positioning, a multi-gyro configuration can provide redundant and reliable heading data for the position control system.

Flexible configuration capabilities make the GC80/85 suitable for both newbuild vessels and retrofit projects, upgrading or replacing existing gyrocompass systems.

Key Features of Simrad GC80/85 Gyrocompass

• Marine gyrocompasssystem dedicated to ships.GC80
• GC80IMO approval for standard vessels.
• GC85approval for standard vessels and High-Speed Craft.
• Configurable as Compact, Dual and Expanded.
• Suitable for single gyroMX575C DGPS Compassmulti-gyro.
• Provides accurate heading data for radar, ECDIS, autopilot, AIS, VDR and repeaters.
• Supports NMEA 0183and in appropriate configurations. These technologies help improve the quality of positioning data when the operating area has corresponding augmented signal support.stepper heading output.
• Fully sealed sensor element, increasing stability and reliability.
• Configurable dual gyro system with heading source changeover.
• Suitable for merchant vessels, passenger vessels, offshore service vessels and DP applications.
• Easy integration in new build or retrofit projects.

Applications of Simrad GC80/85 on vessels

Simrad GC80/85 Gyrocompass is used as the primary or backup heading source in marine systems. Data from the gyrocompass can be supplied to:

• Marine radar.
• ARPA radar.
• ECDIS/ECS.
• Autopilot.
• AIS.
• VDR/S-VDR.
• Heading repeater.
• DP system.
• Integrated bridge system.
• Navigation equipment requiring stable heading data.

With the ability to provide multiple signal outputs and flexible system configurations, the GC80/85 is particularly suitable for vessels with multiple devices needing to share heading data.

Why choose Simrad GC80/85 Gyrocompass?

Simrad GC80/85 is a suitable choice for vessels requiring an accurate, stable, and easy-to-integrate gyrocompass system. The device supports various installation configurations, from single-gyro systems for standard vessels to multi-gyro systems for offshore vessels, DP vessels, or vessels requiring high redundancy.

The combination ofIMO approval, NMEA 0183/stepper outputs, sealed sensor element sensor element, , Compact/Dual/Expanded configuration capability and good retrofit capability make the GC80/85 an effective solution for both new builds and existing vessels.

Notes when ordering Simrad GC80/85

, please check:Simrad GC80/85 Gyrocompass, please confirm the equipment configuration to avoid installation errors:

• Is the unitGC80MX575C DGPS CompassGC85.
• What is the configuration:Compact, Dual or Expanded.
• Is it a single gyro, dual gyro or multi-gyro system.
• Does it include a master compass, sensitive element, control unit, power supply unit.
• How many NMEA/stepper outputs are needed.
• What signal standard is required for ECDIS, radar, autopilot, repeater, and VDR.
• What is the condition of the equipment if it is stock, replacement, or used.
• What are the classification society requirements and certifications applicable to the vessel type.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Simrad GC80/85 Gyrocompass?

The Simrad GC80/85 Gyrocompass is a marine gyrocompass system used to provide accurate heading data for radar, ECDIS, autopilot, AIS, VDR, and other navigation equipment.

What is the difference between GC80 and GC85?

GC80 is the IMO standard version for standard vessels, while GC85 is the version for standard vessels and High-Speed Craft.

Can GC80/85 be used in a dual gyro system?

Yes. The Simrad GC80/85 can be configured in a dual gyrocompass or multi-gyro system, depending on the control unit type and installation requirements.

Does GC80/85 output NMEA 0183 signals?

Yes. The GC80/85 control units support NMEA 0183and in appropriate configurations. These technologies help improve the quality of positioning data when the operating area has corresponding augmented signal support.stepper output outputs for connection to repeaters, ECDIS, radar, autopilot, and other navigation equipment.

Is the Simrad GC80/85 suitable for offshore and DP vessels?

Yes. The GC80/85 series is used for various marine applications, including offshore service vessels and DP systems requiring stable, redundant heading data.

Is this product a complete gyro system?

It should not be defaulted like this. When ordering, you need to check clearly what components the product set includes: master compass, control unit, sensitive element, power supply, connecting cable, repeater or other accessories.