Furuno PG700 Heading Sensor NMEA 2000

Description

If your autopilot is constantly hunting back and forth, it is likely fighting a noisy heading signal. The Furuno PG700 heading sensor solves this by acting as a filter for that noise. It is a rate-compensated digital fluxgate sensor that cleans up and stabilizes your boat’s heading data before sending it out over your NMEA 2000 network. It uses a solid-state fluxgate core, but the real magic is its integrated electronic gyro stabilization. This feature actively dampens the signal, resulting in a much smoother and more accurate heading reference for your autopilot and radar overlay to use.

Built to be hidden away, the PG700 is housed in a compact, IPX5 water-resistant casing that can be mounted flat on a surface or vertically against a bulkhead. It is a true solid-state device, so there are no gimbals, jewels, or pivots to wear out. It simply connects to your NMEA 2000 backbone for both data and power, making the installation incredibly straightforward. It is a simple, effective upgrade that makes your existing electronics perform better.

Key Specifications of the Furuno PG700 Rate-Compensated Digital Fluxgate Heading Sensor

• This sensor outputs a rate-compensated heading signal directly to an NMEA 2000 network, providing a simple, single-cable installation.
• An integrated solid-state gyro provides electronic rate stabilization, which smooths out the heading data for superior autopilot performance.
• The compact, IPX5-rated housing allows for flexible installation below decks, either on a flat shelf or mounted against a vertical bulkhead.
• Because it is a solid-state fluxgate design, there are no mechanical gimbals or moving parts that can wear out over time.
• The system performs automatic compensation for magnetic deviation, simplifying the setup process for installers on a wide variety of vessels.
• It provides a clean, stable heading reference that is critical for the accurate operation of MARPA target tracking on modern radars.

Helm Use and Readability

The PG700 is a black box. You will never look at it. Its entire job is to work in the background to make your other electronics better. You will see its benefits at the helm when your autopilot holds a truer course with less frequent, jerky wheel movements. Your radar overlay will line up perfectly with your chart, and targets will not appear to jump around. It enhances the readability and reliability of the displays you already own.

Why Choose the Furuno PG700 Rate-Compensated Digital Fluxgate Heading Sensor

You install the PG700 heading sensor when you want to get the absolute best performance out of your existing autopilot and radar. Its key feature is the rate-compensation, which provides a much cleaner signal than a basic fluxgate. For any vessel with an NMEA 2000 network that suffers from a “lazy” or “jumpy” autopilot, this sensor is often the most direct and effective fix. It is a small investment that delivers a very noticeable improvement in system performance.

Mounting and Compensation Considerations

Mounting this Furuno heading sensor correctly is critical. It must be installed low in the vessel and as close to the centerline as possible, away from large magnetic fields. The arrow on the case must point directly toward the bow. After connecting it to the NMEA 2000 network, you must perform the calibration procedure on the water, which involves putting the boat into a slow, steady turn to allow the sensor to learn the boat’s magnetic signature.

Warranty and Support

Furuno backs this sensor with its 2-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty against factory defects. For questions about NMEA 2000 integration or the calibration process, Mulmarine.com provides expert support before you buy. Every unit is visually inspected before shipping. We recommend reviewing the full warranty details on Mulmarine.com before making your purchase.

Before Ordering the Furuno PG700 Rate-Compensated Digital Fluxgate Heading Sensor

Before buying, confirm your boat has an NMEA 2000 network with an open T-connector for the sensor to plug into. Identify a suitable mounting location below decks that is dry, secure, and away from engines or large speakers. Ensure you purchase an NMEA 2000 drop cable of the correct length to reach from the sensor’s location to your network backbone.