Baintech SF80305-1 Marine Magnetic Compass – Black Helm Navigation

Baintech SF80305-1 marine magnetic compass provides reliable heading reference for coastal navigation, offshore passages and backup to electronic systems.

This black-bodied compass measures 114mm x 96mm x 135mm for flush or bracket mounting at helm stations where electronic chartplotter failures could compromise navigation safety. The magnetic card responds to Earth's magnetic field independent of electrical power, delivering continuous heading information during battery failures, alternator problems or electronic system malfunctions that disable GPS-based navigation.

Designed for Australian coastal and offshore environments where redundant navigation systems are essential safety equipment. The compass provides backup heading reference when electronic systems fail due to water ingress, lightning strikes or power supply faults. Traditional magnetic compass technology operates without batteries, GPS signals or electrical connections, making it the ultimate failsafe navigation instrument for blue water passages and remote coastal cruising.

Key Specifications

• Dimensions: 114mm (W) x 96mm (D) x 135mm (H)
• Colour: Black body
• Technology: Magnetic card compass
• Power requirement: None (magnetic operation)
• Application: Marine helm navigation
• Mounting: Not specified (likely flush or bracket mount)

Features & Benefits

Independent Magnetic Operation: Functions without electrical power, GPS signals or batteries. Provides heading reference during complete electrical system failures, making it essential backup navigation equipment for offshore passages and remote coastal cruising.

Helm-Sized Dimensions: 114x96x135mm footprint fits standard helm console mounting locations without consuming excessive panel space. Balances readability with compact installation in cockpit and flybridge helms where dashboard space is limited.

Black Marine Finish: Black body integrates with contemporary helm instrumentation and reduces glare in bright sunlight conditions. The dark colour blends seamlessly with modern marine electronics and carbon fibre dashboards popular in performance vessels.

Always-Ready Navigation: Requires no warm-up time, initialization or satellite acquisition. Provides instant heading reference when starting engines or recovering from power failures, critical during emergency navigation scenarios.

Backup to Electronic Systems: Serves as mandatory safety backup when electronic chartplotters, GPS receivers or heading sensors fail due to water damage, lightning strikes or power supply faults. Maritime safety authorities recommend magnetic compass backup for all offshore-capable vessels.

No Maintenance Electronics: Contains no circuit boards, displays or electronic components to corrode, fail or require replacement. Maintains operational capability across decades with minimal maintenance beyond periodic deviation checking and fluid replacement.

Technical Specs

• Model: SF80305-1
• Type: Marine magnetic compass
• Body colour: Black
• Dimensions: 114mm (W) x 96mm (D) x 135mm (H)

Compatible With / Goes Well With

• Helm console mounting (cockpit and flybridge installations)
• Backup navigation systems alongside GPS chartplotters
• Offshore and coastal cruising vessels
• Sailing yachts and power vessels
• Commercial fishing and charter boat helms
• Emergency navigation equipment packages
• Contemporary marine helm instrumentation (matches black electronics)
• Vessels requiring redundant heading reference systems

Caution: Magnetic compasses require professional deviation correction after installation. Mount away from ferrous metals, electronics and magnetic fields that affect compass accuracy. Verify mounting specifications and hardware requirements before purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this compass require batteries or power?

No, magnetic compasses operate using Earth's magnetic field and require no electrical power, batteries or external signals. This makes them the ultimate backup navigation system when all electronics fail.

How does the black version differ from the white SF80305-2?

Both models share identical 114x96x135mm dimensions and magnetic compass functionality. The SF80305-1 features black body finish for contemporary helm aesthetics, while the SF80305-2 offers traditional white marine finish. Choose based on helm colour scheme and instrument integration preferences.

How do I correct for magnetic deviation?

Magnetic deviation correction procedures vary by installation and vessel. Built-in correctors (if present) can be adjusted during professional compass swing. Contact a marine surveyor or compass adjuster for proper deviation correction after installation.

Can this replace my electronic chartplotter?

No, this provides heading reference only and doesn't offer the route planning, position fixing or hazard warnings of electronic chartplotters. Use this as backup navigation equipment alongside, not as replacement for, primary electronic systems.

What mounting method does this use?

Mounting type is not specified. Typical marine compasses use flush mounting (cutout in console) or bracket mounting (surface mount with bracket). Contact F.A.E. for mounting specifications and hardware included with this model.