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Old 18-10-2013, 15:28   #1
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Best masthead wind instrument

I need to replace the current Datamarine Corinthian masthead wind instrument (lightning strike) on my boat and wondered if there are any objective tests or data which would indicate which current instrument is the best.

I can't seem to find any comparisons that would provide any guidance. And I am hoping to get the same service life (32 yrs.) from the replacement

Any suggestions?
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Old 18-10-2013, 16:33   #2
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Re: Best masthead wind instrument

Browse more as there were tests by at least one mag. Also try Panbo, I think they run a test once.

My fave sensor/instrument is Nexus.

I also like the ultrasonic sensors at least one of which I think corrects for sensors erratic movements prior to sending the data out.

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Old 18-10-2013, 17:30   #3
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Re: Best masthead wind instrument

Panbo has some reports of displays, but haven't found anything on the wind sensors. Still looking...
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Old 19-10-2013, 05:37   #4
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Re: Best masthead wind instrument

Yes. Mostly the tests are kit vs. kit. Hard to find sensor to sensor comparisons as so many sensors accept only dedicated instruments.

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Old 19-10-2013, 05:42   #5
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Re: Best masthead wind instrument

You can get ultra accurate wind speed direction senders from companies that supply wx stations. Just g oogle for ultrasonic wind sensor and browse the images. There are plenty of makes.

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Old 22-10-2013, 14:47   #6
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Re: Best masthead wind instrument

I wasn't aware of ultrasonic wind instruments prior to seeing this post, seems like the way to go from a reliability standpoint? Just did a search and wonder if anybody has experience with Maretron (Maretron | WSO100), incorporating barometric pressure plus logging true wind direction shifts would make a pretty ideal onboard weather forcast system where one would always have a pretty good idea where they were in relation to a high or low pressure system and what the best direction to go for more or less wind was (assuming out in ocean and not overly affected by land/sea breezes or topographical weather features). As a side note, no affiliation or experience with Maretron but leaving Dixon Entrance about a month ago my conventional wind instrument stopped working for a few days :-/
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Old 22-10-2013, 20:32   #7
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Re: Best masthead wind instrument

I am also looking at the Airmar WX150. Just trying to find compatible displays.

150WX —WeatherStation® Instrument - Airmar Marine Transducers

I like the lack of spinning devices at the top of the mast, and the temp and humidity, etc., are nice
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Old 22-10-2013, 20:40   #8
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Re: Best masthead wind instrument

The WX150 is not meant for masthead use. You need to look at the WX200.
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Old 22-10-2013, 20:59   #9
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Re: Best masthead wind instrument

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The WX150 is not meant for masthead use. You need to look at the WX200.
I went with the Maretron WS100 and it sure proved itself on a passage down to SF from Seattle.


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Old 22-10-2013, 23:07   #10
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Re: Best masthead wind instrument

Thanks for the positive feedback on the Maretron WSO100, the 200WX also looks good but I definitely wouldn't get the relative humidity function (IPX7 without, only IPX4 with..). Top of a mast is a pretty rough place for electronics..
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Old 24-10-2013, 09:19   #11
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Re: Best masthead wind instrument

We put a Nexus up about 2 years ago. Been working perfectly. About half the price of TacTic.
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Old 24-10-2013, 09:39   #12
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Re: Best masthead wind instrument

We have the Maretron WS100 feeding N2K data to the rest of our instruments. You will need a N2K display for it (it does not have to be Maretron's), or use a computer running Maretron's free software, or use a 0183-2000 converter like Actisense's to feed NMEA0183 displays. Also, true wind speed and direction will require a compass (it does not have to be Maretron's).

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Old 24-10-2013, 11:35   #13
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Re: Best masthead wind instrument

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Originally Posted by colemj View Post
We have the Maretron WS100 feeding N2K data to the rest of our instruments. You will need a N2K display for it (it does not have to be Maretron's), or use a computer running Maretron's free software, or use a 0183-2000 converter like Actisense's to feed NMEA0183 displays. Also, true wind speed and direction will require a compass (it does not have to be Maretron's).

Mark
I am going to ask B&G if their Triton 41 display will play well with either/both Airmar and Maretron. This seems to be the way I am leaning.

Hoping for a relatively clean 'plug and play' install.
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Old 24-10-2013, 12:36   #14
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Re: Best masthead wind instrument

My vote went with Nexus too. Look them up.

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Old 24-10-2013, 16:32   #15
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Re: Best masthead wind instrument

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Originally Posted by redsky49 View Post
I am going to ask B&G if their Triton 41 display will play well with either/both Airmar and Maretron. This seems to be the way I am leaning.

Hoping for a relatively clean 'plug and play' install.
The T41 works with both transducers from what I've seen. It's worth double-checking, but in general the T41 will work with most any Maretron or Airmar N2K transducer.
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