Digital Compass?

[Gunbug]

Would someone please tell me "in simple terms" how a digital watch compass works.

Thanks

 

[kr1]

Would someone please tell me "in simple terms" how a digital watch compass works.

Thanks

Most of them use what is called a flux gate circuit. It measures the magnetic field around the watch. Once you calibrate it, usually by turning in circles it can align with the magnetic field to magnetic north. Some have higher resolution than others so some will give less course compass points than others. You will notice that some car compasses only give cardinal compass points while some fairly high resolution GPS and watch units are able to give fairly accurate compass heading in degrees. It is generally critical to keep them level so that magnetic dip doesn't come into play on the watches and GPS systems.

Remember you asked for "in simple terms".

KR

 

[Gunbug]

Thanks for the info.

Are they effected by a magnet held near the watch?

 

[kr1]

Thanks for the info.

Are they effected by a magnet held near the watch?

Certainly.

KR