Crescent VS100 Series

User Guide
Part No. 875-0179-000 Rev. B1
875-0179-000 (VS100 Series User Guide).book Page 1 Thursday, May 24, 2007 11:54 AM

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference.

• This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE
Hemisphere GPS LLC Precision GPS Applications

© Copyright Hemisphere GPS LLC, 2007. All rights reserved.

No part of this manual may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval

system or translated into any language or computer language, in any form or by any
means, electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, chemical, manual or otherwise, without
the prior written permission of Hemisphere GPS.

TRADEMARKS
Hemisphere GPS and the Hemisphere GPS logo, Satloc and the Satloc logo, and the
Mapstar, AirStar, Outback Guidance, and eDrive are trademarks of Hemisphere GPS.
Other trademarks are the properties of their respective owners.

NOTICE TO CUSTOMERS
Contact your local dealer for technical assistance. To find the authorized dealer near you,
call or write us at:

Hemisphere GPS
4110 9th Street S.E.
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
T2G 3C4
Phone: (403) 259-3311
Fax: (403) 259-8866
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875-0179-000 (VS100 Series User Guide).book Page 1 Thursday, May 24, 2007 11:54 AM

WARRANTY NOTICE

COVERED PRODUCTS
This warranty covers all products manufactured by Hemisphere GPS LLC (the "Products").

HEMISPHERE GPS LLC LIMITED WARRANTY

Hemisphere GPS LLC hereby warrants solely to the end purchaser of the Products,
subject to the exclusions and procedures set forth herein below, that the Products sold to
such end purchaser shall be free, under normal use and maintenance, from defects in
material and workmanship for a period of 12 months from delivery to such end purchaser.
Repairs and replacement components are warranted, subject to the exclusions and
procedures set forth below, to be free, under normal use and maintenance, from defects
in material and workmanship for 90 days from performance or delivery, or for the balance
of the original warranty period, whichever is greater.

PURCHASER'S EXCLUSIVE REMEDY

The end purchaser's exclusive remedy under this warranty shall be limited to the repair or
replacement, at the option of Hemisphere GPS, of any defective Products or components
thereof. The end user shall notify Hemisphere GPS or a Hemisphere GPS approved service
center immediately of any claimed defect. Repairs shall be made through a Hemisphere
GPS approved service center only.

EXCLUSIONS
Hemisphere GPS does not warrant damage occurring in transit or due to misuse, abuse,
improper installation, neglect, lightning (or other electrical discharge) or fresh/salt water
immersion of Products. Repair, modification or service of Hemisphere GPS products by
any party other than a Hemisphere GPS approved service center shall render this
warranty null and void. Hemisphere GPS does not warrant claims asserted after the end
of the warranty period. Hemisphere GPS does not warrant or guarantee the precision or
accuracy of positions obtained when using Products. Products are not intended for
primary navigation or for use in safety of life applications. The potential accuracy of
Products as stated in Hemisphere GPS literature and/or Product specifications serves to
provide only an estimate of achievable accuracy based on:

• Specifications provided by the US Department of Defense for GPS Positioning,

• GPS OEM Receiver specifications of the appropriate manufacturer (if applicable), and
• DGPS service provider performance specifications.
Hemisphere GPS reserves the right to modify Products without any obligation to notify,
supply or install any improvements or alterations to existing Products.
875-0179-000 (VS100 Series User Guide).book Page 2 Thursday, May 24, 2007 11:54 AM

NO OTHER WARRANTIES
THE FOREGOING WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, WHETHER
WRITTEN, ORAL, IMPLIED OR ARISING BY STATUTE, COURSE OF DEALING OR TRADE
USAGE, IN CONNECTION WITH THE DESIGN, SALE, INSTALLATION, SERVICE OR USE OF
ANY PRODUCTS OR ANY COMPONENTS THEREOF, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
THE EXTENT OF HEMISPHERE GPS' LIABILITY FOR DAMAGES OF ANY NATURE TO THE
END PURCHASER OR ANY OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY WHETHER IN CONTRACT OR TORT
AND WHETHER TO PERSONS OR PROPERTY SHALL IN NO CASE EXCEED, IN THE
AGGREGATE, THE COST OF CORRECTING THE DEFECT IN THE PRODUCT OR, AT
HEMISPHERE GPS' OPTION, THE COST OF REPLACING THE DEFECTIVE ITEM. IN NO
EVENT WILL HEMISPHERE GPS BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS OF PRODUCTION, LOSS OF
PROFITS, LOSS OF USE OR FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL
OR CONTINGENT DAMAGES, EVEN IF HEMISPHERE GPS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. WITHOUT LIMITING THE FOREGOING, HEMISPHERE
GPS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES OF ANY KIND RESULTING FROM
INSTALLATION, USE, QUALITY, PERFORMANCE OR ACCURACY OF ANY PRODUCTS.

GOVERNING LEGISLATION
To the greatest extent possible, this warranty shall be governed by the laws of the
province of Alberta. In the event that any provision hereof is held to be invalid by a court
of competent jurisdiction, such provision shall be severed from this warranty and the
remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

OBTAINING WARRANTY SERVICE

In order to obtain warranty service, the end purchaser must bring the Product to a
Hemisphere GPS approved service center along with the end purchaser's proof of
purchase. For any questions regarding warranty service or to obtain information
regarding the location of any of Hemisphere GPS' approved service centers, contact
Hemisphere GPS at the following address:

Hemisphere GPS, LLC

4110 9th Street S.E.
Calgary, AB CANADA
T2G 3C4
Phone: (480) 348-9919 Fax: (480) 348-6370
techsupport@[Link]
[Link]
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VS100 Series User Guide

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1: Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
About the Crescent VS100 Series 2
GPS Overview 5
How the Crescent VS100 Works 9

2: Unpacking the Crescent VS100 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Overview 18
Crescent VS100 Series Parts List 19

3: Installing the Crescent VS100 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Mounting the Antennas 22
Mounting the Receiver 34
Connecting the Cables 37

4: Setting Up the Crescent VS100 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Introduction 42
Turning the Crescent VS100 On/Off 43
Setting Basic Options 44

5: Operating the Crescent VS100 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Introduction 52
Initializing the System 53
Viewing GPS/DGPS Status 55
Troubleshooting a Signal Loss 58
Troubleshooting Heading 60

6: Customizing Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Introduction 62
Disabling the Tilt Aid 63
Disabling the Gyro Aid 64
Configuring the Time Constants 65

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Table of Contents

Appendixes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
A: FAQs 68
B: Menu Map 72
C: Specifications 80

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1: INTRODUCTION
About the Crescent VS100 Series
GPS Overview
How the Crescent VS100 Works
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1: Introduction

ABOUT THE CRESCENT VS100

SERIES

Introduction
The Crescent VS100 series offers a high-precision GPS heading
solution to meet the unique needs of the marine and machine
control market. The series uses our Crescent-based receiver and
two separate antennas to achieve heading accuracy ranging from
0.1 to 0.25 degrees (rms), depending on the antenna separation.
In addition, it offers a sub-meter GPS positioning performance of
less than 60 centimeters, 95 percent of the time using WAAS or
other suitable differential GPS signals.

While the series is designed to provide a highly-accurate GPS

heading taking into account the pitch, roll and speed of various
marine vessels, the use of the Crescent VS100 is not limited to the
marine market. Other excellent applications include machine
control and agricultural guidance, or any application that requires a
high precision heading solution.

The Crescent VS100 series includes two versions.

Table 1-1: Crescent VS100 Series Available Versions

Crescent VS100
GPS/SBAS Beacon
Series Version

VS100 x

VS110 x x

Note: Throughout this manual, any reference to the Crescent

VS100 refers to either of the following receivers: Crescent
VS100 and Crescent VS110. See Table 1-1 for the DGPS signal
types each version supports.

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VS100 Series User Guide

Figure 1-1. Crescent VS100 GPS Compass.

The module features the exclusive Hemisphere GPS, Crescent-

branded, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) computer
chipset technology that enables it to achieve:

• higher update rates

• noise-reduced raw measurements

• more memory

• more processor capacity

• lower power consumption

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1: Introduction

• more advanced applications and sophisticated configurations

• tighter coupling of measurements from separate antennae

The Crescent VS100 offers excellent accuracy and stability due to

more accurate code phase measurements, improved multipath
mitigation and fewer components than competing products.

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VS100 Series User Guide

GPS OVERVIEW
For your convenience, the Crescent VS100 automatically tracks
and calculates position information with complex algorithms,
whether using GPS or differential GPS (DGPS).

When turned on for the first time, the Crescent system acquires the
available GPS satellites in view and the satellite-based
augmentation system (SBAS) differential service.

If SBAS is not available in your area, you can use Beacon and/or
OmniSTAR corrections, depending on your model. Alternatively,
you may use an external source of RTCM SC-104 differential
corrections.

GPS Operation
The GPS engine is always operating, regardless of the DGPS mode
of operation. The following sections describe the general operation
of the Crescent VS100’s internal GPS engine.

Automatic Tracking - The Crescent VS100’s internal GPS engine

automatically searches for GPS satellites, acquires the signals and
manages the navigation information required for positioning and
tracking. This is a hands-free mode of operation.

Receiver Performance - The Crescent VS100 works by finding 4

or more GPS satellites in the visible sky and uses the information
those satellites provide to compute an appropriate position (within
2.5 meters). Since there is some error in the GPS data calculations,
the Crescent VS100 also tracks a differential correction. The
Crescent VS100 uses the differential corrections to improve its
position to less than 1 meter.

There are two main aspects of GPS receiver performance:

• positioning

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1: Introduction

• satellite acquisition quality

When the Crescent VS100 is properly positioned, the satellites

transmit coded information to the antenna on a specific frequency
that allows the receiver to calculate a range to each satellite.

GPS is essentially a timing system. The ranges are calculated by

timing how long it takes for the GPS signal to reach the GPS
antenna. To calculate the geographic location, the GPS receiver
uses a complex algorithm incorporating satellite locations and
ranges to each satellite. Reception of any 4 or more of these
signals allows a GPS receiver to compute 3-dimensional
coordinates.

Differential Operation

The purpose of differential GPS (DGPS) is to remove the effects of

atmospheric errors, timing errors and satellite orbit errors, while
enhancing system integrity.

Autonomous positioning capabilities of the Crescent VS100 will

result in positioning accuracies of 2.5 m (95%). In order to
improve positioning quality to sub-meter levels, the Crescent
VS100 uses differential corrections received through one of the
following:

• the internal SBAS demodulator

• a subscription code for one of Hemisphere GPS’ patented

e-Dif® or L-Dif® applications

• radiobeacon corrections

For more information on available differential services and the

associated commands, please refer to the GPS Technical Reference
manual.

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VS100 Series User Guide

Automatic SBAS (WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS, etc.) tracking - The

Crescent VS100 will automatically scan and track SBAS signals
without the need to tune the receiver. The Crescent VS100
features two-channel tracking that provides an enhanced ability to
maintain a lock on a SBAS satellite when more than one satellite is
in view. This redundant tracking approach results in more
consistent tracking of a SBAS signal when in an area where signal
blockage of a satellite is possible.

e-Dif® - Extended differential (e-Dif) is an optional mode in which

the receiver can perform with differential-like accuracy for
extended periods without the expense or uncertainty of an external
differential service. It models the effects of ionosphere,
troposphere and timing errors for extended periods by computing
its own set of pseudo-corrections. e-Dif may be used anywhere
geographically and is especially useful where SBAS networks have
not yet been installed, such as South America, Africa, Australia and
Asia.

The positioning performance of the receiver unit is dependent upon

the rate at which the environmental modeling of e-Dif and the
environmental errors diverge. The more that e-Dif is able to model
the errors correctly, the longer that e-Dif will provide reliable,
accurate positioning. The accuracy of positioning will have a slow
drift that limits use of e-Dif to approximately 30 to 40 minutes.
However, this depends on how tolerable your application is to drift,
as e-Dif can be used for longer periods. Our testing has shown that
accuracy will often be better than 1.0 m virtually 95% of the time
after 30 minutes of e-Dif operation.

L-Dif®/RTK - Local differential (L-Dif) and RTK are Hemisphere

GPS methods where a specialized set of messages is relayed
between two Crescent receivers. Because the messages
transmitted are in a proprietary format, two Crescent receivers are
necessary for L-Dif operation. A base receiver is established on a
site of known coordinates, which then broadcasts corrections to a

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1: Introduction

rover unit. Performance testing has shown positioning accuracy at

the centimeter level.

Beacon Operation - Many marine authorities, such as coast

guards, have installed networks of radiobeacons that broadcast
DGPS corrections. Increasingly, this radiobeacon network is used
for terrestrial applications as well, resulting in a densification of
networks inland. The dual-channel beacon receiver in the VS110 is
able to operate in manual or automatic tuning mode. Alternately, a
database mode will select the closest station in compliance with
IEC 61108-4 standards.

Satellite Signal Loss? No Problem.

The exclusive Hemisphere GPS COAST™ software enables the
Crescent VS100 receivers to use old DGPS correction data for 40
minutes or more without significantly affecting the quality of
positioning.

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VS100 Series User Guide

HOW THE CRESCENT VS100 WORKS

The Crescent VS100 series provides accurate, reliable heading and
position information at high update rates. It consists of a high
performance GPS engine and two multipath-resistant antennas for
GPS signal processing.

The Crescent VS100 uses moving base station Real-Time Kinematic

(RTK) technology to achieve very precise heading and position
accuracies.

Moving Base Station RTK

RTK technology uses two antennas. One antenna is designated as

the primary GPS, while the other is designated as the secondary
GPS.

Knowing the fixed distance between the primary and secondary

antennas (by default, 0.5 m) allows the Crescent VS100 to
constrain its search volume when computing GPS satellite
positioning data.

The Crescent VS100 is able to constrain its search volume because

the location of the secondary antenna can theoretically only fall on
the surface of a sphere with the radius centered on the location of
the primary antenna.

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1: Introduction

Primary
antenna

0.5 m
baseline
Figure 1-2. Secondary antenna’s search volume.

Therefore, positions computed by the Crescent VS100 are

referenced to the phase center of the primary GPS antenna. The
Crescent VS100’s internal GPS engine uses both the L1 GPS
C/A code and carrier phase data to compute the location of the
secondary GPS antenna in relation to the primary GPS antenna
with a very high, sub-centimeter level of precision.

Using RTK technology, the Crescent VS100 analyzes a significant

number of possible solutions to determine where various
combinations of integer numbers of L1 wavelengths to each
satellite intersect within the search volume.

Heading data references the vector formed from the primary GPS
antenna phase center to the secondary GPS antenna phase center.

Note: The Crescent VS100 RTK algorithm only uses GPS to

calculate heading. Differential corrections are not used in this
calculation and will not affect heading accuracy.

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VS100 Series User Guide

Supplemental Sensors
The Crescent VS100 contains an integrated tilt sensor and gyro,
which are enabled by default. Each supplemental sensor may be
turned on or off individually; however, the full functionality of the
Crescent VS100 system is realized only when both are used. Each
supplemental sensor is inside the Crescent VS100 enclosure,
mounted on the internal printed circuit board.

Both sensors act to reduce the RTK search volume, which improves
heading startup and reacquisition times. This also improves
heading reliability and accuracy by eliminating other possible
erroneous solutions.

The GPS Technical Reference manual describes the commands and

methodology required to recalibrate, query or change the status of
these sensors.

Tilt aiding - The Crescent VS100’s internal tilt sensor

(accelerometer) is enabled by default and is factory calibrated. The
tilt sensor constrains the RTK heading solution beyond the volume
associated with just a fixed antenna separation. It is able to do so
since the Crescent VS100 knows the approximate inclination of the
secondary antenna with respect to the primary antenna.

The search space defined by the tilt sensor is reduced to a

horizontal ring on the surface of the sphere. By reducing the search

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1: Introduction

volume, startup and reacquisition times are considerably

decreased. (See Figure 1-3.)

Tilt
Angle

Figure 1-3. Crescent VS100’s tilt aiding.

Gyro aiding - The gyro initializes and calibrates itself when power
is turned on. Alternately, you can manually calibrate it as outlined
in the GPS Technical Reference manual. When the gyro is first
initializing, the dynamics the gyro experiences MUST BE SIMILAR
to the regular operating dynamics.

For example, if you will be using the Crescent VS100 on a high-

speed, maneuverable craft, you must use the receiver under highly
dynamic conditions for the first 5 to 10 minutes after turning on
power, rather than sitting stationary.

The Crescent VS100’s internal gyro offers two benefits.

1. It shortens reacquisition times when a GPS heading is lost due
to obstruction of satellite signals. The gyro reduces the search
volume required for solution of the RTK by providing a relative
change in angle since the last computed heading. When used

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VS100 Series User Guide

in conjunction with the tilt sensor, the search space is reduced

to a wedge-shaped range. (See Figure 1-4.)

Figure 1-4. Crescent VS100’s gyro aiding.

2. It also provides an accurate substitute heading for a short

period (depending on the roll and pitch of the vessel), ideally
seeing the system through to reacquisition. The gyro will
provide an alternate heading source accurate to within 1° for
up to 3 minutes if either antenna loses GPS.

If the outage lasts longer than 3 minutes, the Crescent VS100

will assume the gyro readings have drifted too far and it will
begin outputting null fields in the heading output messages.
This 3-minute time-out period is fixed and cannot be changed.

Time Constants

The Crescent VS100 incorporates customizable time constants that

can provide a degree of smoothing to the heading, course-over-
ground and speed measurements.

Depending on the expected dynamics of the vessel, you may wish

to adjust these parameters. For instance, if the vessel is very large
and is not able to turn or pitch quickly, increasing this time is
reasonable. The resulting values would have reduced “noise,”

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1: Introduction

resulting in consistent values with time. However, artificially

increasing this value such that it does not agree with a more
dynamic vessel could create a lag in measurements. Formulas for
determining the level of smoothing are located in “6: Customizing
Settings” on page 31. If you are unsure on how to set this value, it
is best to be conservative and leave it at the default setting.

Heading - The heading time constant allows you to adjust the

level of responsiveness of the true heading measurement provided
in the $HEHDT and $GPHDT messages. The default value of this
constant is 2.0 seconds of smoothing when the gyro is enabled.
The gyro is enabled by default, but can be turned off. If you turn
off the gyro, the equivalent default value of the heading time
constant is 0.5 seconds of smoothing. However, if you turn off the
gyro, you will need to enter this heading constant manually.
Increasing the time constant will increase the level of heading
smoothing.

Pitch - The pitch time constant allows you to adjust the level of
responsiveness of the pitch measurement provided in the
$PSAT,HPR message. The default value of this constant is
0.5 seconds of smoothing. Increasing the time constant will
increase the level of pitch smoothing.

Heading rate - The heading rate time constant allows you to

adjust the responsiveness level of the rate of heading change
measurement provided in the $HEROT message. The default value
of this constant is 2.0 seconds of smoothing. Increasing the time
constant will increase the level of heading smoothing.

Course-over-ground (COG) - The course-over-ground (COG)

time constant allows you to adjust the level of responsiveness of
the COG measurement provided in the $GPVTG message. The
default value of this constant is
0.0 seconds of smoothing. Increasing the time constant will
increase the level of COG smoothing. COG is computed using the

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VS100 Series User Guide

primary GPS engine only, and its accuracy is dependant upon the
speed of the vessel (noise is proportional to 1/speed). When
stationary, this value is invalid.

Speed - The speed time constant allows you to adjust the level of
responsiveness of the speed measurement provided in the $GPVTG
message. The default value of this parameter is 0.0 seconds of
smoothing. Increasing the time constant will increase the level of
speed measurement smoothing.

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2: UNPACKING THE
CRESCENT VS100
Overview
Crescent VS100 Series Parts List
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2: Unpacking the Crescent VS100

OVERVIEW
Please look over the parts shipped with your system. If anything is
damaged due to shipping, please contact your freight carrier. If
any parts are missing, please contact your dealer.

A
C

Figure 2-1. Crescent VS100 series system parts diagram.

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VS100 Series User Guide

CRESCENT VS100 SERIES

PARTS LIST

Table 2-1: Crescent VS100 Series Parts List

Diagram
Part Name Qty Part Number
Letter

Not Marketing CD 1 0132-0127

pictured (Includes user guide)

A Crescent receiver 1
model (1 of the
following):

VS100 803-3014
VS110 803-3015

B Receiver mounting 1 710-0056

bracket (2 brackets)

C *A10 antenna 2 804-0045

D Antenna magnetic 2 725-0007

mount

E Antenna cable (TNC- 2 052-0004

TNC), 3 m

F Data serial cable (DB9- 2 050-0011

DB9), 3 m

G Power cable, 3 m 1 054-0009

*Note: Depending on the version of the Crescent VS100 series

you purchased, you may have a different antenna model.
However, the mounting instructions apply to all antenna
installations.

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3: INSTALLING THE
CRESCENT VS100
Mounting the Antennas
Mounting the Receiver
Connecting the Cables
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3: Installing the Crescent VS100

MOUNTING THE ANTENNAS

Selecting the Antenna Orientation

The Crescent VS100 series GPS compass can be installed:

• to read heading and pitch, or

• heading and roll.

The relation of the antennas to the boat’s axis determine whether

the Crescent VS100 will output pitch or roll readings in addition to
heading.

Pitch - Installing for heading and pitch is the most common

installation. Orienting the antennas parallel to, and along the
centerline of, the axis of the boat will provide a true heading.

You can enter a heading bias in the Crescent VS100 to calibrate the
physical heading to the true heading of the boat if using a
gyrocompass.

Roll - Installing for heading and roll is an alternate installation.

Orienting the antennas perpendicular to, and along the centerline
of, the axis of the boat will provide roll readings.

Note: If you choose this installation, you will need to enter a

heading bias in the Crescent VS100. The heading bias will be
either +90° if the antennas face port, or -90° if the antennas
face starboard.

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VS100 Series User Guide

Planning the Optimal Antenna Placement

Optimal antenna placement is important to obtain a high-precision
GPS reading. Antennas must be placed:

• with a clear view of the horizon

• away from other electronics and antennas

• along the centerline of the vessel

Warning!

The Crescent VS100 will not translate its position to the

vessel’s centerline if not installed along the centerline.

• on a level plane

• at a maximum separation of 2.0 m (default is 0.5 m)

• away from radio frequencies and as high as possible

See Figure 3-1 through Figure 3-3 for examples.

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3: Installing the Crescent VS100

Bow

Secondary
antenna

0.5
Receiver meters
Receiver
face

Primary
antenna

Stern

Figure 3-1. Heading and pitch installation:

top-down view of boat.

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VS100 Series User Guide

Bow

Receiver
face

Primary Secondary
antenna antenna

0.5 m

Stern

Figure 3-2. Heading and roll installation:

top-down view of boat.

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3: Installing the Crescent VS100

Centerline

Figure 3-3. Antenna installation: Cross-section of boat.

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VS100 Series User Guide

Mounting the Antennas

The antennas may be mounted with a magnetic mount, pole mount
or rail mount configuration.

The antennas are secured to the mounting bracket using 1-14-

UNS-2B threaded mounts. These brackets are located beneath the
mass center of the antennas in order to resist vibration modes.

Warning!
The maximum allowable antenna separation is 2.0 m. Any
increase beyond this limit may result in an incorrect heading.

Magnetic Mounting - Magnetic mounts are optional. They may

simplify antenna mounting for certain installations, such as
portable systems for harbor and waterway pilots.

To install the antennas using the magnetic mounts:

1. Select a location and orientation that meets the requirements
listed in “Selecting the Antenna Orientation” and “Planning the
Optimal Antenna Placement” on page 22 and page 23.

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3: Installing the Crescent VS100

2. Thread the magnetic mount into the mounting bracket on the

bottom of the antenna. Hand tighten only.

Warning!
When threading the magnetic mounts, hand-tighten only.
Damage resulting from over-tightening is not covered by
warranty.

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VS100 Series User Guide

3. Ensure that the antenna is secure in its mounting position.

Note: The metal disk and adhesive foam pad (included with the
magnetic mount) can be used on non-magnetic surfaces. Follow
steps 1 and 2, above. Then, attach the foam pad to the
magnetic disk and place in your desired location. Finally, place
the assembled antenna and magnetic mount on the magnetic
disk.

Pole Mounting - Alternately, you may pole-mount the antennas

using existing hardware on your vessel.

To mount the antenna on a pole mount bracket:

1. Select a location and orientation that meets the requirements
listed in “Selecting the Antenna Orientation” and “Planning the
Optimal Antenna Placement” on page 22 and page 23.

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3: Installing the Crescent VS100

2. Thread the pole mount into the mounting bracket on the

bottom of the antenna. Hand tighten only.

Warning!
When threading the pole mounts, hand-tighten only. Damage
resulting from over-tightening is not covered by warranty.

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VS100 Series User Guide

Note: The pole shown in the photos is not included.

3. Mark and drill any mounting holes necessary for the pole
mounts.

Rail Mounting - Alternately, you may rail mount the antennas

using existing hardware on your vessel.

To rail mount the antennas:

1. Select a location and orientation that meets the requirements
listed in “Selecting the Antenna Orientation” and “Planning the
Optimal Antenna Placement” on page 22 and page 23.
2. Use appropriate hardware to securely attach the antenna to
the railing.

Routing and Securing the Antenna Cable

To route and secure the antenna cables, please review the
following guidelines.

• The two enclosed antennas each require a 50 Ω impedance

antenna extension cable such as RG-58U (up to a maximum of
15 m (49 ft.) in length) for proper operation.

• The GPS engine inside the Crescent VS100 requires a minimum

input gain of 10 dB (and maximum of 40 dB before saturation
will occur). The antennas offer 28 dB of gain, so the loss
budget to accommodate for cable losses is 18 dB.

• Regardless of the cable material and length that you choose,

you must ensure that cable losses are less than 18 dB of
attenuation. Due to variances in the antenna gain and practical
attenuation of cable materials and connectors, we recommend
reducing this budget to 15 dB. This budget of 15 dB is present
to overcome the resulting attenuation of an RF cable.

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3: Installing the Crescent VS100

• When deciding on an antenna location, consider the amount of

cable required. Keep in mind that a longer cable of the same
material will result in a higher loss than a shorter one. If the
overall loss of the longer cable exceeds 15 dB, the cable
material will need to be changed. This normally means a more
expensive material that has a larger diameter and less
flexibility. The standard cables that come with the Crescent
VS100 are of an RG58 material family. Their attenuation is
approximately 0.8 dB/m. Including connector losses, the
nominal loss of these RF cables is approximately 10 dB, which
is within the tolerable loss budget. If a 15 m or 20 m cable run
is required, an RG8 variety is available. If lengths longer than
20 m are required, more sophisticated materials will be
required.

For more information on cable length or low-loss cable, please

contact your Hemisphere GPS dealer or Hemisphere GPS Technical
Support. The following is a short summary of other readily
available cable materials that have 50 Ω impedance. Cable loss
cited below does not include any connector losses.

Table 3-1: Cable Loss

Loss at GPS L1
Material
(1.575 GHz)

RG58 0.78 dB / m

RG8 0.36 dB / m

Times Microwave LMR400 0.15 dB / m

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Warning!

When choosing a route for the antenna extension cable:

• Avoid running cables in areas of excessive heat.

• Keep antenna cables away from corrosive chemicals.

• Do not run the extension cable through door or window

jams.

• Keep the antenna cable away from rotating machinery.

• Do not bend excessively or crimp the antenna extension

cable.

• Avoid placing tension on the cable.

• Remove unwanted slack from the antenna extension cable

at the receiver end.

• Secure along the cable route using plastic tie wraps.

Warning!
The Crescent VS100 receiver provides 5 VDC across the antenna
ports. Connection to incompatible devices may result in damage
to equipment.

Warning!
Improperly installed cables near machinery can be dangerous.

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3: Installing the Crescent VS100

MOUNTING THE RECEIVER

Selecting the Receiver Orientation

The Crescent VS100 must be installed:
• inside and away from the elements, and in a location that
minimizes vibration, shock, extreme temperatures and
moisture
• horizontally
• with the face of the receiver facing the secondary antenna
• so the front panel (menu screen, LEDs and buttons) is visible
and accessible
• so the back panel is visible and accessible to switch out cables
and turn power on and off

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Mounting the Crescent VS100

Use the enclosed mounting kit to mount the receiver. To install the
brackets for mounting:
1. Slide the nuts through the opening along both sides of the
receiver.

2. Place the bracket alongside the receiver and insert the screws
so they screw into the nuts.

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3: Installing the Crescent VS100

3. Screw down the brackets in your desired location.

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CONNECTING THE CABLES

This section contains instructions for connecting the cables for:

• power

• serial ports

Please review the following warnings before connecting the cables.

Warning!

• Do not run cables in areas of excessive heat.

• Keep cables away from corrosive chemicals.

• Do not run the extension cable through door or window

jams.

• Keep cables away from rotating machinery.

• Do not bend excessively or crimp cables.

• Avoid placing tension on cables.

• Remove unwanted slack from the extension cable at the

receiver end.

• Secure along the cable route using plastic wraps.

Connecting the Power Source

The power source for the Crescent VS100 must be between 9 - 36
Volts.

Use the Power cable (Part no. 054-0009) to connect the connector
labeled “Ground” to your power source.

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3: Installing the Crescent VS100

Selecting a Port for GPS Data Message Output

The serial ports of the Crescent VS100 operate at the RS-232C
interface level to communicate with external data loggers,
navigation systems and other devices.

There are two ports available on the back panel of the Crescent
VS100 using a standard DB9 socket connection.

Figure 3-4. Port connections on the Crescent VS100.

The available ports and associated default baud rates, NMEA

message types and update rates are shown in Table 3-2 .

Table 3-2: Default Data Messages by Port

Update
Port Baud Rate NMEA Messages
Rate

A, B 19,200 GGA, GSV 1 Hz

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Ports A and B have the connections detailed below on the DB9

socket.

Table 3-3: Pin Connections for Ports A and B

Pin Signal Description

2 TXD NMEA 0183, binary,

and RTCM input

3 RXD NMEA 0183, binary,

and RTCM output

5 Signal Ground Signal return

6 Mark Input Event marker input

9 1 PPS Timing output

After selecting the physical connection, you will need to select the
desired NMEA data messages if different from the defaults shown
above.

Select the desired NMEA message types and update rates by port
using the Configuration Wizard (see “4: Setting Up the Crescent
VS100”).

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4: SETTING UP THE
CRESCENT VS100
Introduction
Turning the Crescent VS100 On/Off
Setting Basic Options
875-0179-000 (VS100 Series User Guide).book Page 22 Thursday, May 24, 2007 11:54 AM

4: Setting Up the Crescent VS100

INTRODUCTION
These instructions are for configuring the Crescent VS100 settings
using the interface on the Crescent VS100 receiver. A
Configuration Wizard on the receiver itself walks you through setup
options.

The Configuration Wizard allows you to save up to five different

configuration settings if using this product on different vessels or
for different applications.

If using a personal computer, you may also use Hemisphere GPS’

PocketMax software, which was included on your CD. Please refer
to the PocketMax guide for help using PocketMax.

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VS100 Series User Guide

TURNING THE CRESCENT VS100 ON/

OFF
Turn the Crescent VS100 “ON” using the ON/OFF Power toggle
switch on the rear panel.

Figure 4-1. Turn the Crescent VS100 on at the

Power toggle switch.

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4: Setting Up the Crescent VS100

SETTING BASIC OPTIONS

Introduction
The Configuration Wizard option appears in the display on the front
panel of the Crescent VS100.

This section covers the basic items you need to set in the
Configuration Wizard to get up and running.

Figure 4-2 shows the Configuration Wizard.

Note: Basic setup assumes that you are using the following
defaults:

• antennas are installed parallel to, and along the centerline of,
the boat’s axis

• antennas are separated by 0.5 meters

If this is not the case, you will need to also enter the actual
antenna separation and bias in the Wizard.

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VS100 Series User Guide

Figure 4-2. Configuration Wizard.

Perform the following steps using the Configuration Wizard.

1. Select the Configuration Wizard
2. Select “Proceed with Wizard”
3. Select “Create New” to create a New Configuration
4. Enter the Name of the Configuration
5. Select a DGPS Source

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4: Setting Up the Crescent VS100

6. Select the GPS Data Message Output

7. Configure the Elevation Cutoff Angle
8. Set the Maximum DGPS Age (Optional)
9. Configure the Baud Rate
10. Configure Aiding Features (Optional)
11. Configure Time Constants (Optional)
12. Input the Heading Bias (Optional)
13. Input the Bias for Pitch or Roll (Optional)
14. Select the Antenna Separation (Optional)
15. Configure the Crescent VS100 for Pitch or Roll
16. Save Your Settings

1. Select the Configuration Wizard

Select the “Config Wizard” option from the main menu.

2. Select “Proceed Wizard”

In this submenu, you can select from the following options:

• proceed with the wizard

• use a previous configuration

• delete a saved configuration

3. Select “Create New” to Create a New Configuration

You may alternately save the current receiver configuration if you
have modified the receiver setup through other menu items or via
the COM port.

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VS100 Series User Guide

4. Enter the Name of the Configuration

To enter a name to save your current setting under:
a. First, use the arrow keys to select a letter and then press
the enter key to save the letter. The cursor will move to
the right.
b. Enter a blank character at the end of your name until the
“Enter” character appears at the end of the name.
c. When you are finished, press the enter key again.

After entering the configuration name, the first few letters of the
name will be displayed on the previous menu.

5. Select a DGPS Source

The default DGPS source is SBAS. If using a differential source
other than SBAS, please select it here.

Options are: SBAS, *Beacon, Autonomous, External RTCM, **e-

Dif, and **L-Dif

*Beacon is only available on the VS110.

**Only available if purchased with this configuration.

6. Select the GPS Data Message Output

Select the desired message type for the desired port.

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4: Setting Up the Crescent VS100

7. Configure the Elevation Cutoff Angle

You may set the elevation cutoff angle between 0° and 45°. The
default value is 5°.

8. Set the Maximum DGPS Age (Optional)

The maximum DGPS age is 2700 seconds (45 minutes) by default.
If you need a shorter or longer DGPS age, set it here.

9. Configure the Baud Rate

If the default baud rate on the desired port does not match that of
the external device you are connecting to, you will need to set it
here.

Available values: 4,800; 9,600; 19,200; 38,400; 57,600;

*115,200

*Note: 115,200 baud has no PocketMax support.

10. Configure Aiding Features (Optional)

While the default settings will work for most users, you can
configure the aiding features to reduce heading startup and
reaquisition times.

Customers who may want to configure aiding features include

those with a large, slow-to-turn vessel, or those with a small,
dynamic vessel.

To configure the aiding features, see “6: Customizing Settings”.

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11. Configure Time Constants (Optional)

While the default settings will work for most users, you can
configure the time constants to reduce heading start up and
reaquisition times.

Customers who may want to configure aiding features include

those with a large, slow-to-turn vessel, or those with a small,
dynamic vessel.

To configure the time constants, see “6: Customizing Settings”.

12. Input the Heading Bias (Optional)

If you did not install the antenna’s parallel to and along the boat’s
centerline, enter a heading bias (-180° – +180°) to compensate
for any offset.

Note: If you installed the antennas for roll (perpendicular to the

boat’s axis), rather than pitch, you must enter the heading bias
(+/- 90°).
You must also enter the bias for roll (see below).

13. Input the Bias for Pitch or Roll (Optional)

Enter the bias for pitch or roll (-15° - +15°) to compensate for any
offset from the boat’s centerline.

14. Select the Antenna Separation (Optional)

If you did not install the antennas 0.5 meters apart, enter the
actual antenna separation here.

Available range: 0 - 2.0 meters

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4: Setting Up the Crescent VS100

15. Configure the Crescent VS100 for Pitch or Roll

(Optional)
Pitch is the default installation for most users. If you installed the
Crescent VS100 to read roll, select “Roll” here.

16. Save Your Settings

a. After selecting the “Save to Location” option at the end of
the Configuration menu, you will be prompted for a
location to save your configuration.
b. Select one of the empty slots, noted by the name “Not
Used”, or select a slot with an existing configuration to
overwrite it.
c. After saving your configuration, you must re-enter the
Configuration Wizard and select the configuration to use.
(This way, you may continue to enter different receiver
configurations without upsetting the current operation of
the receiver.)

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5: OPERATING THE
CRESCENT VS100
Introduction
Initializing the System
Viewing GPS/DGPS Status
Troubleshooting a Signal Loss
Troubleshooting Heading
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5: Operating the Crescent VS100

INTRODUCTION
Operating the Crescent VS100 is simple. Turn it on and you’re
ready to go!

Most users connect the Crescent VS100 to their existing navigation

system during installation. These users will receive the Crescent
VS100’s position and heading updates through the interface of
their existing system.

The interface on the front panel of the Crescent VS100 is helpful for
configuring or changing system settings. In addition, the LEDs on
the panel will notify you in the event of a GPS or DGPS signal loss.

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INITIALIZING THE SYSTEM

Turn the Crescent VS100 “ON” using the ON/OFF Power toggle
switch on the rear panel.

Figure 5-1. Turn the Crescent VS100 on at the Power toggle

switch.

The main menu screen will appear in the display on the front panel
the first time you boot up (Figure 5-2). See “4: Setting Up the
Crescent VS100” for help configuring your system.

Warning!

When the gyro is first initializing, the dynamics the gyro

experiences MUST BE SIMILAR to the regular operating
dynamics.

For example, if you will be using the Crescent VS100 on a high

speed, maneuverable craft, you must use the receiver under
highly dynamic conditions for the first 5 to 10 minutes after
turning on power, rather than sitting stationary.

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5: Operating the Crescent VS100

When the following LEDs are illuminated, you have signal lock for:

Heading

Differential Selection
signal (e.g., buttons:
SBAS or
Beacon) Up/forward

Secondary Enter/select
GPS
Down/back
Primary GPS

Power

Display screen (Main menu shown)

Figure 5-2. Crescent VS100 front panel.

For additional menu options, please see “B: Menu Map” in the
Appendix.

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VIEWING GPS/DGPS STATUS

Most users will receive position and heading information through
their on-board navigation system. If you have not connected the
Crescent VS100 to an existing navigation system, or are
troubleshooting your unit, you may need to view GPS, DGPS or
Beacon status on the Crescent VS100’s display screen.

Do I Have a Signal?
Figure 5-2 shows which LEDs on the Crescent VS100 will indicate
GPS, DGPS or Beacon signal lock when illuminated.

If you do lose the differential signal lock, the Hemisphere GPS

COAST technology allows the Crescent VS100 to perform well for
up to 45 minutes with old correction data. The amount of time you
can “coast” depends on the degree of tolerable drift.

Note: In order to obtain a full set of SBAS corrections, the

Crescent VS100 must receive the ionospheric map over a period
of a few minutes. After this, the receiver can “coast” until the
next set of corrections has been received.

How Good is the Quality of My Signal?

In addition to the LED indicators for signal lock, the Crescent
VS100’s display screen indicates the quality of your signal.

The bar chart shows an indication of the quality of the GPS and
DGPS (or if applicable, Beacon) signal. The first group of bars

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5: Operating the Crescent VS100

shows the GPS signal; the second group of bars shows the DGPS or
Beacon signal.

GPS signal DGPS or Beacon

indicator signal indicator

Each bar represents a distinct channel and its associated signal

quality. The higher the bar, the better the signal.

Note: If using autonomous or external correction mode, the

DGPS signal indicator will not appear in the display.

DGPS (SBAS) - The differential correction (or SBAS) signal

indicator reflects the quality of each satellite signal, or the Bit Error
Rate (BER).

A full bar height reflects a signal lock and a BER of 0. A bar height
only 2 pixels tall reflects a signal loss, or a BER of 500 or greater.
Bar heights in between reflect intermediate degrees of signal
quality.

For example, if using WAAS, there are two satellites available, so

two BERs are provided.

Beacon - The Beacon indicator reflects the quality of the Beacon

signal, or the signal strength (SS) and the signal-to-noise ratio
(SNR).

A full bar height reflects a signal lock and an SS of 35 or greater,

and an SNR of 24 or greater. A bar height only 2 pixels tall reflects
a signal loss, or SS and SNR values of 0. Bar heights in between
reflect intermediate degrees of signal quality.

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If using Beacon, the first bar indicates SS signal quality; the second
bar indicates SNR signal quality.

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5: Operating the Crescent VS100

TROUBLESHOOTING A SIGNAL LOSS

With the Hemisphere GPS COAST and e-Dif technologies, you
should be able to continue working in the event of a GPS or DGPS
signal loss.

General Troubleshooting Checklist

(GPS, DGPS, and Beacon)
• Check antenna connections.

• Verify antennas have an unobstructed view of the sky.

• Verify the lock status of the satellites.

• Confirm baud rates match external source.

• Verify the differential source.

Beacon
In addition to checking the above general items, check the
following:

• Verify that the receiver is tuned to the correct frequency and

bit rate.

• Verify antennas are away from potential sources of

interference.

• Ensure Beacon signal coverage is available in your area.

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External RTCM
In addition to checking the above general items, check the
following:

• Verify the pin-out between the RTCM source and the RTCM
input port (transmit from the source must go to receive of the
RTCM input port and grounds must be connected).

• Verify that the baud rate of the RTCM input port matches the
baud rate of the external source.

• Ensure corrections are being transmitted to the correct port.

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5: Operating the Crescent VS100

TROUBLESHOOTING HEADING
In the event of no heading or incorrect heading values, use the
following checklist:

• Verify that the primary antenna faces the bow, and the
secondary antenna faces the stern (Heading is from Primary to
Secondary antenna).

• Check the measurement of the antenna separation. The

Measured (MSEP) and Calculated (CSEP) values are in meters,
and should agree to within 1 centimeter. CSEP will continuously
change, so you should average this reading over a few minutes
to obtain an approximate value.

Note: The standard antenna mounting configuration

provides 0.5° heading accuracy of 95%. If you require more
performance, you will need to increase the antenna
separation (maximum recommended separation is 2.0
meters).

• Reduce antenna separation – the separation between the

antennas must remain below 2 meters for accurate and timely
heading reading output.

• Verify that GYROAID is enabled (default setting) this will give

heading for up to 3 minutes in times of GPS signal loss.

• Verify that TILTAID is enabled (default setting) to reduce

heading search times.

• Monitor the number of satellites and SNR values for both

antennas. At least 3 satellites should have SNR values above
20.

• Verify antenna connectors are facing in the same direction.

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6: CUSTOMIZING
SETTINGS
Introduction
Disabling the Tilt Aid
Disabling the Gyro Aid
Configuring the Time Constants
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6: Customizing Settings

INTRODUCTION
While the default settings will work for most users, you can
configure the aiding features to further reduce heading start up
and reaquisition times.

Customers who may want to configure aiding features include

those with a large, slow-to-turn vessel, or those with a small,
dynamic vessel.

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DISABLING THE TILT AID

The Vector Sensor’s tilt aid (accelerometer) is enabled by default
and constrains the RTK heading solution to reduce startup and
reaquisition times.

The tilt aid is pre-calibrated at the factory. However, if you

experience any tilt measurement offset, you can recalibrate the tilt
sensor from the main “Vector” menu. Be sure that the receiver is
perfectly level before recalibrating the tilt aid.

The only times you might need to disable the tilt aid feature are:

• if you were unable to install the Crescent VS100 in a level

plane with the antennas. The tilt aid (or tilt sensor) is located
inside of the Crescent VS100, so it is important that the
Crescent VS100 be installed in a horizontal plane.

Warning!
If you were unable to install the Crescent VS100 in a
horizontal plane with the antennas, you MUST DISABLE tilt
aid.

• if troubleshooting, to ensure the receiver is working properly.

You can turn the tilt aiding feature off either through the
Configuration Wizard or through the main Vector menu.

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6: Customizing Settings

DISABLING THE GYRO AID

The Crescent VS100’s internal gyro aid is enabled by default. The
gyro:

• shortens reaquisition times when a GPS heading is lost, due to

obstruction of satellite signals, by reducing the search volume
required for the RTK solution

• provides accurate substitute headings for a short period

(depending on the roll and pitch of the vessel) ideally seeing
you through to reacquisition

The only time you might need to disable the gyro aid is if
troubleshooting, to ensure the receiver is working properly.

Warning!
Do not exceed turn rates of 90 degrees-per-second! The
Crescent VS100 uses gyro measurements to obtain a heading
rate measurement, and the gyro cannot measure rates beyond
this rate.

You can turn the gyro aiding feature off either through the
Configuration Wizard or through the main Vector menu.

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VS100 Series User Guide

CONFIGURING THE TIME

CONSTANTS
The Crescent VS100 default settings are fine for most users. If
desired, you can set the following time constants to further smooth
heading, course-over-ground and speed measurements.

Table 5-1 below provides an overview of the time constant values

that you can set in the Configuration Wizard, including the formulas
for figuring out the optimal value of each time constant for your
particular vessel.

For further details, please consult the Hemisphere GPS manual:

GPS Technical Reference.

Table 5-1: Time Constants

Time
Purpose Range Formula
Constant

HTAU Adjusts the 2.0 s with gyro htau (s) = 40/max rate of
(Heading) responsiveness to true enabled turn (°/s) (with gyro ON)
heading. (default)
htau (s) = 20/max rate of
If vessel is large and 0.0 to 60 s turn (°/s) (with gyro OFF)
unable to turn quickly,
you may want to
increase this value.

HRTAU Adjusts the 2.0 s with gyro hrtau (s) = max rate of turn
(Heading responsiveness to the enabled (°/s2)/10
Rate) rate of heading change. (default)
If vessel is large and 0.0 to 60 s
unable to turn quickly,
you may want to
increase this value.

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6: Customizing Settings

Table 5-1: Time Constants

Time
Purpose Range Formula
Constant

COGTAU Adjusts the 0.0 s (default) cogtau (s) = max rate of

(Course- responsiveness to the change of course (°/sec)/10
Over- course-over-ground 0.0 to 60 s
Ground) measurement.

If vessel is small and

dynamic, leave this
value at 0.0 s to be
conservative. If the
vessel is large and
resistant to motion,
you may want to
increase this value.

SPDTAU Adjusts the 0.0 s (default) spdtau (s) = max

(Speed) responsiveness to acceleration (m/s2)/10
0.0 to 60 s
speed.

If vessel is small and

dynamic, leave this
value at 0.0 s to be
conservative. If the
vessel is large and
resistant to motion,
you may want to
increase this value.

PTAU Adjusts the 0.5 s (default) ptau (s) = 10/max rate of

(Pitch) responsiveness to pitch (°/s)
pitch. 0.0 to 60 s

If vessel is large and

unable to pitch
quickly, may want to
increase this value.

66
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