How to use a compass, principle of operation, symbols and what it is needed for

Traveling and hiking are a part of everyone's life. For some, a trip to a neighboring city is enough, others plan to cross the mountains, and the third group leaves for other countries. Certain professions are related to orienteering. These are pilots and sailors. In any case, everyone plans their trip in advance, draws up a route, and determines the pass points.

It becomes very unpleasant when a trip to the forest to pick mushrooms or just for the sake of adventure is overshadowed by wanderings and anxiety. In such a situation, a compass and maps come to the rescue. Having them at hand, you will get out of the unknown surroundings to civilization without much difficulty. It is important to understand what it is, what it is needed for and learn how to properly use a compass in the forest without a map.

How does a compass work?

This is a small device, in the center of which an arrow is attached to a thin needle. It makes rotational movements exactly parallel to the Earth's force lines, which are surrounded by magnetic fields. The discovery is listed among the four most important and valuable achievements of Chinese scientists. In terms of its value, it can be compared with the invention of gunpowder, paper and textile printing. Modern models have been improved and have some variations. However, the principle of how to use the compass remains the same.

Let's take a closer look at how a compass works:

1. The classic version is round. Mostly metal and plastic models are sold. They are not made of iron. They are made from copper and aluminum. Models with reinforced housings are also available.
2. The dial is visible under the glass cover. Its second name is limbo . The designations of the sides of the horizon are recorded on it. Also, the division on the compass is indicated in ascending order - degrees. Zero on the compass is north, 90 is east on the compass, 180 is south, 270 is west. The countdown is clockwise.
3. The compass needle is also located under the cover. It is placed on a thin pin to make the movement as easy and precise as possible. Often there is a two-color version, where the red arrow on the compass shows the north direction. However, compliance with such a rule falls only on the shoulders of the manufacturer.
4. A lock is a mechanical locking lever designed to hold the arrow during non-working moments. When it descends, the compass needle is immediately freed and begins to seek north.
5. The classic version is complemented by an outer ring designed to establish a movement reference. In modern models, the ring is replaced by a human-controlled arrow. Devices with a ruler and a map are also available. Sometimes they are supplemented with a magnifying glass.

Classification of compasses

• Magnetic compass . The principle of operation of the compass is based on the interaction of the magnetic field of the device with the magnetic field of the earth. A freely rotating arrow is located along the lines of the force field, pointing to the north pole. The device is characterized by low cost, compact size, and ease of use. Among the disadvantages, the sensitivity of the device to anomalies in magnetic fields should be highlighted.
• Gyrocompass . Mechanical indicator of the true direction of the meridian of the globe. Scope of activity: determining the course of water vessels, plotting the azimuth of the oriented direction. The operating principle is based on the properties of a gyroscope (rotation of the globe around its axis). At the moment of crossing the equator, the guide arrow begins to rotate chaotically around its own axis. Advantages: indication of the true direction, lack of sensitivity to changes in magnetic fields.
• Electronic compass. The operating principle of the device is based on microprocessor calculation using a GPS beacon. Coordinates and routes are built automatically based on satellite readings. The compass is widely popular among professional travelers. A modern device combines the functions of a multimedia platform, including watching movies. A significant drawback is the limited working hours, the lack of sockets becomes a problem.

When is a compass better than a navigator?

New gadgets are invented and released for sale every day. One of these fashionable devices is GPS navigators . It contains a map and route planning function. Communication with the satellite allows you to accurately determine the location of the traveler and accompanies him throughout the entire route.

The main disadvantage of this gadget is the battery. It may shrink or break unexpectedly. In this case, the tourist will not be able to obtain any data about his location.

The GPS navigator includes a map and route planning function.

It’s easier in this regard with a tourist compass and a geographical map. They do not depend on the battery capacity, and the needle readings are accurate in nature.

It is important to remember to keep the device away from electronics, magnets and metals. The only difficulty is knowing the rules for reading a map, the basics of drawing a route and the rules for using a compass.

How to navigate with a compass

Move away from electronics and metal congestion. To begin orientation, you need to remove the arrow from the clamp. It will perform several rotational movements, stabilize and point north.

Once you know the direction, adjust your map exactly to the compass. Select some objects and compare what you see with your map.

Once you have determined your position, you need to determine your destination and create a route. To do this, compare the north of the map and your device, and indicate the direction.

Designations on the compass cardinal directions

The notation system uses the first letters. For example, Russian manufacturers often use N - north, S - south, E - east, W - west.

The international system assumes the use of the Latin alphabet: North (N - north), South (S - south), East (E - east), West (W - west).

This is a simplified version. It is acceptable to indicate intermediate values ​​on the dial.

How to calculate cardinal directions

Looking at and studying the map in detail, we know that north is drawn at the top and south at the bottom. In this case, the location of the cardinal points can only be approximately calculated. With a compass, things are a little different. The compass needle is not fixed and does not indicate the location of your position and other objects on the map. It is required to identify cardinal directions.

The magnetized part of the rotating needle always points north. The second half is to the south. In various scientific publications there is often an indication that the northern part is blue. In other sources - red. In practice, it can even be multi-colored. To avoid errors, you must independently determine the magnetized half. This will further ensure that your compass is working properly.

To explore, go outside with your device at noon. Until 12.00 the sun is located near the southern direction. The half that faces the sun is south.

How to navigate by the sun and the clock is described in more detail in the article “How to navigate in the forest by the sun and the clock.”

How to find azimuth using a compass

Azimuth is the angle between north and your destination, measured in degrees.

Procedure to determine azimuth:

1. Place the device horizontally.
2. The arrow descends from the latch.
3. When the needle stabilizes and stops oscillating, it is aligned with the C (S) value on the dial.
4. Select your destination. Align with the degrees on the compass.
5. Calculate the given angle and strictly follow it. Try not to deviate.

Following the data received, the tourist will accurately reach the goal. To return, a reverse azimuth is taken - you need to go in the opposite direction.

Determining compass position without a map

The compass also makes it possible not to get lost in an unfamiliar forest without a map. Choose an object that will become a guide for you. It is better if it is an extended object - a road or a river.

Then you need to move into the forest perpendicular to the selected object. At the same time, it must be visible to the traveler.

Avid hikers often purchase transparent compasses. They are much more convenient when working with maps, and the drawn lines and contours greatly simplify orientation with a compass on the ground.

Next, work with the compass begins. It is placed on a flat surface and the arrow is activated. As soon as the arrow stabilizes, it is compared with the north. Draw a mental line to the object. The fixed value is the return azimuth for return.

Note! When moving in a wooded area, it is important to monitor deviations from the chosen course and try to avoid them.

To return, you need to take the compass so that the front sight points directly ahead.

Orientation by compass and map

If you are planning a long trip, and your destination is located far from a city or village, then it would be a good idea to stock up on a map, compass, ruler and pencil, and learn how a compass works. Many travelers research the area in advance.

Procedure:

1. Place the map strictly horizontally and mark all the places you plan to visit.
2. Next, place the device on the card and activate the arrow.
3. Align the northern half of the arrow with the same value on the geographic map.
4. Using a ruler, draw a line between the first stop on the route sheet and the middle of the dial. Calculate the heading azimuth to the first selected point. It is recommended to immediately record the return azimuth in the records.
5. Next, mark all the selected points in this way.
6. When you hit the road, keep an eye on your data.

When planning stops at several points, all measurements are made in advance, since this will take up valuable time along the way.

Having made preliminary calculations, you can not be afraid of getting lost even in an unfamiliar or wooded area.

Types of compasses and instructions for their use

If your trip takes place without a map, in order not to get lost during the hike, you must have any navigation device with you. The best option is a compass. It can be magnetic, electromagnetic, sports, liquid, military, electronic or artillery. There are also models of solar-powered navigation devices available at retail outlets.

How to use a hiking compass

This model is a magnetic device that helps you navigate unfamiliar terrain. This compass uses a magnetized needle located strictly along the north-south line. The main advantage of this model is its user-friendly interface. But before you go, you should familiarize yourself with the principle of operation of the device:

• place the device in a horizontal position;
• wait until the arrow stops on its own;
• by turning the navigation device in a certain way, you will orient it (the dial division 0 is placed under the northern part of the arrow);
• East, West, North and South are determined by the corresponding divisions.

The travel compass consists of a simple round box. The magnetic needle is located in the central part of the device, and its end points to the north. A rotating scale and digital azimuth degrees are located along the edges of the box. The device may not be sealed or sealed. There are a large number of different models of this navigation device, the main differences of which are the size and other additional functions (for example, a thermometer built into the strap).

Regardless of which device model you choose, it is recommended to practice in your apartment before traveling. Instructions on how to use a compass will help you learn how to navigate independently in the forest and in unfamiliar terrain. If you have questions about the operation of the device, ask them to a consultant at the store, where the purchase should be checked.

Military compass

The most accurate and reliable navigation device is a military one.
To manufacture such a device, in almost all cases, metal is used. Knowing how to use a compass correctly, everyone can determine direction and azimuth. The housing can be sealed or simple, which should be selected taking into account the conditions in which the device will be used. The specification of this model is wide, because it can be used both when performing strategically important tasks by the military, and during tourist trips. The operation of this navigation device is the same as that of a tourist one. When wondering how to properly use a military compass, you need to carefully study the attached instructions. These devices are characterized by maximum accuracy and long service life; they can be used in any environmental conditions (in extreme heat or in pouring rain).

A military compass has the characteristics of a simple travel device, but is additionally equipped with a ruler. There is a special magnifying lens and a sighting device. A military compass determines the direction as accurately as possible and sets the exact course of movement. Additional characteristics make this navigation device the most popular.

Geological

This type of compass has a certain difference from a simple one, which consists in dividing the scale, where the direction is located not clockwise, but counterclockwise. The device is additionally equipped with a half-limb and a clinometer. With their help, the angles of incidence of rock layers are determined. The principle of using a geological navigation device is the same as a simple model.

Gyroscopic

This complex navigation compass is equipped with a special device - a gyroscope, which shows not the magnetic pole of the earth, like other models, but the real one. This type is installed on aircraft, river or sea vessels. The advantage of the device is its high stability. It can be used in adverse weather conditions, determining the most accurate direction even with strong swaying.

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Tablet compass

Such a device consists of a round flask and a magnetized pointer mounted on a special rectangular base, which is a tablet.
The ruler located on it helps to determine the distance on the map as accurately as possible. An additionally installed magnifying glass is used to examine a variety of small details. This model of navigation device is the easiest to use and may have a mirror. Using the deviation scale, the location being traversed is quickly correlated with the map, which helps to adjust the movement as accurately as possible. The rotating capsule can record a certain azimuth value; there are luminescent dots on the scale and pointer. The compass is filled with a special liquid that ensures maximum stability of the needle when running.

Use the tablet device for navigation according to the following instructions:

• The longitudinal edge of the device on the map connects the beginning and end of the selected route. It is necessary to ensure that the lines are directed strictly towards the given direction.
• During rotation, the north symbols on the map and the instrument bulb must be combined (2 bright strokes). All maps of the area are oriented only to the north.
• Holding the device in your hands, you rotate it around its axis, aligning the end of the arrow (indicated in red) and 2 luminous points.
• The arrow indicates the direction of the movement being performed, and while moving, it is necessary to periodically check the compass.

Watch with electronic compass

This watch becomes simply an indispensable item for lovers of travel and long hikes, for those who have difficulty navigating by the sun, moss on trees or the stars. Some manufacturers produce navigation devices specifically designed for use in extreme conditions. There are models for climbers, waterproof ones for divers. Titanium, aluminum alloys, stainless steel, and polymers are used to make the case.

Compass program for iPhone and Android

The most popular phone model is the smartphone, which almost every traveler has. A special application is installed on it, with the help of which it is easy to navigate the area. When planning a trip to another country, take care of how you will move in an unfamiliar city. Having such an application on your smartphone or phone, you don’t have to worry about getting lost while sightseeing.

Specifics of using compasses

The principle of operation with some devices may be a little specific. First of all, it is necessary to select from the total mass those devices in which the arrow is glued to the dial. This greatly simplifies the task, because now you don’t have to combine the arrow and the north. Many tourists note the convenience of such a device. However, it is slightly slower than its simplified predecessor.

Another option is complemented by a small mirror. It is designed to control the measurements of the magnetic needle relative to the scale.

Avid tourists often purchase transparent ones. They are much more convenient when working with maps, and the drawn lines and contours greatly simplify orientation with a compass on the ground. Using it you can calculate the true azimuth. In this case, the work will not depend on nearby magnets, cars or electrical appliances.

Also in products for tourists you can find options with liquid in a flask. There are no differences in the functioning of devices with air.

Military, army or artillery models are distinguished as a separate category. They differ significantly from an amateur device. The military compass is made of impact-resistant material, and the needle stabilizes much more clearly and quickly. These two seemingly insignificant differences greatly simplify the work.

Compass error, magnetic declination

Geographic poles do not always coincide with magnetic poles. This phenomenon is associated with the laws of terrestrial magnetism and was discovered back in the 19th century. This fact has already been taken into account in electronic devices and on maps.

The north magnetic pole is located 700 miles from the geographic pole, while at the same time a deviation of 1,500 miles is recorded in the southern hemisphere. The difference, namely the angle formed between the indicators, is called magnetic declination.

The anomaly has been recorded in every part of our planet. For the most part, the differences are minor and do not require adjustment. In some areas the error can reach 25 degrees. To calculate the direction in this case, you must rely on information from the map.

Note! Due to the constant movement of the Earth and the displacement of layers, the values ​​change. Therefore, it is recommended to update the maps periodically.

What to do if the compass does break?

The first thing a tourist needs to do is calm down. A breakdown even in unfamiliar surroundings is not a problem or a death sentence. This device can be easily built independently from scrap materials that an experienced tourist always has:

1. sewing needle;
2. bottom of a plastic bottle;
3. a piece of tree bark or cork (about 3x3 cm in size);
4. battery or magnet.

It is necessary to make a groove in a wooden cork or bark where the needle will later fit. The needle must be magnetized. This is done in one of 2 ways:

1. One end is applied to a magnet, and the other is brought to a lit match. This is necessary to demagnetize the second half.
2. Take a needle with insulated wire and attach different ends to different poles of the battery. That edge that touched the negative value will point to the north.

Next, the needle is placed in a groove, which in turn descends into the bottom of the lid with water. It will take some time. The improvised arrow will make several rotations and point north.

Types of compasses

When choosing a compass, you need to rely on your needs, goals and some fundamental points of their use.

Magnetic

This is the simplest and long-known device. Its second name is Adrianov, in honor of the name of the Russian engineer-inventor. It is made of a metal or plastic body. Inside this case there is a dial indicating the cardinal directions and degrees. The cardinal directions are determined by a magnetized arrow. It interacts with the Earth's magnetic field.

There may be ordinary air or water inside the case. Some models are equipped with a lock that holds the arrow while the compass is not in use. Magnetic is the most widespread device among experienced tourists and amateurs.

Electromagnetic

Electromagnetic ones are used in cars, airplanes and ships. The action is carried out due to magnetic induction.

Operation does not depend on nearby electrical appliances, metals or magnets. This feature allows you to calculate the route with the smallest error.

Electronic

Electronic is an achievement of modern technological progress. The principle of operation is similar to the navigator. The device is battery powered and receives the signal from the satellite. The technique takes into account all errors and magnetic declinations. That is, they are the most accurate.

The only drawback is the possibility of battery discharge, which prevents use on a long hike where there is no way to charge the gadget.

Gyroscopic

The functioning of the device is ensured by a gyroscope. This is a device that responds to changes in orientation angle. Most often, such models are found in shipping and rocketry.

How to use a military compass

Military models are considered to be the most accurate measuring instruments. The compass body is made of metal, which ensures shock resistance and reliability when carrying out important military assignments.

Another plus is that the case is sealed and waterproof. Some will not lose their qualities even at depth. However, you can also find non-sealed ones on sale - the choice depends on the conditions in which you will use the selected device. After all, even an experienced tourist may be interested in purchasing a military device. For a novice traveler, the difference will not be noticeable.

Military compass.

The principle of operation does not differ from the operation of a regular tourist one, but however, it is recommended to read the instructions in advance.

As an additional element, they have a built-in ruler to make working with maps easier. To take accurate measurements, some models are equipped with a magnifying loupe and a viewfinder. Such a device will help make accurate calculations and set the right course for further movement.

Long life, impact resistance, affordability, simplicity and ability to be used in a wide range of weather conditions make military a popular option among terrain navigation products.

What types of compasses are there?

According to the principle of operation, compasses are divided into 2 groups - magnetic and non-magnetic. Non-magnetic ones include electromagnetic, electronic compasses and gyrocompasses.

For more information about the types of compass, see this article.