The operation of the Sperry Gyro-Compass is made easy by making all parts as simple as possible.
In starting the equipment it is necessary to turn but one switch. The twin wheels immediately start spinning and will in a short time come up to the normal speed.
After the speed has been attained, a short time is allowed for the wheels to cause their axes to “settle,” or, in other words, to seek and hold the meridian.
In case of failure of the ship’s supply, or other trouble, an audible signal immediately gives indication that something is wrong. This is a decided improvement over the ordinary compass, as no indication is afforded of the presence of factors which cause errors in its reading.
Care
All of the greatest commercial aids require some care, such, for instance, as the telephone, typewriter, adding machine, duplicating machine and so on.
The magnetic compasses aboard ship receive especially watchful attention, to see that they are not meddled or tampered with. As a rule the entire ship’s crew, including the youngest apprentice, knows that the compass must in no way be handled.
It should be remembered that the Sperry Gyro-Compass is a mechanical compass. Although the very best materials, design and skill enter into its construction, it is still liable to failure. Even with that possibility, it is so superior to the magnetic compass that it more than justifies its installation use. In the same way the electric light, although liable to failure, is vastly superior to the old oil lamp. The oil lamps are seldom used, yet they are carried aboard ships for the contingency which might happen. Similarly a failure of the electric or hydraulic steering gear may necessitate the temporary use of the inefficient hand-steering gear.
