Interfacing an analog compass to an embedded controller

This paper describes the development of a compass sensing unit for use on a remotely operated vessel. The sensor determines the direction of the vessel's path to aide the user in operating the boat wirelessly through a laptop. The system provides information to facilitate tracking and controlling the boat when it is not easily seen by the operator. The selected compass, Dinsmore R1655 analog compass sensor, was used in conjunction of an 8051 microcontroller to provide the necessary data. The system was able to read an analog value from the sensor and convert it to digital direction. The paper will describe the system design and present test results.