Sailboat Anemometer Comparator — Skysat

Minimum 30–50 cm above the masthead to avoid turbulence created by the mainsail and the topmast. On a racing sailboat with a gaff mainsail, up to 80 cm. The 50 cm measurement is a good compromise for cruising and racing.

Yes in 90% of cases with NMEA 2000/0183 interface on the existing setup. The ultrasonic sensor uses a dedicated interface and publishes to the N2K bus. The existing mast cable is often reusable.

Typical lifespan: 10–15 years (B&G WS720/WS730), 12–18 years for NKE 3D HR II with a five-year service. The primary failure factor is water ingress into the housing — select a marine-grade model certified IP67.

Yes, via the NMEA 2000 interface of the WS320 pack. The wireless sensor transmits via radio to a base unit connected to the N2K bus. Radio latency 100–200 ms in worst case — imperceptible for cruising, but noticeable in racing (prefer wired connection).

Not mandatory but highly recommended beyond 40 feet in rough seas. The vertical component of wind (pumping in swell, wave accelerations) creates errors on a 2D sensor that the autopilot interprets as heading changes — resulting in oscillations. The 3D sensor filters these out.