How to Calibrate an E-Compass Watch
The Timex E-Compass watch acts like a compass, pointing a special magnetically sensitive hand north at the push of a button. The compass function must be calibrated before the watch can be used to detect magnetic north and provide direction. Calibrating the Timex E-Compass involves leveling and rotating the watch several times so the internal components can recognize magnetic north and take into account the declination angle based on your location. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Calibrate the Compass
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1
Find a location away from other electronics, large metal structures and vehicles as these objects give off their own magnetic field that can interfere with the compass. Outdoor areas are best.
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2
Pull the crown dial next to the number "3" out until it clicks once. This is the middle position.
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3
Push either of the buttons above or below the crown. The compass hand rotates through two full revolutions.
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4
Place the watch face as flat as possible. Open the strap and use the base of an upturned drinking glass if the strap gets in the way. Consider using a spirit level to ensure the base of the glass is level since accuracy is important. The watch can be placed face-down as long as the glass is protected.
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5
Slowly spin the watch through two complete revolutions. Allow at least 15 seconds for each turn to ensure the watch gets an accurate reading.
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6
Press any of the watch buttons. The watch switches to declination-angle mode. Push the crown down and finish if you do not want to set the declination angle.
Set Declination Angle (Optional)
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7
Complete the calibrating instructions. The watch is now in declination-angle mode.
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8
Turn the lower crown dial beside the number "4" until the compass hand points to 12.
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9
Tap or hold down the button beside the "2" to increase the declination angle (moving it east). Tap or hold down the lower crown to decrease the angle (moving it west). Holding either button down moves the compass hand quickly. The declination angles are marked on the bezel.
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10
Stop when the compass hand points to your city's declination angle as marked on the bezel (see Tips).
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11
Push the crown dial beside the "3" back down to complete the calibration.
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Tips & Warnings
Since there is a difference in location between true north and magnetic north, the declination angle --- which is different around the world --- compensates for this discrepancy. Setting the declination angle for your location improves the compass' accuracy.
Declination angles: Anchorage: 20E, Atlanta: 4W, Boston: 15W, Chicago: 3W, Denver: 9E, Little Rock: 1E, Livingston, MT: 13E, New York City: 13W, Orlando: 5W, San Francisco: 15E, Seattle: 18E and Washington DC: 11W. The number marks the angle; "E" or "W" indicates east or west.
Use the city nearest to you if you live outside of these areas (see Resources).
