ASK THE QATO
QATO
2nd Step
Calculate coefficients of deviations (A, B, C, D, E) and analyze
them because each of these coefficients is associated with a
certain type of problem which can be addressed individually.
Knowing the value of coefficients can simplify the process of
compass adjustment.
A simple calculation to derive these
coefficients:
• Co-eff A = (dN + dNE + dE _ dSE + dS + dSW +
dW + dNW) / 8
• Co-eff B = (dE – dW) / 2
• Co-eff C = (dN – dS) / 2
• Co-eff D = {(dNE + dSW) – (dSE + dNW)} / 4
• Co-eff E = {(dN + dS) – (dE + dW)} / 4
* d means deviation
Usually, it is the coefficients B, C and sometimes D that
requires correction. Generally, A & E will not require correction
on a well-sited compass where the lubber line is aligned with
the ship’s F/A line.
B – Semicircular deviation, Maximum on East and West and
Zero on North and South. This has 2 components: Permanent
Magnetism and Induced Magnetism (those navigators would
remember splitting B from Chief Mate’s examination).
Permanent Magnetism is corrected using F&A magnets (with
the ship heading East or West – ideally done when vessel is
close to the equator, where the effect of permanent magnetism
is maximum).
Induced Magnetism is corrected using Flinders Bar (with
the ship heading East or West – ideally done when vessel is
at higher latitudes where the effect of induced magnetism is
maximum).
C – Semicircular deviation, Maximum on North and South and
Zero on East and West. Mainly due to Permanent Magnetism
and is corrected using Athwartship Magnets (with the ship
heading North or South).
THE STANDARD Volume 10 || Edition 1
D – Quadrantal deviation, Maximum on North East, South
East, South West, North West and Zero on North, East, South
and West. Mainly due to Induced Magnetism and is corrected
using Quadrantal corrector plates/spheres (with the ship on
any of these headings North East/South East/South
West/North West).
On Completion
The ship should again be swung around and a curve of
residual deviations should be prepared. 
SAFETY ACTION:
1. Navigating Officer – While conducting routine
checks on the Magnetic Compass should
physically verify the position of Corrector Magnets
vs Deviation Card. The same applies when
observed deviations broadly differ from the
Deviation card.
2. During Gyro Failure Drill – Practice calculating
‘Magnetic courses to steer’ by referring to
Deviation Card and Compass Error Book.
3. Magnetic Compass in the Lifeboat will show
erratic headings when the lifeboat is in its Stowed
position due to numerous steel structures around
it, unlike the ship’s compass which is mounted on
a Binnacle and sited in a position which is a clear
of steel structures and electrical interferences.
Vetting inspectors in the past have given this as
a finding (L/Boat compass showing inaccurate
headings). Such findings should be challenged
by explain the facts.
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