Overview

The B&G 000-14383-001 is a WS320 wireless wind sensor pack that sends apparent wind speed and angle to your NMEA 2000 network through a Bluetooth base station. The masthead unit is solar powered and uses an internal battery, so you can add wind data without pulling a cable through the mast.

It outputs apparent wind at 5 Hz, with wind speed coverage from 0.25 to 50 m/s (0.5 to 97 knots) and wind angle resolution of 0.1°. The masthead unit is rated IPx6 and IPx7 for rain, spray, and washdowns, and it’s specified for temperatures from -25°C to 65°C.

The base station connects to the backbone with a Micro-C (NMEA 2000) connection and runs on 9 to 16 V DC from the network. Plan the base station location with the wireless link in mind, as the sensor-to-base-station range is up to 30 m (98 ft).

Key features

• Wireless masthead installation that avoids running a cable inside the mast
• Apparent wind speed and angle output at 5 Hz for responsive instruments and steering calculations
• Wind speed range 0.25 to 50 m/s (0.5 to 97 knots), with 0.05 m/s (0.1 knot) resolution
• Wind angle resolution 0.1°, with stated accuracy of +/- 0.5°
• Wireless link up to 30 m (98 ft) between masthead unit and Bluetooth base station
• Masthead unit waterproof rating IPx6 and IPx7 for exposed mounting
• Base station powered from the NMEA 2000 Micro-C network (9 to 16 V DC), with 2 LEN network load

What’s included

• WS320 wind sensor
• Masthead bracket
• Gasket
• Battery
• Bluetooth base station with mounting accessories
• Screws No.10 x 5/8 (4x)
• M4 30 mm SS316 screws (2x)
• NMEA 2000 drop cable (1.8 m / 6 ft)
• Micro-C T-Joiner

Installation and setup

The base station installs on the NMEA 2000 backbone using the included Micro-C T-Joiner and drop cable, then takes power from the network. Pairing is done before the sensor goes up the mast: keep the wind sensor within 0.5 m (1.6 ft) of the base station during pairing, then confirm wind data is updating on your display.

After pairing, mount the masthead unit in the normal wind sensor position at the top of the mast. Wind angle calibration is handled from the calibration options in your network settings.

Compatibility and fit

This pack is for boats with an NMEA 2000 backbone and a compatible display or instrument system that can show apparent wind data from the network device list. The base station operates on 9 to 16 V DC via the Micro-C network connection, so the NMEA 2000 power feed needs to be within that range.

For best results, keep the base station location practical for the wireless link and normal service access, especially on taller rigs where routing and antenna placement can affect the path between the masthead and below-deck equipment.

Maintenance and care

For winter storage, removing the masthead unit and taking out the battery helps prevent the battery from being drained while the boat is laid up. If the battery is disconnected, the sensor loses its pairing with the base station and the pairing process will need to be repeated when recommissioning.

This setup is a good match for cruising and club racing boats that want accurate wind data without the work of pulling a mast cable, especially on refits where mast wiring is difficult to replace.