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sampling rate

The number of readings an A/D converter takes per amount of time. For example, 50 readings per second.

Satellite Based Augmentation System

(SBAS) An augmentation to GNSS that uses geostationary satellites to broadcast GNSS integrity and correction data, and additional ranging signals.

satellite navigation

A form of position finding using radio transmissions from satellites with sophisticated on-board automatic equipment.

SBAS

Satellite Based Augmentation System. An augmentation to GNSS that uses geostationary satellites to broadcast GNSS integrity and correction data, and additional ranging signals.

scope

Technically, the ratio of length of anchor rode in use to the vertical distance from the bow of the vessel to the bottom of the water. Usually six to seven to one for calm weather and more scope in storm conditions.

screw

A boat’s propeller.

scuppers

Drain holes on deck, in the toe rail, or in bulwarks or (with drain pipes) in the deck itself.

sea cock

A through hull valve, a shut off on a plumbing or drain pipe between the vessel’s interior and the sea.

sea room

A safe distance from the shore or other hazards.

seamanship

All the arts and skills of boat handling, ranging from maintenence and repairs to piloting, sail handling, marlinespike work, and rigging.

seaworthy

A boat or a boat’s gear able to meet the usual sea conditions.

secure

To make fast.

selected waypoint

The waypoint currently selected to be the point toward which the vessel is traveling. Also called â€œTOâ€ Waypoint, destination or destination waypoint.

semi-fixed field

NMEA 0183 data fields having a base other than 10, but use base 10 to express precision of the final term (such as minutes expressed as units with a decimal trailer instead of seconds in a base 60 field, or seconds expressed with a decimal trailer).

sensitivity

The ratio of output volts to sensor output range (e.g., V/G.) Sensitivity allows you to predict the sensor response to a sensor input.

sentence Formatter

In the NMEA 0183 standard, a three character sentence identifier which follows the talker identifier which follows the talker identifier which follows the talker identifier and is included as part of the address field. The sentence formatters are an integral part of the sentence definitions provided by this standard and attached appendices.

set

The directions towards which a current flows.

ship

A larger vessel usually thought of as being used for ocean travel. A vessel able to carry a "boat" on board.

signal-to-noise ratio

(SNR) The ratio of the magnitude of a signal to that of the noise (interference), often expressed in decibels.

slack

Not fastened; loose. Also, to loosen.

SNR

Signal-to-Noise Ratio. The ratio of the magnitude of a signal to that of the noise (interference), often expressed in decibels.

sole

Cabin or saloon floor. Timber extensions on the bottom of the rudder. Also the molded fiberglass deck of a cockpit.

solid-state technology

A general term for sensors that do not have moving parts.

sounding

A measurement of the depth of water.

speed log

An instrument for measuring vessel speed through water and/or speed over ground. A single axis speed log normally measures speed along the longitudinal (fore/aft) axis of the vessel, while a dual axis speed log measures speed along the transverse (port-starboard) axis as well. (Also see Doppler Speed Log).

speed made good

The adjusted speed, which takes into account factors such as drift and wind speed. Can be estimated or computed by a navigation receiver.

spring line

A pivot line used in docking, undocking, or to prevent the boat from moving forward or astern while made fast to a dock.

squall

A sudden, violent wind often accompanied by rain.

square knot

A knot used to join two lines of similar size. Also called a reef knot.

sransducer

A device that converts one type of energy to another, as a loudspeaker that changes electrical energy into acoustical energy.

stand-on vessel

That vessel which has right-of-way during a meeting, crossing, or overtaking situation.

standing part

That part of a line which is made fast.The main part of a line as distinguished from the bight and the end.

starboard

The right side of a boat when looking forward.

stem

The forward most part of the bow.

stern

The after part of the boat.

stern line

A docking line leading from the stern.

stow

To put an item in its proper place.

supply current

the typical current that must be supplied to a product along with the supply voltage.

supply voltage

the amount of voltage the user must supply to a product for the product to work properly.

swamp

To fill with water, but not settle to the bottom.

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