Simrad 000-11043-002 GS25 Waterproof GPS Antenna with Heading Sensor
Quick take
The Simrad GS25 is a waterproof NMEA 2000 GPS antenna module that also includes a heading sensor, aimed at giving multifunction displays steadier chart behavior and enabling radar/chart overlay that depends on bow direction. It is a good choice if you run Simrad NS-series gear or an NMEA 2000 network that can accept NMEA 2000 GPS and heading data. The biggest practical caveat is compatibility with certain advanced functions, since it is not intended for MARPA or autopilot steering.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Provides both GPS position/speed updates and magnetic heading for direction-aware chart/radar overlay use.
- Designed for marine use, with a fully waterproof build and flexible pole or surface mounting options.
- Connects to Simrad NS Series multifunction displays and any NMEA 2000 network.
- Built for multi-GNSS operation and fast update performance (up to 10 times per second).
Cons
- Not suitable for MARPA or autopilot steering, so some advanced navigation setups require a different compass solution.
- Best results depend on proper NMEA 2000 network integration and display compatibility.
- Review evidence is limited to a small number of buyer snippets, so broader performance patterns are harder to verify.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is limited, but the recurring themes are strongly aligned with the antenna’s intended purpose. Multiple buyers describe the GS25 as a reliable way to restore or improve GPS/chart behavior when a boat’s older antenna or wiring setup needed an update. A second theme is steadier chart presentation at rest or when moving slowly, which buyers link to having heading data so the display can use bow direction for overlays. There is also consistent feedback that installation on an NMEA 2000 network is straightforward and that the heading function is working as expected for chart stabilization and radar overlay use.
How the GS25 fits into a modern marine network
This antenna is built around the NMEA 2000 ecosystem. Instead of acting like a standalone GPS puck, it sends GPS and heading information over NMEA 2000 to compatible multifunction displays and chartplotters. That matters if your goal is to avoid mismatched sensor inputs, and to let your system use one integrated data path for position plus direction.
GPS plus heading, not just location
The GS25’s standout feature for many buyers is that it combines GPS positioning and a magnetic heading sensor. In practical terms, that helps when your onboard software uses heading to stabilize chart views and support overlays that depend on knowing which way the bow is pointed.
Key features that matter for buying
Waterproof marine design and mounting options
Designed to be used on vessels in demanding conditions, the unit is fully waterproof and supports pole or surface mounting. If you are replacing a failed GPS antenna or upgrading an existing installation, mounting flexibility can reduce the chances you have to redesign your layout.
NMEA 2000 compatibility with Simrad displays
The GS25 is intended to work with Simrad NS Series multifunction displays, and generally with NMEA 2000 networks. If your system is already NMEA 2000 based, you typically have fewer integration surprises than with add-ons that require special adapters or nonstandard data formats.
Update performance and multi-GNSS support
The module supports multi-GNSS reception (including GPS and GLONASS, plus additional GNSS systems noted for the receiver), and it can deliver high-speed updates up to 10 times per second. For boats that want smoother positioning and faster response in moving conditions, update rate can be a meaningful quality-of-life feature.
Pros and cons in real-world terms
Why you might like it
- If you want heading-aware chart behavior (especially at low speed or while stopped), the heading sensor is the feature that makes the difference.
- If your radar/chart overlay depends on directional data, buyers report better overlay results once heading is available.
- If you have a Simrad NS Series display or an NMEA 2000 setup, the connection path is designed for that ecosystem.
What to double-check before you buy
- Confirm your use case. The unit is not suitable for MARPA or autopilot steering, so if your system relies on those functions you will likely need a Precision-9 compass or GPS compass approach instead.
- Check that your display and network are truly NMEA 2000 compatible, and that you have the physical mounting space and cable routing you need.
- If your current installation is not NMEA 2000, you may need additional hardware to integrate a NMEA 2000 sensor into your setup.
Price and availability
It is listed as available in the United States at a price point that typically reflects a specialized, marine-grade NMEA 2000 antenna with heading capability. For the most up-to-date pricing, use the button below.
Verdict: is the Simrad GS25 worth it?
The Simrad 000-11043-002 GS25 is worth considering if you want a waterproof, marine-ready NMEA 2000 GPS antenna that also provides magnetic heading for steadier chart behavior and radar/chart overlay support. It is especially compelling for Simrad NS-series owners and boaters running an NMEA 2000 backbone who need both position and direction. If you specifically need MARPA or autopilot steering capability, plan on a different compass solution, since this antenna is not intended for those functions.
FAQ
Is the simrad GS25 compatible with NMEA 2000?
Yes. It is designed to connect to Simrad NS Series multifunction displays and to any NMEA 2000 network, providing GPS and heading data through that system.
Does the GS25 provide heading sensor data or GPS only?
It provides both. In addition to GPS position and speed updates, it includes a magnetic heading sensor intended for heading-aware chart behavior and radar/chart overlay use.
Can I use the GS25 for MARPA or autopilot steering?
No. It is not suitable for MARPA or steering an autopilot. For those applications, the product guidance points to using a Precision-9 compass or a GPS compass instead.
How is it installed, pole mount or surface mount?
It supports pole or surface mounting, which can make it easier to match the antenna location to your boat’s layout and cable routing.
What kind of improvement should I expect on the chart or overlays?
When the display uses heading data, buyers report less dramatic chart movement when stationary or moving slowly, and improved radar/chart overlay behavior that depends on knowing bow direction.
Specifications
| Product Title | Simrad 000-11043-002 GS25 Waterproof GPS Antenna with Heading Sensor |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > GPS, Finders & Accessories > GPS System Accessories > Antennas |
| Brand | Simrad |
| Manufacturer | Simrad |
| Model Number | 000-11043-002 |
| Color | White |
| Item Weight | 0.3 Pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 3.54"L x 3.54"W x 1.5"H |
| AntennaDescription | Radio |
| UPC | 795044514261 |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Mfr Part Number | 000-11043-002 |
| Built-In Media | GS25 GPS Antenna, NMEA2000 Cable 4.5m, Pole Mount, NMEA2000 T-Joiner |
| Warranty Description | 2-year warranty |
| Item Type Name | gps antenna |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Number of Channels | 32 |
| Impedance | 50 Ohms |
| Maximum Range | 3 Meters |
| Item Dimensions L x W x H | 3.54"L x 3.54"W x 1.5"H |
| Antenna | Radio |
| Number of Packs | 1 |
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