Magnetic Base Dial

Magnetic Base Dial

Is it possible for a garden sundial to tell perfect

time?

The chances are very good if you can make one yourself, or

get one custom made for your location. But both these

alternatives will take either time or money.

The reason for this is that apart from adjustments

for time zones and daylight saving , covered in another

article, there are three things that must be done.

Compensating for the Earth's Path Around the Sun

If the earth followed a perfect circle as it revolved around

the sun, life with sundials would be easy. But its path is

elliptical or oval, and this causes errors of up to 16 minutes

in sundial time at some times of the year. The corrections

are straightforward, and can be made using a table, or from

a figure 8 line called the Analemma, often seen on

old globes and sundials.

Correcting for Latitude

Let's consider the components of a sundial for a moment.

It consists of a dial on which the time divisions, and

sometimes other information is marked, and a triangular

piece which sits vertically on the dial. It is called the

gnomon, pronounced nomon, and the part which casts

the shadow onto the dial is called the style.

For more information on how sundials

work, including how to design your own, go to Google and

type "how + sundial", without the quotes but with the +,

in the search box.

To be accurate, the angle between the triangular part of the

gnomon and the horizontal must be the same as the latitude

of the place it is to be placed in (You can find the latitude

- and longitude - of your home from any topographic map or

good atlas).The arrangement and distance between the

hour markings on the dial must also be correct for the

latitude.

Hmmmm! This means that unless you are very lucky, that

elegant sundial in your local garden supply shop will probably

not show the time particularly well. It may be calibrated

for an average latitude (commonly 45 degrees), which is good

if your latitude is not too different. Or it may be purely

ornamental and will really only be useful around noon.

Now of course this doesn't matter at all if you are looking

for something pleasing to the eye, and don't mind answering

the inevitable question "Does it tell the time?" But if

you'd like your sundial to be more useful, make sure you

find out which latitude it is calibrated to.

Once you know this, all you need to do to compensate is to work out the difference, and tilt the dial towards or away from due south depending on whether you need to add to or subtract from the latitude the sundial was designed for. There may be slight differences to the ideal spacing of the hour marks, but the apparent time will be reasonably close.

Finding North

The final essential in sundial installation is to make sure the

gnomon is oriented north-south. Sounds easy and, with a little

patience, it is.

One way, suitable for the northern hemisphere, is to identify

the pole star. This is very close to the projected position

of the earth's axis, about which the sun and stars seem to

revolve. You could mark the direction from your sundial's

location to the pole star, but this method isn't quite

accurate, and needs to be done in the dark. And the

southern hemisphere doesn't have a pole star.

Method 2 uses a compass. Sounds pretty simple, doesn't it.

But you guessed it - there are some complications.

Firstly, the needle on a compass points to magnetic north,

not true north, which is what we want. The difference between

the two is called the magnetic declination, and is usually

shown on good topographic maps. And while a simple addition

or subtraction of the difference between the two norths

should give you the right direction, there may be some

local magnetic effects which can't be compensated for.

The third method goes back to the ancients - and there were

some pretty smart operators around in the old days.

You'll need a stick, some paper or board, a marker, a tape

measure or long rule, a sunny day, and a bit of time on your

hands. Set the stick up vertically at the location you have

chosen for your sundial, so that the top of its shadow falls

on the sheet of paper or board. If you stand with your back

to the sun, behind the pole, set the paper up so that the

morning shadow falls on its left hand side.

Now mark the end of the shadow with a permanent marker. Come

back through the day and mark the new positions of the tip of

the shadow - the more often the better. As the day goes on,

you'll notice the marks form a curve.

Later in the afternoon - any time after three is OK - connect

the marks you've made into the smoothest curve you can manage.

Do this while the pole and paper are still in place. Then

carefully measure the distance between the base of the pole

and the curve. The shortest distance corresponds to true

north. Mark it in some way, and align the gnomon in the same

direction when you put your sundial in place.

You can find true north in other ways - again I suggest you

try google as suggested above.

Once you have set up your sundial, check the time, compensate

for differences with your official time zone, pat yourself

on the back, and if the sundial tells you it's after midday,

pour a glass of your favourite beverage and put your feet up.

Your time is now your own.

Copyright 2005, Graham McClung.

A retired geologist, Graham McClung has had a lifelong interest in the outdoors. And where there's outdoors there's weather. He is the editor of http://Home-Weather-Stations-Guide.com, where you can find reviews and advice to help you choose and use your own home weather station. You can contact him by email at information@home-weather-stations-guide.com

Fowler Dial Indicator Set with Magnetic Base - 1'' Range $82.95 Includes? 1'' range indicator? Magnetic base? Rods? Swivel clamp? Wooden case.? Indicator features:? 2'' dial face? .001'' graduation? Satin chrome finish? Lug back ? 50 lb pull magnetic base

Fowler DIAL INDICATOR and MAGNETIC BASE SET $57.95 ? 1'' travel - continuous reading? AGD group 2; 2-1/4'' dial diameter? Revolution counter? Lug back mountMagnetic base features:? 85 lb. pull strength? On/off switch? Fine adjustment

Fowler FOW72520199 DIAL INDICATOR and MAGNETIC BASE SET $80.29 Indicator features:. 1 travel continuous reading. AGD group 2; 21/4 dial diameter. Revolution counter. Lug back mountMagnetic base features:. 85 lb. pull strength. On/off switch. Fine adjustment

Fowler Fow72522101 Dial Indicator Set With Magnetic Base 1 In. Range $68.95 Includes 1 range indicator and magnetic base plus rods swivel clamp and wooden case. Indicator features: 2 dial face .001 graduation satin chrome finish lug back. 50 lb pull magnetic base.

Dial Indicator Test Set With Magnetic Base - 1.00'' Range $161.95 ? Precise direct measurements ? Extremely accurate throughout its full range ? Dial is continuous with revolution counter ? Bezel may be rotated for any setting point ? Set includes: large 2-1/4'' dial indicator (Central4345), powerful magnetic base with post and indicator rod in a fitted case. Dial Indicator Specifications: Range: 1.00'' Graduations: 0.001'' Reading: 0-100By Central Tools / Central Lighting.

Fowler Dial Indicator Gage Set with Flexible Arm and Magnetic Base $63.95 ? Multipurpose tool with 12-1/2'' flexible arm which can be set in any desired plane? Great for precision measurements on engines? Dial Indicator measures 0-1'' in .001'' graduations? Includes:? Gage? Contact tip? Locking flexible arm? On/Off magnetic base

Fowler FOW72641300 Dial Indicator Gage Set with Flexible Arm and Magnetic Base $76.35 Multipurpose tool with 121/2 flexible arm which can be set in any desired plane. Great for precision measurements on engines. Dial Indicator measures 01 in .001 graduations. Includes: Gage contact tip locking flexible arm and On/Off magnetic base.

Central Tools CEN3D102 Dial Indicator Set with On/Off Magnetic Base $154.39 Features and Benefits: A 01 dial indicator set Comes packaged in a wooden boxThis instrument is used to accurately measure a small distance. This set measures 0 to 1 in .001 graduations. Comes with a on/off magnetic base with flexarm. This is very simple to use.

Central Tools CEN3D101 0 to 1 in. Dial Indicator Set with Magnetic Base $72.82 Range: 0 1. Compact magnetic base. Packaged in a wooden box. Committed to bring you the best products on the market. Satisfaction Ensured.

L.S. Starrett - No. 657AA Magnetic Base Indicator Holder $202.2 Multi-purpose magnetic base indicator holder. Features indicator holder that is ideal for use with any Starrett Back-Plunger, Test, Miniature-Dial, Dial and AGD Indicator. Can also be used with indicators from other manufacturers. Comes with upright base post, magnetic base, rod, snug, snug complete and indicator. 

Central Tools 0 to 1" Dial Indicator Set w/Magnetic Base. Each $50.92 Manufacturer: Central Tools. Each. Features Benefits: .001 inch graduations Range: 0 - 1" Compact magnetic base Packaged in a wooden box Customers also search for: Discount 0 to 1" Dial Indicator Set w/Magnetic Base, Buy 0 to 1" Dial Indicator Set w/

Central Tools Dial Indicator Set w/On/Off Magnetic Base. Each $133.66 Manufacturer: Central Tools. Each. Features Benefits: A 0-1" dial indicator set Comes packaged in a wooden box This instrument is used to accurately measure a small distance. This set measures 0" to 1" in .001" graduations. Comes with a on/off magnetic

Fowler Premium Dial Indicator Set - 0-1'' with Magnetic Base $122.95 ? Shockproof indicator? Graduations: .001''? Range: 0-1''? Rotatable face for zeroing indicator. Adjustable pointers to mark +/- measurements.? Includes:? 2-1/4'' diameter face indicator? Magnetic base with adjustable postition post? Fitted case

Fowler FOW72520707 Premium Dial Indicator Set 01with Magnetic Base $157.34 Shockproof indicator. Graduations: .001 . Range: 01 . Rotatable face for zeroing indicator. Adjustable pointers to mark +/ measurements. Includes: 21/4 diameter face indicator magnetic base with adjustable postition post and fitted case.

Fowler Premium Dial Indicator Set - 0-1 Inch With Magnetic Base $105.81 Shockproof indicator Graduations: 001 inch Range: 0-1 inch Rotatable face for zeroing indicator. Adjustable pointers to mark /- measurements. Includes: 2-1/4 inch diameter face indicator, magnetic base with adjustable postition post, and fitted case.

L.S. Starrett 657aa Magnetic Base w/65. Each $206.72 Manufacturer: L.S. Starrett. Each. For use with all Starrett Test, Back-Plunger, AGD, Dial and Miniature-Dial Indicators Accommodates similar indicators of other manufacturers Includes = Magnetic Base, Upright Base Post, Snug, Rod, Indicator, Snug Comple

Central Tools / Central Lighting Dial Indicator Test Set With Magnetic Base - 1.00 Inch Range $155.27 Precise direct measurements Extremely accurate throughout its full range Dial is continuous with revolution counter Bezel may be rotated for any setting point Set includes: large 2-1/4 inch dial indicator (Central4345), powerful magnetic base with post and indicator rod in a fitted case. Dial Indicator Specifications: Range: 1. 00 inch Graduations: 0. 001 inch Reading: 0-100

Central Tools / Central Lighting CEN6410 Dial Indicator Test Set with Magnetic Base 1.00Range $210.58 Precise direct measurements. Extremely accurate throughout its full range. Dial is continuous with revolution counter. Bezel may be rotated for any setting point. Set includes: large 21/4 dial indicator (Central4345) powerful magnetic base with post and indicator rod in a fitted case.Dial Indicator Specifications:Range: 1.00 Graduations: 0.001 Reading: 0100

L.S. Starrett 68152743 657Aa Magnetic Base W65 $235.87 For use with all Starrett Test BackPlunger AGD Dial and MiniatureDial Indicators. Accommodates similar indicators of other manufacturers.

Magnetic Super Base Fixture $187.83 PLEASE NOTE: THIS ITEM CANNOT SHIP VIA 3-DAY DELIVERY.Magnetic Fixture for the Magnetic Super Base.

Replacement Magnetic Base $40.99 Cortech Replacement Magnetic Base Click Here for Additional Luggage Information

Glow stick Magnetic Base $9.99 Lightsticks & accessories activate without electricity or batteries. Magnetic base for lightsticks holds 6", 10" or 15" long cyalume lightsticks.

Sunsun JVP-101B aquarium wave maker(Magnetic Base) $23.16 3000L/Hr wave maker Magnetic base

Sunsun JVP-102B aquarium wave maker(Magnetic Base) $13.68 5000L/Hr wave maker Magnetic base

Sunsun JVP-201B aquarium wave maker(Magnetic Base) $14.74 6000L/Hr wave maker Magnetic base

Sunsun JVP-202B aquarium wave maker(Magnetic Base) $16.84 12000L/Hr wave maker Magnetic base

Great Neck Great Neck Magnetic Protractor 10156 $7.34 Magnetic protractor Magnetic base Finds or measures any angle of pitch or slope Easy reading dial with adjustable angle pointer Built-in angle pitch calculator on back Brand #: Great Neck 10156 UPC: 028452101564 Keywords: angle finder gauge guage protractor magnetic

Fowler 72585500 Magnetic Indicator $104.21 AGD Indicator features AGD Group 2 Dial diameter 2.25in Travel 1in Reading .001 inch Continuous reading .100 inches Carbide tipped point Flex Arm Mag Base features Corrosion resistant chrome plated flex arm 85 lbs pull magnet Holds rigidly in almost any position Vbase for mounting on rounded surfaces Magnetic Indicator Back features Use for positioning the indicator on most metal surfaces Protective coating All packed in a ShopHardened case

MacGregor Magnetic Super Base $212.29 PLEASE NOTE: THIS ITEM CANNOT SHIP VIA 3-DAY DELIVERY.LITTLE LEAGUE® APPROVED. Reduce the risk of serious injury to sliding players with this unique base designed for all ages. According to Rule 1.06 of the Little League® rule book, "Beginning with the 2008 season, it will become mandatory that all leagues utilize bases that disengage their anchor. Leagues are encouraged to begin the process of implementing these types of base systems during the current season on all their fields so that the process is completed by the 2008 season."Features:Bases release when the magnetic attraction between the base and magnetic fixture are overcome by excessive force from a short slide.3 different plate sizes that bolt to the bottom of the base pan to adjust the holding strength of the base to the anchor.Base cover has a ribbed surface design to reduce the risk of slipping.Durable rubber base cover and steel stanchion pan for excellent durability.Regulation size 15" x 15" x 3".Designed to fit all female style ground anchors, not included. Complete Base - includes base cover, stanchion pan, ground insert and 3 interchangeable plates to adjust holding strength.Note: Even bases designed to reduce sliding injuries are not a substitute for using proper sliding techniques

Dial Mfg. Dial Mfg. Motor Base 2724 $7.02 Motor base Base unit for all Dial Mfg. replacement motors Distance between mounts 7-1/4? Base plate 6-1/2? x 6-1/2? Brand #: Dial Mfg. 2724 UPC: 026529272407 Keywords: evaporative cooler acces motor base swamp accessory

Macgregor Magnetic Super Base $199.04 LITTLE LEAGUE® APPROVED. Reduce the risk of serious injury to sliding players with this unique base designed for all ages. According to Rule 1.06 of the Little League® rule book, Beginning with the 2008 season, it has become mandatory that all leagues utilize bases that disengage their anchor. Features: Bases release when the magnetic attraction between the base and magnetic fixture are overcome by excessive force from a short slide. 3 different plate sizes that bolt to the bottom of the base pan to adjust the holding strength of the base to the anchor. Base cover has a ribbed surface design to reduce the risk of slipping. Durable rubber base cover and steel stanchion pan for excellent durability. Regulation size 15" x 15" x 3". Designed to fit all female style ground anchors, not included. Complete Base - includes base cover, stanchion pan, ground insert and 3 interchangable plates to adjust holding strength.Note: Even bases designed to reduce sliding injuries are not a subst

Winco PMB-18 Plastic Base Magnetic Bar -18 $6.1 Plastic base magnetic bar Length-18" Type: Dish Towels and Cloths

MacGregor Magnetic Double First Base $264.6 PLEASE NOTE: THIS ITEM CANNOT SHIP VIA 3-DAY DELIVERY. Perfect addition for those who have magnetic type bases "White part" attaches to the magnetic stanchion conventionally leaving the safety orange base in foul territory "Orange part" is at ground level.

LazerBrite 3-way Magnetic Base $124.71 This custom magnetic base provides three threaded attachment points for LazerBrite components. The base is a round steel shell, housing seven powerful rare earth magnets, great for attaching LazerBrite lights to vehicles and equipment.State: UtahThreaded attachment for LazerBrite componentsOne vertical, two horizontal (left and right)Houses seven powerful rare earth magnetsBase can also be placed on the ground for use as a road markerMaterials: Steel, magnet Model: LB2-521Caution: Strong magnetic fieldThis product is part of our 'Main Street Revolution' - a partnership between Overstock.com and small businesses around the USA.What is the Main Street Revolution? In the spring of 1998, Doug and Greg Kennedy, opened a camping store in Moab, Utah. One night after work (fall 98), a conversation about lights and gear led to a concept for an innovative new lighting device. Clear Products Inc. was founded in 1999 to produce the first LazerBrite flashlight. Early on, the US military identified the LazerBrite system as an important improvement on the chemical lights (glow sticks) it had been using for decades. In 2005, the company changed from a C corp. to Tactical Lighting Solutions, LLC (TLS) and expanded the product line with a number of accessories.

LazerBrite Single Magnetic Base $62.35 This custom magnetic base provides one threaded vertical attachment point for LazerBrite components. The base is a round steel shell, housing four powerful rare earth magnets, great for attaching LazerBrite lights to vehicles and equipment.State: UtahOne threaded vertical attachment for LazerBrite componentsHouses four powerful rare earth magnetsBase can also be placed on the ground for use as a road markerMaterials: Steel, magnet Dimensions: 2 inches wide x 2 inches highModel: LB2-523Caution: Strong magnetic fieldThis product is part of our 'Main Street Revolution' - a partnership between Overstock.com and small businesses around the USA.What is the Main Street Revolution? In the spring of 1998, Doug and Greg Kennedy, opened a camping store in Moab, Utah. One night after work (fall 98), a conversation about lights and gear led to a concept for an innovative new lighting device. Clear Products Inc. was founded in 1999 to produce the first LazerBrite flashlight. Early on, the US military identified the LazerBrite system as an important improvement on the chemical lights (glow sticks) it had been using for decades. In 2005, the company changed from a C corp. to Tactical Lighting Solutions, LLC (TLS) and expanded the product line with a number of accessories.

LazerBrite 5-way Magnetic Base $145.5 This custom magnetic base provides five threaded attachment points for LazerBrite components. The base is a round steel shell, housing seven powerful rare earth magnets, great for attaching LazerBrite lights to vehicles and equipment.State: UtahThreaded attachment for LazerBrite componentsOne vertical, four horizontal (left, right, forward and back)Houses seven powerful rare earth magnetsBase can also be placed on the ground for use as a road markerMaterials: Steel, magnet Model: LB2-521Caution: Strong magnetic fieldThis product is part of our 'Main Street Revolution' - a partnership between Overstock.com and small businesses around the USA.What is the Main Street Revolution? In the spring of 1998, Doug and Greg Kennedy, opened a camping store in Moab, Utah. One night after work (fall 98), a conversation about lights and gear led to a concept for an innovative new lighting device. Clear Products Inc. was founded in 1999 to produce the first LazerBrite flashlight. Early on, the US military identified the LazerBrite system as an important improvement on the chemical lights (glow sticks) it had been using for decades. In 2005, the company changed from a C corp. to Tactical Lighting Solutions, LLC (TLS) and expanded the product line with a number of accessories.