7
INTRODUCTION
This autopilot is a microprocessor
operated PID (Proportional-Integral-
Differential) controller, working from either
a high quality, externally gimballed
magnetic ships steering compass fitted
with a fluxgate sensor or a direct earth’s
field sensing fluxgate compass.
Heading information is compared against
the programmed heading, and the
desired rudder position determined. The
desired rudder position is compared
against the actual rudder position
transmitted by the rudder follower. If they
are not the same, either the Port or
Starboard output line is activated.
The Port and Starboard output lines are
active low (i.e. switch to ground), and can
drive a load of up to 3 amps. They are
designed to operate solenoid valves in a
hydraulic steering system.
A speed control signal is also available for
use with variable speed rudder drives.
The outputs, either by themselves or with
an optional solid state drive box, can be
adapted to operate a wide variety of
power steering systems.
If the autopilot is installed as a retrofit, it is
usually possible to use the existing power
steering installation. The autopilot can
operate from either 12 or 24 VDC power
systems.
The autopilot has our unique Ghost
Rudder feature. In case of a rudder
follower failure the autopilot will
automatically switch to Ghost Rudder,
which calculates the rudder position
instead of measuring it, and continue to
operate at a reduced performance level.
The autopilot is equipped to interface with
a GPS, Loran C, or any other navigation
computer which outputs one of the NMEA
0183 formats at 4800 Baud.
The autopilot is designed to accept one
remote control.
By adding the optional REMOTE
EXPANDER, the autopilot can support
any combination of up to four remote
controls or second stations.
Figure 1 shows the possible
interconnections between the autopilot,
it’s accessories, and external equipment.
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