ComNav Commander P2 - WORK Mode Overview and Setup

ComNav Commander P2 & P2VS Installation & Operation Advanced Operations
Document PN 29010074 V4.1 - 149 -
Advanced Operations
This chapter describes the advanced modes of operation & features of a P Series system,
and shows you how to use them.
WORK Mode
WORK mode is special mode, for use under conditions that are different from normal
autopilot operation; prime examples are dragging, trawling, and pair trawling. It is also useful
for towing or when traveling at very slow speeds. WORK mode can be activated in either
AUTO or NAV mode. You can even switch from AUTO to NAV mode or vice-versa, while
WORK mode is active.
Note: WORK mode is not available when the Vessel type in the Dockside Setup
menu is set to Sail, nor on a P2VS without an RFU.
Initial set up of WORK mode is easily accomplished. Only two parameters need to be
adjusted: a Work Trip Point and the Rudder Scaling Factor. Some other parameters can be
used to monitor and fine-tune the operation of WORK mode.
Note: the autopilot has an automatic Off-Course Alarm that will be activated should
the boat fall off the Commanded Heading by more than 20°. There is a
32 second delay on this alarm.
Automatic WORK Mode
Although WORK mode can be used manually, it works best if a valid NMEA source of the
boat's speed is also interfaced to the autopilot. The speed source must also be properly
configured (in the Auto menu, see page 127). With a valid NMEA speed source, WORK
mode can be engaged automatically when the boat’s speed falls below the Work Trip Point,
and disengaged when the boat’s speed increases beyond the Work Trip Point.
To use Automatic WORK mode, first go into either AUTO or NAV mode. Then press and
hold the
F
F
n
n button for approximately 1 second, until a confirming beep is heard. A small
letter `W´ will appear beside the bigger mode-indicator letter (`A´ or `N´) in the upper left
portion of the LCD screen, to indicate that the WORK mode feature is enabled.
If the boat’s speed is above the Work Trip Point, the `W´ will flash slowly, about once per
second, indicating that WORK mode is enabled – but not yet engaged. If the `W´ appears
continuously (not flashing), the boat speed is below the Work Trip Point, and WORK mode is
actually engaged.
Figure 95 – Typical WORK Mode Screen (Engaged)
To disable WORK mode, press the
F
F
n
n button again, for approximately 1 second, until a
confirming beep is heard and the letter `W´ disappears from the display. WORK mode can
also be cancelled by switching to either STANDBY or POWER STEER mode.