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Lewmar AutoAnchor 150 - User Manual

Lewmar AutoAnchor 150
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AutoAnchor 150 V1.34
Installation and Operation
Instructions
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Summary

Part 1 Important Information

1.1 Technical Specifications AA150

Details electrical and physical specifications including power supply, current consumption, IP rating, and voltage.

1.2 Cable Specifications

Covers cable sizes and specific requirements for rope/chain connections, including resistor needs.

1.3 Power Supply

Outlines power supply requirements, connection precautions, and the need for a shut-off switch.

Part 2 Installation

2.1 Magnet and Sensor Installation

Crucial steps for installing magnets and sensors on windlasses for accurate operation.

2.2 Console Unit Installation

Guidance on selecting a suitable location and mounting the console unit for optimal visibility and protection.

2.3 Wiring

Instructions for connecting cables, including precautions for interference and multiple console setups.

Part 3 Set Up

3.1 To Enter Set Up Mode

Procedure for accessing the setup menu, including button presses and version number display.

3.2 Select Feet or Metres Measurement

How to choose between feet and metres for rode measurement display.

3.3 Select the Windlass

Options for selecting windlass type: custom chain, custom rope/chain, or pre-programmed profiles.

Part 4 Using the AA150

4.1 Installation, Set Up and Testing

Ensuring the device is correctly set up for the windlass and rode before initial use.

4.2 Operation

How the AA150 displays rode length, remembers settings, and provides alerts during retrieval.

4.3 Change Backlighting Level

Adjusting the console display brightness for optimal visibility in different lighting conditions.

4.4 Reset Display to Zero

Procedure to zero the current rode count display.

4.5 Reset Factory Default Settings

Restoring the unit to its original factory settings, removing custom configurations.

Part 5 Maintenance

Part 6 Troubleshooting

Summary

Part 1 Important Information

1.1 Technical Specifications AA150

Details electrical and physical specifications including power supply, current consumption, IP rating, and voltage.

1.2 Cable Specifications

Covers cable sizes and specific requirements for rope/chain connections, including resistor needs.

1.3 Power Supply

Outlines power supply requirements, connection precautions, and the need for a shut-off switch.

Part 2 Installation

2.1 Magnet and Sensor Installation

Crucial steps for installing magnets and sensors on windlasses for accurate operation.

2.2 Console Unit Installation

Guidance on selecting a suitable location and mounting the console unit for optimal visibility and protection.

2.3 Wiring

Instructions for connecting cables, including precautions for interference and multiple console setups.

Part 3 Set Up

3.1 To Enter Set Up Mode

Procedure for accessing the setup menu, including button presses and version number display.

3.2 Select Feet or Metres Measurement

How to choose between feet and metres for rode measurement display.

3.3 Select the Windlass

Options for selecting windlass type: custom chain, custom rope/chain, or pre-programmed profiles.

Part 4 Using the AA150

4.1 Installation, Set Up and Testing

Ensuring the device is correctly set up for the windlass and rode before initial use.

4.2 Operation

How the AA150 displays rode length, remembers settings, and provides alerts during retrieval.

4.3 Change Backlighting Level

Adjusting the console display brightness for optimal visibility in different lighting conditions.

4.4 Reset Display to Zero

Procedure to zero the current rode count display.

4.5 Reset Factory Default Settings

Restoring the unit to its original factory settings, removing custom configurations.

Part 5 Maintenance

Part 6 Troubleshooting

Overview

The AutoAnchor 150 (AA150) V1.34 is a sophisticated rode counter designed to assist with anchoring operations on boats. It functions as a digital display for the length of anchor rode (rope and/or chain) deployed, enhancing safety and convenience for the operator. The device is compatible with most vertical windlasses and some horizontal windlasses, though horizontal installations may require additional components like a sensor holder or custom-designed sensor.

Function Description:

The primary function of the AA150 is to measure and display the length of anchor rode deployed from the windlass. It can operate with either chain-only or rope and chain rode configurations. The unit does not directly control the windlass; instead, it works in conjunction with existing windlass controls such as a toggle switch, deck switch, or handheld remote. When the windlass is operated, the AA150 automatically turns on and displays the deployed rode length. A key safety feature is an audible beep that sounds when the anchor is within 1.5 meters (4 feet) of docking during retrieval, alerting the skipper. The device retains its settings and the current count even when power is turned off. For accurate counting, the system relies on a magnet installed in the chainwheel and a sensor positioned to detect the magnet's rotations as the rode passes.

The AA150 offers a "Set Up Mode" for initial configuration, allowing the user to select measurement units (feet or meters) and input specific windlass and rode parameters. This includes the length of chain per turn and rope per turn, which can be calculated using a detailed measurement procedure outlined in the manual or selected from a list of pre-programmed windlass profiles.

The device also includes diagnostic messages (e.g., Sn 1, Sn 2, Sn 3, Sn 4, Ld) that appear briefly during operation or power-up to indicate potential issues with the installation, sensor, or wiring. These messages are accompanied by a beep and are cleared after a few seconds. The AA150 also features adjustable backlight levels for optimal visibility in various lighting conditions and options to reset the display to zero or restore factory default settings.

Important Technical Specifications:

  • Power Supply: 12V/24V DC
  • Current Consumption: 30mA
  • IP Rating: IP65 from the front (when mounted to protect the back from moisture)
  • Maximum Voltage: 30V DC
  • Operating Temperature Range: 23°F to 140°F (-5°C to 60°C)
  • Sensor Compatibility: Compatible with all AutoAnchor sensors, reed switches, and some proximity switches.
  • Rode Compatibility:
    • Chain Only: Stainless or galvanised steel.
    • Rope and Chain: Requires a minimum of 10ft (3m) of galvanised steel chain and good quality nylon anchor rope (Type 66 or equivalent).
  • Windlass Requirement: DC windlasses require a dual direction solenoid.
  • Cable Specifications: All cables should be 1.0mm² (AWG18).
  • Installation Clearances:
    • AA150 console: At least 3 ft (1m) away from transmission equipment (VHF radios, antennas, radar antennas) and 6 ft (2m) away from SSB equipment.
    • AA150 cables: At least 1.5ft (500mm) away from transmission cables.
    • Sensor head: At least 300mm (1ft) away from battery and motor cables.
  • Mounting Panel Thickness: 3mm to 19mm (1/8 to 3/4 inch).
  • Space Behind Panel: At least 95mm (3.7 inches) depth.
  • Mounting Hole Diameter: 50mm (2-inch).
  • Magnet Hole Diameter (typical): 10.3mm (13/32") for 10mm x 8mm magnet, 6.5mm (1/4") for 6mm x 4mm magnet.
  • Magnet Hole Depth (typical): 9.5mm (3/8") for 10mm x 8mm magnet, 5mm (3/16") for 6mm x 4mm magnet.
  • Sensor-Magnet Gap: Varies by sensor and magnet type (e.g., Minimum 3mm - Maximum 30mm for AA Grey Sensor #9067 with 6mm x 4mm magnet).
  • Power Supply Breaker: A 5 Amp resettable isolating/breaker switch is required for the AA150 and windlass.

Usage Features:

  • Automatic Operation: Turns on with windlass power, automatically displays deployed rode.
  • Unit Selection: User-selectable display in feet or meters.
  • Customizable Settings: Allows for input of specific chain and rope per turn lengths for accurate counting, or selection from pre-programmed windlass profiles.
  • Safety Alert: Beeps when the anchor is within 1.5 meters (4 feet) of docking during retrieval.
  • Memory Function: Retains settings and count even after power loss.
  • Backlight Adjustment: Four levels of backlight for visibility in varying light conditions.
  • Zero Reset: Quick reset of the display to zero.
  • Factory Reset: Option to restore default settings.
  • Dual Console Installation: Supports multiple AA150 consoles or integration with other AutoAnchor products for multiple control stations, requiring specific parallel wiring and star grounding to prevent counting inaccuracies.
  • Diagnostic Feedback: Displays error messages to help troubleshoot installation or sensor issues.

Maintenance Features:

The AA150 is designed with no user-serviceable internal parts. Maintenance is limited to external checks and cleaning:

  • Cable and Connection Inspection: Regularly check all cables and connections for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion and replace as necessary.
  • Sensor Head Inspection: Verify that the sensor head is not worn, damaged, or out of alignment. Replace if necessary.
  • Magnet Inspection: Check the magnet for wear, corrosion, or movement. Replace if necessary.
  • Cleaning: Clean the console unit with a clean, damp cloth. Avoid using chemical or abrasive materials, and do not wipe the display screen with a dry cloth to prevent scratching.

The manual emphasizes the importance of correct installation by a qualified marine electrician and adherence to all technical and cable specifications to ensure proper operation and maintain warranty validity. It also highlights that the AA150 is a counting device and does not replace good seamanship and safe boating practices during anchoring.

Lewmar AutoAnchor 150 Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandLewmar
ModelAutoAnchor 150
CategoryMarine Equipment
LanguageEnglish

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