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ST600R Autopilot Control Unit
7.2 Initial Sea Trial
Having checked that the system is functioning correctly, a short sea
trial is now required to complete the setup. It involves the following
procedures:
• Automatic compass deviation correction
• Heading alignment adjustment
• Autopilot operation check
• Rudder gain adjustment
The initial sea trial should be performed in the following
circumstances:
• After all the installation, functional test and initial calibration have
been completed successfully
• Before any other changes have been made to the default calibration
settings: check and, if necessary, reset the values to the
recommended levels, as described in Chapter 5
• In conditions of light wind and calm water, so that autopilot
performance can be assessed without the influence of strong winds
or large waves
• In waters clear of any obstructions
Note: At any time during the sea trial you can press STANDBY to return to
hand steering.
Automatic Compass Deviation Correction
The autopilot will correct the fluxgate compass for most deviating
magnetic fields. Compass errors due to deviating magnetic fields
can be as great as15° or even 45°, depending on your vessel type.
The correction procedure reduces these to a few degrees, so it is
essential to perform the procedure as the first item in your initial sea
trial.
Caution: Failure to carry out the deviation correction may result in impaired
autopilot performance on some compass headings.
To allow the system to determine the deviation and calculate any
correction required, you must turn your vessel in slow circles. This
procedure must be carried out in calm conditions and preferably in
flat water.
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