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Simrad AP28 User Manual

Simrad AP28
126 pages
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OPERATOR MANUAL
AP28
AUTOPILOT
20222527 / A Sw.1.1
English
A
P
2
8

Other manuals for Simrad AP28

Questions and Answers:

Simrad AP28 Specifications

General IconGeneral
TypeAutopilot System
DisplayLCD
Water ResistanceIPX6
NMEA 0183Yes
NMEA 2000Yes
InterfaceNMEA 0183, NMEA 2000
CompatibilitySimrad Autopilot Systems
Operating Temperature-15°C to +55°C

Summary

System Description

General Information

Introduces the Simrad AP28 autopilot system and its features for leisure boats.

System Components Overview

Details the main components of the AP28 autopilot system, including control unit, computer, and sensors.

AP28 Control Unit Description

Describes the compact control unit with LCD display, tactile keys, and SimNet connectors for system interconnection.

Autopilot Computer Function

Explains the autopilot computer as the central unit for steering and drive electronics, available in AC12 and AC42 models.

Rudder Feedback Units

Details the RF25 and optional RF300 rudder feedback units for measuring rudder angle.

Heading Sensors

Covers RC42 Rate Compass and optional FC40 Fluxgate Compass for heading data.

Software Record

Displays the software version and release date of the autopilot system.

Operation

Overview of AP28 Front Panel

Identifies the main controls and display elements on the AP28 autopilot front panel.

Key Functions and Descriptions

Explains the function of each key on the AP28 control unit for navigation and mode selection.

Softkey Symbols and Usage

Details the various softkey symbols and their corresponding actions for alternate functions.

Turning the Autopilot On and Off

Describes the procedure for powering the AP28 system on and off using the PWR key.

Adjusting Display Backlighting

Explains how to adjust the display's brightness and contrast using the PWR and Up/Down keys.

Standby Mode Operation

Details the Standby mode for manual steering and its display information.

Automatic Steering Modes (AUTO)

Explains how the AUTO mode maintains a set course using compass data for steering.

Heading Capture

Describes how to capture and maintain a heading, useful for precise course changes.

Dodging and Steering Performance Control

Covers navigating around obstacles and adjusting steering parameters for optimal boat control.

Steering Parameter Selection (HI/LO)

Explains how steering parameters (HI/LO) are selected based on boat speed and wind conditions.

Response Adjust for Fine-Tuning

Details how to fine-tune steering parameters for desired rudder activity and boat response.

Wind Response Adjustment (Sailboats)

Explains how to adjust wind response settings for optimal performance in sailing mode.

HI/LO Parameter Selection Methods

Describes automatic and manual selection methods for HI/LO steering parameters.

Pattern Steering Modes

Introduces various pattern steering features like U-Turn, C-turn, etc., for specific maneuvers.

U-Turn and C-Turn Maneuvers

Explains the U-Turn for 180-degree course changes and C-Turn for continuous circling.

Spiral-Turn Maneuver

Describes the spiral-turn feature for turning in a widening or narrowing radius.

Zigzag-Turn Maneuver

Details the zigzag-turn feature for making a series of course changes.

Square-Turn Maneuver

Explains the square-turn feature for creating rectangular or 90-degree turn patterns.

Lazy S-Turn Maneuver

Describes the lazy S-turn feature for gradual course changes with adjustable radius.

Depth Contour Tracking (DCT)

Explains how to steer the boat to follow a specific depth contour using echo sounder input.

Main Course and Depth Gain Adjustment

Covers setting the main course and adjusting depth gain for accurate depth tracking.

Contour Cross Angle (CCA)

Details the CCA parameter for controlling S-turns across depth contours.

Reference Depth Setting

Explains how to set and change the reference depth for DCT operation.

Tacking in Auto Mode (Sailboat)

Describes the tack function available in AUTO mode for sailboats.

NoDrift Mode Operation

Explains the NoDrift mode for position-based steering, requiring GPS/Chart plotter input.

Navigating with the AP28

Covers using the AP28 for navigation to waypoints or routes via GPS/Chart plotter data.

NAV Mode Operation Details

Explains the NAV mode display, bearing to waypoint, and cross track error (XTE).

Setting Waypoint Arrival Circle

Advises on adjusting the arrival circle for smooth turns onto the next navigation leg.

Wind Vane Steering (Sailboats)

Details the WIND mode for sailboats, using wind transducer data for steering.

Tacking in Wind Mode

Explains tacking procedures and parameters specific to WIND mode for sailboats.

Gybing and Tack/Gybe Prevention

Covers gybing maneuvers and functions to prevent unwanted tacks or gybes.

Wind Steering and Navigation (WINDNAV)

Describes the WINDNAV mode, combining wind and track data for efficient sailing.

Data Pages Display

Lists available data pages and how to access and scroll through them.

Multiple Station System Operation

Explains how control is transferred between multiple AP28 units in a networked system.

Main Menu

Main Menu Structure Overview

Presents the hierarchical structure of the Main Menu, including main categories like Setup, Installation, and Service.

Data Pages Setup

Guides on how to enable or disable data pages to customize the display.

Setup Menu Navigation

Explains how to navigate the Setup Menu and adjust various system parameters.

Damping Factor Adjustment

Details how the damping factor affects display response and stability.

Alarm Settings (Shallow Water, Wind Shift)

Covers configuring alarms for shallow water and wind shifts to ensure safety.

Alarm Status and Sources

Explains how to view active alarms and select data sources for system inputs.

Automatic and Manual Source Selection

Describes methods for selecting and updating data sources like compass and GPS.

Display Settings (Contrast, Light)

Guides on adjusting display contrast, light level, and color for optimal readability.

Day and Night Profiles

Explains how to set up distinct display profiles for day and night conditions.

Language Selection

Details how to change the user interface language for the autopilot system.

Units of Measure Configuration

Covers setting the units of measure for boat speed, depth, distance, etc.

Seastate Filter and Sailing Settings

Explains the seastate filter for rough weather and sailing-specific menu options.

Tack Time and Tack Angle (AUTO)

Details parameters for tacking maneuvers in AUTO mode for sailboats.

Wind Function Settings

Explains the selection between apparent and true wind steering based on conditions.

VMG Optimizing and Layline Steering

Describes navigation aids like VMG optimization and layline steering for efficient route following.

Course Adjust Function

Explains how to adjust the set course using keys and the course knob.

Remote Lock Functionality

Details the remote lock feature, which disables other control units for safety.

Setup at Installation

First Time Turn On Sequence

Outlines the initial startup sequence and prompts for new installations.

Installation Menu Overview

Introduces the Installation Menu and its functional categories for system setup.

Commissioning and Dockside Settings

Covers initial commissioning and dockside setup procedures before sea trials.

Boat Type Configuration

Explains how selecting the boat type affects steering parameters and system functions.

Rudder Feedback Calibration Procedure

Guides through calibrating the rudder feedback unit to ensure accurate angle readings.

Drive Voltage and Rudder Zero Setting

Details setting the drive voltage and zeroing the rudder for proper operation.

Drive Engage Settings (Auto, Clutch)

Explains the drive engage settings, including Auto and Clutch modes.

Rudder Test Procedure

Describes how to perform a rudder test to verify correct direction and response.

Depth Calibration for Smart Transducers

Explains depth calibration for NMEA2000 transducers, including offset adjustments.

Steer to Wind Calibration

Details calibrating wind steering for optimal performance, including minimum wind angle settings.

Steer to Navigator Calibration

Covers setting the course change limit for navigation mode to ensure acceptable turns.

Virtual Rudder Feedback Setup

Explains how to configure the autopilot for virtual rudder feedback when no physical unit is installed.

Virtual Feedback Calibration

Guides on calibrating virtual feedback by observing physical rudder angle at hard-over positions.

Rudder Test for Virtual Feedback

Describes the rudder test procedure specifically for virtual feedback systems.

Seatrial Settings Overview

Lists the essential seatrial settings and calibrations to be performed in open waters.

Set Rudder Zero (Seatrial)

Explains the final rudder zero adjustment during seatrial in calm conditions.

Compass Calibration Procedure

Details the process of calibrating the compass for accurate heading readings.

Mounting Offset Calibration

Guides on compensating for differences between compass lubber line and boat's centerline.

Wind Calibration Procedure

Explains how to correct residual errors in apparent wind angle display.

Boat Speed Calibration

Details calibrating speed sensor input for accurate speed and log values.

Calibrate by Speed Over Ground (SOG)

Describes calibrating speed through water to match Speed Over Ground from GPS.

Transition Speed Setting

Explains setting the transition speed for automatic switching between HI/LO steering parameters.

Automatic Tuning Process

Guides through the Autotune feature for automatically setting optimal steering parameters.

Automatic Steering Parameter Adjustment

Details how to adjust steering parameters for course, wind, and nav steering.

Recall Autotuned Parameters

Explains how to recall previously saved autotuned steering parameter values.

Steering Parameter Values (HI/LO)

Lists and explains the default values for Rudder, Counter Rudder, and other parameters.

Rudder Gain Adjustment

Explains the role of rudder gain and its effect on course keeping and steering stability.

Counter Rudder and Autotrim Settings

Details Counter Rudder for turn rate compensation and Autotrim for response timing.

Minimum Rudder Functionality

Explains the Minimum Rudder setting to improve course keeping on certain boats.

Final Seatrial Procedures

Outlines the final seatrial steps to test all autopilot functions and settings.

Providing User Training

Lists key operational functions to instruct the end-user on.

Rudder Drive Configuration

Covers motor output and rudder deadband settings for the drive unit.

SimNet Configuration and Groups

Explains how to configure SimNet units, assign them to groups, and set instance numbers.

SimNet Group Functionality

Details how SimNet groups globally control parameter settings across multiple units.

Service Information (Status, Demo)

Accesses service options for viewing system data, status, and running demo mode.

About AP28 System Information

Displays autopilot model, software version, and release date.

Alarm System

Alarm Indication Methods

Describes how alarms are indicated via text, sound, and light signals.

Acknowledging and Viewing Alarms

Explains how to acknowledge alarms and view a list of existing conditions.

Alarm Codes Reference

Provides a reference for alarm codes when specific text messages are not displayed.

Troubleshooting

SimNet Status and System Data

Guides on checking SimNet status and system data for diagnostics.

System Resets (Autopilot, Global)

Details procedures for resetting autopilot or global SimNet configurations to factory defaults.

Autopilot Failures and Fault Isolation

Assists in isolating probable autopilot faults using test features and provided tables.

Alarm Troubleshooting Guide

Provides recommended actions for common system failure alarms like 'Off course' and 'Nav data missing'.

Maintenance

General Maintenance Guidelines

Outlines the limited maintenance requirements for AP28 units, emphasizing replacement over repair.

Control Unit Care and Cleaning

Provides instructions for cleaning the AP28 control unit and maintaining connections.

Autopilot Computer and Rudder Feedback Maintenance

Covers minimal maintenance for the autopilot computer and inspection for rudder feedback units.

Software Exchange and Updates

Advises contacting customer support for software updates and exchange.

Optional Equipment

R3000X Remote Control (NFU) Operation

Details the operation of the R3000X handheld remote for steering and mode changes.

S35 Steering Lever and JS10 Joystick

Describes alternative control options like the S35 steering lever and JS10 joystick.

AP28 with MSD50 Stern Drive Unit

Notes compatibility and specific setup requirements for the MSD50 Stern Drive.

Zero Point Setting for MSD50 Stern Drive

Explains the procedure for setting the zero point for the rudder angle display with the MSD50 Stern Drive.

Glossary

Key Term Definitions

Provides definitions for common terms used in the autopilot manual, such as Apparent Wind, COG, and GPS.

Index

Alphabetical Topic Index

An alphabetical listing of all topics covered in the manual for quick reference.

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