Instruction manual
20220562E 13
2 RF14XU RUDDER FEEDBACK UNIT
2.1 General
The rudder feedback unit transmits a signal proportional to the rudder
angle. It is mounted close to the rudder stock and is mechanically
connected to the rudder by a transmission link in a 1:1 ratio.
The RF14XU Rudder Feedback Unit consists of a glass-reinforced
non-flammable polyester housing with a mounting plate of sea-water
resistant aluminium. It contains a potentiometer, limit switches and an
electronic drive module. The electronic drive module contains a
voltage section and a frequency section.
The voltage section outputs a voltage to the rudder angle indicator(s)
which is proportional to the rudder angle. The voltage varies ±9 volts
around half the supply voltage.
The frequency section generates a variable frequency signal with 3400
Hz as midposition reference. This section is only used if a Simrad
autopilot is connected to RF14XU. The signal varies at a rate of 20
Hz/degree, increasing when the rudder moves to port and vice versa.
The shaft of the Feedback Unit is free to travel 360 degrees, but only
±90 degrees from midposition are used for signal control.
RF14XU is equipped with two sets of micro switches, which can be
used as electrical limit switches for the steering gear.