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Manual Simrad AP16 Autopilot for Volvo Penta IPS system English Sw.1.2 www.simrad-yachting.com A brand by Navico - Leader in Marine Electronics...
Instruction manual Instruction Manual This manual is intended as a reference guide for operating and correctly installing the AP16 autopilot in a Volvo Penta IPS system. Great care has been paid to simplify operation and set-up of the Simrad AP16. Set-up is significantly simplified when the autopilot is interfaced to the Volvo system.
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Simrad AS. The information contained in this document is subject to change without prior notice. Simrad AS shall not be liable for errors contained herein, or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with the furnishing, performance, or use of this document.
System description ..................7 1.1 General ....................7 1.2 How to use this manual................. 7 1.3 System components................8 1.4 AP16 Control Unit ................8 1.5 Autopilot Computer ................9 1.6 Heading Sensors..................9 1.7 Optional equipment................9 R3000X Remote Control ..............9 JS10 Joystick..................
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3.1 General ....................37 3.2 Installation checklist ................37 3.3 Unpacking and handling ..............38 3.4 Determine system configuration ............38 3.5 AP16 System Layout ................39 3.6 Autopilot computer installation ............39 Cable connections ................39 Grounding and RFI ................40 Cable strain relief ................
The autopilot system can be expanded and enhanced with a selection of options and accessories. The brain in the AP16 autopilot system is the single "intelligent" autopilot computer that communicates on the proprietary Robnet2 network to establish a reliable digital communication and power distribution network between the units in the autopilot system.
This must be filled out by the authorized dealer that performed the installation and mailed in to activate the warranty. System components A basic AP16 system consists of the following units (refer to Figure 1-1): − AP16 Control Unit with accessories −...
Simrad products. A NMEA2000 Adapter Cable is available for interface through a SimNet port (page 84). Autopilot Computer The autopilot computer is the heart in the AP16 autopilot system. It contains the steering computer, interface to other system components, and interface to Volvo Penta IPS system.
Simrad AP16 Autopilot Software record When the system is switched on, a status display shows the software versions for the control unit and the autopilot computer. See page 12. Software version Description SW 1.2.00 First Volvo IPS compatible software for...
Operation OPERATION WARNING ! An autopilot is a very useful navigational aid, but DOES NOT under any circumstance replace a human navigator. Do not use automatic steering when: • In heavy traffic areas or in narrow waters • In poor visibility or extreme sea conditions •...
In a multistation system the command can easily be transferred from one unit to another. AP16 units not in control will display the icon. The AP16 system is capable of the following primary steering modes: STBY (power steering), AUTO and NAV, each mode having a dedicated push button.
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Operation After approximately 5 seconds, the following message is displayed. The system is now operative and the unit that was turned on will show the Standby mode display. Other units in a multistation system will display "Inactive" and/or depending on model. Control is transferred to any single unit by pressing its’...
Simrad AP16 Autopilot Flashing course knob icon When the PORT and STBD buttons are is used for settings etc., an icon will flash on the screen to tell that no course changes can be made unless you press the AUTO button.
When a NFU steering lever or a remote control is operated, the control units become "Inactive". Automatic Steering When AUTO mode is selected, the AP16 automatically picks the current boat heading as the set course and maintains the simultaneous rudder angle. This gives a bumpless transfer at the mode change.
Set course: 340 degrees Compass reading: 340°M Steering parameter: LO-A Rudder angle: 00° The AP16 will keep the boat on the set course until a new mode is selected or a new course is set with the PORT or STBD buttons. Port course Port course Stbd.
Operation Automatic control of steering parameters The AP16 provides two different sets of steering parameters for controlling the response of the boat at different speeds while in automatic modes. The autopilot selects the LO (response) steering parameters when engaging an automatic mode from STBY provided there is no speed input.
PORT or STBD button to select the direction to make the U-Turn. If you do not press PORT or STBD within 1 minute, the AP16 will return to the AUTO mode and stay on course.
When in DODGE mode the displayed set course is the last one set prior to activating the dodge function. When DODGE is displayed, the AP16 is no longer in control of the steering, and you must either manually steer the boat in STBY mode or take control using Non Follow Up steering.
Simrad AP16 Autopilot 2.11 NoDrift The NoDrift mode is an alternative to route steering in NAV mode, and is automatically entered when you press the NAV WIND button provided NoDrift has been selected in the (user) SETUP menu (page 27).
Note ! If the AP16 is connected to a navigation receiver that does not transmit a message with bearing to next waypoint, it will pick a XTE message and steer on Cross Track Error only. In that case...
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GPS/chart plotter. Three decimals give a more accurate track keeping. When operating the AP16 in NAV mode to steer through a route of waypoints, the AP16 will steer to the first waypoint in the route after you accept the first waypoint as the location to steer towards.
Alert screen. Press NAV button to verify course change larger than 10°. If no verification is received, the AP16 will continue on the current set course in AUTO mode. STBY Regain manual steering by pressing the STBY button Setting the waypoint arrival circle For route navigation it is recommended to use automatic waypoint shift/change at a set waypoint arrival circle.
Dodge in NAV The previous set course is stored by the AP16. When DODGE is flashing on the display, the AP16 is no longer in control of the steering and you must either steer the boat manually or take control using the Non-Follow-up steering. The AP16 will remain in the DODGE mode until you exit DODGE by a second press on the TURN/DODGE button or until you select another mode.
Selecting a different Navigation source If you have more than one navigation source connected to the AP16, you will be able to choose any for navigation. Refer to the ‘Source Select’ item in the User Set-up menu for details on selecting a different navigator (page 27).
− The system is switched OFF by any control unit (press STBY for 2-3 seconds). 2.17 User Set-up Menu In the AP16, all modes except NFU have a complemental User Set-up menu. You can easily access the set-up menu by a quick double press on the INFO/SETUP button. INFO...
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10 levels (10 = brightest). The setting is stored when the system is turned off. Adjustment is local to the control unit you adjust or synchronized with other units in the Simrad Group (page 73). NAV source Select the source for NAV mode steering e.g. CP34.
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– – indicates that no source is supplying the data available. Notes ! 1. Simrad products will be identified by the product name provided the data is available on SimNet. If speed or depth data is provided from the Volvo IPS system to the autopilot computer, the display will read IPS.
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Operation Wind Angle Select the source for Wind Angle. Wind Calculated Select the source for Calculated Wind data. The autopilot uses internal source irrespective of the selected source. Water Speed Select the source for water speed (normally the same as the source providing Log data).
Other relevant settings are described under STANDBY mode in this chapter. Response The Autotune function in the AP16 is so refined that 80-85 % of the boats will need no further adjustments of the steering parameters. On some boats, however, or at particular sea conditions a fine tuning of the steering parameters may improve the performance of the autopilot.
Operation Seastate filter OFF: Seastate filter is disabled. AUTO: Automatically reduces rudder activity and autopilot sensitivity in rough weather by an adaptive process (default). MANUAL: Manual yaw band adjust (1-10, 10 ≈ ±6°). The manual setting determines the number of degrees the vessel may deviate from the set course before any command is given to the rudder.
Simrad AP16 Autopilot 2.18 INFO menu A number of instrument pages are available under each mode screen if the required information is available on SimNet (see page 73). The INFO menu is accessed by a single press on the INFO/SETUP button (not necessary if the unit is inactive).
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Operation True wind Wind angle Wind Speed VMG to wind Wind direction True wind speed Wind shift angle Track data Waypoint name Bearing Position – Waypoint Cross Track Error Nav data Waypoint name Bearing Position – Waypoint Course Over Ground Distance to waypoint Position Latitude...
Simrad AP16 Autopilot Course knob icon Initially when the INFO menu is accessed an icon will replace the mode index to tell that no course changes or other course related settings can be made unless you press a mode key. The icon will time out after 3-5 seconds and be replaced by the mode index.
Operation INFO menu and Main screen active unit INFO-menu Main screen 3-5 sec. time out Whenever the INFO menu is active and the mode index is Note ! present on an active unit, operating the PORT and STBD buttons will immediately make the main screen reappear. INFO menu and Main Screen, inactive unit Previous INFO page Next INFO page...
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Simrad AP16 Autopilot This page is intentionally left blank 20222121A...
This section provides detailed information required to successfully installing the AP16 Autopilot system. The basic AP16 system includes only three modules that need to be mounted in different locations on the boat, and also need to interface with at least three different systems on the boat: −...
An AP16 autopilot system for Volvo Penta IPS will include: • AP16 Control unit with standard installation accessories and one 10 m (33') Robnet2 cable •...
Installation AP16 System Layout Figure 3-1 AP16 system layout with options Autopilot computer installation The autopilot computer is designed to operate in a location with ambient temperatures below +55°C (+130°F). It must be mounted close to the Volvo Autopilot Interface within the length of the interconnection cable, 1 m (3’).
Simrad AP16 Autopilot Grounding and RFI The autopilot system has excellent RFI protection. The autopilot computer should have a proper ground connection to the hull/bonding system. Robnet2 cables and other signal cables (Volvo IPS) should not be run in parallel with other cables carrying RF or high current, such as VHF and SSB transmitters, battery chargers/ generators, winches and thrusters.
Installation Screw the strain relief tab to the cable exit port on the autopilot computer unit using the screws supplied and secure the cables to the tab using the wraps as shown. Figure 3-3 Cable strain relief Control unit installation Avoid mounting the control unit(s) where it is easily exposed to sunlight, as this will shorten the lifetime of the display.
− Use the two locking knobs to assemble the cradle with the left and right brackets and adjust the control head to best viewing angle. − Connect the Robnet2 cable(s) to the control unit connector(s). Figure 3-4 AP16 Bracket mounting 20222121A...
Installation ROBNET2 network cables As Robnet units have two Robnet2 connectors (blue) they can be used as "jack points" for further expansion of the system. There are no dedicated "in" or "out" connectors. You may connect the cables to any available Robnet2 connector (blue) on the specific unit.
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Simrad AP16 Autopilot Cable pairs Color Signal code Pink V SYSTEM+ 1. pair Grey V SYSTEM– Brown Bus– 2. pair White Bus+ Yellow On - Off Figure 3-6 Robnet2 Connector The connectors are weather proof according to IP65, when Note ! properly installed.
Installation AP27 connection If a Simrad AP27 is part of the system, use the JP27 Jack Point and connect as shown on Figure 3-5. The AP27 cable contains an air-breathing tube. Check that the Note ! cable runs free to avoid blocking of the tube.
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Simrad AP16 Autopilot When mounting RC36 on a bulkhead alongship, a +90° or –90° correction is needed dependent on whether it is port or starboard bulkhead. Offset correction is performed after the calibration (see Note ! paragraph 4.7). Find a location that provides a solid mounting place free from vibration, and as close to the vessel's centre of roll and pitch as possible, i.e.
Installation 3.10 R3000X Remote Control installation R3000X should be mounted in the supplied bracket that can be fixed by four mounting screws. The unit is weather proof and can be mounted outdoor. R3000X REMOTE CONTROL AUTOPILOT COMPUTER TB2 NFU Figure 3-10 R3000X connection 3.11 JS10 Joystick Refer to separate installation instructions supplied with the JS10...
3.13 Interfacing With the AP16 autopilot system there are several possibilities to connect to other equipment for data collection and exchange: 1. Use SimNet 2. Use SimNet via AT10 Universal SimNet/NMEA Converter 3.
Installation SimNet network cables A SimNet unit has one or two yellow SimNet connectors. There are no dedicated “in” or “out” connectors. Find the shortest and easiest way to route the SimNet cables from product to product and select the standard length cables from the SimNet accessory program.
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Simrad AP16 Autopilot DATA COM BI COM BI SIM RAD IS12 SIMRAD IS12 SIM RAD IS12 STBY AUTO PW R UPPER LOWER INFO ALARM UPPER L OWER ALARM UPPER LOWER LIGHT PAGE LIGHT LIGHT TIMER INFO INFO TIM ER INFO...
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Installation DATA COM BI COM BI COM BI SIM RAD IS12 SIM RA D IS1 2 SIM RAD IS12 SIM RA D IS1 2 ALARM UPPER LOWER ALARM UPPER LOWER ALARM UPPER LOWER UPPER LOWER LIGHT LIGHT LIGHT LIGHT PAGE TIMER INFO INFO...
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Simrad AP16 Autopilot Figure 3-15 Robnet2 and SimNet network * The wind transducer has a built in terminator 20222121A...
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Installation Figure 3-16 Robnet2, SimNet and Roblink network Notes ! 1. Maximum total length of SimNet cable is 60 m (196 ft.) excluding the 30 m (99 ft.) of masthead cable. 2. It is not necessary to connect all autopilot control units to SimNet for data sharing.
Simrad AP16 Autopilot 3.15 Radar Clock/Data Heading Output SIMRAD/ANRITSU AUTOPILOT COMPUTER FURUNO RADAR T B 4 R A D A R Figure 3-17 Radar Clock/Data connection 3.16 IS15 Instrument installation For installation and operation of the IS15 instruments refer to separate manuals.
Configuration and setup CONFIGURATION AND SETUP First time turn on Before attempting to turn on the AP16 and perform an Installation Setup, the hardware installation and electrical connections must be completed in accordance with the installation instructions. The design of the AP16 includes advanced features that have simplified the installation and setup of an autopilot.
Description of Installation Settings Note ! The installation settings must be performed as part of the installation of the AP16 system. Failure to do so correctly may prohibit the AP16 from functioning properly! The Installation menu can only be accessed in STBY mode.
Configuration and setup − The Installation Settings are global except for display units and language, enabling settings to be distributed to all control units in the system. Installation Menu The Installation Menu is presented on the autopilot display by pressing and holding the INFO/SETUP button for 5 seconds.
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Simrad AP16 Autopilot ENTER INSTALLATION MENU INSTALLATION SYMBOLS BY PRESSING AND HOLDING THE MENU NAV BUTTON FOR 5 SECONDS SELECT OR CONFIRM LANGUAGE MENU PROCEED TO NEXT MENU ITEM LANGUAGE ENGLISH BY PRESSING STBD 1 BUTTON DEUTSCH FRANCAIS REVERT TO PREVIOUS...
Configuration and setup Language selection To access the language selection in the Installation Menu, confirm “Yes” by pressing the STBD 10 button. The AP16 can present the display text in eight different languages: English, Deutsch, Francais, Espanol, Italiano, Nederlands, Svenska and Norsk.
Simrad AP16 Autopilot Depth. Use the STBD 1 button to select an item and the STBD 10 button to select the unit. Available units are: Wind Speed: Knots (kt) (default) or meter/second (m/s) Sea temperature: Fahrenheit (°F) (default) or Celsius (°C)
STBD 1 button and confirm by pressing the STBY 10 button. Compass calibration This function will activate the compass calibration procedure for Simrad compasses connected to Robnet2 and the Autopilot Computer terminals (HS). Notes ! The RC36 Rate Compass that comes with the autopilot as standard will store the calibration and off-set data in its own memory.
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Simrad AP16 Autopilot 3. Confirm start of calibration by pressing the STBD 10 or PORT 10 button. The display will flash “Calibrating”. Establish your turning rate using the arrows in the display. 4. When the calibration is completed, (after having made approximately 1 1/4 turns), it will be confirmed by the display reading “Confirmed”.
Configuration and setup Compass Offset After calibration, also check the compass readout against a known reference, a compensated compass or a bearing. If the reading has a fixed offset, proceed to next menu item by pressing STBD 1 button or return to STANDBY mode by pressing the STBY button.
Simrad AP16 Autopilot Wind Offset This offset only applies if you have a wind transducer directly Note ! connected to SimNet (IS12TW) or a wind transducer that outputs data on NMEA2000 format. The Wind Offset feature allows you to correct for a fixed wind angle offset.
S-turns. Automatic tuning is an optional procedure that is not required for the AP16 to function. The AP16 is preset with steering parameters that should steer most boats in the 30 - 80 foot range.
Proceed to the next menu item by pressing the STBD 1 button, or return to Standby mode by pressing the STBY button. Transition Speed The transition speed is the speed where the AP16 will automatically change the steering parameter set from HI to LO parameters, or vice versa (page 17).
Configuration and setup Use the STBD 10 button to set the transition speed to the wanted value in knots. Range: OFF – 30 knots Default: 5 kts Proceed to next menu item by pressing STBD 1 button. Init NAV Sets a firm or soft approach to the track line when entering the NAV mode at the first leg.
Simrad AP16 Autopilot Parameters To access the Parameters, press the STBY 10 button. A boats steering parameters found by the Automatic tuning can be looked at and if needed changed under this menu item. The steering parameters can also be set manually instead of performing an Automatic tuning.
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Configuration and setup The two most important parameters that determine the performance of the automatic steering are Rudder and Counter Rudder. Rudder sets the rudder gain which is the ratio between the commanded angle and the heading error. Course to steer Too little Rudder Course to steer Too much Rudder...
When parameter values are recalled, Confirmed is displayed. Exit the Parameter menu by pressing STBD 1 button to proceed to the Service menu, or press STBY to return to normal AP16 operation. Service Menu The Service menu includes System data and SimNet data which are test functions to analyze data processed by the AP16.
Configuration and setup Select System data by pressing the STBY 10 button. System Data Menu Steer compass Steering Compass readout, M=Magnetic, T=True Rudder Rudder angle. Between zero and 26 degrees. Input voltage Mains voltage on input terminals. To exit the menu, press any mode key (STBY, AUTO or NAV). SimNet Data Screen Select STANDBY mode.
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Simrad AP16 Autopilot Decoding The incoming signals are decoded according to a built in priority table in the AP16. For all data items, one of the following codes will be displayed: – – – No data or no NMEA sentence containing the data needed is available at the input port.
Sn 00000 is the unique SimNet ID number for the specific autopilot control unit. Group selection SIMRAD: Autopilot is part of the Simrad Group. Source selection will be common for the products in the group (synchronized). STAND ALONE: Source selection...
Simrad AP16 Autopilot Global SimNet reset Resets the entire SimNet setup in the Simrad Group and initiates a new automatic interface setup. See chapter 4.1. Master Reset A Master Reset is part of the final test at the factory, which will Note ! reset the memories to factory settings.
Maintenance MAINTENANCE Control unit The AP16 Control Unit will under normal use require little maintenance. If the unit requires any form of cleaning, use fresh water and a mild soap solution (not a detergent). It is important to avoid using chemical cleaners and hydrocarbons such as diesel, petrol etc.
Simrad AP16 Autopilot Exchange of software programme You will need a special kit for a PC to perform the programming of the AC05 Autopilot Computer and the AP16 Control Unit. Order the following from Simrad: Programming kit P/N 22088595. Instructions are included.
An autopilot is a complex system. Its performance dependents on a proper installation and a successful sea trial. In the event of an autopilot failure, the AP16’s numerous test features will assist you in isolating a probable fault. Audible and visual alarm is provided for every fault being detected.
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Simrad AP16 Autopilot Display readout Probable fault Recommended action Shallow water The depth is inside 1. Carefully observe the actual the set limit or outside depth. (Only if AP25 is the range. part of the 2. Adjust the alarm limit if not system) Depth data is missing.
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Trouble shooting Display readout Probable fault Recommended action ACXX high Excessive Switch off autopilot temp. temperature inside Autopilot Computer Memory failure Wrong checksum Perform a "Master reset". Switch off ACXX on memory and on again. If the alarm is repeated, parameters or replace Autopilot Computer PCB.
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Simrad AP16 Autopilot This page is intentionally left blank 20222121A...
22087613 Left bracket 22084859 Locking knob 44163145 Locking washer for left and right bracket 44163160 Cradle, locking washer 22087514 AP16 Sub Ass’y (incl. board and front ass’y) 22087498 AP16 Back plate Ass’y 22087373 AP16 Board Ass'y 22091854 AP16 Protection Cover...
RMB/BWC, SimNet LOG/SEA TEMPERATURE VLW + MTW, SimNet Alternative messages are separated by slashes. Note ! AP16 Control Unit Dimensions: ....... See Figure 8-1 Weight: ........0,5 kg (1.1 lbs) Power consumption ....3 W Display: Type: ......... Backlit LCD matrix display Resolution: ......
Simrad AP16 Autopilot Figure 8-1 AP16 Control Unit – dimensions (Mounting bracket is optional equipment) AC05 Autopilot Computer Dimensions: ....... See Figure 8-2 Weight: ........1,1 kg (2,4 lbs) Supply voltage:......10.8 - 31.2V DC Reverse voltage protection ..Yes Environmental Protection:..
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Technical specifications External Alarm: ......Open collector Temperature range: Operation: ......0 to +55 °C (+32 to +130 °F) Storage: ......–30 to +80 °C (–22 to +176 °F) Mounting: ........Bulkhead mount Material:........Epoxy coated silumin and ABS Number of control units: ... 7 Input for NFU control:....
Technical specifications R3000X Remote Control Dimensions: ..See Figure 8-4 Weight:.... 0,4 kg (0,9 lbs) Material:..Epoxy coated aluminium Protection ..IP56 Safe distance to compass: 0.15 m (0.5 ft.) Temperature range: Operation: ...–25 to +55 °C (–13 to +130 °F) Storage: ..–30 to +70 °C (–22 to + 158 °F) Cable length: ...
Simrad AP16 Autopilot SimNet Maximum number of products connected in a network:........50 Maximum cable length: ..............120 m (400’) Bit rate of the bus: .................250 Kbit/second Maximum DC current through a single SimNet plug ......... 5A SimNet power supply: ................12VDC Maximum drop cable length:..
Technical specifications IP protection Each part of a Simrad autopilot system has a two digits IP protection code. The IP rating is a method to classify the degree of protection against solid objects, water ingress and impact afforded by electrical equipment and enclosures. The system is recognised in most European countries and is set out in a number of British and European standards.
Simrad AP16 Autopilot SimNet messages SimNet/NMEA2000 messages and data overview Message ident. Data source: N=nav, P=pos, H=heading, D=depth, Wa=Wind apparent, P P P P P P Wt=Wind True, WaS=Water Speed/ WaT=Water temp, Dl=Distance log, C=Calculated) Compass Data Compass heading Rudder Data...
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Technical Specifications Remarks: Indata use * SimNet proprietary x In INFO views Depth+Offset is displayed if x offset is present *Only transmitted if NMEA183/RC36/RFC35 is source x* x* x* 20222121A...
Simrad AP16 Autopilot GLOSSARY Apparent wind – The speed and direction from which the wind appears to blow with reference to the bow when the boat is moving (also called relative wind). Arrival alarm – An alarm signal issued by a GPS/chartplotter that indicates arrival at or at a predetermined distance from a waypoint.
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SimNet controller. When connected to SimNet they will automatically pick the first available source on SimNet and lock on to that. When a Class 1 product is added to the Simrad Group, Class 2 products will automatically subordinate themselves to the Class 1 source selection.
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Simrad AP16 Autopilot True bearing – Bearing relative to true north; compass bearing corrected for compass error. True heading – Heading relative to true north (the meridian). Waypoint - A discrete point, stored in a navigator, located on the surface of the earth. Normally this point will be identified by Lat/Lon coordinates although in some systems it may be shown by T.D.'s.
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