General; Introduction; Operation; Autopilot Mode - Simrad AP14 Manual

1

General

1.1 Introduction

Combining sophisticated electronics with advanced software and powerful drives, the Simrad AP14
autopilot provides accurate and dependable steering in varying sea conditions with minimal current
consumption.
The AP14, a state of the art autopilot system with many advanced features, is simple to operate and
occupies little space on the dash. The keypad accesses all functions and pilot status is indicated clear-
ly in the backlit LCD display.
To ensure the best results from your autopilot it is essential that the unit is installed correctly -
please read this manual thoroughly before attempting installation and use.
Thank you for choosing Simrad
We hope you will also be interested in our full range of marine electronic equipment, which are all man-
ufactured to the same high standards as the AP14. Please contact your nearest Simrad Agent for a cat-
alogue showing our full range of high tech marine electronic equipment.
Simrad operate a policy of continual development and reserve the right to alter and improve the
specification of their products without notice.
1.2 AP14 System Configurations
The AP14 autopilot system is designed for power vessels and is available in two configurations.
• The AP14H - designed for hydraulically steered boats with a ram displacement of 15 in
• The AP14R - designed for powerboats with a push-pull steering cable system which are 30 ft (9M) or
smaller in length.
Although the operation and functions of these two versions are identical, there are some differences
in the configuration and installation of the AP14H and AP14R. To make installation easier, there are
two separate installation sections in this manual. Section 4 relates to the installation of the AP14H
Hydraulic version, section 5 is for the AP14R Rotary version. Some of the setup and calibration rou-
tines apply only to the AP14H, but this is clearly indicated at the beginning of the relevant section.
AP14H Hydraulic Drive Option
Control Optional
SHC14 Fixed
Control
SHS12 SCP12
SFC12
Compass Course Computer
GPS
(NMEA)
SLF12
Linear Feedback Unit
SRP12
Hydraulic Pump
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(250cc).
3
AP14R Rotary Drive Version
Control Optional
SHC14 Fixed
Control
SHS12
SFC12
Compass
SJB12
Junction Box
GPS
(NMEA)
SRD12
Rotary Drive Unit

2 Operation

2.1 General
The keypad of the AP14 is easy to operate. Using the five
main keys it is simple to change modes, set the course to
steer and adjust navigational functions.
When powered up the AP14 enters Standby Mode indicat-
ed by the STBY legend in the display (Fig 2.1)
While in Standby Mode, the helmsman is in control. The
boat can be hand steered using the helm as normal, or
"power steered" using the and (Port and Starboard)
keys on the controller.
• All functions are confirmed audibly by a "beep" and
visually on the display. The display also shows the cur-
rent magnetic bearing of the vessel.
• If fitted to an AP14H version, the display will also show
the rudder angle (Fig 2.1).

2.2 Autopilot Mode

To engage Autopilot Mode, press the Stby/Auto key and
the pilot will lock onto the current course (Fig 2.2). The
AUTO legend will show on the display while the pilot is
in Autopilot Mode.
• To lock the pilot onto the desired course, either steer the
correct course and then engage the pilot, or engage the
pilot and then adjust the heading until the correct course
is being steered (see section 2.3).
AP14R Rotary Pilot - it is recommended that if a sudden
course change is necessary while in Auto Mode (e.g. to
avoid an obstacle) the clutch is disengaged and the
autopilot is returned to Standby Mode by pressing
Stby/Auto. In an emergency the clutch can be overridden by
firmly turning the steering helm, although the autopilot will
try to bring the boat back to the set course.
AP14H Hydraulic Pilot - The autopilot must be disen-
gaged by pressing Stby/Auto if a sudden course change
is necessary otherwise the autopilot will counteract any
movement made manually to the helm.
Fig 2.1 - Standby Mode (AP12H / AP14H)
Fig 2.2 - Engaging autopilot Mode
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