Simrad AP70 and AP80

Autopilot systems

P E N D I N G A P P R O VA L
 DEPENDABLE: R E L I A B L E P R O D U C T S
M AT C H E D W I T H A R E L I A B L E S E R V I C E
O R G A N I S AT I O N .

A D A P T A B L E : S O LU T I O N S T H AT A R E
E Q UA L LY AT H O M E O N W O R K B OAT S I N
T H E S O U T H C H I N A S E A A N D S U P E R YA C H T S
IN THE MEDITERRANEAN.

S M A R T: P R O V E N T E C H N O LO G Y. M O R E
E F F I C I E N T O P E R AT I O N S. L E S S D O W N T I M E .

O U R H E R I TA G E : O V E R 60 Y E A R S .
“OUR BOTTOM LINE:
MUCH BETTER.”

Professional Series
A Simrad product series by Navico
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Professional
Service and Support

GLOBAL SER VICE NE T WORK

Global professional service for Simrad AP70 Additionally, Navico’s own technical support
and AP80 systems are provided by a network team operates from three regional locations
of qualified Master Distributors and Certified (EMEA, Americas and Asia Pacific) providing
Partners. coordination and technical support for
Dedicated support engineers are located in customers no matter where they are.
key ports in over 50 countries worldwide ready
to provide spare parts and OnBoard service to
ensure prompt and efficient service.

Go to to
find your nearest service agent.

Professional Series Autopilot, Gyro Compass and Heading Sensor Solutions

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“DEPENDABLE SUPPORT
THE WHOLE WAY.”

Professional Series Autopilot, Gyro Compass and Heading Sensor Solutions

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Simrad Autosteering - 60 years in the making
OUR HERITAGE SMART OPERATIONS
The Simrad AP70 and AP80 represent over 60 The AP70 and AP80 are cost effective, reliable and
years of experience and development in the user-friendly heading control systems for all vessel
autosteering business. Simrad’s heritage extends types. Built with the latest electronics, software
back to the world’s first autopilot for fishing and networking capabilities, these pilots are easy
vessels in 1951 (the AP1) and we now bring you to install and easy to operate ensuring your vessel
the latest generation in professional heading operations are smarter and more competitive.
control systems that are guaranteed to provide
you with the highest standards of reliability and
functionality.

Professional Series Autopilot, Gyro Compass and Heading Sensor Solutions

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BUILD YOUR SYSTEM DEPENDABLE SERVICE

Integrating your Simrad Autopilot with a wider Both the AP70 and AP80 systems come with
range of steering systems is now possible. Select a 2-year product warranty as standard and are
one of five autopilot computers and one of three backed up with a global network of certified
special purpose interface boxes to integrate with support partners.
solenoids, pumps, analogue and proportional Control your costs and make your day-to-day
steering systems. The AP70 and AP80 will steer operations more reliable with outstanding
water jets, rudders, pods, stern drives, azimuth performance guaranteed.
thruster and tunnel thrusters providing flexibility
across your fleet of vessels all with the same
user interface, making it easy for crew to move
between vessels.

Professional Series Autopilot, Gyro Compass and Heading Sensor Solutions

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Autopilot Solutions
MODULAR AND FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS ECONOMY MODE
With complete flexibility in mind, the Simrad AP70 and AP80 Keeping your fleet’s costs under control is essential for today’s
solutions are modular in design so that a system can be built to business. Selecting economy mode provides good course keeping
suit the individual vessel characteristics. Simple installation, flexible with minimal rudder corrections.
networking and effortless operation are core qualities providing an
essential platform for your vessel’s heading control system. SUGGESTED SYSTEMS
Design a system that suits your vessel with a choice of control
P I L O T S T H AT W O R K A S H A R D A S Y O U D O heads, remotes and below-deck components. Meet type approval
The now famous Work mode on previous generations of Simrad requirements with IMO approved systems or select a package of
Autopilots has been extended on AP70 and AP80 with multiple non-approved components for a cost effective yet professional
Work modes. Additionally multiple Nav and Auto modes are system. Add key navigation systems such as Simrad NSE, Simrad
provided enabling simple performance selection depending on Broadband Radar, Simrad ARGUS or Simrad ECDIS to complete the
your current task at sea. package.
Review the selected systems on the following pages as examples
ANTI-PIRACY for the following vessel types::
Piracy is becoming a global maritime concern and tactics to
prevent boarding are evolving. Constant course changes make
boarding from a small vessel more difficult and our S-Turn
pattern can now be configured as a manoeuver to hinder pirate
attacks. With the S-Turn enabled, a constant course change is
enabled while maintaining the ultimate route. The crew can then
concentrate on other anti-boarding tactics or retreat to the vessel’s
citadel.

Short Sea Patrol / SAR / Military Super Yacht

Work Boat / OSV Passenger / HSC Fishing vessel

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AP70 Product overview
MATCH YOUR REQUIREMENTS FLEXIBLE INTEGRATION
The Simrad AP70 is ideal for both simple installations where IMO Integration with other external on-board systems including
approval is not required but also can be configured (by matching interface to central alarm units is achieved by multiple IEC 61162-1,
with an approved computer) to meet the requirements for a Type 2 and 3 channels.
Approved autopilot. Install as a stand-alone display or network as a SIMPLE NETWORKING
second or third station for ultimate vessel control.
The AP70 and AP80 utilise our intelligent SimNet protocol, making
SMART CONSTRUCTION installation, data sharing and system control easier and more
The AP70’s stunning waterproof design, daylight viewable display, flexible than ever.
colour user interface, intuitive on-screen graphics and option of
flush or bracket mount, enable easy operation regardless of the
installation requirements. Additionally, dedicated mode, command
and turn keys and rotary knob provide quick and unmistakable
selection of the required function when the situation calls for
immediate response.

M E E T I N G I N D U S T R Y T Y P E A P P R O VA L S
The AP70 and AP80 have been put through stringent test
protocols and meet International Maritime Organisation
(IMO) approval standards. The majority of the system building
components also meets these approvals, so a full IMO certified
autopilot system can be built.

Part Number Description Approvals

000-10182-001 AP70 Control Unit

AP70 Packs

000-10577-001 AP70 Pack (AP70, AC70, RF300, without heading sensor)

000 10578 001 AP70 Thruster Pack (AP70, AC70, RF300, RC42, SD80)

000-10579-001 AP70 IMO Pack Analog (AP70, AC80A, without heading sensor) Wheelmark approved, HCS, HSC

000-10580-001 AP70 IMO Pack Solenoid (AP70, AC80S, RF45X, without heading sensor) Wheelmark approved, HCS, HSC

To build your own AP70+ IMO Autopilot Pack. Get the following AP70+ IMO start kit ...

000-10581-001 AP70+ IMO Start KIT ( AP70, AC85) Wheelmark approved, HCS, HSC

... And then choose one of the two following options...

000-10582-001 Dual Analog pack ( two AD80 PCB). Wheelmark approved, HCS, HSC

000-10583-001 Dual Solenoid pack ( two SD80 PCB, one RF45X). Wheelmark approved, HCS, HSC

You can also add one of the following two options to build a redundant system for safety purposes

000-10584-001 NAUT-AW back up pack (SI80, sw).

000-10585-001 NAUT-AW safety option.

Professional Series Autopilot, Gyro Compass and Heading Sensor Solutions

 AP80 Product overview 13

TOTAL CONTROL SAVE YOUR SETTINGS

The Simrad AP80 raises the bar yet again for autopilot systems. The AP80 is built from ruggedized aluminium and, in addition to
The IMO compliant, adaptive heading control system provides the dedicated mode, command and turn keys and rotary knob,
complete heading and course control for your entire fleet of a USB port is provided to enable storing and uploading of the
vessels. autopilot settings. Individual master preferences or fleet settings
DESIGNED FOR PROFESSIONALS can be easily saved and restored providing a smart way to ensure
consistent operation.
With six individual Work profiles, Can Bus networking and triple
support of independent rudders and multiple thrusters, the Simrad
AP80 is a flexible and dependable solution that is the definition of
added value to your operations.
ADAPTABLE
The AP80 is one of the smartest autopilot solutions
on the market today. Its adaptive software will
adjust to wind and wave conditions to help
lower operating costs and reduce risk as sea and
working conditions change.

Part Number Description Approvals

000-10181-001 AP80 Control Unit

A P 7 0 A N D A P 8 0 C O M PA R I S O N TA B L E

Work Drive Turn Adaptive Pendulum Thruster Approvals* Network Cabling Dimensions USB Dedicated LCD Installation
Profiles support Patterns Ferry Control port Alarm Display
Function Reset
AP70 6 2+1 yes yes yes yes HSC, MED, CANBUS Micro 144 x 230 no no bonded Bracket
CCS, USCG / SimNet C mm colour or Flush
5"
AP80 6 3+3 yes yes yes yes HSC, MED, CANBUS Micro 144 x 252 yes yes bonded Bracket
CCS, USCG / SimNet C mm colour or Flush
5"

*Approvals Pending

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Intuitive colour User Interface for simple operation

Follow-up mode with rudder setting, course Non Follow-up mode. Steering parameters are clearly viewed and
and other nav data clearly displayed. easily adjusted.

AP80 in Nav mode. AP80 when starting Nav mode. A selection of turn patterns (including
S-turn, C-turn, U-turn) are offered.

Work mode profile set-up. Save up to six Work Profiles. Choose from an expanded list of European
and Asian languages.

Professional Series Autopilot, Gyro Compass and Heading Sensor Solutions

Remote Controls 15

Enhance your heading control system with a choice of three full installed in the best location for efficient operations. All remotes are
function remote controls. Each has a bonded 35mm x 25mm (1”) easily networked so installation is quick and simple with multiple
display, are type approved, and can be desktop or panel (flush) remotes possible on one installation.
mounted. Fully waterproof (IPx6 & IPx7), these remotes can be

FU80

FU80
FOLLOWUP REMOTE UNIT - The FU80 is a Follow Up remote which means
that the rudder, when hand steering, moves to the commanded angle set by
turning the lever to port or starboard.

NF80
NON FOLLOW-UP REMOTE UNIT- The NF80 is a Non Follow Up remote which
means that the rudder, when hand steering, moves as long as the steering NF80
lever is kept at maximum port/starboard position. It can also be used for
course change when autosteering. The lever has spring return to mid-position.

QS80
QUICKSTICKTM REMOTE UNIT - The QS80 (Quick Stick controller) operates the
same way as NF80 when the joystick is kept to port or starboard. When the
joystick is moved forward and released, the autopilot goes into automatic
mode. When the joystick is moved backwards when automatic steering is
active, the autopilot goes to standby. If the joystick is moved backwards when
in standby, the rudder moves to mid-position. The joystick has spring return to QS80
center position.

Note: FU80, NF80 and QS80 are also compatible with the Simrad AP24 and
AP28 and can compliment a Simrad NSS, NSE or NSO system with autopilot
integration.
Thruster is not supported when used with other systems than AP70 and AP80.

Part Number Description Approvals

000-10183-001 FU80 Follow Up Remote Unit with 6m cable Wheelmark approved for systems including AC80A, AC80S or AC85

000-10184-001 QS80 Quickstick Remote Unit with 6m cable Wheelmark approved for systems including AC80A, AC80S or AC85

000-10185-001 NF80 Non Follow Up Remote Unit with 6m cable Wheelmark approved for systems including AC80A, AC80S or AC85

22022446 R3000X Hand-held Remote Control with 7m cable Wheelmark approved for systems including AC80A, AC80S or AC85

23601800 S9 Steering Lever (NFU) Wheelmark approved for systems including AC80A, AC80S or AC85

23241227 S35 Non Follow Up Steering Lever Wheelmark approved for systems including AC80A, AC80S or AC85

22088165 JS10 Steering lever (NFU) Wheelmark approved for systems including AC80A, AC80S or AC85

20106699 CD100A Course detector with 5m cable

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Computers and Interface Units
A U T O P I L O T C O M P U T E R S A N D I N T E R FA C E U N I T S
A comprehensive range of computers and interface units are As well as our typical computer and interface units that will suit
offered with the Simrad AP70 and AP80 autopilots providing a most standard installations, we offer the customizable AC85
complete solution for every steering system. computer that can be configured with up to four PCB’s depending
on the installation requirements.

COMPUTERS

AC70
Drive computer for rudder using reversible motor or non-isolated solenoids and frequency
rudder angle feedback. Connection for NFU remote control and one channel IEC 61162-1
(NMEA 0183) RX/TX or IEC 61162-1,2 and 3 compatible.

AC70
AC80A
Drive computer for analog or proportional control of rudder or thruster using analog voltage
or low level current with possibility for frequency, voltage or current angle feedback, digital
drive handshake and external mode input. Built in CAN-bus supply and 4 channel IEC 61162-1
(NMEA 0183) RX/TX.

AC80A

AC80S
Drive computer for on/off or proportional control of rudder or thruster using galvanic
isolated solenoids or high level current with possibility for frequency, voltage or current angle
feedback, digital drive handshake and external mode input. Built in CAN-bus supply and 4
channel IEC 61162-1 (NMEA 0183) RX/TX.
AC80S

AC85
Drive computer cabinet with CAN-bus supply and 4 channel IEC 61162-1 (NMEA 0183) RX/
TX (not mounted). Prepared for additional mounting of up to three drive boards with same
functionality as SD80, AD80 or AC70.

AC85

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I N T E R FA C E U N I T S

SD80
Drive interface for on/off or proportional control of rudder or thruster using galvanic isolated
solenoids or high level current with possibility for frequency, voltage or current angle
feedback, digital drive handshake and external mode input.
SD80

AD80
Drive interface for analog or proportional control of rudder or thruster using analog voltage or
low level current with possibility for frequency, voltage or current angle feedback, digital drive
handshake and external mode input.
AD80

SI80
The SI80 is a 24V/12V signal interface module that provides up to four IEC 61162-1 (NMEA
0183) input and output channels and SimNet power supply.

SI80

CDI80
Course Detection Interface for magnetic compass including 6m drop cable and mounting
accessories. To interface with CD100A.

CDI80

Part Number Description Approvals

000-10186-001 AC70 Autopilot Computer

000-10187-001 AC80A Autopilot Computer with analog drive Wheelmark approved

000-10188-001 AC80S Autopilot Computer with solenoid drive Wheelmark approved

000-10189-001 AC85 Autopilot Computer Wheelmark approved

000-10191-001 AD80 Analog Drive Interface Wheelmark approved for systems including AC80A, AC80S or AC85

000-10192-001 SD80 Solenoid Drive Interface Wheelmark approved for systems including AC80A, AC80S or AC85

000-10425-001 SI80 Signal Interface Wheelmark approved for systems including AC80A, AC80S or AC85

000-10193-001 CDI80 Course Detector Interface

000-10595-001 AC70 PCB assembly; option for Voith Schneider propeller

000-10586-001 AD80 PCB assembly

000-10587-001 SD80 PCB assembly

000-10588-001 SI80 PCB assembly

20106688 CD100A Course Detector with 5m cable

Professional Series Autopilot, Gyro Compass and Heading Sensor Solutions

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Rudder Feedback Units
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.

RF14XU RUDDER FEEDBACK UNIT

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.
Output is either a voltage varying ±9 volts around half the supply RF14XU
voltage, or a frequency signal with 3400 Hz for use with a Simrad
autopilot. 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.

RF45X RUDDER FEEDBACK UNIT

The RF45X is a medium duty rudder feedback unit. It is a repairable
rather than a potted “throw away” item.
RF45X
RF300 RUDDER FEEDBACK
The RF300 is a medium duty rudder feedback unit which connects
directly to the Autopilot Pilot Computer using 2 wire frequency
interface.

RF25 RUDDER FEEDBACK

The RF25 is a medium duty rudder feedback unit with a SimNet
interface. The RF25 will attach directly to SimNet systems for straight
forward installation.

RF300 Rudder Feedback

Part Number Description

22506950 RF14XU Heavy Duty Feedback Unit: Long life feedback unit with transmission linkage. Separate output for rudder angle
indicators. Double set of limit switches. Requires 24VDC supply voltage.

22011415 RF45X Rugged Rudder Feedback Unit: with transmission link and 2m Cable.

20193744 RF300 Rudder Feedback Unit: with transmission link and 10m Cable.

22014286 RF25 Rudder Feedback Unit: with 5m SimNet Cable.

Professional Series Autopilot, Gyro Compass and Heading Sensor Solutions

Drive Units 19

RPU80, RPU160 AND RPU300 REVERSIBLE PUMP

Hydraulic steering systems are now being used in every category

of vessel. In many respects hydraulic steering is preferable to
mechanical steering. Hydraulic systems normally comprise of two
RPU80
main components, a steering wheel pump and steering cylinder(s).
The steering wheel pump may be either a gear pump or a plunger
pump. Which ever type is installed, steering is achieved by turning
the steering wheel in either direction causing oil from the wheel
pump to be supplied to the appropriate side of the cylinder. Oil is
returned via the opposite side of the cylinder back to the pump.
The linear motion of the cylinder rod is transformed to a rotary
motion by the tiller, which turns the rudder shaft and rudder. Check
valves (non-return valves) are usually incorporated to prevent the
rudder driving the steering wheel pump. If an autopilot is to be
included in such a hydraulic steering system, then the oil flow RPU160
providing the rudder movement must be controlled by electrical
signals from the autopilot. The maximum flow rate of RPU80, RPU160
and RPU300 is 0,8 l/min., 1,6 l/min. and 3,0 l/min. respectively,
measured at a pressure of 10 bar with nominal voltage (12 VDC) on
the motor terminals.

RPU300

Part Number Description

21116165 RPU80: Reversible Pump. For cylinder displacement of 80-250 cm3

21116181 RPU80 US: Reversible Pump. For cylinder displacement of 4.9 to 12 cui. (US)

21118203 RPU160: Reversible Pump. For cylinder displacement of 160-550 cm3

21118237 RPU160 US: Reversible Pump. For cylinder displacement of 9.8 to 24 cui.

21118211 RPU300-12 V: Reversible Pump. For cylinder displacement of 290 - 960 cm3 (requires J300X-40)

21118245 RPU300 US-12 V: Reversible Pump. For cylinder displacement of 23 to 36 cui.(requires J300X-40)

21118476 RPU300-24 V DC: Reversible Pump. For cylinder displacement of 290 – 960 cm3

21118468 RPU300 US-24 V DC: Reversible Pump. For cylinder displacement of 23 to 36

Professional Series Autopilot, Gyro Compass and Heading Sensor Solutions