Operator manual Simrad AP28 Autopilot English www.simrad-yachting.com Sw.1.
A P 2 8 Operator manual Simrad AP28 Autopilot English Sw.1.3 Document no: 20222527 Revision: C Date: January 2010 The original language for this document is English. In the event of any discrepancy between translated versions and the English version of this document, the English document will be the official version. To the best of our knowledge, the content in this publication was correct at the time of printing.
About this manual Rev. A 28.11.07 First issue Rev. B 25.03.08 Rev. C 06.01.10 Follow up steering included. Updated according to autopilot software 1.2. Updated according to autopilot software 1.3. This manual is intended as a reference guide for operating and maintaining the Simrad AP28 autopilot.
Content 1 Operation.................................................... 5 1.1 Overview ................................................5 1.2 ON/OFF ..................................................8 1.3 Backlighting ............................................9 1.4 Standby mode ....................................... 10 1.5 Automatic steering ................................. 12 1.6 NoDrift mode......................................... 30 1.7 Navigating with the AP28 ........................ 31 1.
4.2 Acknowledging an alarm ....................... 100 4.3 Viewing active alarms ........................... 100 4.4 Alarm codes ........................................ 100 5 Troubleshooting...................................... 103 5.1 SimNet status...................................... 103 5.2 System data........................................ 103 5.3 Resets ................................................ 104 5.4 Alarms ............................................... 105 6 Maintenance .................
1 Operation An autopilot is a very useful navigational aid, but DOES NOT under any circumstances 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 ⢠When in areas where use of autopilot is prohibited by law When using an autopilot: ⢠Do not leave the helm unattended ⢠Do not place any magnetic material or equipment near heading sensor used in the autopilot system ⢠Verify at regular intervals c
Key PWR STBY Description Power ON-OFF / Light key Standby key Engage Standby mode AUTO Auto key Engage Auto mode NODRIFT NAV WIND NoDrift key Engage NoDrift mode Nav key Engage NAV mode Wind key Engage Wind mode TURN Turn key Enter turn sub-menu Tack or gybe in Wind mode MENU Menu/Enter key Enter Main Menu Enter value, Confirm, OK Action according to the softkey symbol Left key Back, Left, Cancel, Exit Long press: Return to Main page (operation level 1) Action according to the softkey symbol Rig
Port key Adjust the commanded course or wind angle 1 or 10 degrees Enable port power steering Action according to the softkey symbol Starboard key Adjust the commanded course or wind angle 1 or 10 degrees Enable starboard power steering Action according to the softkey symbol Softkeys When the basic operation of the keys is changed, softkey symbols will be displayed right above the keys to indicate the alternate function.
Operational modes The AP28 system is capable of the following primary steering modes: STBY (power steering), AUTO, NoDrift, NAV, WIND and WINDNAV. Each mode except WINDNAV have a dedicated key. The WINDNAV mode can only be entered when in WIND mode. Each mode provides you with a multifunction mode display. User adjustable settings are found in the AP28 Main Menu (page 45). Alarms Alarms are presented in plain text to alert you of system and external data failure conditions.
⢠Product name ⢠Serial number ⢠Software version ⢠Release date Software version and release date are examples only. After approximately 5 seconds, the system is operative and the unit that was turned on will show the Standby mode display. Other units in a multistation system will display . Control is transferred to any single unit by pressing its STBY key. A long press on the PWR key activates the power down dialog box and the autopilot goes to STBY mode before it is turned off after 3 seconds.
b The Up/Down softkeys to increase/decrease the light level by one step c The Day/Night softkey to toggle between day and night profiles If no adjustment is performed within 3 seconds, the Light level overlay window will close. For contrast and day/night settings, refer to page 54. 1.4 Standby mode STBY mode is the mode that is used when steering the boat at the helm. Display information: ⢠Standby mode ⢠Current heading 345°M ⢠Compass source: RC42 ⢠Rudder angle 01° to stbd.
Follow-Up steering (FU) Not applicable for Virtual feedback configuration (page 74). In the Follow-Up steering mode the course knob may be used to set rudder commands. The commanded rudder angle is shown on the display and the rudder will move to the commanded angle and stop. Press both buttons simultaneously to activate Follow-Up Use course knob to command rudder angle While in Follow-up mode you cannot take manual control of the wheel.
No rudder angle bargraph When the autopilot is operating on Virtual Rudder Feedback (VRF), the rudder angle bargraph is empty in Standby mode. No mode indication When the autopilot is configured for Electronic Vessel Control (EVC), you can take manual control of the steering by means of the helm irrespective of the autopilot mode. The autopilot will go to Standby mode. The âSâ in the display is replaced by a dash to indicate that steering is from the helm. Ref. page 115. 1.
The AP28 will keep the boat on the set course until a new mode is selected or a new course is set with the course knob or the PORT or STBD keys. One revolution of the course knob equals a 45° course change.
parameters control the response of the boat at different speeds or wind directions. The two parameter sets can be automatically or manually selected, and each set can be manually adjusted (response adjust). The speed at which the autopilot automatically changes from LO to HI parameters (or opposite) is determined by the "Transition HI-LO" set in the Installation/ Commissioning/Seatrial menu, page 83. See diagram on next page.
So if you loose too much speed e.g. when tacking, the parameters will change to HI to gain sufficient rudder response. This should be observed when setting the transition speed on sailboats. See also Wind response on page 16. Response adjust The Autotune function in the AP28 is so refined that the majority of boats will need no further adjustments of the steering parameters.
MENU Adjustment of HI and LO values can be performed even with the boat out of the water. Range Change per step Default 1-9 1 4 Wind response (sailboats) Verify that the difference between Course To Steer (CTS) and the actual heading is at an acceptable minimum. If the difference between the set wind angle and the actual wind angle is too big, increase the âWind responseâ to reduce the difference.
MENU Range Change per step Default 1-9 1 4 Selection of HI/LO parameters MENU The âManual selectâ item has three alternatives: Auto â HI â LO.
The sub-headline in the display shows the active parameter set and how it is selected. Pattern steering (power boats) The autopilot offers a number of different pattern steering features when in AUTO mode. There is a one minute time-out between selecting a turn pattern and starting the turn. During the time-out period the autopilot will maintain the set course. When steering in a turn pattern you may at any time adjust the variables by pressing the key. To exit a turn pattern simply press the AUTO key.
C-turn The autopilot provides a continuous turn feature when in AUTO mode. This may be used for circling fish or a particular object on the seabed. C-turn makes the boat turn in a circle with a constant rate of turn. The user decides whether the C-turn should be made to port or to starboard. To enter C-turn mode: TURN or key to select the direction in which to Press the make the C-turn and start. The turn rate (ROT) can be adjusted before the turn is initiated and during the turn.
MENU Turn parameter Range Change per step Default Units Rate of turn 10 - 600 5 90 °/min Spiral-turn The spiral-turn feature may also be used for circling fish or when searching a particular object on the seabed. Spiral-turn makes the boat turn in a spiral with a decreasing or increasing radius. To enter Spiral-turn mode: TURN The âinitialâ radius can be set before the turn is started.
Press either the or key to select the direction in which to make the spiral-turn and start. During the turn the âchange in radiusâ can be adjusted and the number of feet or meter is how much the radius is changed for each circle turned. If the âchange radiusâ is set to zero, the boat will turn in a circle. MENU Negative values indicate decreasing radius while positive values indicate increasing radius.
Zigzag-turns To enter zigzag-turn mode: TURN The course change can be set before the turn is initiated (2-70°). or key to select the direction in Press either the which to make the first course change and start. While sailing in a zigzag pattern you can alter the course change, leg distance, and the main course. An arrow shows the direction of the next course change.
Initial course change 20° Main course Course change 40° Leg distance Turn parameter Range Change per step Default Course change 4° - 140° 4 28° 82 ft - 9843 ft 50 1641 ft 25 m - 3000 m 25 500 m Leg distance The unit for leg distance is the same as the unit set for depth (feet or meter). Square-turn The square-turn feature in AUTO mode can also be made as rectangle or any pattern where the next turn is 90°.
You can also at any time change the distance of the leg until the boat makes a new 90° turn. MENU Turn parameter Leg distance Range Change per step Default 82 ft - 9843 ft 50 1641 ft 25 m â 3000 m 25 500 m The unit for leg distance is the same as the unit set for depth (feet or meter).
Lazy S-turn To enter Lazy S-turn mode: TURN The course change can be adjusted before the turn is initiated (2-80°). Press either the or key to select the direction in which to make the first course change and start. While in a Lazy S pattern you can alter the course change magnitude, turn radius and the main (average) course. An arrow shows the direction of the turn.
Adjust course change and radius as follows: MENU Initial course change Main course Course change Higher radius Main course Lower radius Turn parameter Range Change per step Default Course change 4° - 160° 4 28° 16 ft - 1641 ft 10 656 ft 5 m â 500 m 5 200 m Radius The unit for radius is the same as the unit set for depth (feet or meter).
Depth Contour Tracking, DCTTM With input from an echo sounder, the autopilot can be set to steer the boat to a set depth. This is very useful if you want to follow a depth contour. Make sure you have depth reading available in the system. Smooth seabed Slope Rocky waters Narrow channel Ridge Do not use this feature unless the seabed is suitable. Do not use it in rocky waters where the depth is varying significantly over a small area. TURN The actual depth reading is shown on the display.
Steer the boat to the depth you want to track and in the direction of the depth contour (main course). When the wanted depth is shown in the display, activate the depth contour steering with the or softkey (any of the key when it is shallow to port or the two). Use the key when it is shallow to starboard. Main course This should be the main (average) direction of the depth contour you want to follow.
Contour Cross Angle (CCA) With this parameter you can make the boat lazy s across your reference depth. With the CCA set to zero there is no S-ing. The CCA is an angle that is added to or subtracted from the set course. Each time the boat crosses the reference depth, the sign (+/-) of the CCA is changed and makes the boat turn to cross the reference depth contour in the opposite direction. The larger the CCA the bigger the turn. CCA set to 15 degrees.
Tacking in Auto mode (sailboat) The tack function is only available when the system is set up for SAIL boat type in the installation setup. Tacking in AUTO mode is different from tacking in WIND mode. In AUTO mode the tack angle is fixed and can be set in the Setup/Sailing menu. Default tack angle is 100°. Tacking should only be performed into the wind and must be tried out in calm sea conditions with light wind to find out how it works on your boat.
Unlike when in Auto mode the autopilot will steer the course unaffected by wind and current when the NoDrift mode is engaged. The course to steer to (bearing line) can be changed the same way as when changing course in Auto mode. NODRIFT ⢠Compass heading: 345° M ⢠Rudder Angle: 01 to starboard ⢠Speed: 12.8 kn from the log ⢠Steering parameter: LO-A Dodging (Resume previous bearing line) The AP28 has no specific dodge key.
keep the boat on the track line and direct the AP28 to the destination waypoint. If the AP28 is connected to a navigation receiver that does not transmit a message with bearing to next waypoint, it will steer on Cross Track Error (XTE) only. In that case you have to revert to AUTO mode at each waypoint and manually change set course to equal bearing to next waypoint and then select NAV mode again.
If only one waypoint has been entered the bearing will be from the present position to the destination waypoint. ⢠NAV mode ⢠Course to steer (CTS): 005 is set internally by the autopilot to steer the boat onto the track line and maintain the bearing ⢠Cross Track Error (XTE): 1.315 nm ⢠Boat symbol illustrating whether the boat is to port or starboard of planned track ⢠Compass heading: 350° M ⢠Next waypoint: WP1 ⢠Speed over ground (SOG): 12.8 kn ⢠Distance to next waypoint (DTW): 14.
Press the softkey to verify course change larger than 10°. Alert screen STBY If no verification is made, the AP28 will continue on the current set course in AUTO mode. Regain manual steering by pressing the STBY key. Setting the waypoint arrival circle For route navigation it is recommended to use automatic waypoint shift at a set waypoint arrival circle. The arrival circle should be adjusted according to boat speed. The higher the speed, the wider the circle.
Example: With the speed of 20 knots you should use a waypoint circle with radius 0.09 nm. The distance between any waypoints in a route must not be smaller than the radius of the waypoint arrival circle when using automatic waypoint shift. Selecting a different navigation source If you have more than one navigator connected to the AP28, you will be able to choose any for navigation. Refer to the âSourcesâ item in the Setup menu for details on how to select a different navigator (page 53). 1.
⢠Wind (vane) mode ⢠Set wind angle: 008 degrees from starboard ⢠Measured wind angle: 008°A (apparent) or T (true) ⢠Course to steer (to maintain set wind angle): 345° WIND ⢠Heading: 344° M (magnetic) or T (true) ⢠Rudder angle: 00° ⢠Speed from log: 12.8 kn ⢠Parameter: LO-A (Low value, automatic set) The set course to steer (CTS) and set wind angle are entered from the compass heading and the wind transducer at the moment the WIND mode is selected.
Tacking in Wind mode Tacking in WIND mode as compared to AUTO mode can be performed when sailing with apparent or true wind as the reference; the true wind angle should be less than 90 degrees. The tacking operation will immediately mirror the set wind angle to the opposite side of the bow. A tack window will appear on the display. The rate of turn during the tack will be given by the âTack timeâ parameter set in the Setup/Sailing menu (page 58).
Gybing Gybing is possible when the true wind angle is larger than 120°. TURN The time to make a gybe is determined by the speed of the boat to make it as quick as possible within control. Tack and gybe prevent When beating and running, using the autopilot is most critical. If the sails are unbalanced when beating, yaw forces from the sails can drive the boat into the wind.
gets opposite to the set wind angle. More rudder will be commanded to prevent an unwanted gybe. The tack and gybe prevent functions are not a guarantee against getting into a hazardous situation. If the effect of the rudder and/or drive unit is not adequate, it may happen. Pay particular attention in such situations. 1.9 Wind steering and navigation (sailboats) The autopilot can also steer the boat given both wind data and track data from a GPS/chart plotter.
Operating in WINDNAV mode Refer to Figure 1-2 which shows a scenario with a sailboat that enters WindNAV mode to sail the most efficient way to waypoint WP1. 40 | Operation 1. The autopilot is still in Wind mode approaching mark 2 and waypoint WP1 has been entered on the chart plotter. 2. The WindNAV mode is entered and the autopilot prompts confirmation for a course change of 71 degrees to starboard. 3.
Figure 1-2 Operation | 41
1.10 Data pages A number of data pages can be displayed if the information is available on SimNet (see page 103). When one of the main mode pages are displayed, access and scroll through the available data pages by pressing the Up/Down keys. When accessing the data pages, the last active data page will be shown first. If you prefer to change the number of instrument pages to be available; access the Main menu/Data pages setup.
Available data pages Main mode screen 1.11 Multiple station system In normal operation control is accessible from every control unit connected to the AP28 system. One control unit is "active" and provides the user with access to all functions. All remaining control units are "inactive" and have no effect on course changes. A single press on any of the mode keys on an "inactive" control unit will allow transfer of command and make it Inactive unit "active".
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2 Main menu In the Main menu you will find items for operation, setup and installation of the autopilot. The Service menu item presents you with various system information and access to the Demo mode.
The main menu is activated by a press on the MENU key. The main menu items give further access to sub menus and parameter settings. Parameter settings are usually presented to the right, but may also be listed in an overlay window. Unit settings presented in the windowâs right column Language settings presented in an overlay window.
Disabling pages Continue to select pages and repeat the procedure if more pages are to be disabled. Press and hold the Left key to leave the menu and return to last active page. Enabling pages A disabled page is only visible when using the Enable/disable command. A disabled page is indicated with a crossed rectangle. Continue to select pages and repeat the procedure if more pages are to be enabled. Press and hold the Left key to leave the menu and return to last active page.
Restore all pages To restore all disabled data pages, select Restore data pages: 2.2 Trip log The trip log display shows: a. total accumulated distance since the instrument was installed or factory reset b. distance and time since the trip log was started/reset Resetting the trip log The trip log is reset to zero by pressing the Reset soft key. 2.3 User setup menu The User setup menu contains items that the user may want to use on a less regular basis.
- Language selection - Setting the units of measure - Adjusting the seastate filter - Changing the sailing parameters In this section it is assumed that the user is familiar with how to use the keys and how to maneuver in the menus. If not, refer to Main menu, page 45 onwards. Damping The damping factor indicates how fast the display will respond to changes. The higher the damping factor the more stable display reading on the instrument.
water. If none of these are available, the AWF will use a boat speed that is 1.5 times the Transition Speed. Setting Range Change per step Default Boat speed 4 Heading 1 0-9 Apparent wind 1 4 Wind shift 4 Depth 1 Alarms The AP28 may be set up to sound an alarm if vessel or environmental parameters exceeds preferred values. The alarm monitoring is disabled by setting the value to Off.
Wind shift (Only available in Wind/WindNAV mode) The wind shift alarm monitors the wind angle. The reference angle is set when the alarm is turned on and when the product is turned on. The reference wind angle is reset to present wind angle when the commanded (set) wind angle is changed on the autopilot and when a wind shift alarm is acknowledged. The wind shift reading is presented on the âWind shiftâdata page and shows the change of wind angle with reference to the (geographic) wind direction.
The data types and their respective data sources used in the products are listed on the source page in the products. If no selection is made for a data type, â- - -â is displayed instead of the device name or acronym. SimNet will automatically select Position source and Navigation source from the same GPS/Chart plotter. If you want them to be different you have to change them manually.
Manual source selection Data sources can also be selected manually. All devices providing data of the given type will be listed in a device key to list. Highlight the data type and press the display the list of available devices. Confirm selection of the highlighted device. Exit without selecting See information about the selected data source. For data types which can be calibrated, an overlay screen displaying the data from the selected data source will appear first (Ref. Installation/Calibration).
Enter the Calibrate and Offset menu. (Ref. Installation/Calibration). Proceed to display a list of available sources for the given data type. Display The display is controlled by the Contrast setting and two user profiles that can be individually adjusted. The profiles are Day profile and Night profile. The profiles can be optimized for readability under different light conditions, and you can quickly switch between the two using the PWR key and the Backlighting, page 9. softkeys.
Setting Range Change per step Default Light level Off â 9 1 3 Light color White/red Invert display Contrast - White (Day) Red (Night) Yes/No - No 0-9 1 4 Language The language is set when the autopilot is turned on for the first time. Refer First time turn on, page 63. It is however possible to change the language at any time.
Units of measure Parameter Boat speed Options â kn Default kn â km/h â mph Wind speed â kn kn â m/s â mph Distance â nm nm â km â mi Depth â m ft â ft Heading â °M °M â °T Temperature â °C °F â °F The display unit for heading data is not solely determined by the user. If true heading is wanted but the selected compass is a magnetic compass, then the magnetic variation must be available from a position- or navigation source.
Seastate filter The Seastate filter is used to reduce rudder activity and autopilot sensitivity in rough weather. OFF: Seastate filter is disabled. This is default. AUTO: Reduces rudder activity and autopilot sensitivity in rough weather by an adaptive process. The AUTO setting is recommended if you want to use the seastate filter. MANUAL: Linked to the Response control setting in the Main menu.
Sailing âSailingâ is only available in the menu if âBoat typeâ is set to âSailâ in the Installation menu (see page 65). The âSailingâ screen can also be reached from the Wind mode main screen by pressing the Menu key followed by the Wind key within 2 seconds. Tack time When performing a tack in WIND mode, the rate of turn (tack time) can be adjusted. This will give single-handed sailors time to handle the boat and the sails during a tack.
Wind function With âWind functionâ set to âAutoâ, the autopilot will automatically select between apparent and true wind steering. âAutoâ is default and recommended for cruising. When the boat is running, it will also be surfing on the waves. This may lead to significant changes in boat speed, hence changes in apparent wind angle. True wind steering is therefore used when running, while steering to apparent wind is used when beating or reaching.
âXTEâ will be displayed below the mode index when layline steering is active (page 40). Range Default On - Off On Course Adjust When using the (PORT) or (STBD) keys in AUTO mode, you are changing the set course in 1° increments. Select 10° if you want to make major course changes in 10° increments with the keys and fine-tune the set course with the course knob (does not apply for sailboats). Range Default Units 1 and 10 1 ° 2.
On the active control unit a the mode index. icon will alternate with The "locked" control units in the system will show: The Lock function is disengaged by one of the following actions: ⢠The active control unit unlocks the other ones and makes them inactive: ⢠The system is switched OFF by any control unit (press PWR key for 2-3 seconds).
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3 Setup at installation 3.1 First time turn on Before attempting to turn on the AP28 and perform an Installation Setup, the hardware installation and electrical connections must be completed in accordance with the installation instructions.
3.2 Installation Menu The installation settings must be performed as part of the commissioning of the AP28 system. Failure to do so correctly may prohibit the AP28 from functioning properly! The Installation menu can only be accessed in STBY mode.
Commissioning Dockside settings If the autopilot has no rudder feedback unit installed refer to Virtual Rudder Feedback on page 74-77. The following menu items are accessible and can be set up in the Dockside menu: - Boat type - Rudder feedback - Virtual feedback - Drive voltage - Drive engage - Rudder test - Depth calibration - Minimum wind angle - Nav change limit Not applicable for EVC! (ref.
Select appropriate Boat type by using the Up and Down keys. Confirm by pressing the softkey. Rudder feedback calibration (Not applicable for EVC) Make sure the unit is installed and aligned as per instruction in the AC12/42 Installation manual. The rudder feedback calibration will set the correct relationship between the physical rudder movement and the rudder angle readout. Manually turn the helm/wheel to starboard until the rudder stops at starboard lock (H.O.).
MENU Confirm Rudder feedback calibration to starboard by pressing the MENU key. Manually turn the helm/wheel to port until the rudder stops at port lock (H.O.). Adjust the displayed angle the same way as for starboard rudder. MENU Confirm Rudder feedback calibration to port by pressing the MENU key. Many boats have ¹45° (90° H.O. - H.O.) rudder angle as standard. So if you are not going to make any adjustment to the displayed angle you should still highlight the reading and confirm.
Special test of LF3000/LFI3000 Mk2 feedback 1 Align engines to center position; âzero rudderâ. 2 Rev engines to 3-4000 rev/min and observe the rudder angle indicator on the autopilot, a 2° change in the reading should be accepted. 3 If the rudder angle exceeds 2°, connect the screen on the TB1 cable (LFI3000) to the center block terminal and repeat item 2 (Refer to the AC12/AC42 Installation manual). If this gives a better result keep the screen connected.
The drive engage/bypass clutch output follows the same voltage as set for the drive unit. It is not possible to select a higher voltage than the supply voltage. Selection of improper voltage level for your drive unit may damage both the drive unit and the autopilot computer even if the protection circuits in the autopilot computer are activated. The drive unit voltage setting does not apply when operating solenoids on a continuous running pump.
Clutch: This is the default setting and it allows you to steer the boat with the helm or wheel when in STBY mode. The âDrive engageâ port will activate (go high) in all active steering modes, and typically engage a bypass valve on a hydraulic linear drive or a clutch on a mechanical drive. Auto: This setting is implemented for future use. Always use the âClutchâ (default) setting.
Depth calibration This adjustment only applies to âsmartâ depth transducers that outputs depth on NMEA2000 format. The default value for the depth offset is 0.0, which indicates the displayed depth from the transducer to the seabed (b). Refer to the illustration on next page.
The symbol in front of the depth reading will change to indicate that the depth is measured from: the keel Range -10 - +10 or Step 0 â Âą5: 0.1 5 â 10: 0.5 the water line Default value Units 0.0 m, ft Press the MENU key to confirm the offset setting.
Minimum wind angle Wind steering is only available if âBoat typeâ is set to âSailâ in the Installation menu. The âMinimum wind angleâ is the minimum apparent wind angle that will keep the sails well shaped and give an acceptable thrust. This parameter will vary from boat to boat. The âMinimum wind angleâ applies for the tack-prevent function. It also applies when the autopilot is operating in WindNAV mode. You can select different minimum wind angles for port and starboard.
The âNav change limitâ screen can also be reached from the Nav mode main screen by pressing the MENU key followed by the NAV key within 2 seconds. Range Change per step Default Units 10 - 30 10 10 ° Dockside settings when using Virtual Rudder Feedback The Virtual Feedback algorithms in the autopilot software enable your autopilot to steer without a conventional rudder feedback unit. These algorithms are designed for vessels up to 40 ft. powered by outboard or stern drives only.
Select âDocksideâ menu and press the confirm. softkey to Boat type When the autopilot is configured for Virtual Feedback the Boat type is automatically set to Outboard. Rudder Feedback (calibration) (Not applicable for VRF) (Default values +/-35° are used) Refer to pages 68-69 to set the Drive unit voltage and the Drive Engage.
Rudder test To perform the Virtual Feedback rudder test you must be able to view the movement of the engines/drives (ârudderâ). Activate the automatic rudder test as shown, following the instructions on the display. Confirm by pressing the softkey. The next step is to enter the correct direction of the rudder movement. >3 sec. If the rudder is not moving so as to give a starboard turn, press the softkey, and repeat.
Proceed as per display instructions and immediately release the key when the rudder reaches the port hard over position. The rudder will now be automatically centered. B The Rudder test is verified by the display showing âMotor OKâ or âFailedâ. If âFailedâ is given, check for correct electrical connection. Also refer to Alarms beginning on page 105.
Seatrial settings The Seatrial menu presents settings and automatic calibrations to be performed during seatrial. The seatrial must always be performed in open waters at a safe distance from other traffic. The Seatrial menu can only be accessed if the Dockside Settings are completed and confirmed.
Compass calibration Before the compass calibration is started, make sure that there is enough open water around the vessel to make a full turn. The calibration should be done in calm sea conditions and with minimal wind to obtain good results. Use about 6090 seconds to make a full circle. 1. Highlight the Calibrate line in the dialog 2. Begin turning the boat to port or starboard 3. Press the MENU key to start the automatic compass calibration a.
The FC40 and RC42 compasses will store the calibration and offset data in their own memory. During the calibration, the compass will measure the magnitude and direction of the local magnetic field. If the local magnetic field is stronger than the earthâs magnetic field (the local field is reading more than 100%), the compass calibration will fail.
Mounting Offset After compass calibration, the difference between the compass lubber line and the boatâs center line should be compensated for. 1 Find the bearing from the boat position to a visible object.
Wind Calibration This calibration only applies if you have a wind transducer directly connected to SimNet (IS12TW) or a wind transducer that outputs data on NMEA2000 format. Any residual error in the apparent wind angle display can be corrected manually by entering the required offset. A positive value indicates starboard offset angle,- a negative value indicates port offset angle. Range Change per step Default Units -180 - +180 1 0 ° Press the MENU key to confirm the offset setting.
Calibrate by Speed Over Ground With a GPS connected to the system, the speed through water (SPD) can be calibrated equal to Speed Over Ground. This adjustment should be made in calm sea with as little wind or tidal current as possible.
1 Speed through water from the speed log source 2 Speed Over Ground (SOG) from the GPS/chart plotter See also page 13. Range Change per step Default Units OFF - 30 1 6 knots Automatic tuning Autotune is a feature that automatically sets the most important steering parameters (Rudder and Counter Rudder) by taking the boat through a number of S-turns. The scaling factors of the parameters are also set automatically as a function of the boat type selection performed in the Dockside menu.
The parameter values calculated during Autotune becomes the HI parameters. The LO parameters are automatically set to 66% of the HI. After the Autotune has been completed the rudder must be controlled manually, as the autopilot has returned to STBY mode. The Automatic tuning function will take control of the boat and perform a number of S-turns. It must always be performed in open waters at a safe distance from other traffic. The Automatic tuning function may take from 2 to 3 minutes to complete.
Automatic steering The Automatic steering menu contains steering parameters for course steering, wind steering and nav steering. Recall autotuned To recall the parameter values that were achieved during the Autotune procedure, select Recall autotuned under âAutomatic Steeringâ, and press the key. Confirm by pressing the softkey. Manual tuning The steering parameters can be looked at and changed if needed under this menu item.
The âManual tuningâ screen can also be reached from the Auto mode main screen by pressing the MENU key followed by the AUTO key within 2 seconds. Confirm by pressing the Displayed parameter softkey. Boat type Own boat Displacem. Planing & Autotune Manual & Sail Outboard Rudder HI 0.50 0.30 Cont.Rudder HI 1.40 1.40 Autotrim HI 40 sec. 40 sec. Rate Lim HI 6.0° 6.0° Rudder LO 0.35 0.20 Cont.Rudder LO 1.00 1.00 Autotrim LO 40 sec. 40 sec. Rate Lim LO 6.0° 6.
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 ⢠Too little Rudder and the autopilot fails to keep a steady course ⢠Too much Rudder gives unstable steering and reduces speed ⢠Low speed requires more rudder than high speed See also âMinimum Rudderâ on page 89. Counter Rudder is the parameter that counteracts the effect of the boatâs turn rate and inertia.
New course Counter rudder setting too high, sluggish and creeping response New course Correct setting of counter rudder, ideal response Autotrim standard value is 40 seconds which should work well on most boats. Rule of thumb: Set to same value (seconds) as the boatâs length in feet. On boats operating on VRF it should be set to 20 seconds Rate Limit should be kept at 6.0°/second unless there is a need for more rapid response in turns.
Range Change per step Default Units OFF - 5 0.1 OFF ° Final seatrial After having completed all settings in the Installation Menu, take the boat out and perform a final seatrial in open waters at a safe distance from other traffic.
get a smoother steering. Alternatively on a sailboat you may want to have a higher rudder speed when running ⢠The motor Drive out (page 92) can be set with the above in mind. Never adjust in more than 10% steps with respect to the reading set during the automatic rudder test (page 70).
Calibration The Calibration is another entry to procedures for calibrating the compass, rudder feedback, depth, apparent wind angle and boat speed. These procedures are covered under âCommissioningâ. Rudder drive The sub-menu items linked under âRudder driveâ are part of the commissioning except for Motor output, Rudder deadband and High voltage.
If the auto-setting does not perform properly due to high inertia from the wheel or a loose steering gear, it can be adjusted manually. Find the lowest possible value that will prevent the rudder from continuous hunting. A wide deadband will cause inaccurate steering. It is recommended to check rudder stability in AUTO mode when the boat is moving to get pressure on the rudder. Range Change per step Default Units AUTO, 0.1 â 4.0 0.
SimNet configuration SimNet units can be assigned in groups and given an instance number for identification. SimNet Groups The SimNet group function is used to globally control parameter settings in groups of units. The function is used on larger vessels where several units are connected via the SimNet network. By assigning several units to the same group, a parameter update on one unit will have the same effect on the rest of the group members.
- Simrad: Default group for AP28 - None: Not assigned to a group - 1 â 6: Group numbers The figures below illustrate how the instruments on a flybridge and in a cockpit are assigned to separate language, damping and backlight groups, and how this affects the setup for the different instruments.
Instance number The instance number is used to identify multiple units of the same model when connected to a SimNet or NMEA2000 network. The instance number is added to the product name e.g. AP28-1, AP28-2 for easy identification of the unit. Range Step Default value 0 - 20 1 0 3.3 Service Information Also see Troubleshooting page 103 about SimNet status, System data and resets.
softkey. If the Confirm Demo mode by pressing the unit is turned off while in demo mode, the demo mode will still be active on next power on. Demo mode is deactivated by using the menu as illustrated above. An automatic source update is then initialized. The user will be notified with a âDEMOâ message every 1 second as long as the demo is running. To have the full benefit of the autopilot in Demo mode, an Autopilot Computer must be part of the system.
About By selecting the About menu item, an information window will display autopilot model, serial number, software version number (1.3.), software release (00) and date of release.
4 Alarm system 4.1 Alarm indication The alarm system in the AP28 autopilot is activated if any alarm settings are exceeded. Refer to Alarms, page 50. When an alarm is notified, the alarm will be indicated with an alarm text and with an audible alarm. The different alarm indications are shown in the table below.
4.2 Acknowledging an alarm An alarm is acknowledged by pressing any key. This will remove the alarm notification (text, light and sound) from all units that belongs to the same alarm group. Refer to SimNet Groups, page 94. A reminder will reappear at given intervals as long as the alarm situation exists. An alarm received from other SimNet units must be rectified on the unit generating the alarm! 4.3 Viewing active alarms A list of any existing alarm condition may be displayed at any time. 4.
Alarm ID Alarm 10 Shallow water 11 Deep water 12 Anchor alarm 13 Wind shift 14 True wind speed too high 15 True wind speed too low 16 Boat speed too low 17 Voltage too high 18 Voltage too low 19 Depth data missing 20 Wind data missing 21 Nav data missing 22 Compass data missing 23 Off course 24 Rudder data missing (RF25) 25 Rudder feedback failure (RF300) 26 Rudder response failure 27 Drive overload 28 High temperature 29 Bypass/clutch overload 30 Bypass/clutch dis
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5 Troubleshooting An autopilot is a complex system. Its performance depends on a proper installation and a successful seatrial. The main menu includes a Service item that access several options to display data used when testing or troubleshooting the system. 5.1 SimNet status The SimNet status screen provides you with status information about the different SimNet messages used by the system. 5.
5.3 Resets Autopilot reset An Autopilot Reset is part of the final test at the factory, which will reset the memories to factory settings. Unless you need to clear all stored values during the installation setup, you should not perform an Autopilot reset. To confirm the autopilot reset press the softkey. The Installation and Setup procedures must be repeated after a reset has been performed! In the event an Autopilot reset has been made, refer to chapter 3.2.
To confirm the Global reset press the softkey. The display will prompt you to repeat the interface setup. Autopilot failures In the event of an autopilot failure, the AP28âs numerous test features will assist you in isolating a probable fault. Audible and visual alarm are provided for every fault being detected, see chapter 4. Refer to the table below for hints and try to solve the problem yourself. You may also consult your nearest Simrad dealer for assistance, if required.
Display readout Shallow water Probable fault Recommended action The depth is inside the set limit or outside the range Carefully observe the actual depth Depth data is missing Adjust the alarm limit if not hazardous Steer to safe depth, the alarm will reset automatically Turn off the shallow alarm if data is missing Compass data missing No data from selected compass If more that one compass is connected to the system, refer to the Setup/Sources menu to select a different compass Make a source updat
Display readout Rudder test failed Probable fault Following conditions may exist: Recommended action Refer to recommended actions for the specific probable faults Rudder feedback failure Autopilot Computer current overload Bypass/clutch overload Rudder moves in only one direction Check the connections Replace the autopilot computer Poor connection to one of the solenoids (continuously running pump) Faulty PCB in autopilot computer Rudder test not completed within 2 min.
Display readout Bypass/clutch overload Probable fault Clutch/bypass current exceeds 3.
6 Maintenance 6.1 General The AP28 units are ârepair by replacementâ units, and the operator is therefore required to perform only a very limited amount of preventive maintenance. 6.2 Control unit The AP28 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.
6.5 Compass If the compass is exposed to the weather, make a visual inspection at 2-3 months intervals, and at the start of each season. 6.6 Drive unit Refer to the drive unit manual for maintenance instructions. 6.7 Exchange of software program Contact Simrad Customer Support about software updates.
7 Optional equipment 7.1 R3000X Remote Control (NFU) R3000X is a small handheld remote control with two keys for power steering or course selection (port and starboard), and one key with a LED indicator for (limited) mode change. Operation SIMRAD STBY-AUTO Push key for Port and Stbd commands STBY/ automatic. Automatic modes are active when the lamp is lit. Simrad R3000X In STANDBY mode, the rudder will move for as long as the Port or Stbd key is pressed.
7.2 S35 Steering Lever (NFU) S35 has spring loaded return to mid-position. A push button with light indicator is used for mode selection similar to the R3000X Remote Control. Alternatively S35 can be used as a conventional NFU lever without mode selection. Operation Refer to the operation of the R3000X in the previous chapter. On S35 you move the lever to right or left instead of using keys. 7.
Zero point setting Unless you need a rudder angle display when leaving the dock, just steer the boat manually on a straight course and press the AUTO key. The zero point is then set automatically. If you prefer to use the rudder angle display when leaving the dock, proceed as follows: After turn-on the rudder angle display will alternate between 10 degrees port and starboard to indicate that the (rudder) zero point need be set. Turn the wheel from lock to lock (H.O. to H.O.
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8 Glossary Apparent wind â 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 â An alarm signal issued by a GPS/chart plotter that indicates arrival at or at a predetermined distance from a waypoint (see arrival circle). Arrival circle â An artificial boundary placed around the destination waypoint of the present navigation leg, the entering of which will signal an arrival alarm.
Magnetic bearing â Bearing relative to magnetic north; compass bearing corrected for deviation. Magnetic deviation â A local magnetic field on-board a vessel. Can interfere with the earthâs magnetic field and create compass readings that may deviate from the actual magnetic heading. The deviation will vary with the actual heading. Magnetic heading â heading relative to magnetic north. Magnetic variation - A magnetic compass points to the magnetic north pole.
SimNet Class 1 products â Simrad products that are SimNet controllers, i.e. they have an appropriate display and routines that can set up and control the SimNet. SimNet Class 2 products â Simrad products that do not contain a SimNet controller. When connected to SimNet they will automatically pick the first available source on SimNet and lock onto 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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9 Index A about AP28, 98 alarm codes, 101 indication, 99 listing, 105 shallow water, 50 wind shift, 51 apparent wind, 59, 115 apparent wind angle, 82 arrival circle, 34 automatic tuning, 84 autopilot computer maintenance, 109 autotrim, 89 data pages, 42 data pages setup, 47 demo mode, 96 depth calibration, 71 depth contour tracking, 27 depth gain, 28 dockside settings, 65 dodging, 31 drive engage, 69 drive unit maintenance, 110 voltage, 68 E EVC, 12, 101, 115 F B backlighting, 9, 54 boat speed, 82 bo
motor output, 92 multiple station, 43 N nav change limit, 33, 73 navigating, 32 NFU Steering lever, 112 NoDrift, 30 P configuration, 94 groups, 94 instance number, 96 status, 103 software program, 110 speed over ground, 83 spiral-turn, 20 square-turn, 23 steer to compass, 86 symbols, 7 system data, 103 parameter selection T automatic, 14 pattern steering, 18 power steering, 10 R rate limit, 89 recall autotune, 86 reference depth, 29 remote lock, 60 reset tack angle, 58 tack time, 37, 58 tacking
AP28 manual EN, Doc.no.20222527, Rev.
