Simrad AP70 MK2 IMO Autopilot Solenoid Pack, AC80S Computer

Overview

The Simrad 000-15040-001 is an AP70 Mk2 IMO autopilot solenoid pack that combines the AP70 Mk2 control head, an AC80S course computer, and an RF45X rudder feedback sensor for commercial steering installations.

The AP70 Mk2 control head runs on 12/24VDC (+30%/-10%), has an exposed IPx6 waterproof rating, and uses a 480 x 480 display with white/red backlighting. The AC80S interfaces the autopilot to solenoid steering with galvanically isolated solenoid output up to 10A, and it also provides 4-channel IEC 61162-1 (NMEA 0183) RX/TX for integration.

This controller is wheelmarked for SOLAS (IMO, MED-B) use and supports complex setups such as multiple rudders or thrusters, with the ability to handle installations with up to six drives. Steering modes include Auto, No Drift, and Nav for route following from compatible MFD or ECDIS systems, plus command transfer for multi-station bridges.

Key features

• AP70 Mk2 control head with 480 x 480 display and selectable white/red backlight for night operation
• 12/24VDC supply (+30%/-10%) with max draw 0.7A at 12V or 0.4A at 24V; recommended 2A fuse
• Exposed IPx6 waterproof rating for helm and bridge console mounting
• Mounting options: flush or bracket; dimensions 253 x 144 x 54 mm; weight 1.4 kg
• NMEA 2000 connectivity via 1x Micro-C CAN port (1 LEN) and 1x Ethernet port for PC connection
• Wheelmarked for use on SOLAS vessels (IMO, MED-B)
• Supports up to six drives and multiple rudder or thruster integration for redundancy and complex steering layouts
• AC80S course computer provides galvanically isolated solenoid output up to 10A, plus built-in CAN-bus supply and 4-channel IEC 61162-1 (NMEA 0183) RX/TX
• RF45X medium duty rudder feedback with variable frequency output for autopilot use; requires 12-24VDC and mounts near the rudder stock with a 1:1 mechanical link

What's included

• AP70 Mk2 autopilot control head
• AC80S autopilot computer for solenoid steering
• RF45X rudder feedback unit

Installation and setup

Mount the AP70 Mk2 at the helm or conning position using either flush or bracket mounting, and keep a compass-safe distance of 0.4 m from magnetic compasses. The unit is rated for -30C to +55C operation, which suits exposed bridge environments where temperature swings are common.

The RF45X mounts close to the rudder stock and connects mechanically through a transmission link in a 1:1 ratio. Plan the linkage so it moves freely through full rudder travel and stays protected from direct washdown or impact in the steering compartment.

System integration

NMEA 2000 is used for networked sensors and system data through the Micro-C CAN connection, and the control head also supports compass sensor inputs over NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183. For navigation steering, the controller can follow routes supplied by compatible Simrad MFD, Simrad ECDIS, or third party MFD and ECDIS systems.

The AC80S course computer is the solenoid drive interface in this pack and supports on/off or proportional control of rudder or thruster solenoids, with options for frequency, voltage, or current angle feedback as well as digital drive handshake and external mode input. Its 4-channel IEC 61162-1 (NMEA 0183) ports help tie the autopilot into existing bridge electronics where serial connections are still in use.

Use on board

This pack is a good fit for workboats, ferries, and larger commercial vessels that need a wheelmarked control head and solenoid steering interface, especially where more than one control station is used. It also suits operators who want No Drift steering for holding a track over ground in wind and tide, and Nav mode for route following on longer transits.

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