Simrad NAC-1 Autopilot Computer, For PUMP-1 & HELM-1 Drives, NMEA 2000, Up to 30 ft Boats

Overview

The Simrad 000-11769-001 is a NAC-1 autopilot computer that runs the steering drive and ties your autopilot into an onboard NMEA 2000 network for boats up to 9 m (30 ft). It powers from 9-16 VDC, uses a recommended 20 A fuse, and provides a 12 V reversible motor drive output rated 8 A continuous with 16 A peak (1 second) for compatible drive units.

This unit is used with hydraulic-steered outboards running a Simrad PUMP-1 reversible pump, or cable-steered setups using the Simrad HELM-1 drive unit. It supports Virtual Rudder Feedback for outboard and sterndrive planing hulls where a separate rudder feedback sensor is not practical, and it also supports rudder angle sensor inputs when feedback is required.

Key features

• Recommended for boats up to 9 m (30 ft) using Simrad PUMP-1 hydraulic steering pump or HELM-1 cable-steer drive unit
• NMEA 2000 connectivity through a single Micro-C port (3 LEN) for heading sensor, autopilot control, and display integration
• 9-16 VDC supply with a recommended 20 A fuse; typical consumption is 140 mA plus the drive-unit load
• 12 V reversible motor drive output rated 8 A continuous with 16 A peak (1 second)
• Rudder feedback options include Virtual Rudder Feedback, RF25 support, and 0-5 V rudder sensor input
• IPx5 splashproof rating with an operating temperature range of -25 C to +55 C
• Bulkhead mounting with a compact footprint (204 x 190 x 57 mm) and a 0.5 m compass-safe distance

Installation and setup

Mount the NAC-1 on a bulkhead where you can reach the connectors and LED indicators, and keep it away from direct spray and areas that can flood. The IPx5 rating handles washdowns and normal moisture, but it is not meant to be submerged. Maintain the 0.5 m compass-safe distance from a magnetic compass.

Power the unit from a 12 V nominal DC system (9-16 VDC range) and protect the supply with a 20 A fuse. Connect it to an NMEA 2000 backbone using the Micro-C network port, then connect the steering drive wiring appropriate to your setup. Final setup and tuning is done from a compatible autopilot controller or Simrad multifunction display on the NMEA 2000 network.

Compatibility and fit

The NAC-1 is intended for smaller boats that use a reversible hydraulic pump or a cable-steer drive unit, and it works as the course computer for an NMEA 2000 autopilot system. A heading sensor and an NMEA 2000 network are part of a complete installation, and some hull and steering configurations also require a rudder angle sensor for best results.

Virtual Rudder Feedback can reduce hardware on outboard and sterndrive planing hulls when a mechanical rudder feedback sensor is difficult to install. When feedback is needed, the unit supports RF25 and 0-5 V rudder sensor inputs so you can match the system to the steering geometry onboard.

Use on board

This setup is a good match for center consoles, trailer boats, and small cruisers that want autopilot control through their Simrad display while keeping the steering computer below deck. It is commonly used for steady course-keeping on longer runs, holding a heading while trolling, and reducing helm workload in crosswind and cross-current conditions.

What’s included

• NAC-1/NAC-2 power cable (2 m)

Maintenance and care

Periodically check that the power and network connections are tight, dry, and protected from corrosion. Inspect the wiring run to the drive unit for chafe, and verify the fuse and power feed remain clean and secure, especially after heavy vibration, trailering, or repeated washdowns.

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