Simrad AP35 Instruction Manual
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Simrad AP35
Autopilot
Note!
Simrad AS makes every effort to ensure that the information contained within this
document is correct. However, our equipment is continuously being improved and
updated, so we cannot assume liability for any errors which may occur.
Warning!
The equipment to which this manual applies must only be used for the purpose for
which it was designed. Improper use or maintenance may cause damage to the
equipment or injury to personnel. The user must be familiar with the contents of
the appropriate manuals before attempting to operate or work on the equipment.
Simrad AS disclaims any responsibility for damage or injury caused by improper
installation, use or maintenance of the equipment.
Copyright
© 2003 Simrad AS
The information contained within this document remains the sole property of
Simrad AS.
No part of this document may be copied or reproduced in any form or by any
means, and the information contained within is not to be communicated to a third
party, without the prior written consent of Simrad AS.
Instruction Manual
22083083H 1
Instruction Manual
This manual is intended as a reference guide for operating and
correctly installing the Simrad AP35 autopilot.
Great care has been paid to simplify operation and set-up of the
AP35, however, an autopilot is a complex electronic system. It is
affected by sea conditions, speed of the vessel, hull shape and
size.
Please take time to read this manual to get a thorough
understanding of the operation and system components and their
relationship to a complete AP35 autopilot system.
Other documentation material that is included in this manual is a
warranty card. This must be filled out by the authorized dealer
that performed the installation and mailed in to activate the
warranty.
Simrad AP35 Autopilot
2 22083083H
Document revisions
Rev Date Written by Checked by Approved by
– 05.02.96 NG IK ThH
A 25.06.96 NG ThH
B 08.09.97 NG IK ThH
C 31.08.98 NG IK GHR
D 31.05.99 NG IK ThH
E 07.08.01 NG ThH
F 21.12.01 NG TR
G 04.06.02 NG IK TR
H 08.10.03
Document history
Rev. – Original Issue
A Changes on modification record and table of contents. Page 2-5:
Amendment to operational sequence of R3000X. Page 2-13: Changes in
text. Page 3-2: Amendment to specifications on Junction units. Page 4-1:
New page references in text. Page 4-3 and 6-1: Call attention upon
feedback alignment. Page 4-11: Included drawing of control unit
connection. Remaining pages of chapter 4 changed due to displacement of
text/s. Page 4-28 and 4-29: Changes in text. Page 4-30 and 4-31: New
layout on interface setup table.
B RFC35R Rate Compass, RI35 Rudder Angle Indicator and S35 NFU
Steering Lever included. Page 2-5: Corrected course change rate of
R3000X. Page 3-2: Supply voltage for junction units added. Max
Clutch/bypass load added. Page 3-12: NMEA messages list updated. Page
4-6: Drawings for junction units terminal boards included. Page 4-26:
Minor change in text. Table of contents, List of s and Distributor list
updated.
C New V1R2 s.w. in AP35 Control Unit. Initial rudder ref. setting. Page 2-
6: Added note. Page 4-1: Added point 5g. Page 4-25: Added “Initial
Rudder” to Dockside Items. Page 4-28: Added text. Page 4-29: Added
“Initial Rudder” explanation. Page 4-36: Corrected text in 1st. and 3rd.
paragraph.
D Added text on page 1-1 (4
th
paragraph), page 1-2 (table), page 2-10 (last
paragraph). New display picture one page 4-29. Corrected specifications
for Special Turn mode, page 3-1. Added “Modification on PCB”, page 5-
2.
E New layout. RF45X included. Dataline drawings replaced by IS15
drawings. CI300X connection drawing replaced. Display pictures updated
according to new software version, V1R3. NMEA compass added.
CD100A included.
F Following corrections: STBY button section 2.3. Conductor color on
figure 4-19. HDM message on page 83. Added FU35 under Comm.
Failure alarm page 95.
G Minor corrections in text on page 58, 83 and 85. Distributor list updated.
H Updated according to software version V1R4. RFC35R substituted by
RC25. FU35 substituted by FU50. Modifications on RF45X.
Instruction Manual
22083083H 3
Contents
1 GENERAL INFORMATION ............................................................................................... 9
1.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................. 9
1.2 How to use this manual............................................................................................. 9
1.3 System components ................................................................................................ 10
1.4 AP35 Control Unit .................................................................................................. 10
1.5 Junction units .......................................................................................................... 11
1.6 Rudder Feedback units ........................................................................................... 11
RF300 Rudder Feedback Unit ................................................................................ 11
RF45X Rudder Feedback Unit ............................................................................... 11
1.7 Heading Sensors ..................................................................................................... 11
RFC35 Electronic Fluxgate Compass..................................................................... 11
RC25 Rate Compass............................................................................................... 12
CDI35 Course Detector Interface and CD100A (CD109) Course Detector........... 12
NMEA compass...................................................................................................... 12
Other compass models............................................................................................ 12
1.8 Optional equipment ................................................................................................ 12
R3000X Remote Control ........................................................................................ 12
S35 NFU Steering Lever ........................................................................................ 12
FU50 Follow-Up Steering Lever ............................................................................ 12
F1/2 NFU Remote .................................................................................................. 13
RI35 Mk2 Rudder Angle Indicator......................................................................... 13
2 OPERATION OF THE AUTOPILOT............................................................................... 15
2.1 Overview ................................................................................................................ 15
2.2 ON/OFF - Standby mode........................................................................................ 16
2.3 Follow-Up steering ................................................................................................. 17
2.4 Non-Follow-Up steering ......................................................................................... 17
2.5 NFU Steering lever ................................................................................................. 17
2.6 NFU Push button remote control ............................................................................ 17
2.7 R3000X Remote Control ........................................................................................ 18
2.8 S35 NFU Steering Lever ........................................................................................ 18
2.9 Automatic Steering ................................................................................................. 19
2.10 Automatic Speed selection ..................................................................................... 20
2.11 Manual speed selection........................................................................................... 20
2.12 Navigating with the AP35 ...................................................................................... 21
Selecting a different Navigator............................................................................... 22
2.13 WORK-mode.......................................................................................................... 23
2.14 TURN-mode ........................................................................................................... 24
2.15 Dodging .................................................................................................................. 25
Dodge in NAV........................................................................................................ 25
2.16 Multiple station system........................................................................................... 25
2.17 Lock function.......................................................................................................... 26
2.18 User Set-up Menu ................................................................................................... 27
3 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS..................................................................................... 29
Simrad AP35 Autopilot
4 22083083H
3.1
AP35 Autopilot System .......................................................................................... 29
3.2 AP35 Control Unit .................................................................................................. 30
3.3 Junction units .......................................................................................................... 30
3.4 RFC35 Fluxgate compass ....................................................................................... 32
3.5 RC25 Rate Compass ............................................................................................... 33
3.6 CDI35 Course Detector Interface ........................................................................... 33
3.7 RI35 Mk2 Rudder Angle Indicator ......................................................................... 34
3.8 RF300 Rudder Feedback Unit ................................................................................ 35
3.9 RF45X Rudder Feedback Unit ............................................................................... 36
3.10 R3000X Remote ..................................................................................................... 37
3.11 CI300X Compass Interface..................................................................................... 37
3.12 NI300X NMEA Interface ....................................................................................... 38
3.13 S35 NFU Steering Lever ........................................................................................ 38
3.14 F1/2 Remote Control .............................................................................................. 39
3.15 FU50 Steering Lever............................................................................................... 40
3.16 IP protection ........................................................................................................... 41
4 INSTALLATION ................................................................................................................. 43
4.1 General.................................................................................................................... 43
4.2 Installation checklist ............................................................................................... 43
4.3 Unpacking and handling ......................................................................................... 44
4.4 Determine system configuration ............................................................................. 44
4.5 AP35 System Layout .............................................................................................. 45
4.6 RF300 Rudder feedback ......................................................................................... 45
4.7 RF45X Rudder Feedback Unit ............................................................................... 47
Electrical connection .............................................................................................. 48
4.8 Junction unit ........................................................................................................... 49
Cable connections................................................................................................... 49
Grounding and RFI................................................................................................. 50
Junction unit terminals............................................................................................ 50
4.9 Drive unit ................................................................................................................ 51
Connecting a reversible pump ................................................................................ 53
Connecting a hydraulic linear drive........................................................................ 53
Connecting a solenoid valve................................................................................... 54
4.10 Control unit............................................................................................................. 54
Panel mounting ....................................................................................................... 54
Bracket mounting ................................................................................................... 54
ROBNET network cables ....................................................................................... 55
4.11 RFC35 Fluxgate Compass ...................................................................................... 57
4.12 RC25 Rate Compass ............................................................................................... 58
4.13 R3000X Remote Control ........................................................................................ 59
4.14 FU50 Steering Lever............................................................................................... 59
4.15 S35 NFU Steering Lever ........................................................................................ 60
4.16 F1/2 Remote Control .............................................................................................. 60
4.17 RI35 Mk2 Rudder Angle Indicator......................................................................... 61
RI35 Mk2 illumination ........................................................................................... 61
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Zero adjust .............................................................................................................. 61
Reversed deflection ................................................................................................ 62
4.18 Interfacing............................................................................................................... 63
4.19 Single NMEA input/output..................................................................................... 63
4.20 Double NMEA input/output ................................................................................... 63
4.21 Additional NMEA output on Port 2........................................................................ 64
4.22 NMEA Compass in................................................................................................. 64
4.23 Radar Clock/Data.................................................................................................... 64
4.24 IS15 Instrument ...................................................................................................... 65
4.25 Analog Repeater ..................................................................................................... 66
4.26 Digital Repeater ...................................................................................................... 66
4.27 External Alarm ....................................................................................................... 67
4.28 NI300X NMEA Interface Unit ............................................................................... 67
4.29 CI300X Analogue Interface Unit............................................................................ 68
4.30 CD100A Course Detector....................................................................................... 69
4.31 CDI35 Interface ...................................................................................................... 70
4.32 Software Setup Procedure....................................................................................... 71
Description of Installation Settings ........................................................................ 71
Installation Settings Menu ...................................................................................... 72
Language selection ................................................................................................. 72
Dockside settings.................................................................................................... 73
Drive unit voltage selection .................................................................................... 74
Alignment for RF45X Rudder Feedback Unit........................................................ 75
Rudder Feedback Calibration ................................................................................. 75
Automatic Rudder Test........................................................................................... 77
Transition Speed ..................................................................................................... 77
Autotrim WORK .................................................................................................... 78
Initial Rudder.......................................................................................................... 78
Master reset............................................................................................................. 78
Interface Settings .................................................................................................... 79
4.33 Sea Trial.................................................................................................................. 83
Rudder zero adjust .................................................................................................. 83
Compass calibration................................................................................................ 84
Compass Offset....................................................................................................... 84
Automatic tuning .................................................................................................... 85
View parameters ..................................................................................................... 86
Manual parameter adjust......................................................................................... 87
4.34 Final sea trial .......................................................................................................... 88
4.35 Providing user training ........................................................................................... 89
5 MAINTENANCE ................................................................................................................. 90
5.1 Control unit............................................................................................................. 90
5.2 Junction Unit........................................................................................................... 90
5.3 Rudder Feedback .................................................................................................... 90
5.4 Compass.................................................................................................................. 90
5.5 Drive unit ................................................................................................................ 90
5.6 Exchange of software programme .......................................................................... 91
Modification on AP35 PCB.................................................................................... 92
Simrad AP35 Autopilot
6 22083083H
6
TROUBLE SHOOTING ..................................................................................................... 93
6.1 Alarms .................................................................................................................... 93
6.2 NMEA Test............................................................................................................. 96
6.3 System Data Menu.................................................................................................. 97
7 SPARE PARTS LIST .......................................................................................................... 98
8 SALES AND SERVICE WORLDWIDE (300903) ......................................................... 101
List of Figures
FIGURE 1-1 AP35 BASIC SYSTEM .................................................................................10
FIGURE 2-1 AP35 FRONT PANEL................................................................................... 15
FIGURE 3-1 AP35 CONTROL UNIT - DIMENSIONS DRW. NO. N3-208305...............30
FIGURE 3-2 J300X/J3000X JUNCTION UNIT - DIMENSIONS ..................................... 31
FIGURE 3-3 J300X-40 JUNCTION UNIT - DIMENSIONS .............................................31
FIGURE 3-4 RFC35 FLUXGATE COMPASS – DIMENSIONS ......................................32
FIGURE 3-5 RI35 MK2 DIMENSIONS............................................................................. 34
FIGURE 3-6 RF300 RUDDER FEEDBACK - DIMENSIONS.......................................... 35
FIGURE 3-7 TRANSMISSION LINK - DIMENSIONS.................................................... 35
FIGURE 3-8 RF45X RUDDER FEEDBACK UNIT .......................................................... 36
FIGURE 3-9 RF45 TRANSMISSION LINK...................................................................... 36
FIGURE 3-10 R3000X - DIMENSIONS ............................................................................37
FIGURE 3-11 CI300X AND NI300X - DIMENSIONS.....................................................38
FIGURE 3-12 S35 - DIMENSIONS.................................................................................... 39
FIGURE 3-13 F1/F2 - DIMENSIONS ................................................................................39
FIGURE 3-14 FU50 DIMENSIONS .................................................................................. 40
FIGURE 4-1 AP35 SYSTEM LAYOUT WITH OPTIONS................................................45
FIGURE 4-2 RF300 MOUNTING (019356)....................................................................... 46
FIGURE 4-3 RF300 CONNECTION .................................................................................. 46
FIGURE 4-4 RF45X RUDDER FEEDBACK UNIT - MOUNTING .................................47
FIGURE 4-5 RF45X CONNECTION .................................................................................48
FIGURE 4-6 J3XX MOUNTING........................................................................................ 49
FIGURE 4-7 J3XX – SCREEN TERMINATION............................................................... 50
FIGURE 4-8 CONNECTING A REVERSIBLE PUMP .....................................................53
FIGURE 4-9 CONNECTING A HYDRAULIC LINEAR DRIVE..................................... 53
FIGURE 4-10 CONNECTING A SOLENOID VALVE..................................................... 54
FIGURE 4-11 AP35 PANEL MOUNTING ........................................................................54
FIGURE 4-12 AP35 BRACKET MOUNTING...................................................................55
FIGURE 4-13 CONTROL UNIT CONNECTION.............................................................. 56
FIGURE 4-14 RFC35 MOUNTING.................................................................................... 57
FIGURE 4-15 RFC35 CONNECTION ...............................................................................58
FIGURE 4-16 RC25 CONNECTION TO AP35 CONTROL UNIT ................................... 58
FIGURE 4-17 R3000X CONNECTION .............................................................................59
FIGURE 4-18 S35 CONNECTION TO JUNCTION UNIT................................................60
FIGURE 4-19 F1/2 CONNECTION.................................................................................... 60
FIGURE 4-20 RI35 MK2-J3000X/J300X WIRING DIAGRAM........................................61
FIGURE 4-21 SINGLE NMEA CONNECTION............................................................... 63
FIGURE 4-22 DOUBLE NMEA CONNECTION............................................................. 63
FIGURE 4-23 NMEA COMPASS CONNECTION............................................................ 64
FIGURE 4-24 RADAR CLOCK/DATA CONNECTION ..................................................64
FIGURE 4-25 IS15 INSTRUMENTS / J3XX CONNECTION ..........................................65
FIGURE 4-26 IS15 EXPANDER / J3XX CONNECTION................................................. 65
FIGURE 4-27 AR77 AND AR68 ANALOG REPEATER CONNECTION...................... 66
FIGURE 4-28 DR75 DIGITAL REPEATER CONNECTION ..........................................66
FIGURE 4-29 EXTERNAL ALARM CONNECTION.......................................................67
FIGURE 4-30 NI300X CONNECTION.............................................................................. 68
FIGURE 4-31 CI300X CONNECTIONS............................................................................ 69
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FIGURE 4-32 CD100A MOUNTING................................................................................. 70
FIGURE 4-33 CDI35 CONNECTION ................................................................................ 70
FIGURE 4-34 INSTALLATION SETTINGS MENU ........................................................73
FIGURE 5-1 J3000X/J300X/J300X-40 MAIN PC-BOARD ..............................................91
FIGURE 5-2 AP35 PCB, COMPONENT LAYOUT .......................................................... 91
Simrad AP35 Autopilot
8 22083083H
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General Information
22083083H 9
1 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 Introduction
Congratulations on the purchase of your new Simrad AP35 autopilot system
and thank you for selecting what we feel is the most advanced autopilot
system available on the market today.
Today Simrad manufacture a complete range of autopilots for all types of
vessels, from leisure boats up to advanced steering systems for merchant
marine vessels. Our factory for these products Simrad Egersund AS, is
located in Egersund on the south/west coast of Norway. The company's
involvement in autopilots began in 1953 with equipment for the North Sea
fishing fleet under the brand name Robertson. Professional mariners around
the world acknowledge that the Robertson and Simrad brand names are
synonymous with the absolute best in autopilot technology.
The AP35 autopilot from Simrad represents yet another step forward in
autopilot technology with the intent to provide small fishing boats and work
boats up to 45 feet with a host of new features. The system can be expanded
and enhanced with a selection of options and accessories.
The brain in the AP35 autopilot system is the single "intelligent" junction
unit that communicates with all other system modules on the ROBNET
network. The ROBNET has been developed to establish a reliable digital
communication and power distribution network between the units in the
system. The ROBNET simplifies installation and enables the AP35 system
to be easily expanded at any time. Any unit that is connected to the autopilot
system via Robnet is called a Robnet Unit (See table on page 11).
1.2 How to use this manual
This manual is intended as a reference guide for operating, installing and
maintaining the Simrad AP35 autopilot. Great care has been paid to simplify
operation and set-up of the AP35, however, an autopilot is a complex
electronic system. It is affected by sea conditions, speed of the vessel, hull
shape and size.
Please take time to read this manual to get a thorough understanding of the
operation and system components and their relationship to a complete AP35
autopilot system.
Other documentation materials that are provided with your system include a
warranty card. This must be filled out by the authorized dealer that
performed the installation and mailed in to activate the warranty.
Simrad AP35 Autopilot
10 22083083H
1.3 System components
A basic AP35 system consists of the following units (refer to Figure 1-1):
• AP35 Control Unit with accessories
• Heading sensor
• Rudder Feedback Unit with transmission link
• Junction Unit
• Drive unit
The basic system can be expanded with remote control unit, hand held
remote and steering lever.
Figure 1-1 AP35 Basic system
1.4 AP35 Control Unit
A compact autopilot control for panel, bulkhead or bracket mounting. Large
LCD display for readout of autopilot data and rotary course selector. It has
two Robnet connectors for system inter- connection and expansion.
General Information
22083083H 11
1.5 Junction units
The junction unit is the central in the AP35 autopilot system. It contains the
steering computer, interface circuits to all system components and drive
circuits for the drive unit motor and clutch. Three models, J300X, J300X-40
and J3000X are available.
Junction unit comparison chart:
J3000X J300X (J300X-40)
Supply voltage 10-28 V 10-40 V
Motor current (continuous/peak) 6/10 A 10/20A (20/40A)
Number of Robnet units* (+J3xx) 2 5
NMEA ports (input/output) 1 2
Solenoid output x x
Input for NFU control x x
External alarm x
Radar clock/data interface x
* AP35 Control Unit, RC25 Rate Compass, FU50 Follow-up lever, CI300X
Compass Interface, NI300X NMEA Interface.
1.6 Rudder Feedback units
RF300 Rudder Feedback Unit
Rudder feedback unit with transmission link and 10 m (30 feet) of cable.
Transforms the angular travel of the rudder to a digital signal read by the
autopilot steering computer.
RF45X Rudder Feedback Unit
This unit transmits two electrical signals proportional to the rudder angle.
One signal operates as a feedback for the autopilot, the other as drive signal
for rudder angle indicators. The unit is mounted close to the rudder stock and
is mechanically connected to the rudder by the RF45 Transmission link.
1.7 Heading Sensors
The AP35 autopilot can be used with the following combinations of heading
sensors:
RFC35 Electronic Fluxgate Compass
A compact heading sensor from Simrad with 15 m (45 feet) of cable. The
direction of the earth's magnetic field is sensed by a floating ring core in a
fluxgate coil and transformed to a digital signal read by the autopilot steering
computer.
Simrad AP35 Autopilot
12 22083083H
RC25 Rate Compass
Fluxgate compass with integrated rate of turn sensor. Provides a dramatic
improvement to the dynamic performance of both the autopilot and a
stabilized radar display.
Same dimensions as RFC35.
CDI35 Course Detector Interface and
CD100A (CD109) Course Detector
Interface and sensor unit to connect AP35 to a magnetic compass. The AP35
provides excitation current for CD100A and converts the analogue sin/cos
signal to digital two wire format for the autopilot steering computer.
NMEA compass
Any NMEA 0183 compass with HDT, HDG or HDM messages can be
connected directly to the J300X/J300-40X junction units.
Other compass models
The optional CI300X can interface AP35 to fluxgate compasses with
heading signal on a sine/cosine format or gyro with 1:1 synchro.
1.8 Optional equipment
A series of options are available for the basic AP35 system.
R3000X Remote Control
A small handheld remote control with two push buttons for power steering
or course selection (port and starboard), and one push button with built-in
lighted indicator for mode selection.
S35 NFU Steering Lever
S35 is designed for indoor and outdoor bulkhead mount and made of shock
resistant polyxymethylene. The lever has spring loaded return to midposition. A push button with light indicator is used for mode selection when
connected to a Simrad J3XX junction unit.
FU50 Follow-Up Steering Lever
The FU50 Follow-up steering lever features a dial (scale) with 5° rudder
angle markings. The rudder will move and stop at the angle selected on the
dial. The FU50 has a mid-position indent, buttons for (limited) mode
selection, and mode indicators (STBY, FU, AUTO, NAV, WORK, and
THRUSTER*). It is designed for indoor and outdoor bulkhead- or panelmounting. Refer to the FU50 manual.
* With AP50 Autopilot only.
General Information
22083083H 13
F1/2 NFU Remote
Handheld control for push button steering, fitted with a rubber grip. Made of
cast seawater resistant aluminium and fitted with a 10 meter (30 ft.) cable.
RI35 Mk2 Rudder Angle Indicator
The RI35 Mk2 is manufactured in non-corrosive aluminum with a nonreflective black finish.
The indicator is made in standard modular size (132x108 mm) to match the
Simrad AP35 autopilot.
The instrument gives a continuous reading of the rudder position up to 45
degrees to each side of midship position. A front panel key is used for rudder
zero adjustment and illumination adjustment.
The splash proof construction allows panel, bulkhead or bracket mounting in
exposed locations, such as bridge wings as well as wheel house and engine
room.
Note ! See Figure 4-1 for illustrations or section 3 for technical specifications.
Simrad AP35 Autopilot
14 22083083H
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Operation
22083083H 15
2 OPERATION OF THE AUTOPILOT
Caution ! An autopilot is a very useful navigational aid, but DOES NOT under any
circumstance 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
• 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 magnetic or
fluxgate compass used in the autopilot system
• Verify at regular intervals course and position of vessel
• Always switch to Standby mode, and reduce speed in due time to avoid
hazardous situations
2.1 Overview
Figure 2-1 AP35 Front Panel
The control unit shown above can operate as a stand alone unit in an
autopilot system or combined in a multistation system. In a multistation
system the command can easily be transferred from one unit to another.
Units not in control will display "Inactive".
The AP35 system is capable of the following primary steering modes: STBY
(manual steering), AUTO, NAV, WORK and TURN, each mode having a
dedicated push button.
Each of the mode push buttons is clearly identified with the primary function
in large text, and a secondary function listed in smaller text. Each button
provides you with the ability to access a primary display, a secondary
display and/or multiple function displays.
Simrad AP35 Autopilot
16 22083083H
A group of user adjustable settings are provided in the AP35 USER SETUP
MENU (page 27). The settings allows adjustment of display visibility,
selection of heading sensors, navigation and position sources and the ability
to select between automatic or manual adjustable sea state filter.
Alarms are presented in plain text to alert you of system and external data
failure conditions. Alarms include both audible and visual presentations. The
alarm listing is on page 93.
2.2 ON/OFF - Standby mode
A single press on the STBY button switches the system ON and the
following status displays are shown:
HW rev. 0
SW V1R4
* AP35 *
* Robertson *
P00 M00 S000
SW V1R8
* J300X *
* Robertson *
Software V(ersion) and R(elease)
Autopilot model
Hardware revision
Software V(ersion) and R(elease)
Junction unit model
Self check
Main board revision
Power board revision
SW and HW revisions shown are examples only
After approx. 5 seconds the system is operative and the unit that was turned
on will show the STBY mode Primary Display. Other units in a multistation
system will display "Inactive". Control can be available at any unit by
pressing the STBY button.
A long press (2-3 sec.) on the STBY button switches the system OFF.
Note ! In an emergency it is possible on a multistation system to turn OFF the
system at any control unit by pressing down the STBY button for 2-3
seconds.
STBY mode is also the mode that is used when steering the boat manually.
Second Press
S123
STBY
OFF
Secondary Display
First Press
STBY
OFF
Primary Display
5 sec.
S123
RFC
HI
12
Standby mode.
Current heading from RFC
compass.
HI speed selected.
Rudder angle: 12 degrees
to starboard.
Standby mode.
Current heading.
Operation
22083083H 17
2.3 Follow-Up steering
When both the PORT and STBD push buttons are pressed simultaneously
the AP35 is set to Follow-Up steering mode and rudder commands can be set
by the course dial. One revolution of the dial equals 45° rudder command.
The rudder will move to the commanded angle and stop.
Press both buttons
simultaneously to
activate Follow-Up
FU
22
12
STBD
PORT
Follow-Up mode.
Commanded rudder angle:
22° to stbd.
Rudder angle:12
P
S
Use course knob to
command rudder angle.
STBY
OFF
Return to manual control in
STBY by pressing the
STBY button.
WARNING ! While in Follow-Up mode, you cannot take manual control of the
vessel.
2.4 Non-Follow-Up steering
In STBY mode, when the PORT or STBD push button is pressed separately,
the actual rudder angle is shown on the secondary display and the rudder will
move as long as the button is pressed.
03
NFU
A
ctivates
PORT
Rudder
command
05
NFU
Activates
STBD
Rudder
command
Actual rudder angle
Actual rudder angle
PORT
STBD
2.5 NFU Steering lever
In STBY mode the rudder will move as long as the lever is offset to Port or
Starboard
2.6 NFU Push button remote control
In STBY mode the rudder will move as long as the Port or Starboard button
is pressed.
Note ! When a NFU steering lever or remote control is operated, the control unit(s)
become "Inactive".
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18 22083083H
2.7 R3000X Remote Control
Note!
When in AUTO/WORK mode, pressing
the buttons will change the set course
1° per push. If you keep the button
pressed, it will automatically change
the course in increments of 3°/second.
Operation of mode button returns the
autopilot to initial mode except when in
Nav mode:
AUTO
→
STBY → AUTO
WORK
→
STBY → WORK
NAV
→
STBY →AUTO
Nav and Work modes can only be
entered from the control unit.
2.8 S35 NFU Steering Lever
STBY: The rudder will move as long as the lever is offset to Port
or Stbd (NFU steering). The mode button is lit each time
the lever is offset.
AUTO/WORK: The set course will be changed by 3°/sec. when the lever
is offset to port or Stbd.
The mode button remains lit as long as the autopilot is in
AUTO or WORK mode (and NAV mode).
Mode change sequence is as follows:
AUTO AUTOSTBY
STBYWORK WORK
Operation of mode button returns the autopilot to initial
mode.
NAV: It is not possible to change set course by the lever.
Pressing the mode button brings the autopilot to Stby
mode, but next press brings it to Auto
mode, not back to
Nav mode.
STBYNAV AUTO
Note ! NAV and WORK mode can only be entered from a control unit.
STBY-AUTO
Simrad R3000X
STBY/AUTO mode button.
AUTO, WORK or NAV
mode is when lamp is lit
Push buttons for Port and
Stbd NFU commands
SIMRAD
Operation
22083083H 19
2.9 Automatic Steering
The AUTO mode is used to make the AP35 steer the boat automatically on a
set heading. AUTO is always available from any mode or function within the
AP35 by a single push on the AUTO button. When the AUTO mode is
selected, the AP35 automatically selects the current boat heading as the set
course and the current rudder angle to compensate for wind/current.
Note ! If Init Rudder “Midship” is selected (see Dockside settings, page 73 the
rudder will move to midship (0
°
).
In AUTO, the AP35 is issuing rudder commands to keep the boat on the set
heading. Determination of the boat heading is provided by the magnetic
compass course detector or RFC35 Fluxgate Compass (or an optional
heading sensor) for course keeping in AUTO mode.
The AP35 will keep the boat on the set heading until a new mode is selected
or a new heading is set with either the course dial or the PORT or STBD
buttons. One revolution of the dial equals 45° course change.
Once the course is changed to a new set heading, the boat will automatically
turn to the new heading and continue to steer straight.
First Press
AUTO
SPEED
A315
313
LO
02
Primary Display
Automatic steering mode.
Set heading.
Boat heading.
LO speed selected.
Rudder angle: 02°
STBD
PORT
Port Starboard
Course adjust
1 degree/push
Course change
CW: Starboard
CCW: Port
Second Press
AUTO
SPEED
A315
Secondary Display
The secondary display is
also shown for 3 seconds
when the PORT or STBD
button, or the course dial is
activated from primary
display.
Simrad AP35 Autopilot
20 22083083H
2.10 Automatic Speed selection
The AP35 provides two different sets of steering parameters for controlling
the response of the boat at different speeds (HI or LO) while in AUTO and
NAV modes.
The AP35 always selects the HI speed steering parameters when first
switched on. This is a safety feature. After initial turn on, selection of the
steering parameters is done automatically, based on the availability of input
data from either an external speed log or an external navigator, or manually.
The AP35 automatically selects the HI or LO parameter set. The speed at
which the AP35 changes from HI to LO (or opposite) is determined by the
"Transition Speed" set in the Installation Setup Menu.
26
24
22
20
18
16
14
12
10
8
6
4
2
0
H
I
s
p
e
e
d
p
a
r
a
m
e
t
e
r
s
L
O
s
p
e
e
d
p
a
r
a
m
e
t
e
r
s
Transition Speed set to 9 Knots
Example of
Transition speeds with
AUTOMATIC Speed parameter
selection
Transition to HI parameters
with increasing speed: 10 Knot
s
Transition to LO parameters
with decreasing speed: 8 Knots
2.11 Manual speed selection
Select AUTO mode. To toggle between HI and LO speed parameters, press
the "AUTO" button two times quickly (Double click).
If you change boat speed it is recommended that you select HI or LO
parameters correspondingly.
setting
HI
AUTO
SPEED
setting
LO
The manually selected steering parameter set (HI or LO) will remain in
effect until you re-enter AUTO mode or restarts.
Operation
22083083H 21
2.12 Navigating with the AP35
The AP35 has the capability to use steering information from an external
navigator (GPS, Chart Plotter) to direct the boat to a specific waypoint
location, or through a route of waypoints. In the NAV mode, the AP35 uses
the heading sensor as it's source of heading for course keeping. The steering
and speed information received from the external navigator alters the set
course to direct the AP35 to the destination waypoint.
Note ! Navigational steering must only be used in open waters. The process of
having an external navigation receiver direct an autopilot can be a slow
acting process. By selecting the NAV mode, the AP35 is set for automatic
steering on the current set course and then waits for the user to accept the
course change to the destination waypoint.
To obtain satisfactory navigation steering, the following points must be
fulfilled prior to entering the NAV mode:
• The AP35 autosteering must be tested and found satisfactory.
• The navigation receiver must be operating and the navigation system
(GPS, Chart Plotter) must be in full operating mode with adequate signal
characteristics for valid position and steering data.
• At least one waypoint must be entered and selected as the current
waypoint in the navigation receiver.
• The navigation source in the AP35 USER SETUP menu must be set for
the navigator that contains the current waypoint.
The AP35 is designed to steer in “mixed mode” operation. This combines
the straight steering capability of cross track error (XTE) steering in
conjunction with the turning capability of bearing mode steering (course to
steer (CTS)).
N
.02 Nm
If required course change
is safe, press NAV to accept
Third press
Second press
OK:? Press NAV
Chg.
Brg.
WP: WP 001
135
016
Required course change
Bearing WP-WP (leg)
Waypoint Name
XTE Display
GPS1
N-HI
135 1.25 Nm
Nav. Mode, HI speed param.
Bearing and distance to WP
from present position
Nav source
Boat is .02 Nm to the left
of track.
First Press
NAV
SETUP
NAV
SETUP
NAV
SETUP
Simrad AP35 Autopilot
22 22083083H
When operating the AP35 in NAV mode to automatically steer through a
route of waypoints, the AP35 will steer to the first waypoint in the route after
you accept the first waypoint as the location to steer to. When you arrive at
the waypoint, the AP35 will display an alert screen with the proposed new
course information displayed. If the required course change is more than 10°
you will need to verify that the upcoming course change is acceptable.
Verification is performed by pressing the NAV button after the alert screen
is displayed. If no verification is received, the AP35 will continue on the
current set course in AUTO mode.
Origin
Waypoint 2
OK:? Press NAV
Chg.
Brg.
WP: WP 002
094
075
New heading accepted
automatically after
NAV/SETUP button is pressed
At the arrival of each new waypoint in a route:
Waypoint arrival zone
(determined by the navigator)
Waypoint 1
Prompt displayed to advise
required course change
N
.01 Nm
Regain manual
steering at any
time by pressing:
XTE on WP2 track
NAV
SETUP
STBY
OFF
Selecting a different Navigator
If you have more than one Navigation source connected to the AP35, you
will be able to choose any for Navigation. Refer to the User Set-up menu for
details on selecting a different Navigator.
Note ! If the AP35 is connected to a Nav. receiver that does not transmit a message
with bearing to next waypoint, it will pick a XTE message and steer on Cross
Track Error 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.
Operation
22083083H 23
2.13 WORK-mode
The WORK-mode is an automatic steering mode to be used under
operational conditions different from those normally found when a vessel is
in transit on a preset course. Examples are trawling, towing, trolling on one
engine, slow speed etc.
Rudder angle
Set course
Second Press
WORK
ADJ
First Press
WORK
ADJ
W315
W 315
313
LO
02
At such incidents some boats may need a rudder off-set when steered by
hand. By selecting WORK-mode directly from STBY-mode the rudder offset is maintained and becomes the TRIM value.
When in WORK mode a quick double press on the WORK button will
access the TRIM display and the rotary course dial can then be used to adjust
the trim value if needed. The (manual) trim compensates for the autotrim
which needs time to build up the appropriate rudder off-set. The TRIM
setting is not stored.
A different RUDDER (GAIN) setting may be preferred in WORK mode as
compared to that in AUTO (Lo)-mode. A second quick double press on the
WORK button following that for the TRIM display will give access to the
RUDDER display. The RUDDER value can then be set by the course dial.
The RUDDER value set in WORK mode will be stored in the AP35 memory
and is automatically recalled when returning to WORK mode.
Change value
CW: Increase
CCW: Decrease
10
TRIM
Quick double press
Quick double press
0.50
RUDDER
WORK
ADJ
WORK
ADJ
WORK
ADJ
WORK
ADJ
Trim direction
CW: Stbd
CCW: Port
Trim value 10 port
W
315
313
LO
02
The LO (speed) parameters of Counter Rudder (C-RUDD) and Autotrim are
automatically selected in WORK mode. The autotrim function and the Offcourse alarm are controlled by speed input and are automatically turned off
at speeds below 2 kts. If no speed input is provided the autotrim is
permanently on and the Off-course alarm operates as in AUTO mode.
If you prefer to have complete manual control of the rudder trim in WORK
mode, the autotrim can be permanently disabled at the installation setup.
From software version V1R2 onwards the off course alarm is permanently
disabled in Work mode. See your s.w. version on initial start-up.
Note ! Pair-trawling requires manual trim only, and the autotrim should be
permanently disabled at the installation setup.
Simrad AP35 Autopilot
24 22083083H
2.14 TURN-mode
The AP35 provides special turn features when in AUTO or WORK modes.
U-Turn changes the current set course to be 180 degrees in the opposite
direction. The user may decide if the U-Turn should be made to Port or
Starboard to bring the boat on the new course. U-Turn is activated by a
single push on the TURN button. After the single push, the AP35 will
continue on the set course until you press either the PORT or STBD button
to select the direction to make the U-Turn. If you do not press PORT or
STBD within 1 minute, the AP35 will return to the AUTO mode and stay on
course.
First Press
TURN
DODGE
Press to select STBD U-turn
U-turn prompt
New course
Boat
makes
STBD
U-turn
Present course
Press
U TURN
STBD
A315
313
LO
02
A
313
135
LO
18
C-Turn changes the current set course continuously. The user may decide if
the C-Turn should be made to Port or Starboard. C-Turn is activated by a
second push on the TURN button, and can only be activated when the AP35
is in AUTO or WORK modes. The AP35 will continue on the set course
until you press either the PORT or STBD button to select the direction to
make the C-Turn. If you do not press PORT or STBD within 1 minute, the
AP35 will return to the AUTO mode and stay on course.
The turn rate can be adjusted before the turn is initiated or during the turn.
Set turn rate
CW: Increase
CCW: Decrease
AUTO
SPEED
Second
press
TURN
DODGE
Press
C TURN
090 /min
PORT
STBD
A265
C-TURN
090 /min
Adjust turn rate while turn ing
CW: Increase
CCW: Decrease
New set course
Turn
Set course is
continuously changing
A278280
LO
02
Note ! Increasing turn rate gives smaller circle or vice versa.
To leave C-turn press any of the Mode buttons. When pressing the AUTO
button the new set course is the one shown on the display at the instant the
button is pressed.
Operation
22083083H 25
2.15 Dodging
The AP35 also provides the capability for dodging.
Dodging is useful in situations where you need to quickly take control of the
helm to steer around an obstruction, and then wish to return on the previous
set heading after performing the evasive manoeuvre. A quick double press
on the TURN/DODGE button activates dodging.
When in DODGE mode the course displayed is the current boat's heading,
however, the previous set course is remembered by the AP35. When
DODGE is displayed, the AP35 is no longer in control of the steering, and
you must either manually steer the boat or take control using either Non
Follow Up steering or Follow Up steering. On manual steering the clutch (or
bypass valve) in the drive unit will be disengaged when dodging. The AP35
will remain in the DODGE mode until you exit DODGE by a second press
on the TURN/DODGE button or select another mode.
Current heading
Selects AUTO mode
at the previous
set course
Selects AUTO mode
with current heading
as set course
Next Press
Quick double press
DODGE
265
Wheel
or
or both
Non Follow Up
Follow Up
Perform dodge using:
TURN
DODGE
AUTO
SPEED
STBD
PORT
PORT
STBD
TURN
DODGE
Dodge in NAV
Current heading
Selects NAV mode
at the current track
Selects AUTO mode
with current heading
as set course
Next Press
Quick double press
DODGE
265
Wheel
or
or both
Non Follow Up
Follow Up
Perform dodge using:
TURN
DODGE
AUTO
SPEED
STBD
PORT
PORT
STBD
TURN
DODGE
NAV
SETUP
Selects NAV mode
at present position
2.16 Multiple station system
In normal operation of multiple control units, control is accessible from
every control unit connected to the AP35 system. One control unit is "active"
and provides the user with access to all functions and enables the user to
change modes and set the course for automatic course keeping. All
remaining control units are "inactive" and have no effect on mode changes or
course selection. A single push of either the STBY (or AUTO or NAV)
buttons on an "inactive" control unit will allow transfer of command and
make it "active".
Simrad AP35 Autopilot
26 22083083H
2.17 Lock function
The "LOCK" function is a safety feature included in the AP35 system to
disable all control units except for a single, user selected control unit
location.
When the "lock" function is in use, no transfer of command may take place;
only the "active" control unit stays in command.
To enable the "lock" function, make a quick double press on the STBY
button.
123
RFC
HI
12
STBY
OFF
STBY
OFF
S123
RFC
HI
12
The display on the "active" control unit will first show a single key icon
followed by the primary display on which the key icon will alternate with the
mode index.
The "locked" control units in the system will show:
Inactive
123
The “Lock function is disengaged by the following actions:
• The “active” control unit unlocks by a double press on the STBY button.
• The system is switched OFF by any
control unit (press STBY for 2-3
seconds).
After having "unlocked" the other control stations, the "active" control unit
will show the above symbol before the display returns to normal. All other
control units will return to the "inactive" state.
Operation
22083083H 27
2.18 User Set-up Menu
NAV
SETUP
- SETUP -
Backlight
03
- SETUP -
Contrast
05
- SETUP -
Seastate
Filt.: OFF
- SETUP -
NAV. source:
GPS 1
- SETUP -
POS. Source:
GPS 1
Sequences
FWD in MENU
Sequences
BACK in
MENU
Adjust backlight of display and pushbuttons (10 steps,
10 = brightest). Setting is stored when system is
turned off, and resets to stored level at turn on.
Adjustment is local to the control head you adjust.
Adjust contrast of displays (10 steps). Setting is stored when
system is turned off, and resets to stored level at turn on.
Adjustment is local. All steps not available at high temperature
due to automatic temperature compensation.
Select the compass to be used for AUTO steering.
Refer to the interface setup table in section 4.
RFC COMP = Robertson Fluxgate compass
MAGNET COMP = Magnetic compass
OTHER FLUXG = Non-Robertson fluxgate compass (sin/cos)
GYRO COMP = Robertson gyrocompass (using 1:1 synchro)
NMEA COMP = NMEA compass
Scrolls through menu
selections or sets
value on menu items
Set the Sea State filter.
OFF: Provides precise steering but increases rudder activity.
AUTO: Reduces rudder activity and reduces sensitivity of
autopilot in rough weather automatically.
MANUAL: Sets yawband manually (1-10).
Select the source for NAV mode steering.
Refer to interface setup table in section 4.
Select the source of speed over ground (SOG) and position data
processed by the AP35. This option will appear whenever there is
more than one navigation receiver connected to the system.
Except when NMEA TEST or SYSTEM DATA is displayed, the menu
will disappear after 60 seconds if no key is pressed. It will disappear
immediately if any mode key (STBY, AUTO, NAV, WORK, TURN)
is pressed.
- SETUP -
Select Comp.:
RFC COMP.
Test functions for analysing system data (See "NMEA test" and
"System Data menu" under the "Trouble shooting" section).
NMEA TEST?
SYSTEM DATA?
Quick double
press
Enter User
Setup Menu
Displays User
Set-up Menu
- SETUP -
Backlight
03
TOP
BACK FWD
STBD
PORT
STBD
PORT
Note ! It is necessary to select the correct compass and Nav. source to make the
autopilot operate.
Simrad AP35 Autopilot
28 22083083H
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