Overview

The Simrad 000-15042-001 is an AP70 Mk2 IMO pack (Analog) that combines the AP70 Mk2 autopilot control head with an AC80A autopilot computer for wheelmarked autopilot installations on commercial vessels. The control head runs on 12/24 VDC (+30% / -10%), uses a 480 x 480 display with red/white backlighting, and is rated IPx6 when installed exposed.

At the helm, the rotary dial and keypad keep the common steering functions close at hand, including Non Follow Up (NFU), Follow Up (FU), Auto, NoDrift, and Nav modes. NoDrift uses GPS position to hold a straight track over ground against wind and tide, and the controller also supports turn patterns such as U-turn and S-turn.

For larger steering systems, the platform supports up to six drives and can be configured for multiple rudders and thrusters. The included AC80A is built for analog or proportional drive control and includes galvanically isolated 4-20 mA output, built-in CAN-bus supply, and four IEC 61162-1 (NMEA 0183) receive/transmit channels.

Key features

• Wheelmarked for SOLAS use (IMO, MED-B).
• 12/24 VDC supply (+30% / -10%) with a recommended 2 A fuse; draws up to 0.7 A at 12 V (0.4 A at 24 V).
• 480 x 480 display with red/white backlight and a 170 degree viewing angle for bridge visibility.
• Exposed IPx6 rating and an operating temperature range of -30 C to +55 C.
• Flush or bracket mounting; dimensions 253 x 144 x 54 mm; compass safe distance 0.4 m.
• NMEA 2000 connection via 1x Micro-C port (1 LEN) plus 1x Ethernet port for PC connectivity.
• Steering modes include NFU, FU, Auto, NoDrift, and Nav; turn patterns include U-turn and S-turn.
• Supports up to six drives with multi rudder/thruster integration, including dual rudders and fore/aft thrusters.
• AC80A drive computer supports analog/proportional outputs including galvanically isolated 4-20 mA, with built-in CAN-bus supply and 4-channel NMEA 0183 (IEC 61162-1) RX/TX.

Compatibility and fit

The control head ties into an NMEA 2000 backbone (Micro-C) and can take heading and navigation data from sensors on NMEA 2000 or NMEA 0183. Navigation steering can follow a pre-planned route from a Simrad MFD, Simrad ECDIS, or compatible third-party MFD/ECDIS, which is useful when you want the autopilot to steer the active leg instead of a fixed heading.

For rudder feedback, it supports common Simrad feedback units including RF300, RF45X, RF25N, RF70, and RF14XU. Drive integration covers typical commercial steering arrangements, including reversible pumps, solenoid valve on/off control, proportional valves, analog, and CAN (SG05Pro), depending on how the rest of the steering system is configured.

Installation and setup

Plan the AP70 Mk2 location where it is easy to reach from the steering position and still protected from direct impact and constant spray. The unit can be flush mounted into a console or installed on a bracket, and the 0.4 m compass safe distance is worth keeping in mind when laying out the bridge. Power should be supplied from a clean 12 V or 24 V DC feed with proper protection (2 A fuse) and routing appropriate for a vibration-prone marine environment.

The AC80A is typically mounted in a dry electrical space, with wiring run to the drive equipment and feedback sensors using marine-grade practices for strain relief and isolation. On SOLAS/MED installations, the system should be installed and configured in line with the applicable wheelmarked requirements for the full autopilot setup.

On-board use

This controller layout works well when the watch needs quick mode changes without digging through menus, and when the vessel benefits from separate low-speed, high-speed, and work mode tuning. Command transfer supports multi-station setups so control can be handed between devices when operating from different positions on the vessel.

It is a good match for commercial refits that need analog drive interfacing as well as new builds that are already carrying NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 navigation data around the boat.

What’s included

• AP70 Mk2 Autopilot Controller
• Simrad AC80A Autopilot Computer