Overview

The Simrad 000-15805-001 is a steer-by-wire autopilot kit that ties a Simrad autopilot into a Yamaha Helm Master steering system (not Helm Master EX). It combines the NAC-D autopilot computer, an Autopilot Gateway for Yamaha, and a Precision-9 heading sensor, with the NMEA 2000 network parts needed to get the core autopilot network online.

This kit is a good match for Yamaha outboard boats that already run, or plan to run, a Simrad multifunction display or dedicated Simrad autopilot controller on the same NMEA 2000 network. The package does not include a chartplotter or autopilot control head, so steering commands come from your existing Simrad control interface.

Key features

• Interfaces with Yamaha Helm Master steer-by-wire steering systems (not Helm Master EX)
• NAC-D steer-by-wire autopilot computer, so there is no separate hydraulic pump or rudder feedback unit to add for autopilot drive control
• Autopilot Gateway for Yamaha bridges Helm Master steering data with the Simrad autopilot network
• Precision-9 heading sensor on NMEA 2000 supplies heading and rate-of-turn data used for stable autopilot steering
• Includes core NMEA 2000 network parts for power and termination: N2K-PWR-RD power node, N2K-T-RD T-connector, and TR-120-KIT terminators
• Autopilot can be controlled from a Simrad multifunction display or a dedicated Simrad autopilot controller on the network

What’s included

• N2K-PWR-RD Network Power Node
• N2K-T-RD Network T-Connector
• TR-120-KIT Network Terminator Kit
• Precision-9 Compass
• Autopilot Gateway for Yamaha
• NAC-D autopilot computer

Compatibility and fit

This kit is for boats with Yamaha Helm Master steer-by-wire steering. It is not intended for Helm Master EX systems. Plan on a proper NMEA 2000 backbone with correct termination, and confirm you have a Simrad control interface on the network (a compatible Simrad MFD or a dedicated Simrad autopilot controller) to operate the autopilot modes.

Installation and setup

Mount the NAC-D and the Yamaha gateway in a dry, protected location below decks, where you can route NMEA 2000 cabling cleanly and service the connectors later. Install the Precision-9 where it is away from large ferrous metals, high-current wiring, and magnetic sources, then complete the normal dockside setup and on-water sea trial so the pilot steers the way your hull and engine setup respond.

Electrical and system integration

The autopilot backbone is built around NMEA 2000. The included power node is used to feed the network, and that network feed should be protected and wired to suit the boat’s distribution standards. On 24 V boats, the NMEA 2000 backbone is typically powered at 12 V through the correct conversion and protection, rather than directly from 24 V.

Use cases on board

Once commissioned, this setup helps on long transits where you want the boat to hold a steady heading, and it is also useful for offshore runs and trolling passes where consistent steering reduces workload at the helm. It fits owners who want autopilot integration without adding a separate hydraulic drive package.