Raymarine Follow-On Tiller Controller, For Evolution Powerboat Autopilots, SeaTalkng, 12V

Overview

The Raymarine Follow On Tiller Controller is an auxiliary helm control for Raymarine Evolution autopilot systems on powerboats, giving the skipper power steering control from a secondary position on board.

It connects through SeaTalkng and can also interface with NMEA 2000 through a DeviceNet adaptor. The controller runs from a 12 V dc SeaTalkng supply, operates across 9 V dc to 16 V dc, is protected up to 32 V dc, and has a maximum power consumption of 30 mA.

With IPx6 and IPx7 waterproof ratings and an operating temperature range from -25 degrees C to +55 degrees C, it is built for exposed helm areas, bridge wings, aft docking stations, and pilothouse installations where spray, washdowns, vibration, and changing weather are part of normal use.

Key features

• Works with Raymarine Evolution autopilot systems for powerboats.
• SeaTalkng networking supports installation of up to 4 remote tiller stations.
• NMEA 2000 connection is available through a DeviceNet adaptor.
• Power Steer control allows steering angle commands to the rudder up to 35 degrees.
• Selectable Follow-Up and Non-Follow-Up steering modes support different maneuvering styles.
• Return spring brings the control back to the 0 degree center position when released, and the spring can be removed for unsprung control.
• IPx6 and IPx7 waterproof ratings support use in wet helm and deck-adjacent locations.
• Low-profile form factor can be fitted into compact helm areas, including pilot house helm chair installations.

Variants

The Follow On Tiller Controller is offered in two operation-mode configurations. Both are part of the same remote steering control range for Evolution powerboat autopilot systems, with the operating state behavior being the key difference.

The shared platform uses SeaTalkng networking, supports up to 4 remote tiller stations, and provides Follow-Up and Non-Follow-Up steering behavior. The variant selection affects how the controller enters and exits Power Steer mode in relation to the autopilot state.

• A80532: Operation mode Standby-Power Steer-Standby. The activation button moves the system from Standby into Power Steer, then returns it to Standby, which fits a remote steering station used without engaging the autopilot.
• A80602: Operation mode Auto-Power Steer-Auto. The activation button moves the system from Auto into Power Steer, then returns it to Auto, which supports course adjustments while the autopilot is engaged.

Electrical and system integration

This controller is powered through the SeaTalkng backbone, so planning the installation starts with the existing Raymarine network layout and available spur connection points. Its LEN value is 1, which helps when checking the load budget on an NMEA 2000 or SeaTalkng network.

For mixed-network boats, the supported data connection is SeaTalkng or NMEA 2000 through an adaptor. It should be matched with an Evolution powerboat autopilot installation rather than used as a standalone steering control.

Installation and setup

The controller mounts on a flat, rigid surface and is well suited to remote helm points where the skipper needs hands-on rudder control without moving back to the main helm. Common locations include bridge wing stations for docking visibility, aft stations for close-quarters work, and protected pilothouse positions.

Setup and calibration are handled through the vessel autopilot system, so the final behavior should be checked at the helm after installation. In Follow-Up mode, rudder movement follows the tiller position. In Non-Follow-Up mode, the rudder remains at the angle set when the control is released or returned to center, so the operator must bring the rudder back to amidships manually.

Use cases on board

This controller is a strong match for power cruising boats and commercial vessels that already use a Raymarine Evolution autopilot and need an extra steering position. It is especially useful where visibility or crew workflow improves from having steering control away from the primary helm.

For docking, maneuvering around a marina, or making controlled steering inputs from a secondary station, the Follow On Tiller Controller keeps rudder control close to the operator while staying integrated with the boat autopilot network.

What’s included

• Follow On Tiller controller in the selected operation mode
• Keypad
• Mounting gasket
• 1 m SeaTalkng elbow spur to SeaTalkng straight white cable
• M3 x 5 mm button head socket screw and M3 washer for unsprung control
• Mounting fixings x4
• Rotary lever
• Documentation