Overview

The Simrad 000-14958-001 is the AP70 Mk2 autopilot control head used to run a Simrad professional autopilot system from a dedicated helm station. It uses a 5 inch color TFT display with 480 x 480 resolution and a rotary dial with dedicated keys, so heading changes and mode changes are quick when you are working a watch or maneuvering in close quarters.

The unit powers from 12/24 V DC (+30/-10%) and measures 253 x 144 x 54 mm. On the back you have a 4-pin connector for local power plus external alarm or active-unit output, a Micro-C connector for the CAN bus (NMEA 2000, 1 LEN), and an Ethernet port for system networking.

AP70 Mk2 systems are used in commercial settings where approvals matter and where a single autopilot may need to coordinate multiple drives, rudders, and thrusters. In multi-station installations, the controller supports command transfer between control points, which is useful for bridge wings, aft stations, or redundant helms.

Key features

• 5 inch 16-bit color TFT display with 480 x 480 resolution and antifog bonding
• Rotary dial and dedicated keys for fast course changes and direct access to steering modes
• Supply voltage: 12/24 V DC (+30/-10%); recommended fuse rating: 2 A
• Typical draw: 0.7/0.4 A at 12 V DC and 0.4/0.3 A at 24 V DC (backlight full/off)
• NMEA 2000 network connection via 1x CAN Micro-C port (1 LEN)
• 1x Ethernet port plus 1x USB port for system connectivity
• Exposed IPx6 rating with an operating temperature range of -30 C to +55 C
• Supports installations with up to six drives and up to six rudders or thrusters integration
• Flush or bracket mounting; weight 1.4 kg; compass safe distance 0.4 m

Installation and setup

The control head supports flush mounting in a console or bracket mounting on a flat surface. For flush installs, the typical workflow is to tape the mounting template in place, drill the pilot holes, cut the corner radii with a 25 mm (1 inch) hole saw, then connect the rear cables before seating the unit and fastening it with four screws.

Allow enough clearance behind the panel for the chassis and cable bend radius, and keep the rear connections out of any area where water can pool. For a clean NMEA 2000 drop, plan your Micro-C cabling so the control head can be removed later without having to pull the whole backbone apart.

Electrical and system integration

Local power is supplied through the 4-pin connector and should be protected with a 2 A fuse. The control head joins the autopilot network through its Micro-C CAN bus connection, and the Ethernet port is used for system networking where applicable.

This is a control head, so overall steering interface, drive outputs, rudder feedback, and sensor inputs are handled by the connected autopilot computer and interface modules. Compass sensor support includes NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 sources, and navigation steering can follow a route provided by compatible Simrad displays, ECDIS systems, or third-party chartplotters.

Use on board

Steering modes include Follow Up (FU), Non Follow Up (NFU), Auto, NoDrift, and Nav, which covers everything from low-speed docking control through route following. Work profiles and low or high speed modes let the system be tuned for different operating conditions such as towing, fishing runs, or transits.

This controller is a strong fit for workboats and commercial bridges that need a dedicated autopilot station with clear alarm handling and support for multiple control stations.

Maintenance and care

Rinse salt off the front bezel and keys with fresh water and wipe with a soft cloth. Periodically inspect rear connectors for corrosion, confirm strain relief is still holding after vibration, and recheck that the mounting screws stay snug after the first few trips.

What's included

• N2K-T-RD NMEA 2000 T-connector
• N2KEXT-15RD 15 ft NMEA 2000 extension cable
• Power cable, 4-pin