Simrad RF40 Rudder Feedback Unit, For NAC-1/NAC-2, 15 m Cable

Overview

The Simrad 000-14439-001 is a resistive rudder feedback unit that connects directly to a NAC-1 or NAC-2 autopilot computer to report rudder angle. It measures up to +/-120 degrees and outputs an analog 0 to 5 V signal, powered by the autopilot computer’s 5 V supply. A 15 m (49 ft) attached cable with a 3-pin connector gets the wiring from the steering compartment back to the autopilot computer without needing to extend a network backbone.

It mounts close to the rudder and links mechanically to a tiller arm or rudder quadrant, so the autopilot can track real rudder position instead of estimating it. This is a good fit for boats with inboard or mechanical steering where you want consistent rudder feedback during low-speed docking, long autopilot runs, or heavier seas.

Key features

• Direct connection to Simrad NAC-1 and NAC-2 autopilot computers (not compatible with NAC-3)
• Rudder angle measurement range of +/-120 degrees with analog 0 to 5 V output
• Powered from the autopilot computer’s 5 V rudder feedback supply (no separate power feed required)
• 15 m (49 ft) attached cable with 3-pin connector for a clean run from steering gear to the autopilot computer
• IP56-rated housing for typical steering-compartment exposure and washdown splash
• Stainless transmitter link (345 mm) with ball joints for a proper mechanical linkage to the rudder arm or quadrant

Compatibility and fit

This unit is intended for autopilot systems that accept an analog rudder feedback input and provide a 5 V supply at the rudder feedback connector. With Simrad systems, it connects to the dedicated rudder feedback socket on NAC-1 and NAC-2 computers.

For mechanical fit, plan for a nearby mounting surface so the feedback lever can stay parallel with the rudder tiller arm through the full travel. The linkage geometry supports an X dimension (unit to rudder post) from 150 mm to 345 mm and a Y arm length from 44 mm to 130 mm when set up as a 1:1 linkage. The feedback unit body is approximately 177 mm long, with a footprint around 99 mm by 65 mm, so it typically fits in a lazarette or steering compartment as long as the linkage has a clear swing path.

Installation and setup

Mount the sensor where it stays out of standing water and where the linkage cannot bind or hit nearby structure when the rudder goes hard-over to hard-over. During install, align the center marks on the unit and lever, then verify the linkage moves freely across the full rudder travel before final tightening.

Keep at least 1 m (3.1 ft) of separation from a magnetic compass. The unit is rated for -25 to +55 C (-13 to +130 F), which covers typical stern compartments, but avoid mounting directly against heat sources or unshielded engine-room hot spots.

Electrical and system integration

The attached 15 m cable plugs into the NAC rudder feedback socket. The three conductors are color-coded: red (+5 V), yellow (signal), and black (0 V). Because the autopilot computer provides the 5 V supply, the wiring is straightforward and does not require a separate fused feed.

Route the cable with a drip loop and strain relief near the unit, then keep it away from high-current DC runs and ignition wiring where possible. If you need a different termination for your installation, the connector can be removed so the cable can be adapted to the required interface.

Use on board

Rudder feedback is most useful on boats where the autopilot needs to know true rudder position rather than relying on software estimation, especially on larger hulls, inboard installations, or systems that spend long hours under autopilot. It also makes sense when the steering gear is far from the main electronics and you prefer a direct cable run instead of extending a network into the stern.

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