Simrad RF45X Rudder Feedback Unit, 12-24VDC, Transmission Link, 2m Cable

Overview

The Simrad 22011415 is a rugged rudder feedback unit that sends rudder position information to a compatible Simrad autopilot system, or to a standalone rudder angle indicator setup. It mounts close to the rudder stock and connects mechanically to the rudder via the included transmission link in a 1:1 ratio, so the sensor shaft tracks rudder movement directly.

It runs from a 12 to 24 VDC supply and comes with a 2 m screened cable and a junction box for splicing and tidy wiring in the steering compartment. For autopilot use it outputs a variable frequency signal centered at 3400 Hz, varying at about 20 Hz per degree, and it also supports a variable current output of 0.1 to 1.1 mA for indicator systems.

This is a good fit for boats where the autopilot needs true rudder angle feedback for steering accuracy and alarms, especially on vessels with a traditional rudder stock and linkage access near the quadrant or tiller arm.

Key features

• 12 to 24 VDC supply support for common onboard electrical systems
• Variable frequency output for autopilot feedback, centered at 3400 Hz (about 20 Hz per degree)
• Variable current output (0.1 to 1.1 mA) for use with compatible rudder angle indicators
• Mechanical connection via transmission link in a 1:1 ratio, mounted close to the rudder stock
• Supplied with a 2 m screened lead and a junction box for splicing and protected connections
• Can be mounted with the shaft pointing up or down, with deflection inversion available for upside-down installs

Installation and setup

Mount the unit on a rigid surface near the rudder stock where the transmission link can move freely through the full steering travel without binding. The linkage is typically arranged in a parallelogram so the sensor shaft rotates smoothly as the rudder moves. If needed, the transmission rod can be shortened to suit your geometry, as long as the linkage remains straight and free through hard-over to hard-over movement.

After the mechanical linkage is set with the rudder centered, complete the rudder zero and calibration steps in your autopilot or indicator setup so the displayed angle matches the actual rudder position. If you install the sensor with the shaft pointing down, use the available inversion method so port and starboard deflection reads correctly.

Compatibility and system integration

This unit is used with Simrad autopilot systems that accept an RF45X-type rudder feedback input and can also be wired into a standalone rudder angle indicator system using the current output. Output selection is configurable, so confirm which input type your control unit or indicator expects before final wiring.

The supplied 2 m lead is intended to be spliced in the junction box. When extending wiring, keep runs as short as practical and use screened, twisted-pair cabling to reduce noise in a steering compartment that often shares space with pumps, solenoids, and high-current wiring.

Maintenance and care

Periodically check the transmission link, fasteners, and any ball joints for play, corrosion, or misalignment, and confirm the linkage still moves smoothly through the full rudder travel. Keep the junction box closed and dry, and re-check rudder zero if any steering components are serviced or adjusted.

What’s included

• RF45X rugged rudder feedback unit
• Transmission link
• 2 m cable
• Junction box

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