The DrivePilot Hydraulic Steer Pack consists of the following components:
--NAC-1 Autopilot Computer
--PUMP-1 Hydraulic Pump
--Hydraulic Pump Fitting Kit
--RC42 rate compass
--Auto/Standby Button
--NMEA 2000 Networking Kit
Control of the DrivePilot is accomplished by using a compatible Navico multi-function display with the appropriate software installed, such as the NSS evo2 or NSO evo2 multifunction display from Simrad. This package is an upgrade from the most basic system, the Outboard Pilot Hydraulic-Steer Pack at $999, which is identical except for the use of the POINT-1 AP combined GPS receiver and heading sensor in place of the RC42 rate compass.
A second package is perhaps suited for larger boats, and is called the AP44 Virtual Rudder Feedack (VRF) Pack Medium Capacity. This auto-pilot has an MSRP of $2,500 and consists of the following components:
--AP44 autopilot controller with 4-inch color display
--RPU-80 reversible hydraulic pump
--NAC-2 autopilot computer
--Precision-9 solid-state compass
--NMEA 2000 Networking Kit
AP44 VRF Pack Medium Capacity
There also appears to be new software which is called CONTINUUM STEERING TECHNOLOGY, which is described as follows:
Every Simrad steering innovation builds upon a legacy encompassing over sixty years of autopilot development, which continues today at Simrad Yachting’s autopilot research hub in Norway. This legacy is exemplified by the Continuum algorithm: the software that drives Simrad steering technology. Continuum brings all those years of research and on-water experience to your helm, for a smart pilot you can trust to take the wheel. Simrad autopilot solutions are available for a wide range of applications, from the smallest recreational boats up to large commercial vessels.
An additional feature emphasized is the automated calibration process, which in prior implementation of the auto-pilot systems may have needed manual calibration by a skilled technician. Again, quoting Simrad:
The Simrad Continuum algorithm offers a simple commissioning process including dockside configuration and sea trial, combined with automatic tuning to ensure optimal auto-steering performance. Automatic compass calibration is available with the Simrad Precision-9 solid-state compass, further simplifying autopilot setup while ensuring the greatest possible heading accuracy.
Simrad has offered more information about the individual components. Here are some details:
NAC-2
The NAC-2 Autopilot Computer is the brains behind your autopilot system. NAC-2 contains the control algorithms developed to helm a yacht across a broad range of weather conditions and sea-states, alongside the electronics needed to operate a hydraulic or mechanical drive unit, while also interfacing with other components including heading sensors and rudder feedback units. The NAC-2 was designed for boats up to 10M (33') in length and is suitable for low-current hydraulic drives, mechanical drives, or solenoid valves with a current rating of 8 -Amperes continuous (12-Amperes peak).
Precision-9
The Precision-9 Compass supplies heading and rate-of-turn information to Simrad, B&G and Lowrance autopilot, radar and navigation systems. Based on reliable solid-state sensor technology, this compact compass offers easy installation aboard any vessel. [Features:]
--Heading, Rate Of Turn (ROT), roll, and pitch output over NMEA 2000®
--Heading and ROT calculated using sensor data from 9 axes of rotation and motion
--Accurate and reliable solid-state sensor technology
--Heading accuracy of ۬° after calibration
--Easily adjustable mounting bracket allows bulkhead or up-mast installation
--IPX7 waterproof. Best in class
--Simple installation with a single NMEA 2000® connection
Easy setup with auto tuning and calibration
Autopilot installation and commissioning doesn't have to be difficult or time consuming. The AP44 offers automatic tuning to ensure optimal auto-steering performance, with a simple on-screen commissioning process including dockside configuration and sea trial.