Simrad AP48 Autopilot Control Head

Intuitive autopilot interface with extended keypad

The AP48 combines the same intuitive interface of the compact AP44 with a larger rotary control dial, dedicated ‘dodge’ keys, and other extended keypad controls. The AP48’s rotary dial provides precise steering control, while dodge keys enable instant heading changes in one-degree or ten-degree increments. Designed for optimal control in all conditions, the AP48’s large buttons are ideal for use with wet or gloved hands.

Continuum steering technology

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 steering 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.

Optically bonded 4.1-inch colour display

To ensure optimal visibility in all conditions, the AP48’s full-colour LCD panel is optically bonded to its protective glass covering – eliminating the possibility of condensation or fogging within the display. Transflective LCD technology makes use of reflected sunlight to brighten rather than obscure the screen, delivering superior day-time visibility and lower power consumption compared to traditional backlit displays.

Automated turn patterns

Your Simrad autopilot can do much more than keep you on course. The AP48 gives you easy access to a range of built-in turn patterns designed to assist with fishing, diving, or just making a quick and efficient U-turn. Choose a turn, select port or starboard, and you’re away. For more control, customise your turn pattern to execute complex spirals, zigzags, and other useful manoeuvres.

No Drift steering

No Drift mode integrates GPS navigation with auto-steering, using your position to counteract the effects of wind and tide. This lets you maintain a straight track over ground on your current heading, without having to manually set a waypoint or route. To unlock this powerful feature, simply combine the AP48 with an NMEA 2000® connected GPS receiver or compatible Simrad chartplotter.

Depth contour tracking

Network your AP48 autopilot system with a compatible echosounder module to enable depth contour tracking. In this mode, the AP48 will auto-steer to maintain a constant depth of water beneath your boat – perfect for following depth contours while fishing or cruising, without having to define complex multi-waypoint routes.

Easy setup with auto tuning

Autopilot installation and commissioning doesn’t have to be difficult or time consuming. The AP48 offers automatic tuning to ensure optimal auto-steering performance, with a simple on-screen commissioning process including dockside configuration and sea trial. Automatic compass calibration is available with the Simrad Precision-9 solid-state compass, further simplifying autopilot setup while ensuring heading accuracy.

Low-profile ‘Glass Helm’ design

Designed to complement Simrad glass helm displays, instruments, and controllers, the AP48 features modern styling with a low flush-mount profile of just eight millimetres excluding rotary controller. A smart layout maximises the size of the AP48’s display and controls, while keeping its overall footprint down to allow for easy installation almost anywhere. In addition to flush-mount installation, the controller can also be bracket mounted for additional flexibility.

Autopilot Core Pack

This pack includes the Simrad NAC-2 autopilot computer, Precision-9 solid-state compass, plus all cabling and connectors required to build an NMEA 2000® network backbone or connect your autopilot system to an existing NMEA 2000® network. To create a complete Simrad Continuum autopilot system, just add a hydraulic pump or mechanical drive unit to suit your steering system, and choose a dedicated autopilot controller or Simrad multifunction display.

NAC-2 Autopilot Computer

The NAC-2 Autopilot Computer is recommended for boats up to 10 metres (35 feet) in length. It delivers standard power output of up to eight amps continuous and 16 amps peak, plus a clutch output; this is suitable to operate low-current drive pumps including the Simrad RPU80, mechanical drives such as the Simrad SD10, hydraulic linear drives such as the HLD350, and solenoid valves.

Multiple Control Options

Choose from a range of dedicated autopilot controllers, or control your autopilot from your existing multifunction display or glass bridge with full Simrad display integration. Install extra autopilot stations, ideal for dual-helm vessels, or add the Simrad WR10 wireless remote for instant steering and autopilot control from anywhere on board.

Virtual Rudder Feedback

Simrad Virtual Rudder Feedback (VRF) technology eliminates the need to install a mechanical rudder feedback unit aboard outboard and sterndrive (inboard/outboard) boats. VRF technology greatly simplifies autopilot installation while delivering uncompromising Simrad Continuum steering performance.

Simrad Precision-9 Compass

The Precision-9 Compass supplies accurate heading and rate-of-turn information to your autopilot and other onboard systems over an NMEA 2000® connection. Heading is determined by an internal array of solid-state sensors that constantly measure motion and orientation on nine axes. The Precision-9’s solid state technology is not only accurate and precise, but also exremely reliable with no internal moving parts. An easily adjustable mounting bracket and single-cable connection allow simple installation aboard any vessel, including up-mast mounting suitable for interference-free operation with steel hulls.

Automatic Tuning and Calibration

Auto-tuning simplifies setup and ensures optimal steering performance. Automatic compass calibration improves heading accuracy as you travel, using data gathered by the Simrad Precision-9’s internal array of solid-state sensors.

Easy Installation

Plug-and-play connectors facilitate easy installation, minimising the wiring necessary to install your autopilot system. Industry-standard NMEA 2000® networking offers simple connectivity to sensors, autopilot controllers, and multifunction displays located anywhere on board.