Hey, lookie here. New products from Simrad, or as you will probably soon come to know them, Navico. It looks like Simrad has introduced two new autopilot control heads and new main processors. The larger AP28 display has a similar user interface as the popular AP25 control heal but with a more intuitive and reconfigured button layout. While the AP24 is an updated version of the venerable AP16. I would actually consider it a knobless AP25, since the processor behind it appears built for larger boats than the AP16.
The big changes, however, are with the complete incorporation of NMEA2000 or, as Simrad likes to call it, Simnet. All the peripherals such as the compass, feedback and displays will be connected via Simnet. This means that you can add a new component by jumping into the Simnet backbone anywhere on the boat. Furthermore, dedicated multiconductor cables will no longer needed to be run from the bilges to the processor during installation.
Here's an example of a wiring diagram for the new system:
SimradAP 24 Wiring Diagram
Some other features include a complete set of Turn Patterns, including depth contour tracking, programmable S-turn, zig-zag, continuous turn, square patterns and more; improved steering algorithms and full Rate of Turn (ROT) control that provides smooth and precise turns and improves tack and gybe performance on sailboats; and enhanced ability to maintain a set Course Over Ground (COG) even in severe wind and current conditions.
♦
Jeff McLaren is the National Sales Manager for Seawide Marine Distribution, a wholesaler distributor based in Southern California that works with all major electronics manufacturers. He has produced a series of instructional DVDs on how to use Raymarine navigation gear.
You said that the AP16 processor was built for smaller boats. What makes you say that?
I've got an AP16 on my boat now and it seems to work just fine (50' cruiser). I can cancel this order as it hasn't shipped and if the newer units are worth something, then I'd upgrade.
Well, that's a little more general than I probably should have made it sound.  The fact is that if you match pump size with your ram size and the brain can handle the pump, then it doesn't matter what the rest of the pilot components are. The AP16 really refers to the display head itself. So, while your AP16 probably steers the boat fine, the AP16 is generally regarded as an entry level pilot for inboard cruisers and the AP25/26/27 are the mid range products designed for boats in the 50'+ range as they are usually packaged with the AC20 J-Box. The AC20, in turn, can handle larger drives than the AC10, which is usually, but not always, packaged with the AP16. I know, I know.. Basically if you want the steering knob and NMEA2000 connectivity go with the new pilot, if buttons and NMEA0183 connectivity are acceptable, stick with what you got..
Jeff
Ok. I do have the AC20 junction box, but I didn't have quite the room for the AP26 head where I wanted to put it. My pump is a constant running pump so the AC20 just powers a solenoid. Due to the size of the boat, I was really limited in the on/off style pumps. Raymarine said they didn't have a pump, period. Gladiator said no also. Simrad and Furuno were the only ones that had pumps big enough and Simrad suggested I keep the existing pump, since it was still working, so I went with the Simrad (not realizing I could have gone with any pilot and this pump).
I may want to change my pump though as it drains a constant 29amps@12v when I've got the pump powered (which is pretty much as soon as I'm out of the marina.) I would save a lot of power with the on/off style pump if I can get one big enough. Maybe I should just get a bigger alternator!
Call Accu-Steer, they are the best in the business and will have something you can use for a fair price.
Jeff
Cool! Thanks very much, I'm looking at them right now.
Cameron.Â