A2004 Autopilot Pack - A2004 Display, AC70 Course Computer, RF300
Feedback & Precision 9 Compass
The A2004 is a dedicated autopilot controller designed to
meet the needs of professional mariners aboard a variety of commercial
vessels. It features a proven Simrad interface, presented on a wide-angle and
zero-fog colour display. Engineered for responsiveness and ease of use, the
A2004 pairs a precision rotary control dial with dedicated buttons for instant
access to steering modes, a custom-configurable Work mode, and automated turn
patterns.
- Proven Simrad interface designed for commercial marine applications
- Large, heavy-duty rotary control dial for precision steering
- Continuum steering technology
- Optically bonded 4.1-inch colour display with 170-degree viewing angle
- Thruster integration & heavy-duty rudder feedback support
- Configurable work mode and low/high speed modes
- Automated turn patterns for fuel-efficient, hands-free manoeuvres
- No Drift steering holds course against wind and tide
- Flush or bracket mounting options
- Certified NMEA 2000® connectivity
Proven Simrad Interface
The A2004 builds upon the proven user interface and keypad layout of the
Simrad AP70 and AP80 professional autopilot controllers, and delivers
consistency with the latest generation of Simrad radar, sonar, and ECDIS
displays. A large aluminium rotary control dial enables quick but precise
steering adjustments, while dedicated keys offer instant access to steering
modes, a custom-configurable Work mode, and automated turn patterns. All
built-in controls are designed for ease of use with wet or gloved hands, in
commercial settings such as fishing vessels and workboats. The A2004 also
supports a wide range of Simrad autopilot remotes and steering levers.
Continuum Steering Technology
Every Simrad steering innovation builds upon a legacy encompassing over sixty
years of autopilot development, which continues to this day. This legacy is
exemplified by the Continuum algorithm: the software behind Simrad steering
technology. Continuum steering distils years of research and on-water testing
into a flexible software solution, capable of delivering reliable auto-steering
performance tuned specifically to match a vessel’s control characteristics. With
a comprehensive range of hardware and interface modules, Simrad autopilot
solutions can be tailored to suit a wide range of commercial vessels and
applications.
Optically Bonded 4.1-inch Colour Display
To ensure optimal visibility in all conditions, the A2004’s colour LCD panel
is optically bonded to its protective glass covering – eliminating the
possibility of internal condensation. 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. An ultra-wide 170 degree viewing angle means key autopilot
information is clearly visible at a glance, from anywhere in sight of the
display.
Thruster Integration & Rudder Feedback Support
The A2004 enables autopilot control of a single thruster via an optional AD80
or SD80 interface module. The thruster can be set to engage automatically below
a user-defined speed threshold, and configured separately for normal and Work
modes. The A2004 also supports specialized heavy-duty rudder feedback units
designed for reliable operation aboard commercial vessels.
Configurable Work Mode and Low/High Speed Modes
Autopilot settings can be tuned for optimal performance in separate
low-speed, high-speed, and Work modes. The user-configurable Work mode allows
the autopilot system to be configured for optimal response in a specific
situation, such as a fully laden vessel.
No Drift Steering
No Drift mode integrates GPS navigation with auto-steering, using position
data to counteract the effects of wind and tide. This allows the A2004 to
maintain a straight track over ground on the current heading, without the need
to manually set a waypoint or route. No Drift steering is available with an NMEA
2000® connected GPS receiver or compatible Simrad chartplotter.
Flush or Bracket Mounting Options
The A2004 supports flush-mount installation, or bracket mounting via the
included gimbal bracket. An optional sun cover is available for external
installations.
In the Box
- A2004 control head
- AC70 Processor
- Precision-9 compass
- RF300 rudder feedback
- Installation hardware
- Documentation
Computer
A comprehensive range of computers and interface units are offered with the
Simrad AP70 and AP80 autopilots providing a complete solution for every steering
system.
Drive computer for rudder using reversible motor or non-isolated solenoids and
frequency rudder angle feedback. Connection for NFU remote control and one
channel IEC 61162-1 (NMEA 0183) RX/TX or IEC 61162-1,2 and 3 compatible.
Simrad RF300 Rudder Feedback
The RF300 rudder feedback unit contributes towards smooth and accurate
auto-steering by determining rudder angle. It is to be used as part of an
autopilot system on boats with inboard engines.
- Variable frequency output for direct connection to autopilot computers
- 10 m Cable
Rudder feedback unit for boats with inboard engine Simrad rudder feedback units
are high resolution units which contribute to gentle yet accurate steering that
characterise the Simrad autopilots. They are rugged units designed to withstand
the environment. Though Simrad now offers the virtual rudder feedback VRF™ for
outboards and stern drive boats up to 40', it is neccesary to display rudder
angle on your autopilot.
Navico Precision-9 Compas
The Precision-9 Compass supplies accurate heading and rate-of-turn information
to Simrad autopilot, radar and navigation systems over an NMEA 2000®
connection. With an internal array of solid-state sensors constantly measuring
motion and orientation on nine axes, the Precision-9 also provides pitch and
roll data to compatible equipment. An easily adjustable mounting bracket and
single-cable connection allow simple installation aboard any vessel, including
up-mast mounting suitable for steel hulls.
Key Features
- Heading, Rate Of Turn (ROT), pitch and roll output over NMEA 2000®
- Accurate and reliable solid-state sensor technology
- Heading accuracy of ±2° after calibration
- Easily adjustable mounting bracket allows bulkhead or up-mast
installation
- IPX7 waterproof for external up-mast mounting on steel hulled vessels
- Simple installation with a single NMEA 2000® connection
NMEA 2000® Heading & ROT Output
With NMEA 2000® output, the Simrad Precision-9 Compass provides heading, Rate Of
Turn (ROT), pitch and roll information to connected equipment including
autopilots, radar, multifunction displays, and other navigational systems.
Solid-State Sensor Technology
The Precision-9 Compass incorporates a sophisticated solid-state sensor array
based on MEMS technology. This high-precision array measures motion on nine
separate axes in order to calculate the most accurate heading and rate-of-turn
information possible, avoiding many common limitations of conventional fluxgate
electronic compasses and delivering heading accuracy of ±2 degrees after
calibration.
Mount Almost Anywhere
An easily adjustable mounting bracket allows the Precision-9 Compass to be
installed on any vessel, in almost any location. The compass may also be mounted
directly to any flat surface and, with an IPX7 waterproof rating, external
up-mast installation is possible on steel hulled vessels to avoid magnetic
interference. Installation is further simplified by NMEA 2000® connectivity,
with a single cable carrying both power and data.