Simrad AC42 Autopilot computer
The autopilot computer is the main unit in the Simrad AP24 and Simrad AP28 autopilot systems.
It contains the steering computer and electronics for the drive unit motor and clutch and provides interface to other system components. Two models, AC12 (8/16 A motor current) and AC42 (30/50 A motor current) are available. It communicates on the proprietary SimNet data and control network to establish a reliable digital communication and power distribution between the units in the autopilot system as well as other Simrad products.
SimNet
SimNet provides high speed data transfer and control of Simrad products integrated in a total steering and navigation system. The compact SimNet enabled Simrad AC42 autopilot computer is more powerful than ever and include all of the control functions expected from a Simrad autopilot. The model is compatible with Hydraulic and Mechanical steering systems.
The new compact Simrad AC12 and Simrad AC42 autopilot computers, more powerful than ever, contain advanced software algorithms and are the brains of the system. These incorporate position and navigation data from the GPS chartplotter and wind, speed and depth data from the instrument system. The output is a smooth proportional control of the rudder with the utmost precision providing excellent steering performance an any sea condition with a minimum of power consumption.