Operation Manual

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Using the autopilot | NSS Operator Manual
Sailing parameters
 Note: Sailing parameter settings are only available if the boat type is set to Sail.
Tack time
When performing a tack in WIND mode, the rate of turn (tack time) can be adjusted. This will
give single-handed sailors time to handle the boat and the sails during a tack.
A turn performed without shifting wind side, will also be made at a controlled turn rate.
Range Change per step Default Units
2 - 50 1 12 seconds
Tack angle
This value is used to preset the course change used when tacking in AUTO mode. By pressing
the port and starboard indicators in the autopilot pop-up the course will change as much as
this value.
Range Change per step Default Units
50 - 150 1 100 °
Wind function
With wind function set to AUTO, the autopilot will automatically select between apparent
and true wind steering. AUTO is default and recommended for cruising.
When the boat is running, it will also be surfi ng on the waves. This may lead to signifi cant
changes in boat speed, and thereby also changes in apparent wind angle. True wind steering
is therefore used when running, while steering to apparent wind is used when beating or
reaching.
Apparent wind steering is preferred when you want to achieve maximum boat speed. The
autopilot tries to maintain a constant apparent wind angle to get maximum thrust from a
given trim of the sails.
When sailing in closed waters, the apparent wind angle may change temporarily due to wind
gusts. It may then be preferred to sail to the true wind.
VMG optimizing
You can optimize the VMG to wind. When selected, the function will be active for 5–10
minutes after a new wind angle has been set and only when beating.
Layline steering
Layline steering is useful when navigating. Cross Track Error (XTE) from the navigator will keep
the boat on the track line. If the XTE from the navigator exceeds 0.15 nm, the autopilot will
calculate the layline and track towards the waypoint.
Response
By default the system switches between HI/LO parameter set based on speed (motor boats)
or speed and wind (sail boats). You can however select to manually set which parameter set
that shall be used.
HI or LO must be selected if no speed input is available.
You can manually fi ne tune each of the two (HI/LO) parameter sets. Level 4 is default with
parameter values as set by the autotune function. If no autotune is made (not recommended)
the level 4 values are the factory default values.
A low response level reduces the rudder activity and provides a more “loose” steering.
A high response level increases the rudder activity and provides a more “tight” steering. A too
high response level will make the boat start S-ing.