Operation Manual

Autopilot Operation
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2 AP300X AUTOPILOT OPERATION
Caution ! An autopilot is a very useful navigational aid, but DOES NOT under
any circumstance replace a human navigator.
Do not use automatic steering when:
• In heavy traffic areas or in narrow waters
• In poor visibility or extreme sea conditions
• When in areas where use of autopilot is prohibited by law
When using an autopilot:
• Do not leave the helm unattended
• Do not place any magnetic material or equipment near magnetic or
fluxgate compass used in the autopilot system
• Verify at regular intervals course and position of the vessel
• Always switch to Standby mode in due time to avoid hazardous
situations
2.1 Overview
Each of the three different control units shown on the opposite page
can operate as a stand alone unit in an autopilot system or combined in
a multistation system. In a multistation system the command can easily
be transferred from one unit to another. Units not in control will
display "Inactive".
The AP300X system is capable of the following primary steering
modes: STBY (manual steering), AUTO, NAV (power boats) or WIND
(sailboats) and DODGE, each mode having a dedicated push button.
Each of the operation mode push buttons is clearly identified with the
primary function in large text, and a secondary function listed in
smaller text. Each button provides you with the ability to access a
primary display, a secondary display and/or multiple function
displays.
A group of user adjustable settings are provided in the AP300X USER
SETUP MENU (page 34). The settings allows adjustment of display
visibility, selection of heading sensors, navigation and position sources
and the ability to select between automatic or manual adjustable sea
state filter.
Alarms are presented in plain text to alert you of system and external
data failure conditions. Alarms include both audible and visual
presentations. The alarm listing is on page 114.