Item Description
Important Considerations
Helm control
A dedicated helm control is not included in all autopilot packages. If you install the
autopilot without a dedicated helm control, the autopilot CCU must be connected to
the same NMEA 2000 network as a compatible Garmin chartplotter to configure and
control the autopilot system.
12 to 24 Vdc
battery
You must connect the ECU to a 12 to 24 Vdc power source. To extend this cable, use
the correct wire gauge (
Power Cable Extensions, page 9
).
You must connect the NMEA 2000 power cable to a 9 to 16 Vdc power source.
CCU
You can mount the CCU in a non-submerged location near the center of the boat, in any
orientation (
CCU Mounting and Connection Considerations, page 5
).
Mount the CCU away from sources of magnetic interference.
Drive unit
The drive unit power cable cannot be cut or extended.
If you are using the autopilot with a drive unit not sold by Garmin, you must use a drive
unit power cable (sold separately) (
Connecting to an Existing Drive Unit, page 12
).
If you are using the autopilot with a solenoid drive unit, you must use a solenoid power
cable (sold separately) (
Connecting to a Solenoid Drive Unit, page 13
).
ECU
NMEA 2000
network
You must connect the helm control or compatible Garmin chartplotter and the CCU
to a NMEA 2000 network using the included T-connectors (
).
If there is not an existing NMEA 2000 network on your boat, you can build one using
the supplied cables and connectors (
Building a Basic NMEA 2000 Network for the
).
Mounting and Connection Considerations
The autopilot components connect to each other and to power using the included cables. Ensure that the
correct cables reach each component and that each component is in an acceptable location before mounting or
wiring any components.
CCU Mounting and Connection Considerations
• The CCU is the primary sensor of the Reactor 40 Mechanical autopilot system. For best performance,
observe these considerations when selecting a mounting location.
◦
A handheld compass should be used to test for magnetic interference in the area where the CCU is to be
mounted(
Testing a Location for Magnetic Interference, page 6
).
◦
The CCU should be mounted on a rigid surface for best performance.
• Mounting screws are provided with the CCU. If you use mounting hardware other than the provided screws,
the hardware must be quality stainless or brass material to avoid magnetic interference with the CCU.
Test any mounting hardware with a handheld compass to make sure no magnetic fields are present in the
hardware.
• The CCU cable connects the CCU to the ECU and is 5 m (16 ft.) long.
◦
If the CCU cannot be mounted within 5 m (16 ft.) of the ECU, extension cables are available from your local
Garmin dealer or at
.
◦
This cable must not be cut.
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