Connecting the Autopilot Components to an Existing NMEA 2000 Network
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.
NOTICE
You should apply dielectric grease to the pin holes on the cable connectors to prevent corrosion, especially if
you are using the autopilot system in saltwater.
1 Determine where to connect the CCU and the helm control (optional) to your existing NMEA 2000
backbone
.
2 In the location where you plan to connect the CCU, disconnect one side of a NMEA 2000 T-connector
from the network.
3 If necessary, connect a NMEA 2000 backbone extension cable (not included) to the side of the disconnected
T-connector to extend the NMEA 2000 network backbone.
4 Add an included T‑connector for the CCU to the NMEA 2000 backbone by connecting it to the side of the
disconnected T‑connector or backbone extension cable.
5 Route the included drop cable to the CCU and to the bottom of the T-connector added in step 4.
If the included drop cable is not long enough, you can use a drop cable up to 6 m (20 ft.) long (not included).
6 Connect the drop cable to the CCU and the T-connector.
7 If needed, repeat steps 2 through 6 for the helm control (optional) or a compatible Garmin chartplotter.
Connecting Optional NMEA 2000 Devices to the Autopilot System
NOTE: You can connect optional devices that are not NMEA 2000 compatible to the helm control through NMEA
0183 (
NMEA 0183 Connection Considerations, page 20
).
1 Add an additional T-connector (not included) to the NMEA 2000 network.
2 Connect the optional NMEA 2000 device to the T-connector by following the instructions provided with the
device.
Configuration
The autopilot must be configured and tuned to your boat dynamics. You can use the Dockside Wizard and the
Sea Trial Wizard on the helm control or a compatible Garmin chartplotter to configure the autopilot.
See the included configuration guide for more information on configuring the autopilot.
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