NMEA 2000 and the Autopilot Components
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
If you are connecting to an existing NMEA 2000 network, identify the NMEA 2000 power cable. Only one NMEA
2000 power cable is required for the NMEA 2000 network to operate properly.
A NMEA 2000 Power Isolator (010-11580-00) should be used in installations where the existing NMEA 2000
network manufacturer is unknown.
You can connect the CCU and the optional helm control through an existing NMEA 2000 network. If you do not
have an existing NMEA 2000 network on your boat, all the parts needed to build one are supplied in the autopilot
package (
Building a Basic NMEA 2000 Network for the Autopilot System, page 17
).
To use the advanced features of the autopilot, optional NMEA 2000 devices, such as a GPS device, can be
connected to the NMEA 2000 network.
If you are unfamiliar with NMEA 2000, you should read the “NMEA 2000 Network Fundamentals” chapter of the
Technical Reference for NMEA 2000 Products. To download this document, select Manuals on the product page
for your device at
.
Building a Basic NMEA 2000 Network for the Autopilot System
NOTICE
If you are installing a NMEA 2000 power cable, you must connect it to the boat ignition switch or through
another in-line switch. NMEA 2000 devices will drain your battery if the NMEA 2000 power cable is connected to
the battery directly.
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.
1 Connect the three T-connectors together side-by-side.
2 Connect the included NMEA 2000 power cable
to a 9 to 12 Vdc power source through a switch
.
You should connect the power cable to the ignition switch of the boat if possible, or route it through an inline
switch (not included).
NOTE: The braided drain wire (bare) on the NMEA 2000 power cable must be connected to the same ground
as the black wire on the NMEA 2000 power cable.
3 Connect the NMEA 2000 power cable to one of the T-connectors.
4 Connect one of the included NMEA 2000 drop cables
to one of the T-connectors and to the helm control
(optional) or to a compatible Garmin chartplotter
.
5 Connect the other included NMEA 2000 drop cable to the other T-connector and to the CCU .
6 Connect the male and female terminators to each end of the combined T-connectors.
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