Raymarine SmartPilot ST8001, Operating Manual

Page: 14 / 48

8 Smartpilot Controller Operating Guide
1.4 How do I adjust the performance of my
SmartPilot?
The principal method of adjusting the performance of SmartPilot systems is
by changing the response level. This is the only user adjustment you should
need to make to your SmartPilot on a regular basis.
The response level controls the relationship between the SmartPilot’s course
keeping accuracy and the amount of helm/drive activity. When you turn on
your SmartPilot it will always be at the default level. (This level can be
adjusted in User Calibration
see page 23)
When you require extra tight course keeping (e.g. for pilotage in confined
and sheltered waters), increase the setting. If you want to minimize drive
activity and conserve battery power, decrease the setting.
You can make temporary adjustments to the response level when using your
SmartPilot on a day-to-day basis. By doing this you can match performance
to conditions as they occur.
Note: You will lose these temporary changes to response level whenever the
system is powered off. You can make permanent adjustments in User Cali-
bration (See page 23). This determines the default power-up response level.
Adjusting performance – S1G, S2G and S3G systems
S1G, S2G and S3G systems systems have 9 levels of response:
•
level 9 to 7
give the tightest course keeping and greatest rudder activity
(and power consumption). This can lead to a rough passage in open
waters as the SmartPilot may ‘fight’ the sea.
• levels 6 to 4 should give good course keeping with crisp, well controlled
turns under normal operating conditions
•
level 3 to 1
minimizes the amount of pilot activity. This conserves
power, but may compromise short-term course-keeping accuracy
With these points in mind, you should use the following procedure to make
temporary adjustments to the response level when required:
1. Display the
RESPONSE
screen by pressingthe
resp
key momentarily.