Simrad AP14 Manual Download Page 19

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7.4 Fault Finding

Symptom

Pilot will not enter Auto mode.

Autopilot drops back into
Standby Mode.

Cannot select Nav Mode

Autopilot will not allow rudder
travel limits to be set*.

Autopilot does not maintain an
accurate course in Auto Mode.

Compass will not auto calibrate

Boat’s course is unstable when
in Auto mode.

Probable Cause

Rudder limits not entered*.
Rudder limits configuration
failed*.
Faulty connection to SLF12*
Faulty connection to SHS12.
Fault with SCP12* / SRD12†.

Low supply voltage to Drive
Unit or Course Computer*.

Navigational data not avail-
able.
Incorrect NMEA format or sen-
tences are being transmitted.
Destination not programmed
in navigator.

Power cable gauge too small.
SLF12 incorrectly wired or
installed.
Pump not primed or airlocked
Buttons not pressed properly

SHS12 compass has not been
calibrated.
SHS12 compass is encounter-
ing magnetic interference.
• If the boat’s magnetic
compass is being used as a ref-
erence, it is more likely that
this is inaccurate unless it has
being recently swung.

Turn rate too fast/slow
Conditions too rough
Deviation detected is too large

Gain setting is incorrect for
boat’s speed or type.

Remedy

Enter rudder limits* (see 6.3)
Check all connections.
Replace fuse.

Check battery charge.
Check all electrical connec-
tions and supply cables.

Check NMEA connections.
Refer to section 7.3 for correct
NMEA0183 sentence formats.

Check recommended cable
sizes (Fig 4.17)
Check SRP12 & SLF12 wiring
and installation.
Prime pump & bleed system.

Refer to section 6.4 to calibrate
the compass to compensate for
magnetic deviation.
Check area around SHS12 for
magnetic objects (loudspeak-
ers, heavy current carrying
cables etc). Minimum com-
pass safe distance is 1m (3 Ft).
Check course against other
reference (handbearing com-
pass etc) and swing boat’s
compass if necessary.

Flashing LEDs above
Port/Starboard keys indicate
if turn rate is too fast or slow.
Calibration should be attempt-
ed in calm conditions
Check area around compass
for metallic objects/speakers
etc (min safe distance - 1m/3ft)

Adjust Gain to suit boat’s
speed: Low Speed=High Gain

High Speed=Low Gain

* - AP14H only † – AP14R only

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Page 37

Appendix

7.1 Advice On Operation

• When making course changes, be aware of the effect of a large course change on the boat, espe-
cially when travelling at high speed - the AP14 will respond very quickly to any instructions, so it
is advisable to reduce speed before changing course. This should particularly be remembered
when approaching a waypoint in Nav Mode - pressing

Nav

to head for the next waypoint could

result in a sudden and severe course change. This is one of the reasons that a constant vigil and
awareness of the situation must be maintained (see warning below).

• The Gain setting is critical on a high speed vessel like a power boat, because it affects the reac-
tion speed of the autopilot. As you become more familiar with the operation of the AP14 and how
your own boat handles, it should be possible to tailor the Gain settings to suit the speed of the boat
and the conditions it is cruising under.

7.2 Warning

The AP14 is a highly advanced autopilot, and a valuable aid to enjoyable cruising. However, it
would be a mistake to become complacent. Like all electronic navigational equipment, it is an

aid

to navigation and should not be used as a substitute for conventional navigational practice.

Remember - Maritime Law* requires that you keep a good look out at all times.

7.3 NMEA Sentences Received

The NMEA0183 information required for full functionality while in Nav Mode is as follows -

Cross track error
Bearing to destination waypoint
Arrival at waypoint indication

This information is extracted from the following NMEA0183 sentences -

XTE

Cross Track Error

BWC

Bearing & Distance To Destination Waypoint (Great Circle)

BWR