Explorer AP380 Autopilot Installation and Operation Manual

Transcription

1 Explorer AP380 Autopilot Installation and Operation Manual

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3 IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION Please read carefully before installation and use. DANGER! WARNING! CAUTION CAUTION This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential personal injury hazards, Obey all safety messages that follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or death. WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury. CAUTION used without the safety alert symbol indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in property damage. DISCLAIMER: It is the owner s sole responsibility to install and use the instrument and transducers in a manner that will not cause accidents, personal injury or property damage. The user of this product is solely responsible for observing safe boating practices. BRUNSWICK NEW TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES AND AFFILIATES DISCLAIM ALL LIABILITY FOR ANY USE OF THIS PRODUCT IN A WAY THAT MAY CAUSE ACCIDENTS, DAMAGE OR THAT MAY VIOLATE THE LAW. Governing Language: This statement, any instruction manuals, user guides and other information relating to the product (Documentation) may be translated to, or has been translated from, another language (Translation). In the event of any conflict between any Translation of the Documentation, the English language version of the Documentation will be the official version of the Documentation. This manual represents the Explorer AP380 as at the time of printing. Brunswick New Technologies Inc. and its subsidiaries and affiliates reserve the right to make changes to specifications without notice. Copyright 2006 Brunswick New Technologies Inc. Northstar is a registered trademark of Brunswick New Technologies Inc. FCC Statement Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a normal installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. Connect the equipment into an output on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced technician for help. A shielded cable must be used when connecting a peripheral to the serial ports. Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 3

4 Installation Contents Important Introduction A typical Explorer AP380 system installation Using the Explorer AP380 system with other instruments Explorer AP380 system hardware What comes with your Explorer AP380 system Other parts required Installation Installation sequence Installation guide Installing the MCU600 (Main Control Unit) Installing the power supplies and steering drive Installing the RFU (rudder feedback unit) Installing the Compass Installing the Gyro Installing the Explorer AP380 display unit and other instruments Dockside setup Start dockside setup Calibrating the rudder feedback unit Sea trials Calibrating the compass Aligning the compass and the rudder Appendix A - Specifications - MCU Appendix B - Specifications - AP380 Display Appendix C - User data Operation Section Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

5 Important It is the owner s sole responsibility to install and use the instrument and transducer/s in a manner that will not cause accidents, personal injury or property damage. The user of this product is solely responsible for observing safe boating practices. The choice, location, and installation of all components in any AP380 system is critical. If installation is not correct, the unit can not perform at its designed potential. If in doubt, consult your Northstar dealer. Ensure that any holes that cut are in a safe position and will not weaken the boat s structure. If in doubt, consult a qualified boat builder. Using the Explorer AP380 system : The Explorer AP380 system is intended as an aid to save a helmsman from having to steer for long periods of time, not as the main means of steering the boat. The Explorer AP380 system is not intended for use in extreme weather, in adverse conditions or in water near other boats, dangerous waters or land. The Explorer AP380 system can not control the boat better than a helmsman. In adverse conditions steer the boat manually. Never leave the helm unattended. Keep a watch at all times. The helmsman should always monitor the course of the boat and the Explorer AP380 system and be ready to resume steering the boat manually. The performance of the Explorer AP380 system can be affected by the failure of a part, environmental conditions, improper installation and use. Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 5

6 1 Introduction Using this manual This manual describes how to install and set up the Explorer AP380 system. Refer to the Explorer AP380 Operation Section for information on how to operate the Explorer AP380 display unit. To install a Explorer AP380 system, you must perform installation, dockside setup and sea trials (see sections 3, 4 and 5). To fully set up a Explorer AP380 system after a part has been changed or if a problem is suspected, perform dockside setup and sea trials again (see sections 4 and 5). To verify that the Explorer AP380 system is operating correctly, perform sea trials (see section 5). Cleaning and maintenance Clean the parts of the Explorer AP380 system with a damp cloth or mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners, petrol or other solvents. Do not paint any part of the Explorer AP380 system except for the cables. 1-1 A typical Explorer AP380 system installation Display unit More display units Optional instruments WIND SPEED GPS NMEA NavBus Manual helm MCU600 Compass Gyro Clutch drive (optional) Steering drive Power switch or switches and power protection Light duty Heavy duty 12 V DC Power supply Rudder control Key Parts supplied with Explorer AP380 system Other parts required Optional parts Rudder Rudder feedback unit Note: Above shows typical installation only. Please refer to the information supplied with your drive for further information. 6 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

7 1-2 Using the Explorer AP380 system with other instruments Using other instruments The Explorer AP380 system can use data from these instruments: GPS: A GPS or chartplotter, such as a Northstar Explorer 500 series chartplotter must be connected to the Explorer AP380 system for the AP380 to operate in GPS mode (see the Explorer AP380 Operation Section). Note: GPS must be via NMEA input. WIND: A wind instrument, such as a Northstar WIND series, must be connected to the Explorer AP380 system for the AP380 to operate in WIND mode (see the Explorer AP380 Operation Section). SPEED: A speed instrument, such as: Northstar s SPEED with a paddlewheel speed sensor or a GPS or chartplotter, such as Northstar s Explorer 500 or Explorer 660 series can be connected to the Explorer AP380 system to increase steering accuracy. Note: The speed from a paddlewheel sensor is the speed that the boat is moving through the water. The speed from a GPS is the speed over the ground. If there is a water current then these two speeds will be different. If the Explorer AP380 system is connected to an instrument with a paddlewheel sensor and to a GPS, then the Explorer AP380 system will automatically use the speed from the paddlewheel sensor instrument NavBus NavBus is a Northstar proprietary system that allows systems of multiple instruments to be built using a single set of transducers. When instruments are connected by NavBus: If you change the units, alarms or calibration in one instrument, then the values will automatically change in all other instruments of the same type. Each instrument can be assigned to a group of instruments, called a NavBus group (see NavBus group in the Setup > Comms menu, in the Explorer AP380 Operation Section). If you change the backlight in an instrument in group 1, 2, 3 or 4 then the backlight will automatically change in the other instruments in the same group. If you change the backlight in an instrument in group 0 then no other instruments are affected. If an alarm sounds, mute it on any instrument which can display that alarm. For more information, refer to the NavBus Installation and Operation Manual. Note: GPS must be via NMEA input. NavBus and the Explorer AP380 system The Explorer AP380 system will automatically work with additional Explorer AP380 displays. The Explorer AP380 system can receive wind data from Northstar s WIND over NavBus. The Explorer AP380 system can receive speed data from Northstar s SPEED over NavBus NMEA NMEA is an industry standard, but is not as flexible as NavBus as it requires dedicated connections between instruments. The Explorer AP380 system has one NMEA input port and one port that can be configured to be an input or an output (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section). Explorer AP380 system NMEA inputs GPS: The Explorer AP380 system can receive NMEA GPS data from a compatible GPS or chartplotter, such as Northstar s Explorer 500 series chartplotter: XTE (from APA, APB or XTE sentences) is required for the Explorer AP380 system to use GPS mode BRG (from APA sentences) and BOD (from APA or APB sentences) are optional and improve performance COG (from VTG sentences) is optional and can be displayed. Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 7

8 WIND: The Explorer AP380 system can receive NMEA wind data from a compatible wind instrument: True or apparent wind direction (from MWV sentences) is required for the Explorer AP380 system to use Wind mode. SPEED: The Explorer AP380 system can receive NMEA speed data from a compatible paddlewheel or GPS instrument: SOG (from VTG sentences) is optional and improves performance. Note: If the Explorer AP380 system is connected to a Northstar series wind or speed instrument using NavBus, then the Explorer AP380 system will automatically receive and use the wind or speed data, and the NMEA connection need not be wired. Explorer AP380 system NMEA outputs The NMEA 2 port can be configured to be an input or to be output: either heading (HDG & HDT) and rudder angle (RSA) at once per second or heading (HDG) at ten times per second (see NMEA mode in the Setup > Comms menu, See Explorer AP380 Operation Section). 2 Explorer AP380 system hardware 2-1 What comes with your Explorer AP380 system MCU600 (Main Control Unit) RFU - Rudder feedback unit Explorer AP380 Display unit Compass, with 10 m (33 ft) attached cable Gyro, with 10 m (33 ft) attached cable Documentation Warranty Display unit mounting template This Installation/Operation manual Protective cover for display unit 2 mm (#14) twin stranded cable for high current wiring Additional hardware Mounting hardware Cable cover Strain relief Spare fuses 8 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

9 2-2 Other parts required Power supply: The Explorer AP380 system requires two power supplies, both nominally 12 V DC: A heavy duty supply for the steering drive A light duty supply for the Explorer AP380 system electronics and display unit; this supply also powers any additional display units and other instruments. The power supplies require one or two switches and fuses or circuit breakers (see section 3-4). Steering drive: The Explorer AP380 system can power a hydraulic pump, constantly running pump set, hydraulic linear drive or mechanical drive rated at 12 V DC and up to 20 A. Rudder linkage: To link rudder to rudder feedback unit (see section 3-5). For wiring, see Select Wire Table in section External beepers or lights (optional ): The external output is switched to ground, 30 V DC and 250 ma maximum. If the beepers and lights require more than 250 ma total, fit a relay. Other marine instruments (optional): Wind, speed or GPS instruments can be connected (see section 1-2). Other parts: For systems of several instruments, wiring and connectors are required. Northstar junction boxes can simplify wiring several Northstar instruments together (see section 1-2 or the NavBus Installation and Operation Manual). Coupling connectors and 10 m (33 ft) extension cables are available to extend the rudder feedback unit, compass or gyro cables. Do not fit more than one extension cable to each unit. For more information, consult your Northstar dealer. 3 Installation Correct installation is critical to the performance of the unit. It is vital to read this manual and the documentation that comes with the other parts before starting installation. The MCU600 is not waterproof. Mount the unit in a dry place. The Explorer AP380 system display unit is waterproof. The compass, gyro and rudder feedback unit are completely waterproof. Ensure that any holes that you cut will not weaken the boat s structure. If in doubt, consult a qualified boat builder. 3-1 Installation sequence The recommended installation sequence is: 1 Read this manual and the documentation that comes with the other parts. 2 Plan the installation: select where the equipment and wiring will be installed (see section 3-2). 3 Install the MCU600 (see section 3-3). 4 Install the steering drive and wire the heavy duty and light duty power supplies (see section 3-4). 5 Install the rudder feedback unit (see section 3-5). 6 Install the compass (see section 3-6). 7 Install the gyro (see section 3-7). 8 Install the display unit and any other marine instruments that will be used with the Explorer AP380 system (see section 3-8). 9 Carry out the dockside setup (see section 4). 10 Carry out the sea trials (see section 5). If you are unsure where a part should be installed, mount and wire the part temporarily, without cutting holes in the boat. After the sea trials have been completed, install and wire the part permanently. Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 9

10 3-2 Installation guide This is a general guide for locating and wiring the parts of the Explorer AP380 system. The instructions for a particular part may have additional requirements Location guide Do not mount any part where it can be used as a handhold, where it will interfere with the operation of the boat or where it might be submerged. Do not mount any part where it will interfere with launching or retrieving the boat. Do not mount any part within 0.5 m (20 ) of the plane of a radar antenna. Mount the compass and gyro: At least 1 m (3 ft) away from sources of electrical signals or noise, such as the batteries, high-current cables, other boat cables, engines, fluorescent lights, power inverters, radio or radar transmitters and antennas. At least 1 m (3 ft) away from equipment containing a magnet, such as a compass or speaker Wiring guide The Explorer AP380 system has two kinds of cables: The heavy-duty power supply and steering drive usually require high-current cables: Select the wire gauge from the wire size table (see section 3-4-2). Fit high-current cables at least 1 m (3 ft) away from other electronic devices in the boat. Keep the cables as short as possible. Twin 2 mm (#14) cable is supplied with the Explorer AP380 system and can be used for the high current cable if its gauge is suitable. All the other cables are low-current: Fit low-current cables at least 1 m (3 ft) away from sources of electrical signals or noise, such as the high-current cables, other boat cables, engines, fluorescent lights, power inverters and radio or radar transmitters and antennas. If the cable for the rudder feedback unit, compass or gyro is too long, do not shorten the cable; instead coil the cable up near the main control unit. The cable for the rudder feedback unit, compass or gyro can be extended by adding a 10 m (33 ft) extension cable and coupling connector. Do not fit more than one extension cable to each unit. When fitting any type of cable: Do not crush, pinch or strain the cable. Secure the cable at regular intervals. Ensure no connectors or exposed terminals are in the bilge. 10 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

11 3-3 Installing the MCU600 (Main Control Unit) Physical 200 mm (7.87 ) 200 mm (7.87 ) IMPORTANT: 200 mm (7.87 ) clearance required for cover removal 55 mm (2.16 ) Screws 90 mm (3.54 ) apart 140 mm (5.10 ) 60 mm (2.36 ) Screw holes 184 mm (7.24 ) apart 1 RFU 2 Gyro 3 Compass / Heading Sensor IMPORTANT: 60 mm (2.36 ) clearance required for cables Installation Find a suitable location for the unit: In a dry, cool place; if possible not the engine room. Close to the high-current power supply and the steering drive, to reduce the length of the high current wiring. Accessible for installation and service. If possible on a vertical panel which does not vibrate. Follow the location guide (see section 3-2-1). Mount the unit with the cable connectors at the bottom or to one side, using the screws provided. Do not mount the unit with the connectors at the top, because dust or moisture might enter the unit. Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 11

12 3-4 Installing the power supplies and steering drive Installing the power supplies The MCU 600 system requires a light duty and a heavy duty power supply, both 12 V DC. Note: Keep all wiring as short as possible. For the heavy duty supply, use the wire size given in the table (see section 3-4-2). Follow the wiring guide (see section 3-2-2). MCU600 Power supply: one switch configuration Choose this configuration to have one switch to turn the Explorer AP380 system and any other instruments on and off V DC power supply, current to suit drive Fit strain relief Fuse 1 A Heavy duty power Connector cover Light duty power Circuit breaker or fuse and switch, current rating to suit steering drive Power supply: two switch configuration Choose this configuration to be able to turn the drive power off and leave other instruments powered V DC power supply, current to suit drive Circuit breaker or fuse and switch, current rating to suit steering drive Fuse 1 A Fit strain relief Switch Heavy duty power Connector cover Light duty power Note: If powering more than three extra display units or other series instruments, fit another switch and fuse for the light duty power supply for these extra instruments 12 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

13 3-4-2 Installing the steering drive Install the steering drive according to one of the diagrams on the following pages. Note Keep all wiring as short as possible. Use the wire size given in the table below. Follow the wiring guide (see section 3-2-2). Wire less than #10 gauge will not fit directly into the four way terminal block. Fit ferrules or reterminate the wire with #10 gauge wire. If more than one wire is to be fitted to a terminal of the four way terminal block, join the wires together in a suitable way. Wire size table To choose a wire gauge for an installation: 1 Measure the length of twin cable required, i.e. the distance from the main control unit to the heavy duty power supply or to the drive. 2 Choose the column with the cable length and the row with the circuit current. The intersection of the row and column gives the preferred (minimum) cable wire gauge for less than 3% voltage drop in a 12 V system. Cable length (from main control unit to power supply or to drive) Current 1 amp 2 amp 3 amp 4 amp 5 amp 6 amp 7 amp 8 amp 9 amp 10 amp 15 amp 20 amp 2.5 ft 0.7 m # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm 5 ft 1.5 m # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm #12 4 mm #12 4 mm 7.5 ft 2.2 m # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm #12 4 mm #12 4 mm #10 6 mm 10 ft 3 m # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm #12 4 mm #12 4 mm #12 4 mm #10 6 mm #8 10 mm 12.5 ft 3.7 m # mm # mm # mm # mm # mm #12 4 mm #12 4 mm #12 4 mm #12 4 mm #10 6 mm #10 6 mm #8 10 mm 15 ft 4.5 m # mm # mm # mm # mm #12 4 mm #12 4 mm #12 4 mm #10 6 mm #10 6 mm #10 6 mm #8 10 mm #6 16 mm 17.5 ft 5.2 m # mm # mm # mm # mm #12 4 mm #12 4 mm #10 6 mm #10 6 mm #10 6 mm #10 6 mm #8 10 mm #6 16 mm 20 ft 6 m # mm # mm # mm #12 4 mm #12 4 mm #10 6 mm #10 6 mm #10 6 mm #10 6 mm #8 10 mm #6 16 mm #6 16 mm Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 13

14 Example of hydraulic steering with hydraulic help pump. In the Setup > Vessel menu (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section), set Drive Type to Motor. MCU600 Fit strain relief Heavy duty power (see section 3-4-1) No connection Wiring polarity does not matter. Motor Example of mechanical steered power vessels with hydraulic linear drive for sailing boat In the Setup > Vessel menu (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section), set Drive Type to Motor. Note: Clutch relay coil must draw less than 300mA MCU600 Heavy duty power (see section 3-4-1) Fit strain relief Connector cover Wiring polarity does not matter. Motor Clutch relay coil 1N4002 diode or equivalent Fit close to relay coil 14 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

15 Installing a electric drive motor with clutch relay In the Setup > Vessel menu (See Explorer AP380 system Operation Section), set Drive Type to Motor. MCU600 Heavy duty power (see section 3-4-1) 1N4002 diode or equivalent Fit close to relay coil Clutch coil Fit strain relief Relay contacts Connector cover Motor Wiring polarity does not matter. Relay coil 1N4002 diode or equivalent. Fit close to relay coil Note: Relay is required if the clutch circuit is greater than 300 ma. Installing a continuous running pump and solenoid valves. In the Setup > Vessel menu (See Explorer AP380 system Operation Section), set Drive Type to Spool ground. MCU600 Fit strain relief Connector cover Heavy duty power (see section 3-4-1) Relay contacts Note: Motor is not required for engine PTO systems. Motor Wiring polarity does not matter. Relay coil Starboard 1N4002 diode or equivalent Fit close to relay coil Port Note: Relay is required if the clutch circuit is greater than 300 ma. Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 15

16 Installing solenoid valves or relays with jog or electric steering In the Setup > Vessel menu (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section), set Drive Type to Spool ground. MCU600 Fit strain relief Heavy duty power (see section 3-4-1) No connection Starboard Jog/steer controls Port 16 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

17 3-5 Installing the RFU (rudder feedback unit) Physical 90 mm (3.5 ) Rudder shaft Base LT8 connector 10 m (33 ft) cable 220 mm (8.7 ) Linkage to rudder Arm Arm rotates freely around base. Connecting rod, with quick release fittings and lock nuts each end End of connecting rod snaps into one of the holes on the arm. Mounting requirements These two distances to be equal. These two distances to be equal. Adjust position of rod on arm if required. Rudder shaft to be parallel to shaft in base. Base to be adjacent to rudder shaft so that this angle is 90 Rudder linkage and arm to move in the same plane Cut connecting rod if required. Thread = M5 Note The unit is completely waterproof but should not be immersed. Mount the unit on a panel which does not vibrate. Follow the location guide (see section 3-2-1). Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 17

18 Alignment The arm can rotate freely around the base. When the rudder is amidships, the arrow on the arm must point to one of the centre lines on the base. Centre line Base Sets of lines show the two linear ranges of the unit. Centre line Therefore in an installation, the base can be rotated to two positions. We recommend the position that has the cable on the opposite side to the connecting rod. Recommended (rudder amidships). Not recommended, cable can foul rudder linkage. Arrangements Recommended: U-shaped arrangement with the arm parallel to the length of boat: Bow of boat Satisfactory: U-shaped arrangement with arm not parallel to length of boat, for example: Not recommended: Z-shaped arrangement, for example: Bow of boat If rudder turns too far, the unit might not return to the Z shape. 18 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

19 Installation 1 Find a suitable location and arrangement for the unit as described above. 2 Choose, assemble and fit a suitable rudder linkage. 3 Fit the unit as shown below: Set rudder amidships. If necessary, mount base on block to set height. Rotate base so arrow on arm points near centre line on base. Fit two screws provided loosely in middle of slots. Rotate base so arrow on arm points to centre line on base. Fit third screw provided, tighten all screws. Ensure rudder is amidships. If necessary, cut connecting rod at this end, then replace coupling and lock nut. Join coupling to rudder linkage. Snap end into correct hole in arm. 4 Wire the cable back to the MCU600, following the wiring guide (see section 3-2-2). Holes in the bulkheads must be at least 18.5 mm (0.73 ) diameter. MCU600 Plug connector into the RFU socket Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 19

20 3-6 Installing the Compass Physical 101 mm, (4 ) 71 mm, (2.8 ) 97 mm, (3.8 ) Mounting holes for screws LT8 connector Location Mount the compass: 10 m (32.8 ft) At least 1 m (3 ft) away from any steel or iron boat part, such as: a steel hull, deck, cabin or steel reinforcing in ferro-cement hulls steel equipment such as motors and cooking equipment places where steel objects are stored, such as the anchor locker and storage lockers At least 2 m (6 ft) away from equipment with a magnet and equipment which generates electromagnetic fields, such as a compass, a battery, high current wiring, an electric motor and a radio or radar transmitter or antenna. As close as possible to the centre of movement of the boat, to minimise how much the compass moves when the boat rocks and pitches. If the compass can not be mounted at the centre of movement, it is usually best to mount the compass as low as possible. On a vertical panel which does not vibrate. The unit is completely waterproof but should not be immersed. The compass is not affected by other metals, such as stainless steel, copper or brass. Follow the location guide (see section 3-2-1). Fibreglass or wood hull and cabin: mount compass at the centre of movement (for planing hulls, the centre of movement is usually close to the stern): Steel hull, non-steel cabin: mount compass 1 m, (3 ft) above hull: Steel hull and steel cabin: mount compass on a pole 1 m (3 ft) above the hull and at least 1 m (3 ft) from the cabin: 1 m (3 ft) 1 m (3 ft) At least 1 m (3 ft) 20 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

21 Installation 1 Find a suitable location for the unit as described above. 2 Mount the unit with the three screws provided. Use a level to ensure the unit is vertical to within 10. Less than Less than Wire the cable back to the MCU600, following the wiring guide (see section 3-2-2). Holes in the bulkheads must be at least 18.5 mm (0.73 in) diameter. MCU600 Plug connector into the Compass/HS socket Note If you move the compass with respect to the gyro while the power is on, wait for the heading to stabilize. Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 21

22 3-7 Installing the Gyro Physical 101 mm, (4 ) 71 mm, (2.8 ) Mounting holes for screws 97 mm, (3.8 ) LT8 connector 10 m (32.8 ft) Location Mount the gyro as close as possible to the centre of movement of the boat, to minimize how much the gyro moves when the boat rocks and pitches. Mount the gyro on a panel which does not vibrate. The unit is completely waterproof but should not be immersed. Follow the location guide (see section 3-2-1). The Ideal location is at the centre of movement (for planing hulls, the centre of movement is usually close to the stern). 22 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

23 Installation 1 Find a suitable location for the unit as described above. 2 Mount the unit with the three screws provided. Use a level to ensure the unit is vertical to within 10. Less than Less than Wire the cable back to the MCU600, following the wiring guide (see section 3-2-2). Holes in the bulkheads must be at least 18.5 mm (0.73 ) diameter. MCU600 Plug connector into the Gyro socket Note If you move the gyro with respect to the compass while the power is on, wait for the heading to stabilise. 3-8 Installing the Explorer AP380 display unit and other instruments There are two mounting arrangements: Flush mounting requires a solid panel with access behind for wiring and mounting screws. After flush mounting, the display cannot be tilted or moved after installation to reduce any unwanted glare or reflections. Carefully select the best viewing position before installation. This would generally be in a shaded area. Flush mounting directions 1 Cut a hole in the bulkhead for the display unit using the flush mount template as a guide. 2 Drill four holes for the mounting studs using the flush mount template as a guide. 3 Screw the four studs into the brass inserts in the back of the display unit. 4 Sit the display unit in place and fit the washers and nuts to the studs. Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 23

24 Bracket mounting requires a panel for mounting the bracket. Ensure that the panel is not likely to deform and is not subject to excessive vibration. The bracket can be tilted and the dispaly can be removed after each use. Select a position where the display unit will be: At least 4" (100 mm) away from the compass. At least 12" (300 mm) away from any radio transmitter. At least 4 ft (1.2 m) away from any antenna. Easy to read and operate. If possible, mount the display unit in front of the navigator or to the right of the navigator because the LCD display is more readable from these positions. Not exposed to the direct sun or water. Protected from physical damage during rough sea passages. Easy to access the DC power source. Convenient to route the transducer cables. Bracket mounting directions 1 Fix the mounting bracket onto the boat using the four stainless steel screws. 2 Hold the display unit in place in the mounting bracket. Fit the mounting bracket knobs into the display unit and do up the knobs loosely. 3 Adjust the tilt of the display for best viewing, then hand tighten the knobs on the mounting bracket. 24 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

25 Wiring the display unit MCU600 Display unit Plug power cable into the Black socket on the rear of the Explorer AP380 display. Display unit cable, Requires 18 mm (0.7 ) hole through bulkhead. Note Clutch relay out: 8 NMEA2 - in/out: 7 NMEA1 - in: 6 NMEA common: 5 NavBus -, Blue: 4 NavBus +, Orange: 3 Ground, Black: 2 12 V power +, Red: 1 Connector cover 8-way connector Green Yellow (ignition wire) White (isolate, do not use) Brown (isolate, do not use) Light duty power (see section 3-4-1) Optional external beepers and lamps for the external alarm. If the beepers and lights require more than 250 ma, fit an external relay. Wire the display unit power wires (red and black wires) to the eight way connector terminals 1 and 2 to ensure the display unit and main control unit have the same light duty power supply. Follow the wiring guide (see section 3-2-2). Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 25

26 Wiring other instruments Addtional AP380 display units Other series instruments A GPS, such as a Northstar Explorer 567 Display units Units GPS MCU600 Clutch relay out: 8 NMEA2 - in/out: 7 NMEA1 - in: 6 NMEA common: 5 NavBus -, Blue: 4 NavBus +, Orange: 3 Ground, Black: 2 12 V power +, Red: 1 Connector cover NMEA in & out Power, NMEA in Clutch, optional (see section 3-4-2) NMEA in/out GPS NMEA out GPS NMEA common Light duty power (see section 3-4-1) Green (from one display unit only) Green Green Note: Beepers and lights (see previous page) Refer to the instrument s installation manual for more wiring information. If adding more than three display units or other series instruments, fit a separate light-duty power supply for the extra instruments (see section 3-4 or the instrument s installation manual) The external alarm outputs (green wire) of Northstar series instruments and 500 series chartplotters can be connected together to drive the external beepers and lights. In systems with several other instruments, we recommend using NavBus junction boxes to simplify wiring (see the NavBus Installation and Operation Manual). Follow the wiring guide (see section 3-2-2). 26 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

27 4 Dockside setup Perform the dockside setup: after installing a Explorer AP380 system (see section 3) after a part has been changed or if a problem is suspected After dockside setup, perform the sea trials (see section 5 ). 4-1 Start dockside setup 1 Turn the Explorer AP380 system on (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section). If the rudder moves, immediately turn the power off. If you try to enter AUTO and the rudder feedback unit or compass have not yet been calibrated, then the Explorer AP380 system will displays an error. 2 If the Explorer AP380 system has been used before, reset all user data to the factory defaults. Go to Factory reset > Both in the Setup System menu (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section). 3 Enter the user data listed in the User Data table below (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section to find what each data item means and how to enter the data). Beside each item, write the value of the user data that you enter. Until the rudder feedback unit is calibrated (see section 4-2), there is no rudder limit. The user must ensure that rudder is not driven onto an endstop when using the jog command (see Explorer AP380 Operation Section). 4-2 Calibrating the rudder feedback unit This procedure matches the rudder feedback unit to the rudder. Note To exit the calibration at any time, press ESC. If you do not move the rudder as prompted or the rudder feedback unit is not working then the Explorer AP380 system can not finish the calibration. The Explorer AP380 system will display an error. Press ESC, fix the problem and repeat the calibration. In normal operation, the Explorer AP380 system will not turn the rudder closer than 3 to an endstop. To calibrate the rudder feedback unit go to Rudder in the Setup > Calibrate menu. Follow the on-screen instructions presented by the calibration wizard (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section). Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 27

28 5 Sea trials Perform the sea trials: After performing the dockside setup (see section 4). To check the operation of the Explorer AP380 system. For the sea trials, sail in an open area where there are no other craft or obstructions. The sea should be calm, the wind speed as low as possible and there should be no currents. 5-1 Calibrating the compass Note To exit the calibration at any time, press ESC. If the boat is not turned as prompted or the compass is not working then calibration can not be completed, the Explorer AP380 system displays an error. Press ESC, fix the problem and repeat the calibration. Local disturbances in magnetic field may affect the compass. Calibration must be preformed away from large metal structures such as marinas, large ships etc.; this is the responsibility of the user. Ensure that both sources are referencing the same north (true or magnetic). If your magnetic compass has not been calibrated then you can use another source for heading. If using vessel s compass then ensure that the deviation tables are applied to check the AP380 compass. To calibrate the Compass unit go to Compass in the Setup > Calibrate menu. Follow the on-screen instructions presented by the calibration wizard (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section). 5-2 Aligning the compass and the rudder The compass or rudder can be aligned separately Aligning the compass (Align heading) This aligns the Explorer AP380 system compass to display the correct heading. The compass can be aligned either to a reference compass or to a GPS connected to the Explorer AP380 system. Ensure there is no cross-wind or current. To align the Compass unit go to Align heading in the Setup > Calibrate menu. Follow the on-screen instructions presented by the calibration wizard (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section) Aligning the Rudder (Centre rudder) This sets the rudder setting to sail a straight course. Ensure there is no cross wind or current. To align the rudder go to Centre rudder in the Setup > Calibrate menu. Follow the on-screen instructions presented by the calibration wizard (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section). 28 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

29 Appendix A - Specifications - MCU600 Electrical: Drive power supply: 10.5 to 16.5 V DC, 20 A maximum 8-Way Terminal power supply: 10.5 to 16.5 V DC, 300 ma. Other optional instruments: refer to the instrument s operation manual. Interfaces: NavBus: connection to other Northstar instruments and Explorer AP380 display unit. NMEA 0183 ports: NMEA 1: Input; NMEA 2: Can be programmed to be an input or output NMEA 0183 output messages: HDG, HDT, RSA; NMEA 0183 input messages: APA, APB, BOD, BWC, MWD, MWV, RMA, RMB, RMC, VHW, VTG, XTE Standards compliance: EMC compliance USA (FCC): Part 15 Class B. Europe (CE): IEC 60945:2002 Clause 9 & 10. New Zealand and Australia (C Tick): IEC 60945:2002 Clause 9. Environment: Compass: IPx6 and IPx7 - completely waterproof. Gyro: IPx6 and IPx7 - completely waterproof. Rudder feedback unit: IPx6 and IPx7 - completely waterproof. MCU600 Main unit: Not waterproof - requires a cool, dry, clean environment. MCU600 Main unit Drive connections: Terminal Signal 1 Heavy duty power positive, 10.5 to 16.5 V DC 2 Heavy duty power negative 3 Steering drive negative output 4 Steering drive positive output MCU600 Main unit 8-way Terminal connections: Terminal Signal 1 Light duty power positive, 10.5 to 16.5 V DC 2 Light duty power supply common 3 NavBus + 4 NavBus 5 NMEA common 6 NMEA in 1 7 NMEA in 2 8 Steering clutch relay drive output, switched ground to turn relay on, 30 V DC, 300 ma maximum MCU600 Internal Fuse: 2x fuses - both fuses are the same Type: ATC - Automotive blade Rating: 20A Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 29

30 Appendix B - Specifications - AP380 Display Electrical: Supply voltage: 10.5 to 30.5 V DC. Supply current ( at 13.8 V): Without backlighting: 160 ma. With full backlighting: up to 410 ma. Other optional instruments: refer to the instrument s operation manual. Interfaces NavBus: connection to MCU and other Northstar instruments. Standards compliance: EMC compliance: USA (FCC): Part 15 Class B Europe (CE): IEC 60945:2002 Clause 9 & 10. New Zealand and Australia (C Tick): IEC 60945:2002 Clause 9. Environment: IPx6 and IPx7 - completely waterproof. AP380 Display unit power/data cable wires: Black connector - Power and MCU Pin Wire color Signal 5 Red Power positive, 10.5 to 30.5 V DC 1 Black Power negative 6 Orange NavBus + 4 Blue NavBus - 7 Yellow Ignition wire 3 White Factory use (isolate, do not cut) 8 Green External alarm, switched to ground, 30 V DC and 250 ma max. 2 Brown Factory use (isolate, do not cut) Green connector - NavBus expansion Pin Wire color Signal 5 Red Factory use (isolate, do not cut) 1 Black Power negative 6 Orange NavBus + 4 Blue NavBus - 7 Yellow Factory use (isolate, do not cut) 3 White Factory use (isolate, do not cut) 8 Green Factory use (isolate, do not cut) 2 Brown +9V out 30 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

31 Appendix C - User data User Data table (to record installation setup data) Menu > Setup > SYSTEM menu Language Night mode Key beep Auto power off SmartCraft Menu > Setup > OPTIONS menu Dodge angle Tack mode Tack angle Gybe mode Gybe angle Tack delay Turn rate Menu > Setup > VESSEL menu Vessel Type Drive Type Wind features selected Menu > Setup > ALARMS menu Course error XTE Waypoint akn Wind shift (sail only) Low battery High current Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 31

32 Menu > Setup > UNITS menu Distance Compass Magnetic variation Wind Menu > Setup > COMMS menu NMEA mode NavBus group Menu > Setup > PROFILES menu Profile (user1) Parameters: Adaptive Response Ratio Advanced: Trim C-rudder GPS gain Wind gain Profile (user2) Parameters: Adaptive Response Ratio Advanced: Trim C-rudder GPS gain Wind gain 32 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

33 Profile (user3) Parameters: Adaptive Response Ratio Advanced: Trim C-rudder GPS gain Wind gain Profile (user 4) Parameters: Adaptive Response Ratio Advanced: Trim C-rudder GPS gain Wind gain Profile (user5) Parameters: Adaptive Response Ratio Advanced: Trim C-rudder GPS gain Wind gain Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 33

34 Explorer AP380 Autopilot Operation Section

35 Operation Contents Using this manual AP380 Modes Quickstart Starting the AP380 system Using the AutoPilot to steer the boat automatically Changing course during a voyage Changing steering mode during a voyage Regaining manual control Action in an emergency Manually steering the boat from the boats helm Manually steering the boat using power steering AP380 operation The keys Turning the Explorer AP380 on Turning the Explorer AP380 off Backlight Engaging AP Disengaging AP Setting the steering mode Changing course Dodge Turn modes Power steering Alarms Keylock Simulate mode The displays Display > Basic Display > AutoPilot Display > Compass Display > Data Display > Active alarms Data headers Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 35

36 6 Menus Setup > System Setup > Profiles Setup > Options Setup > Vessel Setup > Alarms Setup > Units Setup > Comms Setup > Calibrate Setup > Simulate Steering modes Compass steering mode GPS steering mode Wind steering mode Optimising steering performance Steering parameters Profiles Adjusting the steering parameters Troubleshooting Specifications Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

37 1 Introduction The Explorer AP380 is a superior quality, high performance AP380 display head. The Northstar AP380 system has the flexibility to be used with power or sail boats. The Explorer AP380 has dedicated function keys and a large 3.8 Color TFT display. This provides the user with exceptionally easy to use controls. The Explorer AP380 is part of the Northstar family of instruments for boats, which includes instruments for speed, depth, wind and repeaters. These instruments can be connected together to form an integrated data system for a boat. The AP380 performance is enhanced if it is connected to a boat speed instrument such as a Northstar Explorer S310 or a GPS instrument. NORTHSTAR EXPLORER AP380 Using this manual This manual describes how to operate the Explorer AP380. Refer to the Explorer AP380 System Installation Section at the front of this manual for information on how to install and setup the Explorer AP380 before use. For maximum benefit, please read this manual carefully before using the Explorer AP380. Cleaning and maintenance Clean the parts of the Explorer AP380 with a damp cloth or mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners, petrol or other solvents. Do not paint any part of the Explorer AP380 except for the cables. 1-1 AP380 Modes Operating modes The AP380 has three operating modes (see sections 3-5 and 3-6): STANDBY: The AP380 does not steer the STBY boat (except during jog steer). The helmsman steers the boat with the manual helm. AUTO: The AP380 steers the boat automatically based on selected Steering Mode and course. Do not steer the boat manually. HAND-STEER: The AP380 does not steer the boat, HSTR but displays steering information for you to use to manually steer a course. Steer manually using the displayed steering data Steering modes The AP380 has three steering modes (see section 3-7): Compass - The boat sails at a set compass heading. COMPASS GPS - The boat sails to a destination along a preset route. GPS This mode requires a GPS instrument, such as a Northstar Explorer 557 chart-plotter to be connected via NMEA. Wind - The boat sails at a set angle to the wind. This mode requires a wind instrument, such as a Northstar Explorer W310 to be connected via NavBus or NMEA. WIND Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 37

38 1-1-3 Power steering modes When the AP380 is in STBY (STANDBY) mode the helmsman must steer the boat manually. However The Explorer AP380 has two different power steering control modes (see section 3-11). Jog: Turns the rudder left or right while the key is pressed. Follow-up: Sets the target position of the rudder. The rudder will turn until it is in the target position Turn modes The Explorer AP380 can follow a preprogrammed turn sequence. The AP380 has three different turn modes (see section 3-10): Tack/Gybe: Auto-tacks OR Auto-gybes the boat after a delay period. The tack/gybe angle and tack/gybe delay can be customised. 90º turn: The boat turns through 90º 180º turn: The boat turns through 180º Note: Not all turn modes are available in all operating modes. 2 Quickstart Note regarding Jog and Follow-up mode: The user is to be aware that while in Standby (STBY) Mode, the AP380 can move the rudder at anytime that the Dodge keys or Control Dial is operated. 2-1 Starting the AP380 system 1. Turn the AP380 system on by pressing 2. If the AP380 is connected to speed, wind or GPS instruments, turn these on too. 3. If necessary, adjust the backlight so that the display can be easily read (press briefly and adjust using the Control Dial). 2-2 Using the AutoPilot to steer the boat automatically 1. Manually steer the boat to open waters before engaging the AP380 to steer the boat. 2. Select the desired steering mode by pressing then use the Control Dial to highlight Compass, GPS or Wind then press. 3. If using GPS mode, start navigating to a waypoint using the GPS instrument. 4. Engage the AP380 by pressing. 2-3 Changing course during a voyage In Compass mode and Wind mode it is possible to change course during a voyage: Turn the Control Dial in the direction of the intended course change, for example: To change course 10º to starboard, turn the Control Dial 10 clicks clockwise. To change course 30º to port, turn the Control Dial a whole turn counter-clockwise. 2-4 Changing steering mode during a voyage It is possible to change the steering mode during a voyage, for example: Change from GPS mode to Compass mode at the end of a route, or, On a sailing boat, change from Wind mode to Compass or GPS modes when changing from sailing to motoring. 1. Press then use the Control Dial to highlight the desired steering mode then press. 2-5 Regaining manual control 1. Press. The AP380 is now disengaged and you have complete steering control. can be pressed at any time. 2. Manually steer the boat using the boats steering helm. 3. To re-engage the AP380, press. 38 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

39 2-6 Action in an emergency To regain control of the boat in an emergency situation: 1. Press. The AP380 is now disengaged and you have complete steering control. 2. Manually steer the boat. Alternatively: 1. Press or to make an immediate course change to port or starboard. 2. After a period of time, press to resume original course, or press to continue on the alternative course. 2-7 Manually steering the boat from the boats helm To manually steer the boat: 1. Press. The AP380 is now disengaged and you have complete steering control. 2-8 Manually steering the boat using power steering To manually steer the boat using the AP380 to move the rudder: 1. Ensure the AP380 is in STBY by pressing. 2. Press and hold or to turn the rudder to port or starboard. Pressing both will centre the rudder 3. Release the button when the rudder is in the desired position. Alternatively: 1. Ensure the AP380 is in STBY by pressing the key. 2. Turn the Control Dial until the on-screen rudder indicator is in the desired position. 3. The AP380 will turn the rudder until it is in the target position. Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 39

40 3 AP380 operation 3-1 The keys Button Function 1 ESC Step back a menu level or return to selected AP380 screen 2 ENT Selects highlighted items or brings up Parameters menu when in AP380 display mode 3 MENU Shows context sensitive Options menu, press twice to show the Setup menu. 4 DISP Opens display menu to change between AP380 screens 5 Control Dial Use to scroll through menus, increment or decrement selected values, follow up rudder control and to make course changes. 6 Dodge Left Dodge to Port key (repeated presses increments values) Initiates left tack/gybe, 90 turns and 180 turns 7 Dodge Right Dodge to Starboard key (repeated presses increments values) Initiates right tack/gybe, 90 turns and 180 turns 8 Turns Opens turn menu to access tack/gybe, 90 turns and 180 turns 9 AUTO Places AP380 into auto mode MODE Invokes steering mode menu STBY Places AP380 into standby mode Power Press and hold to turn instrument off. Single press shows backlight control Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

41 3-1-1 AUTO key Press to engage AUTO mode. The AP380 is now steering the boat based on the selected steering mode. Press and hold for 2 seconds to engage H-STEER mode STBY key Press to disengage AUTO mode and set STBY mode. The AP380 is not steering the boat the helmsman must steer the boat using the manual helm Dodge keys Press or to trigger an immediate dodge to port or starboard. Repeated presses of the same key increments dodge angle. STBY mode: Jogs the rudder left or right while the key is pressed AUTO mode: Activates a dodge. Causes the vessel to deviate from the set course by a preset angle Turn key Press to display the turn menu. The boat follows a preprogrammed turn sequence. Select an item from the menu then press or to activate the turn in the corresponding direction. Tip: Repeated pressing will cycle through the menu selection MODE key Press to select steering mode. Tip: Repeated pressing will cycle through the menu selection Control Dial When using menus and adjusting settings, use to scroll through items and increment or decrement values. STBY mode: Moves the rudder to port or to starboard half of a degree per click. AUTO mode: Changes the set course by one degree per click. Note: In GPS mode, the set course can not be adjusted as the course is controlled by the navigation instrument ESC key When using menus and adjusting settings, press to step back one level without saving changes. When no menus or settings are displayed, press to jump back to the most recently used AP380 display screen ENT key When using menus and adjusting settings, press to choose selection or save setting. Tip: When showing the Basic, AP380 or Compass screen, pressing opens the Parameters menu MENU key Press to show the Options menu (where applicable). Press twice to show the Setup menu DISP key Shows the Display menu. Tip: Repeated pressing will cycle through the menu selection and will automatically select the highlighted entry after 1 second. 3-2 Turning the Explorer AP380 on Press. If there are no other AP380 display heads on the system, The Explorer AP380 will turn on and enter STBY (Standby) mode. Note: If the AP380 was switched off while still in AUTO mode, a warning message will be displayed to alert the user that there may have been a power interruption. Note: When the AP380 is powered on, the Control Dial and Dodge keys are active and can operate the rudder at any time (see Power Steering modes 1-1-3) Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 41

42 3-3 Turning the Explorer AP380 off When in STBY mode: Press and hold. A pop-up box will appear and start a 3 second count-down. The unit will turn off when the counter reaches 0. Releasing during this time will resume normal operation. Any settings you have made are retained by the unit. When in AUTO mode: Press and hold. A warning pop-up box will remind you to enter STBY mode before the unit can be turned off. Press to close the pop-up. 3-4 Backlight Briefly press. The Backlight pop-up will appear. Repeating this action will toggle from day to night mode. Use the Control Dial to increase or decrease the display and keypad backlighting. The Explorer AP380 has a choice of white background Day and black background Night backlighting modes. Either mode can be selected using the Control Dial. The Backlight pop-up may also be selected: Menu > Setup > System > Backlight menu. Backlighting on all other Northstar instruments that are connected on the same NavBus backlighting channel will also change. 3-5 Engaging AP380 Select AUTO mode by pressing. The AP380 is now steering the boat based on the selected steering mode. 3-6 Disengaging AP380 Select STBY mode by pressing. The AP380 is not steering the boat the helmsman must steer the boat using the manual helm. 3-7 Setting the steering mode For a power boat: For a boat without GPS, or for a boat with GPS but you do not want to navigate to a waypoint, choose Compass mode. The AP380 steers the boat at a set compass heading. Select Compass mode by pressing, choose Compass and press. To use the AP380 with a GPS to navigate to a waypoint or along a route, choose GPS mode. The AP380 steers the boat using navigation data from the GPS. Select GPS mode by pressing, choose GPS and press. For a sailing boat: To steer to a set compass heading, choose Compass mode. Select Compass mode by pressing, choose Compass and press. To navigate to a waypoint or along a route, choose GPS mode. Select GPS mode by pressing, choose GPS and press. To sail, tack and gybe at a set angle to the wind, choose Wind mode. Select Wind mode by pressing, choose Wind and press. 42 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

43 Tip: It is possible to change steering modes while in AUTO mode. For example it is helpful to use Compass mode to control the boat when setting up a GPS route, then change directly to GPS mode. Note for sailing boats: The AP380 is not recommended for use in light, changeable or gusty winds. Take care when running downwind to avoid an accidental gybe. Wind mode requires the wind instrument to be accurately calibrated. Note: To select GPS mode, the AP380 must be receiving data from a compatible GPS instrument, otherwise the GPS selection will not be available. To engage the AP380 in GPS mode, the GPS must be navigating to a waypoint or along a route; otherwise the Explorer AP380 will display an error message. If the boat is too far from the plotted course, the Explorer AP380 will display a warning message. To select Wind mode, the AP380 must be receiving data from a compatible wind instrument, otherwise the Wind selection will not be available. 3-8 Changing course Changing course in compass mode To change course in 1 steps, turn the Control Dial. turn the Control Dial counter-clockwise to change course to port turn the Control Dial clockwise to change course to starboard Example Changing course in GPS mode The course maintained by the AP380 is controlled by the GPS device that is navigating to a waypoint. To change course in GPS mode, select a different waypoint on the GPS device. Heading = 45 CTS = 45 Heading = 45 CTS = 45 CTS changes to 44 Boat comes to 44 heading CTS changes to 46 Boat comes to 46 heading Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 43

44 3-8-3 Changing set wind angle in wind mode To change set wind angle (SWA) in 1 steps, turn the Control Dial. turn the Control Dial counter-clockwise to change course to port turn the Control Dial clockwise to change course to starboard Example Wind Wind SWA = 40 SWA changes to 39. Boat comes to new wind angle of 39 SWA = 40 SWA changes to 41. Boat comes to new wind angle of Dodge A dodge is a sharp change of course, usually to avoid an obstacle. press to dodge to port by the dodge angle press to dodge to starboard by the dodge angle. The boat will change course by a preset dodge angle. To dodge further, press or more times. To view or change the dodge angle, go to Dodge angle in the Options menu (see section 6-3) Dodging in compass mode Heading = 45 CTS = 45 Press to continue on the new heading CTS changes by the dodge angle. Boat comes to new heading. or Press to resume the earlier heading 44 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

45 3-9-2 Dodging in GPS mode The Explorer AP380 will steer back to the GPS plotted course. Make sure there are no obstacles or dangerous waters in the way. CTS changes by the dodge angle. Boat comes to new heading. Press to resume the earlier heading WARNING: The Explorer AP380 will steer back to the GPS plotted course. Make sure there are no obstacles or dangerous waters in the way Dodging in wind mode Wind Press to resume the earlier wind angle SWA = 40 SWA changes by the dodge angle. Boat comes to new wind angle. The Explorer AP380 beeps. Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 45

46 3-10 Turn modes The Explorer AP380 can follow a preprogrammed turn sequence. The AP380 has three different turn modes: Tack/Gybe: Auto-tacks the boat after a delay period. The tack angle and tack delay can be customised. Gybes can be disabled. 90º turn: The boat turns through 90º 180º turn: The boat turns through 180º Availability: Compass GPS Wind Tack/Gybe yes no yes 90º yes no no 180º yes no no Auto tacking in compass mode Auto tacking is intended to tack a sailing boat. The course to steer changes by the tack angle. press, select Tack/Gybe then press to tack to port by the tack angle press, select Tack/Gybe then press to tack to starboard by the tack angle. Press to initiate a tack to port or starboard. Press or to select tack direction A The boat sails straight while the Explorer AP380 counts down the tack delay. The unit gives a long beep at 60 and 30 seconds to go, a short beep every second from 10 seconds to 1 second to go and a long beep that finishes when the countdown ends. Course after tacking Course prior to tacking delay count B The tack is finished when the boat reaches the new heading 46 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

47 Turns in compass mode To change course by 90 press, select 90 turn then press to turn to port by 90 press, select 90 turn then press to turn to starboard by 90 To change course by 180 press, select 180 turn then press to turn to port by 180 press, select 180 turn then press to turn to starboard by 180 Press to initiate a 90 or 180 turn to port or starboard. Press or to select turn direction When auto-tacking (in Compass Mode), the course to steer changes by the tack angle. The AP380 does not use data from any wind instrument. It is possible for the boat to gybe or to end in irons (head to wind). Note: To tack to a fixed wind angle, use the AP380 in Wind mode (see section 7-3). To view or change the tack angle or the tack delay, go to tack mode, tack angle or tack delay in the Options menu (see section 6-3). Gybe angle is not used in Compass mode. Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 47

48 Auto tacking or gybing in wind mode If the set wind angle (SWA) is 90 or less, the boat tacks, if the SWA is more than 90 the boat gybes. After the tack or gybe, the SWA is the same as the SWA before the tack or gybe, but from the other side. P r e s s, select Tack/Gybe then press to tack or gybe to port Press, select Tack/Gybe turn then press to tack or gybe to starboard Example: SWA is 40, so the boat will tack, not gybe. If the tack angle is not set to Auto, the boat changes direction twice: - first by the tack angle - second so that SWA is the same as before the tack or gybe, but on the other side: The tack is finished when the boat reaches the new wind angle After the boat has reached the tack angle, the boat turns again so that the SWA (set wind angle) is the same as the SWA before the tack, but from the other side To cancel the tack at any time, press Wind At the end of the tack delay, the course changes by the tack angle (in this example, the tack angle is not set to Auto). The boat turns. The boat sails straight while the Explorer AP380 counts down the tack delay. The unit gives a long beep at 60 and 30 seconds to go, a short beep every second from 10 seconds to 1 second to go and a long beep that finishes when the countdown ends. SWA = 40 Press, select Tack/Gybe then press to initiate a tack to port. 3 seconds to go until the tack starts 48 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

49 Example: SWA is 120, so the boat will gybe. The tack angle is not set to Auto: Example: SWA is 40. The tack angle is set to Auto so the boat changes direction once: Wind To cancel the gybe at any time, press Press, select Tack/Gybe. Then press to initiate a gybe to starboard The Explorer AP380 counts down the tack delay. The course changes by the gybe angle To cancel the gybe at any time, press Wind End of tack, boat is at new SWA The course changes so that the SWA is the same as the SWA before the tack The Explorer AP380 counts down the tack delay. The course changes again so that the SWA is the same as the SWA before the tack End of tack, boat is at new SWA Press, select Tack /Gybe then press to initiate a tack to port If SWA is more than 90 and the gybe angle is set to AUTO then the boat will change direction once during a gybe, so that the SWA is the same as the SWA before the gybe. There are four possibilities for auto tacking or gybing: Tack (SWA is 90 or less) Gybe (SWA is more than 90 ) Wind Press, select Tack/Gybe then press to tack to port. Press select Tack/Gybe then press to tack to starboard. Press select Tack/Gybe then press to gybe to port. Press select Tack/Gybe then press to gybe to starboard. Note: To view or change the tack mode, tack angle, gybe mode, gybe angle or tack delay, go to the Options menu (see section 6-3). Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 49

50 3-11 Power steering When the AP380 is in STBY mode the helmsman must steer the boat manually. However the AP380 has power steering control modes available while in STBY mode: To Jog Steer to port: hold down to turn the rudder to port To Jog Steer to starboard: hold down to turn the rudder to starboard Follow-up steering: turn the Control Dial to set the desired position of the rudder (this function is disabled until the rudder feedback unit and the compass have been calibrated [see section 6-8]) a popup window will appear at the bottom of the screen indicating the desired position and the current position of the rudder. the rudder will move to the desired position. To stop the rudder turning, press, or. To centre the rudder: press and release + together to turn the rudder to amidships (this function is disabled until the rudder feedback unit and the compass have been calibrated [see section 6-8]) To stop the rudder turning to amidships press, or Until the rudder feedback unit is calibrated, there is no rudder limit and the user must ensure that the rudder is not driven onto an end stop when using jog steering (damage may occur) Alarms There are several alarms that monitor the condition of the AP380 system, these alarms can not be adjusted. There are also alarms that can be enabled to automatically detect certain conditions, such as low battery. Alarms that are enabled are shown as black icons in the alarm status box on the Explorer AP380 header. When an alarm is triggered: the beeper sounds the external alarm sounds or lamp illuminates (if connected) the bezel backlight on the Explorer AP380 flashes the alarm window is displayed and the alarm status icon is shown in the color corresponding to the severity of the alarm. Press or to acknowledge and reset the alarm. This action does not disable the alarm. Alarms can be set: Menu > Setup > Alarms menu (see section 6-5). Severity Alarm tone Color Description Info Single beep Blue Information message, does not affect AP380 operation. Warning Slow beeping Black A low priority event has occurred. Caution Moderate beeping Yellow An event has occurred that may require corrective action. Severe Rapid beeping Orange An important event has occurred requiring immediate attention. Critical Rapid beeping, low tone Red A critical problem is preventing the AP380 from controlling the boat, manual steering is required immediately. 50 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

51 The alarm window The alarm window shows a list of the latest active alarms. The most severe alarms appear at the top of the list. Turn the Control Dial to stop the Explorer AP380 from beeping. Select Details to acknowledge the displayed alarms and jump directly to the Alarm history screen. Select OK to acknowledge the displayed alarms Alarm history The Explorer AP380 keeps a record of alarms. The Alarm history screen shows a list of up to 18 recorded alarm events. To show the Alarm history screen: Select Details from the alarm window or, Go to Menu > Setup > Alarms > Alarm History. Turn the Control Dial to select an alarm in the list and press to see the Alarm details Alarm details The alarm details window shows extra detail on an individual alarm Active alarms The Active alarms screen shows a list of the currently active alarms. To show the Active alarms screen: Select Active alarms in the Display menu or, Go to Menu > Setup > Alarms > Active alarms. Turn the Control Dial to select an alarm in the list and press to see the Alarm details Keylock When keylock is activated, the Explorer AP380 will ignore most key presses. To turn keylock on: Press and hold the key for 2 seconds. A Keys locked message will appear and a small lock icon will appear on the lower right-hand display. To turn keylock off: Press and hold the key for 2 seconds. A Keys unlocked message will appear and the keys are re-enabled Simulate mode If the word Simulate flashes on the display, then the unit is in simulate mode. Simulate mode allows you to become familiar with the unit off the water. Simulate mode can be turned on or off: Menu > Setup > Simulate menu. Do not use simulate mode while at sea. Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 51

52 4 The displays Press key to show the Display menu, select a display option using the Control Dial and press. Tip: Repeated pressing will cycle the menu selection and will automatically select after 1 second. 4-1 Display > Basic Displays a standard AP380 display with just the essential AP380 data. Display area 1 Drive indicators Function Left and right boxes light up to indicate when the AP380 is driving the rudder 2 Heading Large digits show the heading of the vessel 3 Info panel This panel can be configured to display different data items. Default: Automatically switches between Rudder angle, Course error and Cross track error. 4 Set course STBY mode: shows --- since the set course is not valid in standby mode AUTO mode: digits show the current course to steer (CTS), except for WIND mode: digits show the current set wind angle (SWA) The colored ring is yellow in STBY mode, green in AUTO mode, magenta in H-STEER mode and red when there is a critical alarm 5 Steering mode panel 6 Operating mode panel Shows the steering mode (COMPASS, GPS, WIND) Shows the operating mode (Standby, Auto, H-Steer). Panel changes to blue when in AUTO mode. Options menu: Data setup - Selects what data is displayed in the info panel. Auto Rd/CE/XTE Automatically switches the displayed data between rudder, course error and cross track error depending on the operating mode. Course error Shows a course error bar in the info panel. Rudder angle Shows a rudder angle gauge in the info panel. XTE Shows a cross track error bar in the info panel Basic displays 52 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

53 4-2 Display > AutoPilot Displays an advanced AP380 display with essential AP380 data. Display area Function 1 Data Header Customizable data cells. Each display page has a separate header configuration. Default: Voltage, Current, Alarm Status (see section 5). 2 Heading Large digits show the heading of the vessel 3 Drive indicators 4 Numerical data panels 5 Bar data panels Left and right boxes fill up to indicate when the AP380 is driving the rudder and how much power is being used by the drive system Customizable data cells. Default: Course to steer, Course error. Customizable indicator bar. Default: Automatically switches between Rudder angle, Course error and Cross track error. 6 Mode panel Left hand side: shows the steering mode (COMPASS, GPS, WIND) Right hand side: shows the operating mode (Standby, Auto, H-Steer) inside a colored tab. Panel changes to blue when in AUTO mode. The colored tab is yellow in STBY mode, green in AUTO mode, magenta in H-STEER mode and red when there is a critical alarm. Options menu: Header Menu for configuring the data header in this display (see section 5). Data setup Enters the data set-up mode. Use the Control Dial to highlight a data cell, press to display a list of data types that can be displayed in that cell AutoPilot displays 5 6 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 53

54 4-3 Display > Compass Displays a standard AP380 display with just the essential AP380 data. Display area Function 1 Data Header Customizable data cells. Each display page has a separate header configuration. Default: Course to steer, Heading, Alarm Status (see section 5). 2 Drive indicators Left and right boxes fill up to indicate when the AP380 is driving the rudder and how much power is being used by the drive system 3 Compass card Compass card rotates to show the heading of the vessel under the lubber mark. 4 Course arrow STBY mode: points to the current heading AUTO mode: points to the set course, except for: GPS mode: points to the bearing to waypoint 5 Deviation bar Moves laterally to show course information. Note: This bar can be configured to display different items. Default: Automatically switches between Rudder angle, Course error and Cross track error. 6 Deviation scale Indicates what data the deviation bar is currently showing and the magnitude 7 Mode panel Left hand side: shows the steering mode (COMPASS, GPS, WIND) Right hand side: shows the operating mode (Standby, Auto, H-Steer) inside a colored tab. Panel changes to blue when in AUTO mode. The colored tab is yellow in STBY mode, green in AUTO mode, magenta in H-STEER mode and red when there is a critical alarm. Options menu: Deviation bar Selects what data is displayed by the deviation bar. 1 Auto Rd/CE/XTE Automatically switches the deviation bar 2 between rudder, course error and cross track error depending 3 4 on the operating mode. Course error Shows course error using the deviation bar. 5 6 Rudder angle Shows rudder angle using the 7 deviation bar. Compass displays XTE Shows a cross track error bar using the deviation bar. Header Menu for configuring the data header in this display (see section 5). 54 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

55 4-4 Display > Data The data display shows one large data cell, two smaller data cells and a data history graph. Each is these items can be configured to display a range of data types. The graph is useful for analysing the performance of the AP380. Display area Function 1 Big data cell Customizable data cell. Default: Rudder angle. 2 Small data cells Customizable data cells. Default: Voltage, AP380 Status. 3 History graph This graph plots data over a period of time. There are two graph series that can be configured, red and green. Default: Rudder angle, Course error. 4 Time base The time base of the graph can be set from 2 minutes to 1 hour. This is the amount of time it takes for new data to scroll from the right hand side to the left hand side. Options menu: Data setup Enters the data set-up mode. Use the Control Dial to highlight a data cell, press to display a list of data types that can be displayed in that cell. Time base - Selects the time base of the history graph. Select 2 min, 4 min, 10 min, 20 min or 1 hour Data display 4-5 Display > Active alarms Shows a list of the currently active alarms (see section ). Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 55

56 5 Data headers Data headers are available on the AP380 and Compass screens. A data header is a customizable feature that can be used to display up to 6 different data items, such as boat speed or alarm status. The AP380 and Compass screens have separate settings for the data header. Header menu: Data Turns the data header completely on or off. Data setup Enters the data set-up mode. The Data header expands to display all 6 possible data cells. Some data cells may be blank. Use the Control Dial to highlight a data cell, press to display a list of data types that can be displayed in that cell. Size Selects the size of the data header items. Select Small, Medium or Large. 56 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

57 6 Menus Many of the Explorer AP380 features and functions are operated through menus. To scroll through menu items, scroll through items in a list or change data use the Control Dial. Clockwise scrolls across/down or increments data. To select a menu item press. To go back to the previous menu press. To accept changes press. To discard changes press. Note: Some menu items in the Explorer AP380 menus utilize checkboxes. If the box is checked (contains a check or tick), then that function is selected (enabled) or ON. If the box is un-checked (does not contain a check or tick), then that function de-selected (disabled) or OFF. To select or de-select a checkbox, highlight the menu item using the Control Dial and press. The change will happen immediately. The main menu for configuring the Explorer AP380 is the Setup menu. Press until the Setup menu is displayed (normally twice). The Setup menu and options are summarized in this chapter. The factory default settings are shown where applicable. Each Setup menu option is explained in the following sections. 6-1 Setup > System Language Select the language for the display. The options are: English, Italian, French, German, Spanish, Dutch, Swedish, Portuguese, Finnish and Greek. Tip: In case you can t read the current language, the language setting is the first item in the system menu. Backlight The backlight pop-up is displayed (see also section 3-4). The bar setting represents the current level of backlighting. Night Mode Allows low contrast Night mode. Auto allows night mode to be selected in backlight pop-up On night mode is active all the time Off night mode is not available Key beep Enables or disables an audible beep when a key is pressed or Control Dial is rotated. Auto power off Select to have the AP380 power off automatically every time the boat s ignition is switched off. This applies only if the display unit is wired for Auto Power (see installation manual). About Displays information about the unit. Factory Reset Resets all settings to the factory default settings. A warning box asks: Are you sure? Select Yes and press to confirm, or No or to cancel. Main control unit Resets the MCU s settings Head unit Resets just this head unit s settings Both Resets the MCU s settings and this unit s settings SmartCraft Select to enable SmartCraft functions. SmartCraft is only available with certain Mercury engines, and requires a SmartCraft Gateway. For more information refer to the SmartCraft manual included with the SmartCraft gateway. Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 57

58 6-2 Setup > Profiles Profiles are used to store a range of AP380 settings for different sea, environmental and vessel conditions. Up to 5 user profiles may be configured (see section 8-2). Profile Select the current profile to use. Edit name Use to edit the name of the currently selected profile (see section 8-2). Parameters Opens the Parameters menu (see section 8-1). 6-3 Setup > Options Options can be selected to set AP380 operating limits: Set angle vessel gybes through an angle set in Gybe angle, then steers to the same set wind angle but on the opposing tack. Gybe angle Set gybe angle if Set angle is selected in Gybe mode Minimum = 40 ; maximum = 140 Tack delay Set delay that the AP380 will use from the time a Tack is requested to the time a Tack is carried out by the AP380 Minimum = 0; maximum = 120 (seconds) Turn Rate Set the maximum turn rate you want the AutoPilot to use. Minimum = 3; maximum = 20 ( /second) 6-4 Setup > Vessel Vessel type can be selected to alter the performance characteristics of the AP380 depending on the vessel hull type: Vessel type Select Planing, Displacement or Sailing. Dodge angle Sets size of the dodge angle steps in degrees. Minimum = 5 ; maximum = 30 Tack mode Auto vessel tacks to the same set wind angle but on the opposing tack. Set angle vessel tacks through an angle set in Tack angle, then steers to the same set wind angle but on the opposing tack. Tack angle Set tack angle if Set angle is selected in Tack mode. Minimum = 50 ; maximum = 160 Gybe mode Off gybing is disabled. Auto vessel gybes to the same set wind angle but on the opposing tack. Changing the vessel type causes the steering parameters to be reset to default values in the current profile. Drive type Configures the AP380 to drive the type of steering system. See installation section for details. Wind features Controls whether wind features such as Tack/Gybe are accessible. 58 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

59 6-5 Setup > Alarms Some of the AP380 alarms are user configurable. Alarm trigger settings can be defined to suit the boat and individual preferences as follows: Course error The alarm will sound if the vessel strays from its intended course by more than the set error. Set OFF or a value in degrees. Minimum = 1 ; maximum = 90 XTE Cross Track Error The alarm will sound if the vessel strays from it s intended track by more than the set error. Set OFF or a value in nautical miles. Minimum = 0.01; maximum = 2.0 (nautical miles) Waypoint akn The alarm will sound and ask the user for confirmation, when in GPS mode, when arriving at a waypoint before steering to the next waypoint. Set ON or OFF. Wind shift The alarm will sound if, when in Wind mode, the wind shifts by more than the set angle since engaging AUTO. Set OFF or a value in degrees. Minimum = 1 ; maximum = 90 Low battery The alarm will sound if the vessel battery voltage is below the setting. Set OFF or a value in Volts. Minimum = 7; maximum = 14 (Volts) High current The alarm will sound if the current drawn from the battery by the rudder drive system exceeds the setting. Set a value in Amps. Minimum = 5; maximum = 20 (Amps) Active alarms Displays a list of currently active alarms (see section ). Alarm history The AP380 keeps a record of alarms. Displays the alarm history list (see section ). Clear alarm history Allows the alarm history to be cleared. A warning box asks: Are you sure? Select Yes and press to confirm, or No or to cancel. 6-6 Setup > Units Select the units you prefer the AP380 to display: Distance All distance readings are displayed in the selected units. nm (nautical miles), mi (miles), km (kilometers) Compass All compass readings are displayed in the selected units. T (degrees True), M (degrees Magnetic) Magnetic variation Set the local magnetic variation in degrees. Minimum= - 90(W); maximum= + 90(E) (degrees) Wind All wind readings are displayed in the selected units. App (Apparent), True (True) Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 59

60 6-7 Setup > Comms Use this feature when the AP380 is connected to other Northstar instruments through NavBus or any compatible NMEA instrument. NMEA mode Select NMEA port mode. Input NMEA port can receive NMEA data Slow NMEA port outputs heading and rudder angle once per second Fast NMEA port outputs heading data ten times per second NavBus group Use this when a group of Northstar instruments are connected together using NavBus, to specify a group of instruments for backlighting, if required. Then, if the backlight setting on one instrument in the group is adjusted, the other instruments change automatically. Otherwise, select Setup > Calibrate The calibrate wizard screens are used during the initial AP380 installation stage or if any previously installed AP380 transducers have changed or moved. It is vital to the performance of the AP380 that the transducers are installed in the best location and carefully calibrated. Compass Use this calibration wizard to calibrate the compass. Follow the on-screen instructions: Slowly turn boat 2.5 times, observing the turn rate indicator Align heading press and dial in the current heading Accept calibration Calibration complete Rudder Use this calibration wizard to calibrate the rudder. Follow the on-screen instructions: Centre the rudder Turn rudder to Maximum Port Turn rudder to Maximum Starboard Set angle press and dial in the current rudder angle Centre the rudder Stand clear of the rudder and linkages so the AP380 can test the limits. Testing limits press at any time to abort the calibration Accept calibration Calibration complete Align heading Use to align the compass to the actual boat heading. If a compass calibration has recently been performed, it is not necessary to align the heading again. Use the manual helm to sail a straight course and ensure the boat heading does not change during this procedure. Use an accurate reference compass or external GPS to find the actual boat heading. If you are using an external GPS, sail as fast as convenient to ensure the heading is accurate. Enter the actual course heading. Minimum = 0 ; maximum = 359 (degrees) Centre Rudder Use to set the rudder centre position. If a rudder calibration has recently been performed, it is not necessary to set the rudder centre position again. Ensure the rudder is in the centre position and that there is no cross-wind or tidal current affecting the rudder. Select OK and press when the rudder is centreed. 6-9 Setup > Simulate Turn simulate mode on and off (see section 3-14). 60 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

61 7 Steering modes Important: The AP380 cannot control the boat better than a helmsman. The AP380 is not intended for use in extreme weather, in adverse conditions or near other boats, dangerous waters or land. In these conditions, disengage the AP380 and steer manually. Never leave the helm unattended, keep a watch at all times and be ready to resume steering the boat manually. Do not try to turn the rudder by hand when the AP380 is engaged. Local variations in magnetic field can affect the accuracy of the compass heading. Such variations are the responsibility of the user. 7-1 Compass steering mode The AP380 has three ways of steering the boat, compass, GPS and wind. To select an appropriate mode, see section 3-7. In Compass mode, the AP380 steers the boat to a set course, called CTS (Course to steer) Compass steering data Actual boat heading is 45 Course error = 10 CTS (course to steer, the intended AP380 course) 55 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 61

62 7-1-2 Engaging and disengaging the AP380 in compass mode Manually steer the boat to open waters. Sail straight on the intended course. For example: Heading = 45 To engage AUTO, press To engage HANDSTEER, hold AUTO: HANDSTEER: The AP380 steers the boat automatically. Steer the boat manually. Display CTS in the info data or course error in the bar data and use these to steer by. The Explorer AP380 sets CTS (course to steer) to the current heading, in this example 45, and starts steering on this course. Heading = 45 CTS = 45 To disengage the AP380, press The AP380 returns to STBY mode. Steer the boat manually. 62 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

63 7-2 GPS steering mode The AP380 has three ways of steering the boat, compass, GPS and wind. To select an appropriate mode, see section 3-7. In GPS mode, the AP380 uses data from a GPS to steer the boat along a route or to a waypoint GPS navigation data Navigating to a waypoint: Destination SOG (speed) COG (bearing) CTS (bearing) Plotted course DTG (distance) TTG (time) BRG (bearing) XTE (distance) Boat Course error (angle) Start The boat is sailing from the start to the destination and has moved off the GPS plotted course from the start to the destination: BRG COG CE CTS DTG SOG TTG XTE Bearing to destination The bearing to the destination from the boat. Course over ground Direction in which the boat is moving over the ground. Course error The difference between CTS and the boat heading. Course to steer Optimum course to steer to return to the plotted course. Distance to go Distance from the boat to the destination. Speed over ground The current boat speed over the ground. This is not necessarily the same as the boat speed through the water nor the speed at which the boat is approaching the destination. Time to go The estimated time to reach the destination. Cross track error The distance from the boat to the nearest point of the plotted course. XTE may have a letter: R means steer to the right to return to the plotted course, L means steer to the left. Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 63

64 7-2-2 Engaging and disengaging the AP380 in GPS mode Manually steer the boat to open waters. Start the GPS navigating to a waypoint, either a waypoint on a route or a single waypoint. GPS plotted course to a waypoint BRG (direction of GPS course) XTE (distance to GPS course) To engage AUTO, press To engage HAND STEER, hold AUTO: HANDSTEER: GPS plotted course The AP380 steers the boat automatically. Steer the boat manually. Display CTS in the info data or course error in the bar data and use these to steer by. When the Explorer AP380 is engaged, if the XTE is more than 0.05 nm or the boat heading is not within 30 of BRG then the Explorer AP380 displays a warning: Press to remain in STBY mode or press to have the Explorer AP380 steer the boat to the course. When the Explorer AP380 is engaged, it uses data from the GPS to steer the boat along the plotted course to the waypoint. To disengage the AP380, press The AP380 returns to STBY (standby). Steer the boat manually. 64 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual

65 7-2-3 Arriving at waypoints If the GPS is following a route and the boat reaches an intermediate waypoint: If the Waypoint Acknowledge alarm (see section 6-5) is off, the AP380 automatically starts steering to the next waypoint in the route. If the Waypoint Acknowledge alarm is on, the AP380 shows the following alarm: The AP380 continues steering on the old course. Select OK to start steering to the next waypoint. When the boat reaches the final waypoint, the AP380 shows the following alarm: The AP380 continues steering on the old course. Select OK change to Compass mode and continue sailing at the current heading. Press to return to STBY mode. Note: To return to the last waypoint if the boat has passed the waypoint, restart the GPS navigating to the waypoint GPS gain In GPS mode, The GPS gain determines how much correction is applied to remove cross track error. A high setting will cause the AP380 to steer quickly back towards the track. A low setting will cause the AP380 to steer very gently back towards the track. Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual 65

66 7-3 Wind steering mode The AP380 has three ways of steering the boat, compass, GPS and wind. To select an appropriate mode, see section 3-7. In wind mode, the AP380 steers the boat to a set angle to the wind, called SWA (set wind angle) Wind steering data Course error Boat heading CTS (intended AP380 course, to achieve the SWA [set wind angle]) SWA (set wind angle), 41 Wind angle can be APP (apparent) or TRUE Wind APP Apparent wind angle The apparent wind angle at the boat. P in front of the angle means the wind is from port, S means that the wind is from starboard. CTS Course to steer The course to steer to maintain the SWA (set wind angle). Course error The difference between APP (wind angle) and SWA (set wind angle). SWA Set wind angle The desired wind angle. TRUE True wind angle The true wind angle at the boat. P in front of the angle means the wind is from port, S means that the wind is from starboard. 66 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual