Delivers Simrad brand reliability, advanced pilot features and performance to a range of boat makes and models
Navico, a world leading manufacturer of marine electronics for the leisure marine market, has announced that its two new-for-2008 Simrad autopilots — the AP24 and AP28 — have been approved for use on powerboats equipped with Volvo Penta’s Inboard Performance System (IPS) and Electronic Vessel Control (EVC).
This interface delivers the latest in autopilot technology to a range of vessels from top American builders including Lazzara, Egg Harbor, Carver, Regal, Tiara, Chaparral, SeaVee and many more. In fact, the robust construction, reliable performance and Volvo Penta IPS/EVC compatibility make the new Simrad AP24 and AP28 ideal for dozens of popular powerboat makes and models ranging from 26 to 46 feet.
Measuring 4.5” square with an easy-to-read 4” diagonal digital display, the compact AP24 is perfect for boats with limited space at the helm or console. The AP28 features a large 4-1/2” digital LCD display and easy rotary knob control, along with the power to handle the steering needs of mid- to larger-sized boats under the most challenging conditions.
By utilizing the Simrad SG05 IPS/EVC gateway, the standard Simrad RC42 Rate Compass and NMEA 2000® connectivity via SimNet, the AP24 and AP28 autopilot systems provide a simple, yet elegant installation for these boats, with autosteering performance that compliments the inherent efficiency, acceleration and vessel control advantages of the Volvo Penta IPS/EVC systems. Not only does SimNet make for a cleaner, less expensive installation with simpler set up and calibration, it also provides for easy integration with Volvo Penta’s advanced EVC.
Additionally, the network data sharing and control capabilities of SimNet make it easy for boat builders or end users to expand the system with a wide range of compatible marine electronics — including the new Simrad IS20 Instrument Series, new Simrad NX Series NavStation Multi Function navigators, the award-winning Simrad RemoteCommander Wireless Remote control, the Simrad RS82 DSC VHF radio, and more. The plug-and-play capabilities of SimNet minimize wiring and allow all components to work seamlessly together.
The AP24 and AP28 both offer some of the most advanced electronic steering features available for recreational vessels, including:
Integrated Turn Patterns — Programmable S-Turn, Zig-Zag, Square Pattern and Continuous Turn are highly useful for offshore sportfishing boats targeting billfish, tuna and other pelagic gamefish.
Depth Contour Tracking — This exclusive Simrad feature uses echosounders data to allow the pilot to steer a course along a set water depth. This is not only important for safety; it is a powerful tool for bluewater anglers trolling a specific depth, ledge or drop-off.
Integrated Steering Algorithms — Full Rate of Turn control for smooth and precise turns in any conditions.
No Drift Course — This feature maintains a vessel’s Course Over Ground, even in severe wind and/or current conditions, saving the navigator time and fuel on long passages.
Advanced Wind Steering — This Simrad feature uses wind and GPS data input to course correct and hit long-distance waypoints dead-on.
Instrument Data Display — A full set of selectable instrument data pages on the AP24 and AP28 display compliments steering mode information while saving the space and cost of an extra instrument.
For additional technical or application information on the new Simrad AP24 and AP28 autopilots, or the entire line of Simrad professional-grade marine electronics, please visit www.Simrad-Yachting.com or call 1.800.324.1356 in the USA or 1.800.661.3983 in Canada.
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Navico is the parent company to five respected marine electronics brands: B&G, Eagle, Lowrance, Northstar and Simrad. Navico has approx 2,500 employees globally and 2007 pro forma revenues of close to USD 332 million. Navico is headquartered in Oslo, Norway. The company has development and manufacturing facilities in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Acton, Massachusetts, Torrance, California, USA; Ensenada, Mexico; Egersund, Norway; Margate, Romsey, UK and Auckland, New Zealand.
Further information from:
Strike Zone Communications
Ron Ballanti
(818) 349-4608
ron@strike-zone.net