Simrad AP48 Autopilot Control Head w/Rotary Knob

Description

Set up a dedicated Simrad autopilot command point with the Simrad AP48 Autopilot Control Head, which combines a 4.1-inch color display, aluminum rotary dial, and dedicated dodge controls. The unit connects through a 12V NMEA 2000 network and supports compatible NAC-2, NAC-3, AC12, and AC42 autopilot computers. Its 177 mm by 115 mm flush-mount profile should be checked against the available helm-panel space and rear clearance.

A 360-degree continuous rotary dial supports the stated heading-control interface, while the controller draws about 1.4W during typical operation. The IPX7-rated housing operates from minus 15°C to 55°C and weighs 0.5 kg, or 1.1 lb. Included components consist of a bezel, sun cover, and NMEA 2000 T-connector. A compatible Simrad autopilot computer, drive, compass, and network remain required for a complete installation.

Key Specifications of the Simrad AP48 Autopilot Control Head

• The AP48 combines a 4.1-inch color display, aluminum rotary dial, and dedicated dodge controls for compatible autopilot operation.
• A continuous 360-degree rotary dial supports the documented heading-control interface for course adjustments through the connected Simrad autopilot system.
• NMEA 2000 Micro-C networking supplies 12V power and connects the control head with compatible NAC and AC autopilot computers.
• Compatibility includes NAC-2, NAC-3, AC12, and AC42 computers, requiring confirmation of the existing autopilot system before installation.
• The flush-mount controller measures 177 mm wide by 115 mm high, requiring sufficient panel space and rear cable clearance.
• An IPX7 rating and minus 15°C to 55°C operating range define the stated environmental parameters for the helm controller.
• The 0.5 kg control head includes a bezel, sun cover, and NMEA 2000 T-connector for the documented package configuration.

System Integration and Control

This Simrad control head does not replace the autopilot computer, drive, heading sensor, or NMEA 2000 backbone. It provides a dedicated interface for a compatible Simrad autopilot system. The AP48 is intended to complement Simrad glass-helm displays, instruments, and controllers through a low-profile flush-mount installation.

Rotary heading control, dedicated dodge keys, automated turn patterns, NoDrift steering, and Depth Contour Tracking depend on the connected autopilot system and its configured sensors. Confirm compatibility with the installed processor, compass, steering drive, multifunction display, and network before fitting the control head.

Why Choose the Simrad AP48 Autopilot Control Head

The Simrad AP48 Autopilot Control Head provides a 4.1-inch color display, larger aluminum rotary dial, dedicated dodge controls, NMEA 2000 connection, and IPX7-rated flush-mount housing. Its 177 mm by 115 mm size, 12V network supply, 1.4W typical draw, and compatibility with NAC-2, NAC-3, AC12, and AC42 computers give buyers specific integration checks when adding a helm autopilot controller.

Setup and Network Considerations

Confirm that the vessel has a compatible Simrad autopilot computer, steering drive, heading sensor, and NMEA 2000 backbone before ordering. Plan the 177 mm by 115 mm flush-mount location, panel depth, rear cable clearance, display visibility, network-drop connection, and 12V backbone capacity. Use Simrad documentation for all wiring, network, configuration, calibration, and commissioning procedures.

Warranty and Support

Simrad warranty terms vary by product and region, and the supplied specifications do not provide a named warranty period for the AP48 controller. Mulmarine.com can help you review flush-mount dimensions, NMEA 2000 network needs, autopilot-computer compatibility, display placement, and required processor, drive, and compass components before purchase. Review the applicable Simrad warranty coverage and documented package contents before ordering.

Before Ordering the Simrad AP48 Autopilot Control Head

Confirm that you need an autopilot control head and already have, or plan to install, a compatible Simrad autopilot computer, drive, heading sensor, and NMEA 2000 backbone. You should verify the 177 mm by 115 mm flush-mount space, rear clearance, 12V network supply, cable route, control-head location, and the NAC-2, NAC-3, AC12, or AC42 computer used by your system.