Simrad NAC-2 Low Current Course Computer

Description

Build a compatible low-current autopilot system around the Simrad NAC-2 Low Current Course Computer, a 12V or 24V course computer for RPU80 and RPU160 steering drives. The processor supports hydraulic cylinders up to 250 cc, or 15 cubic inches, and connects to NMEA 2000 through a Micro-C terminal. Its bulkhead-mounted ABS enclosure measures 204 mm long by 180 mm wide and weighs 0.6 kg, or 1.3 lb.

Drive output is rated at 8A continuous with a 16A peak, while processor standby draw is 140 mA. The IPX5-rated enclosure operates from minus 25°C to 55°C. Included accessories consist of a network T-joiner and 2 ft NMEA 2000 cable. A compatible heading sensor, control display, steering drive, and complete vessel steering system are required for a finished autopilot installation.

Key Specifications of the Simrad NAC-2 Low Current Course Computer

• The NAC-2 course computer supports compatible RPU80 and RPU160 drives for low-current Simrad autopilot steering-system integration.
• Hydraulic-cylinder capacity reaches 250 cc, or 15 cubic inches, requiring exact cylinder-volume verification before the drive is selected.
• Drive output provides 8A continuous capacity with a 16A peak, supporting compatible 12V or 24V autopilot drive requirements.
• A 12V or 24V DC supply supports the processor, while standby draw is specified at 140 mA.
• NMEA 2000 Micro-C networking connects the course computer with compatible heading sensors, control displays, and system components.
• Bulkhead mounting accommodates a 204 mm long by 180 mm wide ABS enclosure with a 0.6 kg chassis weight.
• An IPX5 rating and minus 25°C to 55°C operating range define the stated environmental parameters for the processor enclosure.

System Integration and Drive Selection

This Simrad NAC-2 is a course computer, not a complete autopilot package. A compatible RPU80 or RPU160 drive, heading sensor, control display, NMEA 2000 network, 12V or 24V power supply, and complete steering arrangement must be selected separately. The processor uses screw-terminal blocks for steering-drive wiring and a Micro-C connection for the network.

Virtual Rudder Feedback is identified as a system feature, but its suitability depends on the vessel’s steering configuration and complete installed autopilot system. Confirm hydraulic cylinder volume, selected drive, bulkhead installation location, network capacity, circuit protection, and all compatible components before system installation.

Why Choose the Simrad NAC-2 Low Current Course Computer

The Simrad NAC-2 Low Current Course Computer provides 8A continuous and 16A peak drive output for compatible RPU80 and RPU160 autopilot drives. Its 250 cc hydraulic-cylinder limit, 12V or 24V support, NMEA 2000 Micro-C connection, 140 mA standby draw, 204 mm by 180 mm enclosure, IPX5 rating, and included T-joiner and cable provide defined installation checks for a low-current autopilot system.

Setup and Network Considerations

Confirm that the steering system requires a compatible RPU80 or RPU160 drive and does not exceed 250 cc hydraulic-cylinder volume. Plan a dry bulkhead location for the 204 mm by 180 mm processor, then route drive wires to the screw terminals and connect the NMEA 2000 Micro-C network. Verify the 12V or 24V circuit, 16A peak output requirement, heading-sensor placement, control-display compatibility, and complete autopilot installation plan.

Warranty and Support

Simrad warranty terms vary by product and region, and the supplied specifications do not provide a named warranty period for the NAC-2 course computer. Mulmarine.com can help you review RPU80 or RPU160 drive compatibility, hydraulic-cylinder volume, bulkhead-mounting space, NMEA 2000 requirements, power supply, 8A continuous output, and separate heading-sensor and display requirements before purchase. Review the applicable Simrad warranty coverage and documented package contents before ordering.

Before Ordering the Simrad NAC-2 Low Current Course Computer

Confirm that your vessel has, or will use, a compatible RPU80 or RPU160 drive and a hydraulic cylinder at or below 250 cc, or 15 cubic inches. You should verify the 204 mm by 180 mm bulkhead space, 12V or 24V circuit, NMEA 2000 network capacity, 8A continuous and 16A peak drive requirements, heading-sensor location, display compatibility, and complete autopilot-system components before purchase.