Simrad NAC-3 High Current Autopilot Course Computer

Description

The Simrad NAC-3 High Current Autopilot Course Computer, SKU 000-13288-001, is a high-current autopilot processor for compatible larger sailboats, powerboats, heavy-displacement yachts, workboats, and commercial vessels. It controls appropriately matched hydraulic pumps, mechanical linear drives, rotary drives, and solenoid steering systems, but it is a course computer only and requires a separate autopilot display, heading sensor, steering drive, and feedback arrangement where required.

The NAC-3 supports 12V or 24V systems and provides 30A continuous drive output with up to 50A peak output. It connects through NMEA 2000 Micro-C and includes an RF25N rudder-feedback connection, while virtual rudder feedback may be available on suitable installations. Confirm the selected drive current, hydraulic-cylinder volume, steering type, physical-feedback requirement, wiring, circuit protection, and complete Simrad system compatibility before purchase.

Key Specifications

• High-current Simrad autopilot course computer, SKU 000-13288-001.
• Designed for compatible large recreational and commercial steering systems.
• Supports compatible hydraulic pumps, linear actuators, rotary drives, mechanical steering drives, and solenoid valves.
• Operates from 12V or 24V DC systems.
• Provides 30A continuous drive output and up to 50A peak output.
• Supports compatible hydraulic-cylinder volumes from 250 cc to 500 cc, or 15.2 to 30.5 cubic inches.
• Uses NMEA 2000 Micro-C networking and supports NMEA 0183 input and output connections.
• Requires protected internal mounting and has an IPX5-rated enclosure.

System Integration

The NAC-3 does not include a display, heading sensor, steering drive, hydraulic pump, rudder-feedback sensor, or network backbone. Add a compatible Simrad, B&G, or Lowrance autopilot control interface, a Precision-9 or other approved heading source, a correctly matched drive, and physical feedback where required by the steering configuration.

Virtual Rudder Feedback may remove the need for a separate feedback sensor on suitable hydraulic outboard and sterndrive installations, but it is not appropriate for every vessel. Mechanical steering, larger hydraulic systems, solenoid drives, and commercial applications can require a physical rudder-feedback sensor.

Installation Considerations

Mount the NAC-3 vertically in a dry, accessible location with sufficient ventilation and clearance for high-current power, drive, clutch, solenoid, feedback, NMEA 2000, and NMEA 0183 wiring. Use correctly sized marine-grade conductors and overcurrent protection for the selected drive. Keep heading sensors and low-level network cabling clear of high-current wiring and electrical interference.

Before Ordering

Confirm vessel steering type, selected hydraulic pump, linear actuator, rotary drive, or solenoid system, drive current and duty cycle within the NAC-3 rating, hydraulic-cylinder volume where applicable, 12V or 24V supply, required display, heading sensor, feedback method, NMEA 2000 network, NMEA 0183 requirements, protected mounting space, cable sizing, and complete autopilot-system components before purchase.