Simrad OP12 – Wired Autopilot Controller

Description

The Simrad OP12 Wired Autopilot Controller is a compact button-only control keypad for compatible Simrad autopilot systems. It provides dedicated Standby and Auto control plus one-degree and ten-degree course-change keys, allowing convenient operation from the helm or an additional control position. The OP12 has no screen; its LED indicators show autopilot mode and network alarm status.

The controller connects through one NMEA 2000 Micro-C cable for both power and data. It can be used as a dedicated autopilot keypad with compatible AC12, AC42, NAC-2, or NAC-3 computers, or paired with an IS42 display to form a compact standalone autopilot control station. The OP12 is a control interface only and does not include a course computer, steering drive, compass, or rudder-feedback sensor.

Key Specifications

• Compact wired button-only autopilot controller for compatible Simrad systems.
• Provides Standby, Auto, one-degree, and ten-degree course-change controls.
• Uses LED indicators for autopilot mode and network-alarm status; no display screen is included.
• Compatible with Simrad AC12, AC42, NAC-2, and NAC-3 autopilot computers.
• Can be paired with an IS42 digital display to create a compact autopilot control station.
• Uses one NMEA 2000 Micro-C connection for power and data.
• Operates from 9V to 16V DC with 0.81W power use when backlighting is off and 1.38W at maximum backlighting.
• Measures approximately 60 mm by 115 mm by 32 mm, weighs approximately 0.12 kg, and has IPX7 water protection.

System Integration

The OP12 does not operate a steering drive directly. It sends commands through the NMEA 2000 network to a compatible autopilot computer, which controls the selected hydraulic pump, mechanical drive, linear actuator, rotary drive, or solenoid system. A complete autopilot installation also requires a heading source, steering drive, electrical supply, and feedback arrangement where required.

The controller is useful as a secondary station or as a compact primary keypad when paired with an IS42 display. Confirm course-computer compatibility, available NMEA 2000 network capacity, display requirements, and desired steering-control layout before purchase.

Installation Considerations

Install the OP12 at a helm or secondary operating location with clear access to the keys and adequate rear clearance for the Micro-C connection. Connect it to a powered and correctly terminated NMEA 2000 backbone. Verify mode control, course changes, LED operation, network alarms, station priority, and steering response during autopilot commissioning.

Before Ordering

Confirm a compatible Simrad AC12, AC42, NAC-2, or NAC-3 autopilot computer, NMEA 2000 backbone, 9V to 16V network power, desired primary or secondary control location, optional IS42 display requirement, available 60 mm by 115 mm panel space, rear cable clearance, heading sensor, steering drive, feedback method, and complete autopilot-system components before purchase.