Autopilot Model P-3G Specifications

Heavy Weather System with very fast Gyro Heading Input and Rudder Speed

 

Type: Variable dead band non -hunting system with variable speed rudder drive

Heading System : Solid State gyro/Fluxgate. 1/10per second response time, operates at up to 45 degree heal.

Heavy Weather Push Button Control

Auto-Tack Feature: tracks to windward with the press of 2 buttons.

Rudder Limit Systems: There are 2 rudder limit systems in these pilots.

1. Provides for the maximum deflection with power steering that is adjustable inside the case.

2. Limits the rudder deflection from 10 to 25 degrees depending on the rudder gain control under autopilot control.

Normal Rudder Speeds: 10 degrees/ per second.   6 seconds for 30/0/30 degrees. Speeds from 5 to 12 degrees per second are possible.

Display: LCD display with red back lighting displays vessel heading in one degree increments and accuracy. A computer display is also displayed which selects two types of navigational interfacing ( GPS steering ), weather helm status and a 180 degree u-turn mode. Rudder angle or degrees to next heading can also be displayed.

Controls: The selector switch option  include "Standby", "Autopilot On", "Remote" and "Off" modes.  The "Standby" mode is used to display the digital heading or rudder-angle display.

  •  Weather & Yaw Control: This knob adjusts the dead band from 1 to 12 degrees. It is used in heavy weather to allow the autopilot to work less hard.
  • Rudder Gain Control: This knob controls the amount of rudder added for a given amount of course deviation. It has a range of .3 to 1.3 and allows for greater rudder deflections when vessel speed is very slow.
  • Port & Starboard Dodge Button: These Red & Green buttons provide for a rapid temporary course change. They operate as power steering buttons ( jog type steering ) in " Standby "mode. They also can be used to provide a permanent 10 degree course change.
  • Course Change Lever:  the three position toggle switch changes the autopilot course permanently in 1 degree steps and at a rate of 3 degrees per second as long as the lever is held to port or starboard.
  • Light Dimmer: This knob dims the pilot lights on the front of the PHC.
  • Auto Weather Helm (AWH) : The AWH circuit can be turned on or off with the computer menu.
  • Display:  This momentary toggle switch cycles the display from heading to rudder angle to next course indicator.
  • Gain/Boost Tack: This momentary toggle switch  activates the gain boost ( heavy weather control ) or activates the 90 degree tacking function.
  • Gyro/Fluxgate Switch. 

Construction: The Pilot House Control Unit ( PHC ) is houses in a polycarbonate case, which is splash proof. All controls and connectors have water seals. The Unit is normally trunnion mounted with a supplied stainless steel bracket. The PHS is non-magnetic and can be mounted within 1 inch of the compass. A flush mounting kit is available.

Size: 4.8 inches H x 4.8 inches W x 3.4 inches D with a maximum depth of 4.2 inches.

Options:

  • Remote Controllers: The available units include HC-2A-3 and HC-3A-3.
  • Rudder Angle Indicators ( Meters ): Up to three RAIs can be connected. ( Remote HC-2A-3 has an RAI built in ).
  • Hydraulic Power Pack: The standard system comes with a 12v , 1/4 horse variable speed drive unit. HPP's from 1/2 to 2 hp and solenoid drivers for engine driven hydraulic steering systems are available.
  • Counter Rudder: ( Rate Control ): Available Option.
  • Edson Connection Kit: A linear actuator that is designed to operate with Edson type cable steering is available.
  • Wind Vane Input Systems: Model W-1 , supplied with a small rail mounted wind vane.
  • Polar Wind Computer System: Model W-3 , uses Stan Honey's software and a PC computer.