What does an autopilot do?

An autopilot is an automatic steering device for boats. In other words, it steers the boat for you. From different data sources, the steering system / course computer calculates the course and intervenes if necessary. Most pilots work via compass or GPS.<a href="https://www.svb24.com/en/category/autopilots#whatdoesanautopilotdo">Read more</a>

Which autopilots are out there and what should be considered when choosing?

The types of Autopilots that are generally available are Tiller pilots, Wheel pilots and Inboard autopilots. Each autopilot type has its own advantages and disadvantages. When choosing an autopilot, it is important that you base your calculations on realistic data from your boat. This information is extremely important when selecting an autopilot system, because it won't help if you go for a cheaper option and the autopilot's drive mechanism cannot move the rudder blade from light to hard in a reasonable time or stops after some time due to overload. However, be careful not to go for one that is too big, as this would be a disadvantage in terms of price, weight and consumption.<a href="https://www.svb24.com/en/category/autopilots#whichautopilotsareoutthereandwhatshouldbeconsideredwhenchoosing">Read more</a>

What types of drive are available for autopilots?

The types of drive available for autopilots are Hydraulic drives, Hydraulic linear drives, Mechanical linear drives, Mechanical Rotary Drives, Outboard with cable steering and Z-drives.<a href="https://www.svb24.com/en/category/autopilots#whattypesofdriveareavailableforautopilots">Read more</a>

What does an autopilot system comprise?

An autopilot system basically consists of a drive unit or ram, a compass, a rudder feedabck, a course computer and a control unit. For inboard pilots, all these components are installed individually. The course computer and the compass sensor are the central system of the autopilot. Modern heading sensors are much more than a simple direction indicator. In addition to the current course, ship movements in all directions are measured and used to optimally calculate the necessary rudder movement. Some systems allow you to integrate a wireless handheld remote control or a chart plotter or multifunction device. A rudder position sensor, so-called 'feedback', or rudder reference unit, is not required for all autopilot systems and is therefore not included as standard with all manufacturers.<a href="https://www.svb24.com/en/category/autopilots#whatdoesanautopilotsystemcomprise">Read more</a>

How can the autopilot be calibrated and is a rudder position sensor necessary?

Modern autopilot systems no longer require calibration by default. In order to determine deviation and steering response, the autopilot sensor measures all relevant data while the vessel is in motion and virtually calibrates itself. Once you are satisfied with the autopilot's steering response, some autopilot systems allow you to disable automatic calibration of the autopilot system. Modern autopilots are able to determine the position of the rudder by manually calibrating the rudder position once. However, the position of the rudder can be determined much faster and more accurately with the aid of a rudder angle sensor, and some display devices can only show the current rudder position in conjunction with appropriate rudder angle sensors.<a href="https://www.svb24.com/en/category/autopilots#howcantheautopilotbecalibratedandisarudderpositionsensornecessary">Read more</a>

How do you operate an autopilot?

An autopilot is usually operated using a special autopilot control panel, although in most cases tiller pilots are operated using the buttons on the tiller pilots themselves. A special autopilot display, usually found on inboard pilots, allows you to set and correct course to steer, make adjustments, and turn the autopilot on or off. Modern autopilots can also be controlled with a compatible chart plotter or multifunction display. Autopilots can also be operated via a radio remote control. Operation is largely limited to course corrections and switching to standby mode, but important data such as current speed, depth or course can also be displayed on some models.<a href="https://www.svb24.com/en/category/autopilots#howdoyouoperateanautopilot">Read more</a>

What general steering modes are there?

Autopilots generally have the following steering modes: Compass steering, Waypoint steering, Wind sensor steering<a href="https://www.svb24.com/en/category/autopilots#whatgeneralsteeringmodesarethere">Read more</a>