Reactor™ 40 Compact Autopilot Computer

The Reactor™ 40 Compact autopilot computer is specifically designed for single-engine outboard motorboats under 25 feet. It is ideal for hydraulic steering systems and particularly suitable for lightweight vessels requiring navigation assistance at moderate to high speeds.

The Reactor™ 40 Compact is optimized for assisted navigation at moderate to high speeds on lightweight vessels. The more powerful Reactor™ 40 models are recommended for applications requiring precise course holding at low speeds, such as trolling or in rough seas, where increased accuracy is necessary.

The system’s core relies on a 9-axis solid-state Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS). This advanced technology ensures high accuracy and fast response from the autopilot.

9-axis AHRS technology provides several key benefits:

It minimizes heading errors and trajectory deviations. It reduces unnecessary rudder movements. It optimizes system energy consumption. It allows the autopilot to adapt to marine conditions, maintaining the desired heading even in pitch or roll.

The system power supply is compatible with a range of 10 to 20 volts. It is crucial to ensure that your boat's power supply meets this range for correct operation.

Yes, this autopilot computer supports advanced functions such as MARPA (Mini Automatic Radar Plotting Aid) and chart overlay, provided it is integrated with a compatible Garmin chartplotter via the NMEA 2000® network.

The Reactor™ 40 Compact autopilot computer is designed for use with hydraulic steering systems. It is important to verify compatibility with your existing steering system before installation.

The computer integrates into the NMEA 2000® network. This enables direct control from a compatible Garmin chartplotter screen or up to three GHC™ (GHC 20 or GHC 50) autopilot control units connected to the same network.

The system is compatible with Garmin GHC™ 20 and GHC™ 50 tiller control units. You can connect up to three of these units to the NMEA 2000® network to control the autopilot.

Yes, to use advanced autopilot functions, optional NMEA 2000® devices such as a wind sensor, water speed sensor, or GPS device can be connected to your boat's NMEA 2000® network.

Garmin recommends using a NMEA 2000® tachometer if one or more compatible engines are connected to the network. If this option is not available or usable, GPS is the recommended speed source, ideally via an external GPS antenna mounted with an unobstructed view of the sky for reliable and accurate information.

Yes, Garmin strongly recommends that the autopilot system be installed by a qualified marine installer. Specific knowledge of hydraulic steering components and marine electrical systems is required for proper installation and to prevent damage to the boat or the product.

For optimal performance, the CCU (Course Computer Unit) must be mounted on a rigid surface and as close as possible to the boat's center of rotation. Ideally, it should be located near the boat's centerline, lower and slightly forward. It is also critical to mount it away from any magnetic interference sources.

To avoid magnetic interference, the CCU must not be mounted within 60 cm (2 feet) of iron, magnets, high-current wires, or pumps operating intermittently (such as toilet or livewell pumps). Strong magnets (like those in subwoofer speakers) must be kept at least 1.5 m (5 feet) away. It is recommended to test the mounting location with a portable compass before installation.

The cable connecting the CCU to the ECU (Electronic Control Unit) is 5 meters (16 feet) long. This cable must not be cut. If the CCU cannot be mounted within 5 meters of the ECU, extension cables are available separately from your Garmin dealer or on the Garmin website.

The ECU can be mounted on a flat surface in any orientation. However, it must be installed within 0.5 meters (19 inches) of the pump, as the cables connecting it to the pump are not extendable. The ECU must also be mounted in a location where it will not be submerged or exposed to water spray.

No, the Shadow Drive sensor is not included with all packages. If your autopilot package does not include a Shadow Drive valve, it is recommended to install a manual SPST (single-pole, single-throw) switch, not included, to disable the autopilot if necessary.

The Shadow Drive is a sensor that detects when you take manual control of the helm, thereby suspending the autopilot's control. It must be mounted horizontally and as level as possible, firmly secured with hose clamps. It should be located lower than the lowest helm position but higher than the pump, and installed in the starboard or port steering line (not in the return line or high pressure line).

After physical installation, the system must be configured and tuned for your boat’s dynamics. This is done using two assistants: the Dockside Wizard (dockside assistant) and the Sea Trial Wizard (sea trial assistant). These assistants guide you through the necessary configuration steps and can be launched from a helm control or a compatible chartplotter.

To register your Garmin Reactor™ 40 Compact device and receive enhanced support, you can complete the registration online. Visit garmin.com/express and log in to your Garmin account to finish the process. It is recommended to keep the original sales receipt or a copy in a safe place.