NAC-3 VRF Autopilot Core pack

The NAC-3 VRF Autopilot Core pack includes the essential components for an autopilot system:

NAC-3 autopilot computerPrecision-9 compass

The NAC-3 VRF Autopilot Core pack is an autopilot system designed to provide navigation assistance. It maintains a precise heading, steers to a specific waypoint, or follows a pre-set route, thereby improving comfort and safety at sea.

The NAC-3 Autopilot is designed to operate across a wide temperature range, from -25°C to +55°C (-13°F to 131°F).

The maximum power consumption of the NAC-3 Autopilot is 750 W. Typical consumption varies depending on the autopilot drive unit and its power requirements.

The NAC-3 processor alone weighs 0.7 kg (1.6 lbs).

Yes, the NAC-3 Autopilot is versatile and can control both types of rudder actuators:

Reversible motor: It supports a maximum continuous load of 30 A, with a peak of 50 A for 1 second. On/Off solenoid: It handles a load from 10 mA to 10 A for 12/24 V DC systems.

The NAC-3 VRF Autopilot is compatible with 12 V or 24 V DC power supply, with a tolerance of +/- 10-30%.

It is recommended to maintain a safety distance of at least 500 mm (20 inches) between the Precision-9 compass and any equipment likely to generate magnetic interference, to ensure optimal accuracy.

A 30 A fuse is recommended to provide adequate protection for the NAC-3 Autopilot against electrical overloads.

The NAC-3 autopilot configuration is performed in two main steps:

Installation settings: This includes configuring the boat characteristics, compass calibration, and piloting unit settings. Sea trials: This step involves sea testing to fine-tune settings (manual or automatic) and optimize autopilot performance.

Yes, the NAC-3 Autopilot offers extended connectivity:

It features a NMEA 2000 Micro-C port (1 LEN). It also includes a NMEA 0183 port (IN/OUT) supporting baud rates of 4.8, 9.6, 19.2 and 38.4 kbaud.

The NAC-3 Autopilot controls rudder return via a variable/resistive voltage input, accepting signals from 0 to 5 V. This allows precise detection of the rudder position.

The NAC-3 Autopilot is designed to operate in humidity conditions up to 100%, making it suitable for marine environments.

The NAC-3 Autopilot Core pack is compatible with a wide range of boats. Its configuration allows adjustment of parameters such as boat type and length, cruising speed, and transition speed to adapt to various vessel characteristics.

Yes, the NAC-3 Autopilot can be used with power steering systems. Ensure the engine or electric motor driving the power steering is running before conducting helm tests.

The NAC-3 can control reversible-drive autopilot units or units with on/off solenoid. It is compatible with units requiring a nominal voltage of 12 V or 24 V.

Yes, the NAC-3 computer is designed to be controlled and configured via a compatible Simrad multifunction display. A display is required for the autopilot user interface and settings.

The NAC-3 VRF Autopilot Core pack comes with a standard 2-year warranty.

The total weight of the package for the NAC-3 VRF Autopilot Core pack is approximately 3.1 kg.

The Simrad NAC-3 VRF autopilot pack includes the NAC-3 autopilot computer and a Precision-9 compass. Its main technical specifications are as follows:

Power supply voltage: 12/24 V DC +/- 10–30%
Maximum power consumption: 750 W
Typical power consumption: Depends on requirements to actuate the rudder unit (see pump/motor nominal ratings).
Operating temperature: From -25°C to +55°C
Storage temperature: From -30°C to +70°C
Ingress protection rating: IPx5
Weight: 0.7 kg (1.6 lbs)
NMEA 2000 connectivity: 1 Micro-C port, 1 LEN
NMEA 0183 connectivity: 1 IN/OUT port (baud rates 4.8, 9.6, 19.2 & 38.4 kbaud)
Rudder unit control:
Reversible motor control for rudder: max continuous load 30 A, peak 50 A for 1 second.
Or on/off solenoid control for rudder: 12/24 V DC, common, load range 10 mA to 10 A.
Rudder angle feedback: Variable/resistive voltage 0–5 V
Compass safety distance: 500 mm (20 inches)