Common Problems of Marine Autopilots

My autopilot isn't steering like I think it should. What can I do about this?

Marine autopilots are complex systems with behavior based on inputs from multiple streams of sensor data, ship speed, steering characteristics and much more as well as weather and sea conditions. If the pilot is not directing the course well, there are many possible reasons that should be investigated before assuming error.

Marine Autopilots Common Problems

 In fact, (and I can say this because I didn't design it) Evolution's current beta software is great and extremely reliable, so if your device isn't performing well, there's almost certainly a problem with its setup or incoming data, which we can help find and solve.

Some other FAQs cover common things that can cause routing problems, but if it's not as simple and clear as this, what can be done to understand the problem and the cause?

The answer is to collect a logging of the NMEA2000/SeatalkNG data while using the beta and the problem is obvious.

What should I do before I register SeatalkNG data?

There are a few common things to check first, before you start trying to record SeatalkNG data (the calibration lock will need to be set to off in the ship's settings for you to access many of these settings):

1. The Passage of Time

In autopilot systems that do not have a rudder reference sensor, such as the EV-100 and EV-200, the time-over-calibration option is very important for good steering performance. 

This setting is in Menu > Setup > Autopilot Calibration > Engine Settings.

 The default value is 10, but this may be an error in the boat's steering. If you change the current value up by a few seconds, how will that change the guidance? If your ship is steering faster or slower than usual, adjusting this tells the pilot this and the pilot can then steer a straighter course.

2. Data Speed

The pilot uses the speed information to figure out how much rudder to apply. What is the current input speed selection in autopilot calibration > vessel settings? In general, the Speed over Ground (SOG) from your chart plotter will give the best result.

3. Ship Type

Sometimes, choosing the type of ship that provides the best steering performance is not the obvious choice in Autopilot Calibration > Ship Settings. I would suggest trying each type of sail or power jig, even if it doesn't seem like the right type for your boat, because one may provide a better "description" of the way your vessel handles than the other types, and thus lead to better steering performance. 

4. Software Version

You should make sure that your Autopilot is running the latest version of the software, because we have made a lot of performance improvements over time. Even if the beta version is new, it may have been in stock for some time and may be running outdated software.

 You can update the software through any modern Raymarine Multi-Function Display: https://www.raymarine.eu/service-and-support/software-updates/ or through the Wifi software update function of modern Raymarine MFDs.

5. Calibrate the Compass

I would suggest doing Autopilot Calibration > Ship Settings > Restart Compass, to make sure any bad compass calibration data (for example, when there is something magnetic close to the heading sensor) is removed and you can start over. You should always do this after you have moved the heading sensor or changed anything in its environment or surrounding.

If you want to buy a new Raymarine autopilot, you can get it from the CKW Store at lowest prices.

If this does not resolve the issue, you should record SeatalkNG data while the pilot is in use and send it to Raymarine Support via Ask Raymarine.


Related Articles to Boating/Fishing:

Raymarine Autopilot Troubleshooting Tips?




Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

How to Install a Winch? Winch Installation and Winch Testing

Image
Electric Winch The electric winch is used in operations such as lifting and towing heavy objects, erecting equipment, driving piles, and cold pulling reinforcing steel bars in industries such as construction, metallurgy, mining and weight lifting. The working environment that the electric winch can be applied to is: temperature -10°C ~ +40°C (when the ambient temperature is less than 00°C, before starting operation, the lubricating oil should be heated), humidity ≥85%, height is less From 1000 meters, there is no fire accident, explosion etc.  The working grades of the lever used are M4 or M5; as each working degree increases, its rated drag should decrease by 20%. After purchasing an electric winch, there is a big problem, which is how to install the electric winch and test the electric winch. Don't worry, now I will teach you how to install an electric winch. A Guide on How to Install the Winch When installing, disassembling and moving the electric winch, it is necessary to
Read more

A Complete Guide to Finding the Best Fish Finder Around

Image
Having the right equipment before going fishing is always an integral part for a wide range of reasons. Of course, the most obvious thing is that you don't want to lose a fish just because of your poor gear, but there are other risks involved in fishing without the right gear. Some even impact your safety. There is simply a lot of equipment and tools to take into consideration before going fishing, but it is all up to the type of angler you are. You should keep in mind that a fly angler will not have the same handling as someone targeting bass. What to look for when choosing the Best Fish Finder Some aspects are more integral than others when choosing the best fish finder, and you may not be aware of them if this is the first time you are purchasing one of these products. In this part of our guide, we'll briefly look at some of these aspects, from portability to the maps available for download. Portability The only thing you need to consider is whether your fish finder is
Read more

Top Four Most Important Benefits of a Fish Finder

Image
  If you're serious about fishing, it's going to get frustrating when you come home every time with an empty bag. Considering that we live in an era where technology has advanced, it should not be surprising that ordinary people can afford a fish finder. The market is vast, and you can choose between different units with varying prices. Depending on your needs, you don't have to buy the most expensive fish finder, just one that will do the job. If you're still not sure whether to use this tool, here are some reasons why you should buy it. It Saves you Time When you're out on the water, you want to have a good time, enjoy fishing and peace. We make fishing a hobby that requires a lot of patience, and a lot of people go fishing because they want to relax and get away from cities and traffic jams. However, we also have another type of hunter who takes this sport very seriously, and doesn't want to waste their time. In this case, owning a fish finder could be a
Read more