Simrad AP48 – Autopilot Control Head with Rotary Knob

The Simrad AP48 Autopilot Control Head is a dedicated full-featured control display for compatible Simrad autopilot systems. Its 4.1-inch optically bonded color display, rotary control dial, and keypad provide direct access to standby, auto, navigation, no-drift steering, turn patterns, and course adjustments. This is a control head only and does not include a course computer, steering drive, heading sensor, hydraulic pump, or rudder-feedback sensor.

The AP48 connects through NMEA 2000 Micro-C and receives network power. It is designed for use with compatible Simrad NAC-2, NAC-3, AC12, AC42, and SG05 autopilot computers. The display measures approximately 170 mm by 114 mm by 48 mm, weighs about 0.51 kg, and provides IPX7 water protection for a suitable exposed helm location.

System Integration

The AP48 sends commands through the NMEA 2000 network to a compatible autopilot computer, which controls the selected hydraulic pump, linear drive, rotary drive, wheel drive, or solenoid system. Drive-current capacity, feedback support, compass compatibility, and steering-system suitability depend on the connected course computer and complete autopilot installation.

Navigation, no-drift, and route-steering functions require compatible GPS, chartplotter, and network data. A physical rudder-feedback sensor may be required depending on the selected steering drive and whether the vessel supports Virtual Rudder Feedback.

Before Ordering

Confirm a compatible Simrad NAC-2, NAC-3, AC12, AC42, or SG05 autopilot computer, available NMEA 2000 backbone connection, suitable 170 mm by 114 mm helm-panel space, rear cable clearance, required heading sensor, steering drive, feedback method, chartplotter data source where needed, and complete autopilot-system components before purchase.