Simard AP44 VRF High Capacity Autopilot Pack
Simard AP44 VRF High Capacity Autopilot Pack — Product description
Discover Effortless Steering with the Simrad AP44 VRF High Capacity Pack
Imagine gliding across open waters without constantly gripping the wheel, letting advanced technology handle the helm while you focus on the horizon, your catch, or simply enjoying the ride. The Simrad AP44 VRF High Capacity Autopilot Pack delivers this freedom through its integrated system featuring the AP44 controller, NAC-3 computer, Precision-9 compass, and robust Pump-3 MK2 hydraulic pump. Tailored for mid-sized vessels, this pack excels in demanding conditions, blending Norwegian engineering precision with user-friendly controls that make long voyages smoother and more efficient.
Whether you're a serious angler circling prime spots or a cruiser navigating coastal routes, this autopilot setup transforms your boating experience. It supports seamless integration with multifunction displays for waypoint following, while standalone modes handle everything from straight-line tracking to clever maneuvers that save time and fuel.
Key Components and Their Powerhouse Performance
AP44 Autopilot Controller: Your Command Center
The heart of the operation, the AP44 boasts a vibrant 4.1-inch optically bonded color display that's glare-resistant even under harsh sunlight. Its rotary dial and minimal button layout allow instinctive adjustments—twist to change course, push to confirm. Dive into specialized modes like No Drift for holding position against wind and current, or Depth Contour Tracking to follow underwater contours without a chartplotter. The low-profile glass helm design integrates flawlessly into modern cockpits, sipping power to extend battery life on extended trips.
NAC-3 Autopilot Computer: Intelligent Core Processing
Acting as the system's brain, the NAC-3 processes sensor data with sophisticated algorithms honed over decades of Simrad innovation. Engineered for boats handling high loads, it drives hydraulic or mechanical systems with up to 30 amps continuous power (50 amps peak). From choppy seas to calm bays, it maintains steady control, interfacing effortlessly with NMEA 2000 networks for a cohesive onboard ecosystem.
Precision-9 Compass: Unmatched Heading Accuracy
Forget traditional fluxgate compasses— the Precision-9 uses nine-axis solid-state sensors to deliver heading, rate-of-turn, roll, and pitch data with exceptional reliability. Mount it flexibly on bulkheads or masts, calibrate for pinpoint accuracy, and trust its IPX7 waterproofing in any weather. This compact unit feeds critical info to your autopilot, radar, and nav systems, enhancing overall situational awareness.
Pump-3 MK2 Hydraulic Pump: Muscle for Larger Hulls
Designed for vessels up to 50 feet, this reversible 12V pump with 1.6L capacity provides the torque needed for responsive steering. Its type 2 configuration ensures smooth operation under load, making it ideal for the VRF high-capacity demands of bigger boats or those with heavier steering setups.
Standout Features That Set It Apart
- Automated Turn Patterns: Execute perfect U-turns, spirals, or fish-finding circles with one-touch access, streamlining tasks like trolling or man-overboard recovery.
- Simrad Continuum Steering: Proprietary tech that anticipates vessel motion for proactive corrections, reducing wear on your steering gear.
- Easy Auto-Tuning: Dockside setup and sea trials guide you through calibration, minimizing professional installer needs.
- NMEA 2000 Certified: Plug-and-play connectivity expands to chartplotters, instruments, and more for a fully networked helm.
- Energy Efficient: Optimized power draw keeps electronics humming without draining reserves.
These aren't just specs—they translate to real-world gains like safer night passages, precise anchoring, and more time fishing instead of fighting the wheel.
Real-World Applications for Boaters
For offshore anglers, the pack's contour tracking and turn patterns unlock efficient search patterns over reefs or wrecks. Cruisers benefit from route integration via compatible Simrad plotters, holding courses through variable winds. Divers appreciate stable drifts, while sailboat owners value its adaptability to mechanical drives. Installation is straightforward: connect via N2K backbone, mount sensors strategically, and let auto-setup do the rest. Pro tip: Position the Precision-9 away from magnetic interference for optimal calibration.
What's Included for Complete Outfitting
- AP44 Autopilot Controller
- NAC-3 Autopilot Computer
- Precision-9 Compass
- Pump-3 MK2 (12V, 1.6L)
- N2K Power Cable Kit
- N2K Terminator Kit
This all-in-one pack equips you for immediate deployment, with room to scale as your setup grows.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of boats is the Simrad AP44 VRF High Capacity Pack suited for?
It's optimized for mid-sized powerboats and yachts up to 50 feet, especially those with hydraulic steering requiring high-capacity drive units. Ideal for fishing, cruising, or diving vessels in varied sea states.
How does No Drift steering work on the AP44?
No Drift mode uses compass and sensor data to counteract wind, current, and waves, holding your boat's position or track precisely—perfect for anchoring prep or holding over fishing spots.
Is installation DIY-friendly?
Yes, with auto-tuning wizards for dockside config and sea trials. NMEA 2000 simplifies wiring; basic tools and boating know-how suffice for most setups.
Can this pack integrate with my existing Simrad chartplotter?
Absolutely—NMEA 2000 connectivity enables waypoint/route steering and full control from compatible MFDs, creating a unified navigation suite.
What's the advantage of the Precision-9 over traditional compasses?
Its 9-axis solid-state sensors provide faster, more stable heading data with roll/pitch output, easier calibration, and flexible mounting—superior in dynamic conditions.
Does the Pump-3 MK2 work with non-hydraulic systems?
Primarily for hydraulic setups, but the NAC-3 supports mechanical drives or solenoids too, offering versatility across steering types.
How power-efficient is this autopilot system?
Exceptionally so, with low standby draw and efficient algorithms that extend runtime on house batteries during multi-day outings.
AP44 VRF High Capacity Autopilot Pack - AP44, NAC-3, Precision 9 & Pump-3 MK2
The AP44 Autopilot Controller combines Simrad Continuum steering technology with a full-color display, intuitive rotary dial and button controls, and modern glass helm styling. Free your hands from the wheel, cruise in comfort, and discover new ways to search for fish; this dedicated controller offers easy access to automated turn patterns, No Drift steering, depth contour tracking, and other advanced pilot features. Connect your chart plotter to add waypoint and route navigation, and enjoy full autopilot control from compatible Simrad displays.
Features:
- Rotary-dial course adjustment with new intuitive autopilot control
- Optically bonded 4.1-inch color display
- Easy setup with auto-tuning and calibration
- Simrad Continuum steering technology
- Intuitive autopilot control
- Automated turn patterns
- No Drift steering
- Depth contour tracking
- Low-profile 'Glass Helm' design
- Low power consumption
- Certified NMEA 2000® connectivity
Intuitive Autopilot Control
The point of a dedicated autopilot controller is to enable immediate access to auto-steering functionality, placing key controls within easy reach. Designed with that purpose in mind, the AP44 includes an intuitive interface with just four buttons and a push-to-enter rotary control dial
Automated Turn Patterns
Your Simrad autopilot can do much more than keep you on course. The AP44 gives you easy access to a range of built-in turn patterns designed to assist with fishing, diving, or just making a quick and efficient U-turn.
Simrad Continuum Steering
Every Simrad steering innovation builds upon a legacy encompassing over sixty years of autopilot development, which continues today at Simrad Yachting's autopilot research hub in Norway.
Easy Setup with Auto-Tuning & Calibration
Autopilot installation and commissioning don't have to be difficult or time-consuming. The AP44 offers automatic tuning to ensure optimal auto-steering performance, with a simple on-screen commissioning process including dockside configuration and sea trial.
NAC-3
The NAC-3 Autopilot Computer is the brain behind your autopilot system. NAC-3 contains the control algorithms developed to helm a yacht across a broad range of weather conditions and sea-states, alongside the electronics needed to operate a hydraulic or mechanical drive unit, while also interfacing with other components including heading sensors and rudder feedback units. The NAC-3 was designed for boats up to 10M (33') in length and is suitable for low-current hydraulic drives, mechanical drives, or solenoid valves with a current rating of 30 Amps continuous (50 Amps peak).
Precision-9
The Precision-9 Compass supplies heading and rate-of-turn information to Simrad, B & G, and Lowrance autopilot, radar, and navigation systems. Based on reliable solid-state sensor technology, this compact compass offers easy installation aboard any vessel.
Pump-3 MK2
The PUMP-3 MK2 type 2 is a reversible hydraulic steering pump for boats up to 50ft.
Unique Selling Points:
- Heading, Rate Of Turn (ROT), roll, and pitch output over NMEA 2000®
- Heading and ROT calculated using sensor data from 9 axes of rotation and motion
- Accurate and reliable solid-state sensor technology
- Heading accuracy after calibration
- Easily adjustable mounting bracket allows bulkhead or up-mast installation
- IPX7 waterproof. Best in class
- Simple installation with a single NMEA 2000® connection
SKU: NVN-91893
MPN: 000-13562-002
UPC:
Technical specifications
| Brand | Simrad |
| Model | Simard AP44 VRF High Capacity Autopilot Pack |
| SKU / MFR# | 91893 |
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Frequently asked questions
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