Simrad Ac80s Computer

The Simrad AC80S is a commercial-grade autopilot computer (course computer) specifically designed to control the steering systems of large vessels using solenoid drives. This computer acts as the “brain” in the Simrad AP70 and AP80 commercial autopilot systems.

The following are the functional details, technical specifications, and key features of the Simrad AC80S:

Main Functions

Solenoid Drive Control: Controls rudder or thruster movement using either an On/Off (bang-bang) system or proportional control.

Galvanic Isolation: Equipped with a galvanically isolated solenoid output to protect the internal circuit board from surges or electrical interference from the rudder motor.

Rod Feedback Flexibility: Capable of receiving rudder feedback signals in various digital and analog signal formats, including frequency, voltage, and current angle feedback.

Main Technical Specifications

Operational Voltage: 12V or 24V DC.

Solenoid Output Current: Supports solenoid output up to 10A.

NMEA Connectivity: Features 4 IEC 61162-1 (NMEA 0183) RX/TX channels for exchanging data with a compass, GPS, or radar.

CAN-bus Supply: Built-in circuitry supplies power to the ship’s CAN-bus (Micro-C) backbone communication network.

Operating Temperature: Optimally functions at temperatures from -15°C to +55°C.

Weight & Dimensions: Weighs approximately 5.5 kg with physical dimensions of approximately 41 x 16 cm.

Component Structure & Integration Within the Simrad Pro navigation ecosystem, the AC80S combines a data processing module and a Solenoid Drive control board (SD80 board) in a single protective enclosure. It is typically paired with a main control unit such as the Simrad AP70 MK2 or AP80 Control Head.