Discover Precision Steering for Demanding Marine Environments

Navigating busy commercial waters demands an autopilot system you can trust without hesitation. The Simrad A2004 Autopilot Pack delivers exactly that, combining rugged hardware with intuitive controls tailored for professional skippers on fishing vessels, workboats, and supply ships. This all-in-one solution integrates seamlessly to provide reliable course-keeping, even in rough seas or low-visibility conditions, helping you focus on what matters most: safe and efficient operations.

Master Your Course with the A2004 Controller

At the heart of the pack lies the A2004 controller, built to withstand the harshest marine conditions. Its wide-angle color display stays crystal clear, fog-free, no matter the weather. The precision rotary dial offers fingertip control for fine adjustments, while dedicated buttons let you switch modes instantly—standby, auto, or custom Work mode for repetitive tasks like trawling patterns. Automated turn options, from fixed-radius circles to precise wind-based maneuvers, make complex navigation effortless. Professionals rave about its responsive feedback, reducing fatigue on long watches.

Powerful Processing from the AC70 Autopilot Computer

The AC70 computer is the brains behind the operation, optimized for reversible motors and non-galvanic isolated solenoids common in commercial setups. It handles high-torque demands with ease, supporting 12-24 VDC power systems. With NMEA 0183 connectivity, it integrates into existing networks, and the included cabling simplifies setup. This unit excels at adaptive steering algorithms, learning your vessel's dynamics to minimize rudder movement and enhance stability—key for fuel efficiency and hull longevity in heavy-duty applications.

Accurate Rudder Position via RF300 Feedback

No autopilot is complete without precise rudder data, and the RF300 delivers it flawlessly. Mounted near the rudder stock on inboard-engine boats, this unit sends real-time angle feedback via a robust 10-meter cable and transmission link. The result? Smoother auto-steering that anticipates corrections, preventing oversteer in swells or currents. It's a game-changer for maintaining tight headings during fishing runs or cargo transits, where even small deviations can impact catch rates or schedules.

Superior Heading Insight from the HS70 GPS Compass

Fluxgate compasses can falter near magnetic interference from engines or steel hulls, but the HS70 GPS compass overcomes this with satellite-based heading accuracy. Leveraging SBAS enhancements like WAAS or EGNOS, it provides GPS positioning and stable heading data—down to 1-degree precision in dynamic conditions. Ideal for vessels without stable magnetic references, it ensures your autopilot tracks true north, boosting performance in congested harbors or when dodging obstacles.

Why This Pack Stands Out for Commercial Mariners

• Proven Reliability: Engineered for 24/7 operations on vessels from 30 to over 100 feet, with corrosion-resistant materials and vibration-proof mounting.
• Seamless Integration: Components connect via standard marine networks, compatible with Simrad chartplotters, radars, and multifunction displays for a unified helm.
• Safety and Efficiency Gains: Precise automation reduces crew workload, cuts fuel burn by optimizing rudder use, and enhances collision avoidance through consistent tracking.
• Customizable for Your Vessel: Adjustable gain, counter-rudder, and response settings let you dial in performance for planing hulls, displacement boats, or sail-assisted workboats.
• Low Maintenance Design: Non-contact sensors and sealed units mean fewer breakdowns, keeping you on the water longer.

Real-World Applications and Tips for Optimal Performance

Fishermen use this pack for automated trolling patterns that hold depth and speed steady. Tug operators appreciate the Work mode for precise station-keeping during transfers. For installation, prioritize a dry, accessible location for the controller and ensure the RF300 aligns correctly with your tiller arm—proper calibration is crucial for peak accuracy. Pair it with forward-looking sonar for ultimate situational awareness, turning your helm into a command center.

Investing in the Simrad A2004 Autopilot Pack means equipping your vessel with technology that evolves with your needs, delivering returns through safer voyages and operational savings.