Simrad Launches Upgrades, New Products

Upgrade Expands Capabilities of Autopilot Systems
A powerful new software upgrade is available for the Simrad AP70 and AP80 Autopilots. The upgrade is currently available as a free download and installed on all new systems sold. Continuing to build upon a legacy of state-of-the-art, high-performance autopilots, the Simrad AP80 and AP70 with RTM 2.0 software offer the most feature-packed and reliable solutions on the market.

Adding the professional grade functionality that captains need, RTM 2.0 includes upgrades to system operation and greatly expands the overall feature set of both the AP70 and AP80. The RTM updates feature Quick Command and Quick Dodge enhanced manual steering. The new software immediately engages the FollowUp mode when the Take Command button is pressed on the FU80 remote control and automatically puts the autopilot in FollowUp steering mode if the FU80 level moves more than 22.5 degrees in either direction. Other key features of the AP70 and AP80 RTM 2.0 upgrade include a pendulum ferry function; a XTD (Cross Track Distance) offset feature that allows a captain to run a vessel parallel to a track line without changing modes or disengaging navigation or track mode; and toe-angle support that enables manual entry of rudder toe‐angles to improve slow speed performance.

“The Simrad AP70 and AP80 are the most advanced autopilots available and our new RTM 2.0 upgrade provides additional capabilities and functionality for our customers at no additional cost,” said Leif Ottosson, CEO of Navico. “Through our advanced and innovative technologies, comprehensive Advantage Service program and top notch authorized resellers, we continually strive to improve the experience aboard a vessel.”

With the RTM 2.0 software upgrade and the addition of the SG05 Pro autopilot interface, the AP70 and AP80 are the only International Maritime Organization (IMO) compliant autopilots for Volvo EVC and IPS drives. In addition, pending DNV type approval, complete TrackSteer functionality will be available for the AP80 and CS68 ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System) via a separate update. The upgrade provides language support for German, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch, Norwegian, Swedish, Estonian, Latvian, Lithuanian, Croatian, Greek, Hungarian, Polish, Turkish, Russian, Portuguese (BR), Slovakian, simplified Chinese, and traditional Chinese.

The new Simrad AP70 and AP80 RTM 2.0 upgrade is available for download at pro.simrad-yachting.com/en.

New IMO Compliant, High Performance S-Band Radar
A new IMO certified S-Band radar is available today, the Simrad Argus S-Band Radar. A high-performance radar, the Simrad Argus has a slim profile and is perfectly suited for vessels over 3,000 gross tons that require an S-Band radar (3 GHz) as part of their carriage requirements. With the addition of the Simrad Argus S-Band Radar, the brand is the only option for X-Band, S-Band and Broadband radar solutions.

The new Simrad Argus S-Band is a long life, third generation ceramic magnetron 30 kW S-Band radar. With enhanced near range detection of 100 ARPA and 300 AIS targets, the system gives captains the situational awareness that safe and efficient commercial operations require. The pre-wired plug and play installation is simple with a direct coupling between the transceiver, the rotary joint and the antenna, effectively minimizing RF loss between the transceiver and antenna and increasing overall performance. Like the SimardArgus X-Band, the interface with the Argus S-Band console uses a single-ended connector cable that allows radar controlling and tuning remotely from the radar display without having to open the radar case, further aiding usability.

“The SimradArgus S-Band is the most advanced radar system available,” said Leif Ottosson, CEO of Navico. “Adding to our unparalleled X-Band and Broadband systems, we continue our innovation of products for the professional mariner and are the first manufacturer able to offer a radar solution to fit any captain’s needs.”

The Simrad Argus S-Band’ssolid-state components have a low noise amplifier for a reduced overall noise figure. The radar also includes a masthead transceiver with performance monitor, antenna and core unit with interswitch capabilities, and the ability to accommodate up to four S-Band or X-Band transceivers. The SimradArgus S-Band shares the majority of the modular components with the X-Band models, such as widescreen monitors, keyboard, processor boxes and radar cables, reducing the overall amount of spares that need to be kept onboard. It includes a 2-year limited warranty and is backed by the Advantage Service program.

The Simrad Argus S-BandRadar is currently available from authorized dealers in the U.S. and Canada.

pro.simrad-yachting.com