[CA] [CA11] Low Voltage Display on P70S Autopilot

[Doug Brown]

We are installing a new P70S connected to a new ACU-100 Actuator Control Unit.
Even though there is 13.5 vdc supplying the ACU-100, the P70S displays a low voltage alarm.
All connections are clean and secure.
When the autopilot is engaged, shouldn't there be +/- 12 vdc showing on the A/B terminal that connects to the wheel motor?
Help please....
:)

[Chuck - Raymarine - Moderator]

Welcome to the Raymarine Forum Doug,

The message would be better termed "Low Power" (voltage * current). When encountering such issues, measuring voltage is not sufficient. It is recommended that both power and ground paths from the ACU through circuit panels/buss bars to the batteries be inspected to ensure that all wire is of sufficient gauge, all connections are free of corrosion, and that all connections are tight. If so, and the problem persists, then the vessel should be connected to shore power, its batteries should be permitted to attain a fully charged state, and that afterwards and while still connected to shore power, that the autopilot be tested. Should the problem persist, then it would be recommended that the ACU-100 be replaced by your dealer (if purchased within the last 30 days) or sent to Raymarine’s Product Repair Center to be bench checked / serviced. When +10/-10 of heading change is commanded via the autopilot control head, voltage should be measured across the Motor A/B terminals.