Fluxgate Compass/Airmar H2183

[Chuck - Raymarine - Moderator]

Donzii150,

While an argument may be made for an Evolution autopilot to be installed without a rudder reference transducer, the same may not be said for the SPX autopilots. Both the SPX and Evolution autopilots feature a virtual rudder sense when operating in Auto and Standby modes. However, the capabilities of this feature are limited, particularly when operating at slower speeds. It should be noted that a rudder reference transducer is included within the package of Evolution ACUs. Should performance following installation a SPX autopilot or Evolution autopilot not be satisfactory, then the first action typically recommended would be the installation of a rudder reference transducer. While there may have been some claims to the contrary when the SPX autopilots first hit the streets, the experience gained thereafter had reversed any such position. Accordingly, my prior recommendations stand in that a rudder reference transducer should be installed along with a SPX autopilot.