[CA] Providing Navigation Input to a ST6000 Course Computer

[timtyler]

I have an older ST6000 Autohelm system. The control head is a ST6001+ and the course computer is a ST6000 (Z123).

My first question concerns the course computer. Is this commonly referred to as anything else? I can find little to no documentation that refers to this computer other than the Autohelm Inboard Autopilots (ST6000 and ST7000 systems) Service Manual.

Second question: I would like to connect this system to a newer Furuno chartplotter via NMEA 0183 to get tracking information. Since the chartplotter is new, it employs a differential interface with two signal wires. The ST6001+ control head is expecting a single ended interface implemented with one signal wire and a common ground. Will I get a proper signal if I wire these two together with the A+ chartplotter signal wire going to the ST6001+ plus connection and the chartplotter ground going to the ST6001+ minus connection? Seems like I should.

Third question: Assuming the above will work, is it possible to connect a GyroPlus 2 unit to the system by moving the Fluxgate compass connection to it and connecting a Seatalk cable from the GyroPlus 2 to the ST6001+? Will this work, or am I just asking too much from this old reliable system?

Thanks.