[CA] [CA11] No Rudder Position Indication

[Chuck - Raymarine - Moderator]

Q1. I was thinking of creating a very simple setup for testing purposes only. Just the ACU150 connected to SeaTalkNG, along with the P70Rs also connected to SeaTalkNG? So an ultra simple SeaTalkNG network. Would the EV1 also need to be connected in this simple scenario? Should this simple setup allow for a rudder reference indication to be displayed?
A1. The EV-1 CCU must be included within the simple backbone.

Q2. If I send the ACU150 in for bench testing should I also include the P70Rs?
A2. While it shouldn't be necessary, sending in each of the autopilot's major components (ACU, EV-1, and p70RS) would allow the technician to test all components of the autopilot system.

Q3. Something just occurred to me. Are the 'motor' connections on the ACU150 polarity sensitive?
A3. Negative. Per the FAQ found here, autopilot drive units feature reversing DC motors. Should the drive move the rudder in the direction opposite that which was commanded by the control head, then the motor lead connections to the ACU will need to be reversed.