Rudder test, 00 p s – Simrad AUTOPILOT SYSTEM AP50 User Manual
Page 126

Simrad AP50 Autopilot
124
20221032B
Rudder Test 
(Not applicable for analog drives) 
Note !
Bring the rudder manually to midship position before starting 
the test. If the boat uses power-assist steering, it is important 
that the engine or electric motor used to enable the power-assist 
steering is turned on prior to this test. Stand CLEAR of the 
wheel and do not attempt to take manual control of the wheel 
during this test! 
DOCKSIDE
Rudder test ----
--------- drive
Clutch --- --------
Rudder limit
Rudder deadband
Thruster ----
No
Yes
DOCKSIDE
Automatic rudder test
Testing Rudder
00
P S
Activate the automatic Rudder test by turning the course knob 
clockwise. 
The AP50 will, after a few seconds, issue a series of PORT and 
STBD rudder commands, automatically verify correct rudder 
direction, detects minimum voltage for running, and reduce the 
rudder speed (reversing pumpset or proportional valves) if it 
exceeds the maximum acceptable speed for autopilot operation. 
The Rudder test is verified by the display showing ‘Motor OK’, 
‘Proportional OK’, ‘Solenoids OK’, or ‘Failed’. If ‘Failed’ is 
given, check for correct electrical connection and also make sure 
that the steering engine is selected for autopilot control (ref. to 
‘System select’ on page 87). 
When test is finished the display will read:
DOCKSIDE
Rudder test Done
Drive out xx%
Clutch NOT installed
Rudder limit 10°
Rudder deadband 0.2°
Thruster ----
No
Yes
or
DOCKSIDE
Rudder test Done
Solenoid drive
Clutch NOT installed
Rudder limit 10°
Rudder deadband 0.2°
Thruster ----
No
Yes
The Drive out (displayed in percentage) is the amount of 
maximum available voltage needed to achieve correct rudder 
speed when automatic steering (Maximum speed is used in NFU 
steering). 
It will be indicated on the screen whether a clutch is installed or 
not. 
If the Automatic rudder test fails, refer to ”Warnings” beginning 
on page 165 
Proceed to the next menu item by pressing the (STBD) 
button. 
