AP44 Autopilot Controller

Optically bonded 4.1-inch colour display

Visibility of heading, course and status information is essential when relying on your autopilot. The AP44 achieves this through a full-colour graphical display that allows for clear presentation of autopilot data and intuitive on-screen menus.

To ensure optimal visibility in all conditions, the AP44’s LCD panel is optically bonded to its protective glass covering – eliminating the possibility of condensation or fogging within the display. Transflective LCD technology makes use of reflected sunlight to brighten rather than obscure the screen, delivering superior day-time visibility and lower power consumption compared to traditional backlit displays.

Intuitive autopilot control

The point of a dedicated autopilot controller is to enable immediate access to auto-steering functionality, placing key controls within easy reach. Designed with that purpose in mind, the AP44 includes an intuitive interface with just four buttons and a push-to-enter rotary control dial. The rotary controller lets you make both large and small course adjustments with speed and precision, while also making it easy to select on-screen menu options without repeated button-presses.

Simrad Continuum steering technology

Every Simrad steering innovation builds upon a legacy encompassing over sixty years of autopilot development, which continues today at Simrad Yachting’s autopilot research hub in Norway. This legacy is exemplified by the Continuum algorithm: the software that drives Simrad steering technology. Continuum brings all those years of research and on-water experience to your helm, for a smart pilot you can trust to take the wheel. Simrad autopilot solutions are available for a wide range of applications, from the smallest recreational boats up to large commercial vessels.

Automated turn patterns

Your Simrad autopilot can do much more than keep you on course. The AP44 gives you easy access to a range of built-in turn patterns designed to assist with fishing, diving, or just making a quick and efficient U-turn. Choose a turn, select port or starboard, and you’re away. For more control, customise your turn pattern to execute complex spirals, zigzags, and other useful manoeuvres.

No Drift steering

No Drift mode integrates GPS navigation with auto-steering, using your position to counteract the effects of wind and tide. This lets you maintain a straight track over ground on your current heading, without having to manually set a waypoint or route. To unlock this powerful feature, simply combine the AP44 with an NMEA 2000® connected GPS receiver or compatible Simrad chartplotter.

Depth contour tracking

Network your AP44 autopilot system with a compatible echosounder module to enable depth contour tracking. In this mode, the AP44 will auto-steer to maintain a constant depth of water beneath your boat – perfect for following depth contours while fishing or cruising, without having to define complex multi-waypoint routes.

Easy setup with auto tuning

Autopilot installation and commissioning doesn’t have to be difficult or time consuming. The AP44 offers automatic tuning to ensure optimal auto-steering performance, with a simple on-screen commissioning process including dockside configuration and sea trial. Automatic compass calibration is available with the Simrad Precision-9 solid-state compass, further simplifying autopilot setup while ensuring heading accuracy.

Low-profile ‘Glass Helm’ design

Designed to complement Simrad glass helm displays, instruments, and controllers, the AP44 features modern styling with a low surface-mount profile of just eight millimetres. A compact overall footprint enables mounting almost anywhere, while a large display ensures maximum visibility and ease of use.