SimradTP20 GPS link

[lindsay]

I have a new MLR FX312 GPS and a two year old Simrad Navico TP20 autopilot. Despite close perusal of both operating and installation instructions I cannot get the TP20 autopilot to link to the GPS, ie to operate in Navigation (Navlock)mode automatically from a GPS designated waypoint.

If anyone has solved this I would appreciate indications for wiring and programming. The manufacturers have not replied to my query.

Thanks

 

[vyv_cox]

I'm very interested to know what possible use it can be to a sailing vessel to link autopilot to GPS. Why would you want to go to a specific point without human intervention? I use my GPS for waypoints and use a tillerpilot or Windpilot most times on passages, but when sailing I rarely go to the exact position of the waypoint. In 20 years I have never felt the need to have the two instruments linked together. Perhaps motor-boaters feel differently but to me this is a perfect example of technology giving us something we don't want.

Assuming that you were pushing the tide, or sailing upwind, would you let the autopilot take you to this theoretical point on the sea regardless of the time and effort involved? Just curious.

 

[VMALLOWS]

You're missing the point.....It's the challenge of getting the electronics to do as it should. I can spend a happy weekend at anchor in a blow just mending the old fashioned echo sounder.

 

[yachtbits]

interconnection "Should" be straight forward.

make sure 0v or common from NMEA output is connected to 0v data input on tp20.

make sure nmea output fom gps is connected to nmea input of tp20 (i've seen input to input connection before)

if nmea data cable run is long, make sure screened cable is used and that screen is connected to 0v. check all connections are sound.

check gps is outputting data in format accepted by tp20. there are a number of nmea data formats, may be a conflict here.

kev

www.yachtbits.co.uk
sales@yachtbits.co.uk
marine electrical/electronics specialists

 

[lindsay]

Many thanks Kev for advice. At same time as your reply got a reply from MLR in France. "Its simple" they say. "Connect the chestnut coloured wire(or orange or violet if thats what you have on your particular model) to pin 5 of the TP20 and the yellow wire to pin 6 of the TP20.

Will give it a try.

In reply to Vyv Cox I have a sailboat but can think of several situations where it would be a reassuring additional string to one's navigational bow to have the option to be able to head straight for a particular point ie in an emergency (mine or someone else's) or simply heading for the entry to a strange port alone, at the end of the day and in poor visibility. In practice this would probably be when motoring, but not exclusively.

It also pays to question the manufacturers to see whether they deliver what they promise!

Best Regards to all