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3Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
FCC Statement
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference in a normal installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in
a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an output on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced technician for help.
A shielded cable must be used when connecting a peripheral to the serial ports.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Please read carefully before installation and use.
DANGER
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential
personal injury hazards, Obey all safety messages that follow this symbol to
avoid possible injury or death.
! WARNINGWARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury
CAUTION!CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury.
CAUTIONCAUTION used without the safety alert symbol indicates a potentially
hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.
DISCLAIMER: It is the owner’s sole
responsibility to install and use the instrument
and transducers in a manner that will not cause
accidents, personal injury or property damage.
The user of this product is solely responsible for
observing safe boating practices.
BRUNSWICK NEW TECHNOLOGIES INC. AND ITS
SUBSIDIARIES AND AFFILIATES DISCLAIM ALL
LIABILITY FOR ANY USE OF THIS PRODUCT IN A
WAY THAT MAY CAUSE ACCIDENTS, DAMAGE OR
THAT MAY VIOLATE THE LAW.
Governing Language: This statement,
any instruction manuals, user guides and
other information relating to the product
(Documentation) may be translated to, or
has been translated from, another language
(Translation). In the event of any conflict
between any Translation of the Documentation,
the English language version of the
Documentation will be the official version of the
Documentation.
This manual represents the Explorer AP380
as at the time of printing. Brunswick New
Technologies Inc. and its subsidiaries and
affiliates reserve the right to make changes to
specifications without notice.
Copyright © 2006 Brunswick New Technologies
Inc. Northstar™ is a registered trademark of
Brunswick New Technologies Inc.
4 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Installation Contents
Important ................................................................................................................................................ 5
1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................................... 6
1-1 A typical Explorer AP380 system installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61-2 Using the Explorer AP380 system with other instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2 Explorer AP380 system hardware ........................................................................................................... 8
2-1 What comes with your Explorer AP380 system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82-2 Other parts required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3 Installation ............................................................................................................................................ 9
3-1 Installation sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93-2 Installation guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103-3 Installing the MCU600 (Main Control Unit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113-4 Installing the power supplies and steering drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123-5 Installing the RFU (rudder feedback unit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173-6 Installing the Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203-7 Installing the Gyro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .223-8 Installing the Explorer AP380 display unit and other instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
4 Dockside setup ..................................................................................................................................... 27
4-1 Start dockside setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274-2 Calibrating the rudder feedback unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5 Sea trials .............................................................................................................................................. 28
5-1 Calibrating the compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .285-2 Aligning the compass and the rudder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Appendix A - Specifications - MCU600 ...................................................................................................... 29
Appendix B - Specifications - AP380 Display ............................................................................................. 30
Appendix C - User data ............................................................................................................................ 31
Operation Section .................................................................................................................................. 34
5Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Important
It is the owner’s sole responsibility to install and use the instrument and transducer/s in a manner
that will not cause accidents, personal injury or property damage. The user of this product is solely
responsible for observing safe boating practices.
The choice, location, and installation of all components in any AP380 system is critical. If installation is
not correct, the unit can not perform at its designed potential. If in doubt, consult your Northstar dealer.
Ensure that any holes that cut are in a safe position and will not weaken the boat’s structure. If in doubt,
consult a qualified boat builder.
Using the Explorer AP380 system : The Explorer AP380 system is intended as an aid to save a helmsman from having to steer for long
periods of time, not as the main means of steering the boat.
The Explorer AP380 system is not intended for use in extreme weather, in adverse conditions or in
water near other boats, dangerous waters or land.
The Explorer AP380 system can not control the boat better than a helmsman. In adverse conditions
steer the boat manually.
Never leave the helm unattended. Keep a watch at all times. The helmsman should always monitor
the course of the boat and the Explorer AP380 system and be ready to resume steering the boat
manually.
The performance of the Explorer AP380 system can be affected by the failure of a part,
environmental conditions, improper installation and use.
6 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
To verify that the Explorer AP380 system is
operating correctly, perform sea trials (see
section 5).
Cleaning and maintenanceClean the parts of the Explorer AP380 system with
a damp cloth or mild detergent. Avoid abrasive
cleaners, petrol or other solvents.
Do not paint any part of the Explorer AP380
system except for the cables.
1 IntroductionUsing this manual
This manual describes how to install and set up
the Explorer AP380 system. Refer to the Explorer
AP380 Operation Section for information on how
to operate the Explorer AP380 display unit.
To install a Explorer AP380 system, you must
perform installation, dockside setup and sea trials
(see sections 3, 4 and 5).
To fully set up a Explorer AP380 system after
a part has been changed or if a problem is
suspected, perform dockside setup and sea trials
again (see sections 4 and 5).
Manual helm
GPS
NMEA
SPEED WIND Display
unit
Light duty
Heavy duty
12 V DC
Power supply
Gyro
Compass
MCU600
NavBus
Clutch drive(optional)
Parts supplied with Explorer AP380 system
Other parts required
Optional parts
Rudder
feedback
unit
Rudder
Power switch or
switches and
power protection
Rudder
control
Key
1-1 A typical Explorer AP380 system installation
Optional instruments
Note: Above shows typical installation
only. Please refer to the information
supplied with your drive for further
information.
More
display
units
Steering
drive
7Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
1-2 Using the Explorer AP380 system with other instruments
1-2-1 Using other instrumentsThe Explorer AP380 system can use data from
these instruments:
GPS: A GPS or chartplotter, such as a Northstar
Explorer 500 series chartplotter must be
connected to the Explorer AP380 system for the
AP380 to operate in GPS mode (see the Explorer
AP380 Operation Section).
Note: GPS must be via NMEA input.
WIND: A wind instrument, such as a
Northstar WIND series, must be connected
to the Explorer AP380 system for the AP380
to operate in WIND mode (see the Explorer
AP380 Operation Section).
SPEED: A speed instrument, such as:
Northstar’s SPEED with a paddlewheel
speed sensor
or a GPS or chartplotter, such as
Northstar’s Explorer 500 or Explorer 660
series can be connected to the Explorer
AP380 system to increase steering
accuracy.
Note: The speed from a paddlewheel sensor is
the speed that the boat is moving through the
water. The speed from a GPS is the speed over
the ground. If there is a water current then these
two speeds will be different. If the Explorer AP380
system is connected to an instrument with a
paddlewheel sensor and to a GPS, then the
Explorer AP380 system will automatically use the
speed from the paddlewheel sensor instrument.
1-2-2 NavBusNavBus is a Northstar proprietary system that
allows systems of multiple instruments to be
built using a single set of transducers. When
instruments are connected by NavBus:
If you change the units, alarms or calibration
in one instrument, then the values will
automatically change in all other instruments
of the same type.
Each instrument can be assigned to a group
of instruments, called a NavBus group (see
NavBus group in the Setup > Comms menu, in
the Explorer AP380 Operation Section).
If you change the backlight in an instrument
in group 1, 2, 3 or 4 then the backlight
will automatically change in the other
instruments in the same group. If you change
the backlight in an instrument in group 0
then no other instruments are affected.
If an alarm sounds, mute it on any instrument
which can display that alarm.
For more information, refer to the NavBus
Installation and Operation Manual.
Note: GPS must be via NMEA input.
NavBus and the Explorer AP380 system The Explorer AP380 system will automatically
work with additional Explorer AP380 displays.
The Explorer AP380 system can receive wind
data from Northstar’s WIND over NavBus.
The Explorer AP380 system can receive speed
data from Northstar’s SPEED over NavBus.
1-2-3 NMEANMEA is an industry standard, but is not as
flexible as NavBus as it requires dedicated
connections between instruments. The Explorer
AP380 system has one NMEA input port and one
port that can be configured to be an input or an
output (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section).
Explorer AP380 system NMEA inputsGPS: The Explorer AP380 system can receive
NMEA GPS data from a compatible GPS or
chartplotter, such as Northstar’s Explorer 500
series chartplotter:
XTE (from APA, APB or XTE sentences) is
required for the Explorer AP380 system to use
GPS mode
BRG (from APA sentences) and BOD (from APA
or APB sentences) are optional and improve
performance
COG (from VTG sentences) is optional and can
be displayed.
8 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
2 Explorer AP380 system hardware
MCU600 (Main Control Unit)
Gyro, with 10 m
(33 ft) attached cable
Protective cover for
display unit
Explorer AP380 Display unit
Compass, with 10 m
(33 ft) attached cable
WIND: The Explorer AP380 system can receive
NMEA wind data from a compatible wind
instrument:
True or apparent wind direction (from MWV
sentences) is required for the Explorer AP380
system to use Wind mode.
SPEED: The Explorer AP380 system can
receive NMEA speed data from a compatible
paddlewheel or GPS instrument:
SOG (from VTG sentences) is optional and
improves performance.
Note: If the Explorer AP380 system is connected
to a Northstar series wind or speed instrument
using NavBus, then the Explorer AP380 system will
automatically receive and use the wind or speed
data, and the NMEA connection need not be wired.
2 mm (#14) twin
stranded cable for high
current wiring
RFU - Rudder feedback unit
2-1 What comes with your Explorer AP380 system
Explorer AP380 system NMEA outputsThe NMEA 2 port can be configured to be an
input or to be output:
either heading (HDG & HDT) and rudder
angle (RSA) at once per second
or heading (HDG) at ten times per second
(see NMEA mode in the Setup > Comms menu, See
Explorer AP380 Operation Section).
Documentation
• Warranty
• Display unit mounting template
• This Installation/Operation
manual
Additional hardware
• Mounting hardware
• Cable cover
• Strain relief
• Spare fuses
9Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
The recommended installation sequence is:
1 Read this manual and the documentation
that comes with the other parts.
2 Plan the installation: select where the
equipment and wiring will be installed (see
section 3-2).
3 Install the MCU600 (see section 3-3).
4 Install the steering drive and wire the heavy
duty and light duty power supplies
(see section 3-4).
5 Install the rudder feedback unit
(see section 3-5).
6 Install the compass (see section 3-6).
3 Installation
3-1 Installation sequence
7 Install the gyro (see section 3-7).
8 Install the display unit and any other marine
instruments that will be used with the
Explorer AP380 system (see section 3-8).
9 Carry out the dockside setup
(see section 4).
10 Carry out the sea trials (see section 5).
If you are unsure where a part should be
installed, mount and wire the part temporarily,
without cutting holes in the boat. After the sea
trials have been completed, install and wire the
part permanently.
Power supply: The Explorer AP380 system
requires two power supplies, both nominally 12
V DC:
A heavy duty supply for the steering drive
A light duty supply for the Explorer AP380
system electronics and display unit; this
supply also powers any additional display
units and other instruments.
The power supplies require one or two switches
and fuses or circuit breakers (see section 3-4).
Steering drive: The Explorer AP380 system can
power a hydraulic pump, constantly running
pump set, hydraulic linear drive or mechanical
drive rated at 12 V DC and up to 20 A.
Rudder linkage: To link rudder to rudder
feedback unit (see section 3-5).
For wiring, see Select Wire Table in section 3-4-2.
External beepers or lights (optional ):
The external output is switched to ground,
30 V DC and 250 mA maximum. If the beepers
and lights require more than 250 mA total, fit a
relay.
Other marine instruments (optional): Wind,
speed or GPS instruments can be connected (see
section 1-2).
Other parts: For systems of several instruments,
wiring and connectors are required. Northstar
junction boxes can simplify wiring several
Northstar instruments together (see section 1-2
or the NavBus Installation and Operation Manual).
Coupling connectors and 10 m (33 ft) extension
cables are available to extend the rudder
feedback unit, compass or gyro cables. Do not fit
more than one extension cable to each unit.
For more information, consult your
Northstar dealer.
2-2 Other parts required
Correct installation is critical to the performance
of the unit. It is vital to read this manual and the
documentation that comes with the other parts
before starting installation.
The MCU600 is not waterproof. Mount the
unit in a dry place.
The Explorer AP380 system display unit is
waterproof.
The compass, gyro and rudder feedback
unit are completely waterproof.
Ensure that any holes that you cut will not
weaken the boat’s structure. If in doubt, consult
a qualified boat builder.
10 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
3-2 Installation guide
This is a general guide for locating and wiring the parts of the Explorer AP380 system. The instructions
for a particular part may have additional requirements.
3-2-1 Location guide Do not mount any part where it can be used
as a handhold, where it will interfere with the
operation of the boat or where it might be
submerged.
Do not mount any part where it will interfere
with launching or retrieving
the boat.
Do not mount any part within 0.5 m (20”) of
the plane of a radar antenna.
Mount the compass and gyro:
At least 1 m (3 ft) away from sources of
electrical signals or noise, such as the
batteries, high-current cables, other boat
cables, engines, fluorescent lights, power
inverters, radio or radar transmitters and
antennas.
At least 1 m (3 ft) away from equipment
containing a magnet, such as a compass
or speaker.
3-2-2 Wiring guideThe Explorer AP380 system has two kinds of
cables:
The heavy-duty power supply and steering drive
usually require high-current cables:
Select the wire gauge from the wire size table
(see section 3-4-2).
Fit high-current cables at least 1 m (3 ft) away
from other electronic devices in
the boat.
Keep the cables as short as possible.
Twin 2 mm (#14) cable is supplied with the
Explorer AP380 system and can be used for
the high current cable if its gauge is suitable.
All the other cables are low-current:
Fit low-current cables at least 1 m (3 ft) away
from sources of electrical signals or noise,
such as the high-current cables, other boat
cables, engines, fluorescent lights, power
inverters and radio or radar transmitters and
antennas.
If the cable for the rudder feedback unit,
compass or gyro is too long, do not shorten
the cable; instead coil the cable up near the
main control unit.
The cable for the rudder feedback unit,
compass or gyro can be extended by
adding a 10 m (33 ft) extension cable and
coupling connector. Do not fit more than one
extension cable to each unit.
When fitting any type of cable:
Do not crush, pinch or strain the cable.
Secure the cable at regular intervals.
Ensure no connectors or exposed terminals
are in the bilge.
11Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
3-3 Installing the MCU600 (Main Control Unit)
Physical
IMPORTANT: 200 mm
(7.87”) clearance required
for cover removal
InstallationFind a suitable location for the unit:
In a dry, cool place; if possible not the engine room.
Close to the high-current power supply and the steering drive, to reduce the length of the high
current wiring.
Accessible for installation and service.
If possible on a vertical panel which does not vibrate.
Follow the location guide (see section 3-2-1).
Mount the unit with the cable connectors at the bottom or to one side, using the screws provided.
Do not mount the unit with the connectors at the top, because dust or moisture might enter the unit.
200 mm (7.87”)
IMPORTANT: 60 mm (2.36”)
clearance required for cables
200 mm (7.87”)
140 mm (5.10”)
60 mm (2.36”)
Screws 90 mm (3.54”) apart Screw holes 184 mm (7.24”) apart
55 m
m
(2.1
6”)
12
3
1 RFU
2 Gyro
3 Compass /
Heading Sensor
12 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
3-4 Installing the power supplies and steering drive
3-4-1 Installing the power suppliesThe MCU 600 system requires a light duty and a heavy duty power
supply, both 12 V DC.
Note:
Keep all wiring as short as possible.
For the heavy duty supply, use the wire size given in the table
(see section 3-4-2).
Follow the wiring guide (see section 3-2-2).
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Fit strain relief
Connector cover
Light duty
power
Heavy duty
power
Fuse 1 A
12 V DC power
supply, current to
suit drive
Power supply: one switch configuration
Choose this configuration to have one switch to
turn the Explorer AP380 system and any other
instruments on and off.
Circuit breaker or fuse and
switch, current rating to suit
steering drive
Power supply: two switch configuration
Choose this configuration to be able to turn the
drive power off and leave other instruments
powered.
Fit strain relief
Connector
cover
Switch
Heavy duty
power
Fuse 1 ALight duty
power
Note: If powering more than three extra display units or other series instruments, fit another switch
and fuse for the light duty power supply for these extra instruments
12 V DC power
supply, current to
suit drive
Circuit breaker or fuse
and switch, current
rating to suit steering
drive
MCU600
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
13Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
3-4-2 Installing the steering driveInstall the steering drive according to one of the diagrams on the following pages.
Note
Keep all wiring as short as possible.
Use the wire size given in the table below.
Follow the wiring guide (see section 3-2-2).
Wire less than #10 gauge will not fit directly into the four way terminal block. Fit ferrules or
reterminate the wire with #10 gauge wire.
If more than one wire is to be fitted to a terminal of the four way terminal block, join the wires
together in a suitable way.
Wire size tableTo choose a wire gauge for an installation:
1 Measure the length of twin cable required, i.e. the distance from the main control unit to the heavy
duty power supply or to the drive.
2 Choose the column with the cable length and the row with the circuit current. The intersection of
the row and column gives the preferred (minimum) cable wire gauge for less than 3% voltage drop
in a 12 V system.
Cable length (from main control unit to power supply or to drive)
2.5 ft0.7 m
5 ft1.5 m
7.5 ft2.2 m
10 ft3 m
12.5 ft3.7 m
15 ft4.5 m
17.5 ft5.2 m
20 ft6 m
Cu
rre
nt
1 amp#18
0.75 mm#18
0.75 mm#18
0.75 mm#18
0.75 mm#18
0.75 mm#18
0.75 mm#18
0.75 mm#18
0.75 mm
2 amp#18
0.75 mm#18
0.75 mm#18
0.75 mm#18
0.75 mm#18
0.75 mm#16
1.5 mm#16
1.5 mm#16
1.5 mm
3 amp#18
0.75 mm#18
0.75 mm#18
0.75 mm#16
1.5 mm#16
1.5 mm#16
1.5 mm#14
2.5 mm#14
2.5 mm
4 amp#18
0.75 mm#18
0.75 mm#16
1.5 mm#16
1.5 mm#14
2.5 mm#14
2.5 mm#14
2.5 mm#12
4 mm
5 amp#18
0.75 mm#16
1.5 mm#16
1.5 mm#14
2.5 mm#14
2.5 mm#12
4 mm#12
4 mm#12
4 mm
6 amp#18
0.75 mm#16
1.5 mm#16
1.5 mm#14
2.5 mm#12
4 mm#12
4 mm#12
4 mm#10
6 mm
7 amp#18
0.75 mm#16
1.5 mm#14
2.5 mm#14
2.5 mm#12
4 mm#12
4 mm#10
6 mm#10
6 mm
8 amp#18
0.75 mm#16
1.5 mm#14
2.5 mm#12
4 mm#12
4 mm#10
6 mm#10
6 mm#10
6 mm
9 amp#18
0.75 mm#16
1.5 mm#14
2.5 mm#12
4 mm#12
4 mm#10
6 mm#10
6 mm#10
6 mm
10 amp#18
0.75 mm#14
2.5 mm#12
4 mm#12
4 mm#10
6 mm#10
6 mm#10
6 mm#8
10 mm
15 amp#16
1.5 mm#12
4 mm#12
4 mm#10
6 mm#10
6 mm#8
10 mm#8
10 mm#6
16 mm
20 amp#14
2.5 mm#12
4 mm#10
6 mm#8
10 mm#8
10 mm#6
16 mm#6
16 mm#6
16 mm
14 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Fit strain relief
Wiring polarity does
not matter.
Motor
MCU600
Example of hydraulic steering with hydraulic help pump.
In the Setup > Vessel menu (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section), set Drive Type to Motor.
Example of mechanical steered power vessels with hydraulic linear drive for sailing boat
In the Setup > Vessel menu (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section), set Drive Type to Motor.
Motor
Clutch
relay
coil
1N4002 diode or equivalent
Fit close to relay coil
Connector cover
No connection
MCU600
Heavy duty power (see
section 3-4-1)
Fit strain relief
Wiring polarity does
not matter.
Heavy duty power (see
section 3-4-1)
Note: Clutch relay coil must draw
less than 300mA
15Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Installing a electric drive motor with clutch relay
In the Setup > Vessel menu (See Explorer AP380 system Operation Section), set Drive Type to Motor.
Installing a continuous running pump and solenoid valves.
In the Setup > Vessel menu (See Explorer AP380 system Operation Section), set Drive Type to Spool ground.
Fit strain relief
Wiring polarity does
not matter.
Motor
MCU600
Clutch
coil
1N4002 diode or equivalent. Fit
close to relay coil
1N4002 diode or equivalent
Fit close to relay coil
Relay coil
MCU600
1N4002 diode or equivalent
Fit close to relay coil
Relay contacts
Relay coil
Starboard
Port
Motor
Fit strain relief
Heavy duty power (see section 3-4-1)
Heavy duty power (see section 3-4-1)
Wiring polarity does
not matter.
Note: Motor is not
required for engine
PTO systems.
Relay contacts
Note: Relay is required if the clutch circuit
is greater than 300 mA.
Note: Relay is required if the
clutch circuit is greater than
300 mA.
Connector cover
Connector cover
16 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Installing solenoid valves or relays with jog or electric steering
In the Setup > Vessel menu (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section), set Drive Type to Spool ground.
MCU600
Starboard
Port
Fit strain relief
No connection
Jog/steer controls
Heavy duty power (see
section 3-4-1)
17Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
3-5 Installing the RFU (rudder feedback unit)
Physical
10 m (33 ft) cable
Arm
90 mm
(3.5”)
220 mm
(8.7”)
Base
Linkage to
rudder
Rudder
shaft
Arm rotates freely
around base.
LT8 connector
These two
distances to
be equal.
Connecting rod, with quick
release fittings and lock nuts
each end
End of connecting rod
snaps into one of the
holes on the arm.
Mounting requirementsThese two
distances to
be equal.
Base to be adjacent to
rudder shaft so that this
angle is 90°
Rudder shaft to be
parallel to shaft in
base.
Rudder linkage and
arm to move in the
same plane
Note
The unit is completely waterproof but should not be immersed.
Mount the unit on a panel which does not vibrate.
Follow the location guide (see section 3-2-1).
Adjust position of rod on
arm if required.
Cut connecting rod
if required. Thread = M5
18 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Alignment
The arm can rotate freely around the base. When the rudder is amidships, the arrow on the arm must
point to one of the centre lines on the base.
Centre line
Therefore in an installation, the base can be rotated to two positions. We recommend the position that
has the cable on the opposite side to the connecting rod.
Centre line
Sets of lines
show the two linear
ranges of the unit.Base
Recommended(rudder amidships).
Arrangements
Recommended: U-shaped arrangement with the arm parallel to the length of boat:
Satisfactory: U-shaped arrangement
with arm not parallel to length of boat, for
example:
Not recommended: Z-shaped arrangement,
for example:
If rudder turns too far, the unit might not return to the Z
shape.
Bow of
boat
Bow of
boat
Not recommended, cable can
foul rudder linkage.
19Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Installation1 Find a suitable location and arrangement for the unit as described above.
2 Choose, assemble and fit a suitable rudder linkage.
3 Fit the unit as shown below:
If necessary, mount
base on block to set
height.
Set rudder
amidships.
Rotate base so arrow on arm
points near centre line on base.
Fit two screws provided loosely
in middle of slots.
Rotate base so arrow on arm
points to centre line on base.
Fit third screw provided,
tighten all screws.
Join coupling to
rudder linkage. Snap end into
correct hole in arm.
Ensure rudder is
amidships.
If necessary, cut connecting
rod at this end, then replace
coupling and lock nut.
4 Wire the cable back to the MCU600, following the wiring guide (see section 3-2-2).
MCU600
Plug connector into the RFU socket
Holes in the bulkheads must
be at least 18.5 mm (0.73”)
diameter.
20 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
3-6 Installing the Compass
Physical 101 mm, (4”)
Mounting holes for
screws
97 mm, (3.8”)
71 mm, (2.8”)
10 m (32.8 ft) LT8 connector
LocationMount the compass:
At least 1 m (3 ft) away from any steel or
iron boat part, such as:
a steel hull, deck, cabin or steel
reinforcing in ferro-cement hulls
steel equipment such as motors and
cooking equipment
places where steel objects are stored,
such as the anchor locker and storage
lockers
At least 2 m (6 ft) away from equipment with
a magnet and equipment which generates
electromagnetic fields, such as a compass, a
battery, high current wiring, an electric motor
and a radio or radar transmitter or antenna.
As close as possible to the centre of
movement of the boat, to minimise how
much the compass moves when the boat
rocks and pitches. If the compass can not
be mounted at the centre of movement, it is
usually best to mount the compass as low as
possible.
On a vertical panel which does not vibrate.
The unit is completely waterproof but should
not be immersed. The compass is not affected
by other metals, such as stainless steel, copper
or brass. Follow the location guide (see section
3-2-1).
Fibreglass or wood hull and cabin: mount compass at the centre of movement (for planing hulls, the
centre of movement is usually close to the stern):
Steel hull, non-steel cabin: mount compass
1 m, (3 ft) above hull:
Steel hull and steel cabin: mount compass on
a pole 1 m (3 ft) above the hull and at least 1 m
(3 ft) from the cabin:
At least 1 m (3 ft)1 m (3 ft)
1 m (3 ft)
21Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Installation1 Find a suitable location for the unit as described above.
2 Mount the unit with the three screws provided. Use a level to ensure the unit is vertical to within 10°.
Less than
10° 10°
3 Wire the cable back to the MCU600, following the wiring guide (see section 3-2-2).
Less than 10° 10°
MCU600
Plug connector into the Compass/HS socket
Holes in the bulkheads must
be at least 18.5 mm (0.73 in)
diameter.
Note
If you move the compass with respect to
the gyro while the power is on, wait for the
heading to stabilize.
22 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
3-7 Installing the Gyro
Physical
Mounting holes for
screws
LT8 connector
LocationMount the gyro as close as possible to the centre of movement of the boat, to minimize how much the
gyro moves when the boat rocks and pitches.
Mount the gyro on a panel which does not vibrate.
The unit is completely waterproof but should not be immersed. Follow the location guide (see section
3-2-1).
The Ideal location is at the centre of movement (for planing hulls, the centre of movement is usually
close to the stern).
101 mm, (4”)
97 mm, (3.8”)
71 mm, (2.8”)
10 m (32.8 ft)
23Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Installation1 Find a suitable location for the unit as described above.
2 Mount the unit with the three screws provided. Use a level to ensure the unit is vertical to within 10°.
Less than
10° 10°
3 Wire the cable back to the MCU600, following the wiring guide (see section 3-2-2).
Less than
10° 10°
MCU600
Plug connector into the Gyro socket
Holes in the bulkheads must
be at least 18.5 mm (0.73”)
diameter.
Note
If you move the gyro with respect to the compass while the power is on, wait for the heading to
stabilise.
3-8 Installing the Explorer AP380 display unit and other instrumentsThere are two mounting arrangements:
Flush mounting requires a solid panel with
access behind for wiring and mounting screws.
After flush mounting, the display cannot be
tilted or moved after installation to reduce any
unwanted glare or reflections. Carefully select
the best viewing position before installation. This
would generally be in a shaded area.
Flush mounting directions
1 Cut a hole in the bulkhead for the display unit
using the flush mount template as a guide.
2 Drill four holes for the mounting studs using
the flush mount template as a guide.
3 Screw the four studs into the brass inserts in
the back of the display unit.
4 Sit the display unit in place and fit the
washers and nuts to the studs.
24 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Bracket mounting directions
1 Fix the mounting bracket onto the boat using
the four stainless steel screws.
2 Hold the display unit in place in the mounting
bracket. Fit the mounting bracket knobs into
the display unit and do up the knobs loosely.
3 Adjust the tilt of the display for best viewing,
then hand tighten the knobs on the
mounting bracket.
Bracket mounting requires a panel for
mounting the bracket. Ensure that the panel
is not likely to deform and is not subject to
excessive vibration. The bracket can be tilted and
the dispaly can be removed after each use.
Select a position where the display unit will be:
• At least 4" (100 mm) away from the compass.
• At least 12" (300 mm) away from any
radio transmitter.
• At least 4 ft (1.2 m) away from any antenna.
• Easy to read and operate. If possible, mount
the display unit in front of the navigator or to
the right of the navigator because the LCD
display is more readable from these positions.
• Not exposed to the direct sun or water.
• Protected from physical damage during
rough sea passages.
• Easy to access the DC power source.
• Convenient to route the transducer cables.
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25Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Wiring the display unit
MCU600
Display
unit
Display unit cable, Requires 18 mm (0.7”) hole through
bulkhead.
Co
nn
ec
tor
cove
r
Clutch relay out: 8
NMEA2 - in/out: 7
NMEA1 - in: 6
NMEA common: 5
NavBus -, Blue: 4
NavBus +, Orange: 3
Ground, Black: 2
12 V power +, Red: 1
Optional external beepers and
lamps for the external alarm. If the
beepers and lights require more
than 250 mA, fit an external relay.
8-way connector
Green
Light duty power
(see section 3-4-1)
Note
Wire the display unit power wires (red and black wires) to the eight way connector terminals 1 and
2 to ensure the display unit and main control unit have the same light duty power supply.
• Follow the wiring guide (see section 3-2-2).
Yellow (ignition wire)
White (isolate, do not use)
Brown (isolate, do not use)
Plug power cable into the
Black socket on the rear of the
Explorer AP380 display.
26 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Wiring other instruments
MCU600
Display
units
Addtional AP380
display units
Other series
instruments
Units
A GPS, such as a
Northstar Explorer
567
NMEA in/out
NMEA
in & out
GPS NMEA out
GPS NMEA common
Power,
NMEA in
GreenGreen
Beepers and lights
(see previous page)
Green (from one display unit only)
Co
nn
ec
tor
cove
r
Note:
Refer to the instrument’s installation manual for more wiring information.
If adding more than three display units or other series instruments, fit a separate light-duty power supply
for the extra instruments (see section 3-4 or the instrument’s installation manual)
The external alarm outputs (green wire) of Northstar series instruments and 500 series chartplotters
can be connected together to drive the external beepers and lights.
In systems with several other instruments, we recommend using NavBus junction boxes to simplify
wiring (see the NavBus Installation and Operation Manual).
• Follow the wiring guide (see section 3-2-2).
Clutch relay out: 8
NMEA2 - in/out: 7
NMEA1 - in: 6
NMEA common: 5
NavBus -, Blue: 4
NavBus +, Orange: 3
Ground, Black: 2
12 V power +, Red: 1
Light duty power
(see section 3-4-1)
Clutch, optional
(see section 3-4-2)
GPS
27Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
4 Dockside setup
1 Turn the Explorer AP380 system on (See
Explorer AP380 Operation Section). If the rudder
moves, immediately turn the power off.
If you try to enter AUTO and the rudder
feedback unit or compass have not yet been
calibrated, then the Explorer AP380 system
will displays an error.
2 If the Explorer AP380 system has been used
before, reset all user data to the factory
defaults. Go to Factory reset > Both in the
Setup System menu (See Explorer AP380
Operation Section).
Perform the dockside setup:
after installing a Explorer AP380 system (see section 3)
after a part has been changed or if a problem is suspected
After dockside setup, perform the sea trials (see section 5 ).
4-1 Start dockside setup
4-2 Calibrating the rudder feedback unitThis procedure matches the rudder feedback unit to the rudder.
Note
To exit the calibration at any time, press ESC.
If you do not move the rudder as prompted or the rudder feedback unit is not working then the
Explorer AP380 system can not finish the calibration. The Explorer AP380 system will display an error.
Press ESC, fix the problem and repeat the calibration.
In normal operation, the Explorer AP380 system will not turn the rudder closer than 3° to an endstop.
To calibrate the rudder feedback unit go to Rudder in the Setup > Calibrate menu. Follow the on-screen
instructions presented by the calibration wizard (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section).
3 Enter the user data listed in the User Data table
below (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section to
find what each data item means and how to
enter the data). Beside each item, write the
value of the user data that you enter.
Until the rudder feedback unit is calibrated (see
section 4-2), there is no rudder limit. The user
must ensure that rudder is not driven onto an
endstop when using the jog command (see
Explorer AP380 Operation Section).
28 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Note
To exit the calibration at any time, press ESC.
If the boat is not turned as prompted or the compass is not working then calibration can not be
completed, the Explorer AP380 system displays an error. Press ESC, fix the problem and repeat the
calibration.
Local disturbances in magnetic field may affect the compass. Calibration must be preformed away
from large metal structures such as marinas, large ships etc.; this is the responsibility of the user.
Ensure that both sources are referencing the same north (true or magnetic). If your magnetic
compass has not been calibrated then you can use another source for heading. If using vessel’s
compass then ensure that the deviation tables are applied to check the AP380 compass.
To calibrate the Compass unit go to Compass in the Setup > Calibrate menu. Follow the on-screen
instructions presented by the calibration wizard (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section).
5-1 Calibrating the compass
5 Sea trialsPerform the sea trials:
After performing the dockside setup (see
section 4).
To check the operation of the Explorer AP380
system.
For the sea trials, sail in an open area where there
are no other craft or obstructions. The sea should
be calm, the wind speed as low as possible and
there should be no currents.
This aligns the Explorer AP380 system compass to display the correct heading.
The compass can be aligned either to a reference compass or to a GPS connected to the Explorer AP380
system. Ensure there is no cross-wind or current.
To align the Compass unit go to Align heading in the Setup > Calibrate menu. Follow the on-screen
instructions presented by the calibration wizard (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section).
5-2-2 Aligning the Rudder (Centre rudder)This sets the rudder setting to sail a straight course. Ensure there is no cross wind or current.
To align the rudder go to Centre rudder in the Setup > Calibrate menu. Follow the on-screen instructions
presented by the calibration wizard (See Explorer AP380 Operation Section).
5-2 Aligning the compass and the rudder
5-2-1 Aligning the compass (Align heading)
The compass or rudder can be aligned separately.
29Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Appendix A - Specifications - MCU600Electrical:
Drive power supply: 10.5 to 16.5 V DC, 20 A
maximum
8-Way Terminal power supply: 10.5 to 16.5 V DC,
300 mA.
Other optional instruments: refer to the
instrument’s operation manual.
Interfaces:
NavBus: connection to other Northstar
instruments and Explorer AP380 display unit.
NMEA 0183 ports: NMEA 1: Input; NMEA 2: Can
be programmed to be an input or output
NMEA 0183 output messages: HDG, HDT, RSA;
NMEA 0183 input messages: APA, APB, BOD,
BWC, MWD, MWV, RMA, RMB, RMC, VHW, VTG, XTE
Standards compliance:
EMC compliance
USA (FCC): Part 15 Class B.
Europe (CE): IEC 60945:2002 Clause 9 & 10.
New Zealand and Australia (C Tick): IEC
60945:2002 Clause 9.
Environment:
Compass: IPx6 and IPx7 - completely waterproof.
Gyro: IPx6 and IPx7 - completely waterproof.
Rudder feedback unit: IPx6 and IPx7
- completely waterproof.
MCU600 Main unit: Not waterproof - requires a
cool, dry, clean environment.
MCU600 Main unit 8-way Terminal
connections:
Terminal Signal
1 Light duty power positive, 10.5 to
16.5 V DC
2 Light duty power supply common
3 NavBus +
4 NavBus —
5 NMEA common
6 NMEA in 1
7 NMEA in 2
8 Steering clutch relay drive output,
switched ground to turn relay on,
30 V DC, 300 mA maximum
MCU600 Main unit Drive
connections:
Terminal Signal
1 Heavy duty power positive, 10.5 to
16.5 V DC
2 Heavy duty power negative
3 Steering drive negative output
4 Steering drive positive output
MCU600 Internal Fuse:
2x fuses - both fuses are the same
Type: ATC - Automotive blade
Rating: 20A
30 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Electrical:
Supply voltage: 10.5 to 30.5 V DC.
Supply current ( at 13.8 V):
Without backlighting: 160 mA.
With full backlighting: up to 410 mA.
Other optional instruments: refer to the
instrument’s operation manual.
Interfaces
NavBus: connection to MCU and other Northstar
instruments.
AP380 Display unit power/data cable wires:
Black connector - Power and MCU
Pin Wire color Signal
5 Red Power positive, 10.5 to 30.5 V DC
1 Black Power negative
6 Orange NavBus +
4 Blue NavBus -
7 Yellow Ignition wire
3 White Factory use (isolate, do not cut)
8 Green External alarm, switched to ground, 30 V DC and 250 mA max.
2 Brown Factory use (isolate, do not cut)
Green connector - NavBus expansion
Pin Wire color Signal
5 Red Factory use (isolate, do not cut)
1 Black Power negative
6 Orange NavBus +
4 Blue NavBus -
7 Yellow Factory use (isolate, do not cut)
3 White Factory use (isolate, do not cut)
8 Green Factory use (isolate, do not cut)
2 Brown +9V out
Standards compliance:
EMC compliance:
USA (FCC): Part 15 Class B
Europe (CE): IEC 60945:2002 Clause 9 & 10.
New Zealand and Australia (C Tick):
IEC 60945:2002 Clause 9.
Environment:
IPx6 and IPx7 - completely waterproof.
Appendix B - Specifications - AP380 Display
31Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Appendix C - User data
User Data table (to record installation setup data)
Menu > Setup > SYSTEM menu
Language
Night mode
Key beep
Auto power off
SmartCraft
Menu > Setup > OPTIONS menu
Dodge angle
Tack mode
Tack angle
Gybe mode
Gybe angle
Tack delay
Turn rate
Menu > Setup > VESSEL menu
Vessel Type
Drive Type
Wind features
selected
Menu > Setup > ALARMS menu
Course error
XTE
Waypoint akn
Wind shift
(sail only)
Low battery
High current
32 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Menu > Setup > UNITS menu
Distance
Compass
Magnetic
variation
Wind
Menu > Setup > COMMS menu
NMEA mode
NavBus group
Menu > Setup > PROFILES menu
Profile (user1)
Parameters:
Adaptive
Response
Ratio
Advanced:
Trim
C-rudder
GPS gain
Wind gain
Profile (user2)
Parameters:
Adaptive
Response
Ratio
Advanced:
Trim
C-rudder
GPS gain
Wind gain
33Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Profile (user3)
Parameters:
Adaptive
Response
Ratio
Advanced:
Trim
C-rudder
GPS gain
Wind gain
Profile (user 4)
Parameters:
Adaptive
Response
Ratio
Advanced:
Trim
C-rudder
GPS gain
Wind gain
Profile (user5)
Parameters:
Adaptive
Response
Ratio
Advanced:
Trim
C-rudder
GPS gain
Wind gain
35Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Operation Contents
Using this manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 371-1 AP380 Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
2 Quickstart ........................................................................................................................................... 38
2-1 Starting the AP380 system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .382-2 Using the AutoPilot to steer the boat automatically . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .382-3 Changing course during a voyage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .382-4 Changing steering mode during a voyage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .382-5 Regaining manual control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .382-6 Action in an emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .392-7 Manually steering the boat from the boats helm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .392-8 Manually steering the boat using power steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
3 AP380 operation .................................................................................................................................. 40
3-1 The keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .403-2 Turning the Explorer AP380 on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 3-3 Turning the Explorer AP380 off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 423-4 Backlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 423-5 Engaging AP380 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 423-6 Disengaging AP380 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 423-7 Setting the steering mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 423-8 Changing course . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .433-9 Dodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .443-10 Turn modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .463-11 Power steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .503-12 Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .503-13 Keylock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 513-14 Simulate mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
4 The displays ........................................................................................................................................ 52
4-1 Display > Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 524-2 Display > AutoPilot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 534-3 Display > Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .544-4 Display > Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 554-5 Display > Active alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
5 Data headers ....................................................................................................................................... 56
36 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
6 Menus .................................................................................................................................................. 57
6-1 Setup > System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .576-2 Setup > Profiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .586-3 Setup > Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .586-4 Setup > Vessel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .586-5 Setup > Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 596-6 Setup > Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 596-7 Setup > Comms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .606-8 Setup > Calibrate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .606-9 Setup > Simulate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
7 Steering modes ................................................................................................................................... 61
7-1 Compass steering mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 617-2 GPS steering mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .637-3 Wind steering mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
8 Optimising steering performance ........................................................................................................ 69
8-1 Steering parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .698-2 Profiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 708-3 Adjusting the steering parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
9 Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................................. 73
10 Specifications .................................................................................................................................... 74
37Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
The Explorer AP380 is a superior quality, high
performance AP380 display head. The Northstar
AP380 system has the flexibility to be used with
power or sail boats.
The Explorer AP380 has dedicated function keys
and a large 3.8” Color TFT display. This provides
the user with exceptionally easy to use controls.
The Explorer AP380 is part of the Northstar
family of instruments for boats, which includes
instruments for speed, depth, wind and repeaters.
These instruments can be connected together
to form an integrated data system for a boat. The
AP380 performance is enhanced if it is connected
to a boat speed instrument such as a Northstar
Explorer S310 or a GPS instrument.
NORTHSTAR EXPLORER AP380
Using this manualThis manual describes how to operate the
Explorer AP380. Refer to the Explorer AP380
System Installation Section at the front of this
manual for information on how to install and
setup the Explorer AP380 before use.
For maximum benefit, please read this manual
carefully before using the Explorer AP380.
Cleaning and maintenance
Clean the parts of the Explorer AP380 with a
damp cloth or mild detergent. Avoid abrasive
cleaners, petrol or other solvents. Do not paint
any part of the Explorer AP380 except for the
cables.
1-1 AP380 Modes
1-1-1 Operating modesThe AP380 has three operating modes (see
sections 3-5 and 3-6):
STANDBY:
The AP380 does not steer the
boat (except during jog steer). The
helmsman steers the boat with
the manual helm.
AUTO:
The AP380 steers the boat
automatically based on selected
Steering Mode and course. Do not
steer the boat manually.
HAND-STEER:
The AP380 does not steer the boat,
but displays steering information
for you to use to manually steer a
course. Steer manually using the
displayed steering data.
1-1-2 Steering modesThe AP380 has three steering modes (see section
3-7):
Compass - The boat sails at a set compass
heading.
COMPASS
GPS - The boat sails to a destination along a
preset route.
GPS
This mode requires a GPS instrument, such as
a Northstar Explorer 557 chart-plotter to be
connected via NMEA.
Wind - The boat sails at a set angle to the wind.
This mode requires a wind instrument, such as
a Northstar Explorer W310 to be connected via
NavBus or NMEA.
WIND
1 Introduction
STBY
HSTR
38 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
1-1-3 Power steering modesWhen the AP380 is in STBY (STANDBY) mode
the helmsman must steer the boat manually.
However The Explorer AP380 has two different
power steering control modes (see section 3-11).
Jog: Turns the rudder left or right while the key
is pressed.
Follow-up: Sets the target position of the
rudder. The rudder will turn until it is in the target
position.
2 Quickstart
2-1 Starting the AP380 system1. Turn the AP380 system on by pressing
2. If the AP380 is connected to speed, wind
or GPS instruments, turn these
on too.
3. If necessary, adjust the backlight so that
the display can be easily read (press
briefly and adjust using the Control Dial).
2-2 Using the AutoPilot to steer the boat automatically
1. Manually steer the boat to open waters
before engaging the AP380 to steer the
boat.
2. Select the desired steering mode by
pressing then use the Control Dial
to highlight Compass, GPS or Wind then
press .
3. If using GPS mode, start navigating to a
waypoint using the GPS instrument.
4. Engage the AP380 by pressing .
2-3 Changing course during a voyageIn Compass mode and Wind mode it is possible
to change course during a voyage:
Turn the Control Dial in the direction of the
intended course change, for example:
• To change course 10º to starboard, turn the
Control Dial 10 clicks clockwise.
• To change course 30º to port, turn the
Control Dial a whole turn counter-clockwise.
2-4 Changing steering mode during a voyageIt is possible to change the steering mode during
a voyage, for example:
• Change from GPS mode to Compass
mode at the end of a route, or,
• On a sailing boat, change from Wind
mode to Compass or GPS modes when
changing from sailing to motoring.
1. Press then use the Control Dial to
highlight the desired steering mode then
press .
2-5 Regaining manual control1. Press . The AP380 is now disengaged
and you have complete steering control.
can be pressed at any time.
2. Manually steer the boat using the boats
steering helm.
3. To re-engage the AP380, press .
Note regarding Jog and Follow-up mode:
The user is to be aware that while in Standby
(STBY) Mode, the AP380 can move the rudder
at anytime that the Dodge keys or Control Dial
is operated.
1-1-4 Turn modesThe Explorer AP380 can follow a preprogrammed
turn sequence. The AP380 has three different turn
modes (see section 3-10):
Tack/Gybe: Auto-tacks OR Auto-gybes the boat
after a delay period. The tack/gybe angle and
tack/gybe delay can be customised.
90º turn: The boat turns through 90º
180º turn: The boat turns through 180º
Note: Not all turn modes are available in all
operating modes.
39Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
2-6 Action in an emergencyTo regain control of the boat in an emergency
situation:
1. Press . The AP380 is now disengaged
and you have complete steering control.
2. Manually steer the boat.
Alternatively:
1. Press or to make an immediate
course change to port or starboard.
2. After a period of time, press to
resume original course, or press to
continue on the alternative course.
2-7 Manually steering the boat from the boats helm
To manually steer the boat:
1. Press . The AP380 is now disengaged
and you have complete steering control.
2-8 Manually steering the boat using power steering
To manually steer the boat using the AP380 to
move the rudder:
1. Ensure the AP380 is in STBY by pressing
.
2. Press and hold or to turn the
rudder to port or starboard. Pressing both
will centre the rudder
3. Release the button when the rudder is in
the desired position.
Alternatively:
1. Ensure the AP380 is in STBY by pressing
the key.
2. Turn the Control Dial until the on-screen
rudder indicator is in the desired position.
3. The AP380 will turn the rudder until it is in
the target position.
40 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
3 AP380 operation3-1 The keys
Button Function
1 ESC Step back a menu level or return to selected AP380 screen
2 ENT Selects highlighted items or brings up Parameters menu when in
AP380 display mode
3 MENU Shows context sensitive Options menu, press twice to show the Setup
menu.
4 DISP Opens display menu to change between AP380 screens
5 Control Dial Use to scroll through menus, increment or decrement selected values,
follow up rudder control and to make course changes.
6 Dodge Left Dodge to Port key (repeated presses increments values)
Initiates left tack/gybe, 90° turns and 180° turns
7 Dodge Right Dodge to Starboard key (repeated presses increments values)
Initiates right tack/gybe, 90° turns and 180° turns
8 Turns Opens turn menu to access tack/gybe, 90° turns and 180° turns
9 AUTO Places AP380 into auto mode
10 MODE Invokes steering mode menu
11 STBY Places AP380 into standby mode
12 Power Press and hold to turn instrument off. Single press shows backlight
control
1 2
3
45
6 7
8 9
10 11 12
41Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
3-1-1 AUTO key Press to engage AUTO mode. The AP380 is now
steering the boat based on the selected steering
mode. Press and hold for 2 seconds to engage
H-STEER mode.
3-1-2 STBY key Press to disengage AUTO mode and set STBY
mode. The AP380 is not steering the boat – the
helmsman must steer the boat using the manual
helm.
3-1-3 Dodge keys
Press or to trigger an immediate
dodge to port or starboard. Repeated presses of
the same key increments dodge angle.
STBY mode: Jogs the rudder left or right while
the key is pressed
AUTO mode: Activates a dodge. Causes the
vessel to deviate from the set course by a preset
angle.
3-1-4 Turn key Press to display the turn menu. The boat follows
a preprogrammed turn sequence. Select an
item from the menu then press or to
activate the turn in the corresponding direction.
Tip: Repeated pressing will cycle through
the menu selection.
3-1-5 MODE key Press to select steering mode.
Tip: Repeated pressing will cycle through
the menu selection.
3-1-6 Control Dial When using menus and adjusting settings, use to
scroll through items and increment or decrement
values.
STBY mode: Moves the rudder to port or to
starboard half of a degree per click.
AUTO mode: Changes the set course by one
degree per click.
Note: In GPS mode, the set course can not
be adjusted as the course is controlled by the
navigation instrument.
3-1-7 ESC key When using menus and adjusting settings, press
to step back one level without saving changes.
When no menus or settings are displayed, press
to jump back to the most recently used AP380
display screen.
3-1-8 ENT key When using menus and adjusting settings, press
to choose selection or save setting.
Tip: When showing the Basic, AP380 or Compass
screen, pressing opens the Parameters
menu.
3-1-9 MENU key Press to show the Options menu (where
applicable).
Press twice to show the Setup menu.
3-1-10 DISP key Shows the Display menu.
Tip: Repeated pressing will cycle through
the menu selection and will automatically select
the highlighted entry after 1 second.
3-2 Turning the Explorer AP380 on• Press .
• If there are no other AP380 display heads on
the system, The Explorer AP380 will turn on
and enter STBY (Standby) mode.
Note: If the AP380 was switched off while still
in AUTO mode, a warning message will be
displayed to alert the user that there may have
been a power interruption.
Note: When the AP380 is powered on, the
Control Dial and Dodge keys are active and
can operate the rudder at any time (see Power
Steering modes 1-1-3)
42 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
3-3 Turning the Explorer AP380 offWhen in STBY mode:
• Press and hold . A pop-up box will appear
and start a 3 second count-down. The unit
will turn off when the counter reaches 0.
• Releasing during this time will resume
normal operation.
• Any settings you have made are retained by
the unit.
When in AUTO mode:
• Press and hold . A warning pop-up box
will remind you to enter STBY mode before
the unit can be turned off. Press to close
the pop-up.
3-4 Backlight
Briefly press . The Backlight pop-up will
appear.
Repeating this action will toggle from day to
night mode.
Use the Control Dial to increase or decrease the
display and keypad backlighting.
• The Explorer AP380 has a choice of white
background ‘Day’ and black background
‘Night’ backlighting modes. Either mode can
be selected using the Control Dial.
• The Backlight pop-up may also be selected:
Menu > Setup > System > Backlight menu.
• Backlighting on all other Northstar
instruments that are connected on the same
NavBus backlighting channel will also change.
3-5 Engaging AP380Select AUTO mode by pressing . The AP380
is now steering the boat based on the selected
steering mode.
3-6 Disengaging AP380Select STBY mode by pressing . The AP380
is not steering the boat – the helmsman must
steer the boat using the manual helm.
3-7 Setting the steering modeFor a power boat:
For a boat without GPS, or for a boat with GPS
but you do not want to navigate to a waypoint,
choose Compass mode. The AP380 steers the
boat at a set compass heading.
• Select Compass mode by pressing ,
choose Compass and press .
To use the AP380 with a GPS to navigate to a
waypoint or along a route, choose GPS mode.
The AP380 steers the boat using navigation data
from the GPS.
• Select GPS mode by pressing , choose
GPS and press .
For a sailing boat:
To steer to a set compass heading, choose
Compass mode.
• Select Compass mode by pressing ,
choose Compass and press .
To navigate to a waypoint or along a route,
choose GPS mode.
• Select GPS mode by pressing , choose
GPS and press .
To sail, tack and gybe at a set angle to the wind,
choose Wind mode.
• Select Wind mode by pressing , choose
Wind and press .
43Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
3-8 Changing course
3-8-1 Changing course in compass modeTo change course in 1 steps, turn the Control Dial.
• turn the Control Dial counter-clockwise to change course to port
• turn the Control Dial clockwise to change course to starboard
Example
3-8-2 Changing course in GPS modeThe course maintained by the AP380 is controlled by the GPS device that is navigating to a waypoint. To
change course in GPS mode, select a different waypoint on the GPS device.
Tip: It is possible to change steering modes
while in AUTO mode. For example it is helpful
to use Compass mode to control the boat when
setting up a GPS route, then change directly to
GPS mode.
Note for sailing boats:
• The AP380 is not recommended for use in
light, changeable or gusty winds.
• Take care when running downwind to avoid
an accidental gybe.
• Wind mode requires the wind instrument to
be accurately calibrated.
Note: To select GPS mode, the AP380 must be
receiving data from a compatible GPS instrument,
otherwise the GPS selection will not be available.
To engage the AP380 in GPS mode, the GPS must
be navigating to a waypoint or along a route;
otherwise the Explorer AP380 will display an error
message. If the boat is too far from the plotted
course, the Explorer AP380 will display a warning
message.
To select Wind mode, the AP380 must be
receiving data from a compatible wind
instrument, otherwise the Wind selection will not
be available.
Heading = 45°
CTS = 45°
CTS changes to 44°
Boat comes to 44° heading CTS changes to 46°
Boat comes to 46° heading
Heading = 45°
CTS = 45°
44 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
3-9 DodgeA dodge is a sharp change of course, usually to avoid an obstacle.
• press to dodge to port by the dodge angle
• press to dodge to starboard by the dodge angle.
The boat will change course by a preset dodge angle. To dodge further, press or more times.
To view or change the dodge angle, go to Dodge angle in the Options menu (see section 6-3).
Heading = 45°
CTS = 45°
CTS changes by the dodge angle.
Boat comes to new heading.
Press
to continue
on the new
heading
Press
to resume
the earlier
heading
or
3-9-1 Dodging in compass mode
3-8-3 Changing set wind angle in wind modeTo change set wind angle (SWA) in 1˚ steps, turn the Control Dial.
• turn the Control Dial counter-clockwise to change course to port
• turn the Control Dial clockwise to change course to starboard
Example
Wind
SWA = 40° SWA changes to 39°. Boat comes to new wind
angle of 39°SWA = 40°
SWA changes to 41°. Boat comes to new
wind angle of 41°
Wind
45Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
CTS changes by the
dodge angle.
Boat comes to new
heading.
Press to resume
the earlier heading WARNING: The
Explorer AP380 will
steer back to the
GPS plotted course.
Make sure there
are no obstacles or
dangerous waters in
the way.
3-9-2 Dodging in GPS mode
3-9-3 Dodging in wind mode
Press to resume
the earlier wind angle
SWA changes by the
dodge angle. Boat comes
to new wind angle.
The Explorer AP380
beeps.
Wind
SWA = 40°
The Explorer AP380 will steer back to the GPS
plotted course. Make sure there are no obstacles
or dangerous waters in the way.
46 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
90º turn: The boat
turns through 90ºTack/Gybe:
Auto-tacks the boat after
a delay period. The tack
angle and tack delay can
be customised. Gybes
can be disabled.
180º turn: The boat
turns through 180º
3-10 Turn modesThe Explorer AP380 can follow a preprogrammed turn sequence. The AP380 has three different turn
modes:
Availability: Compass GPS Wind
Tack/Gybe yes no yes
90º yes no no
180º yes no no
3-10-1 Auto tacking in compass modeAuto tacking is intended to tack a sailing boat. The course to steer changes by the tack angle.
• press , select Tack/Gybe then press to tack to port by the tack angle
• press , select Tack/Gybe then press to tack to starboard by the tack angle.
Press to initiate a tack to
port or starboard.
Press or
to select tack
direction
The boat sails straight while the
Explorer AP380 counts down
the tack delay.
The unit gives a long beep at
60 and 30 seconds to go, a
short beep every second from
10 seconds to 1 second to go
and a long beep that finishes
when the countdown ends.
Course after tacking
Course prior to tacking
delay count
The tack is fin-
ished when the
boat reaches the
new heading
A
B
47Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
3-10-2 Turns in compass modeTo change course by 90˚
• press ,select 90˚ turn then press to turn to port by 90˚
• press , select 90˚ turn then press to turn to starboard by 90˚
To change course by 180˚
• press , select 180˚ turn then press to turn to port by 180˚
• press , select 180˚ turn then press to turn to starboard by 180˚
Note: To tack to a fixed wind angle, use the
AP380 in Wind mode (see section 7-3). To view
or change the tack angle or the tack delay, go to
tack mode, tack angle or tack delay in the Options
menu (see section 6-3). Gybe angle is not used in
Compass mode.
Press to initiate a 90 or
180 turn to port or starboard.Press or to select turn
direction
When auto-tacking (in Compass Mode), the
course to steer changes by the tack angle.
The AP380 does not use data from any wind
instrument. It is possible for the boat to gybe
or to end in irons (head to wind).
48 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
3-10-3 Auto tacking or gybing in wind modeIf the set wind angle (SWA) is 90° or less, the boat tacks, if the SWA is more than 90° the boat gybes. After
the tack or gybe, the SWA is the same as the SWA before the tack or gybe, but from the
other side.
• Press , select Tack/Gybe then press to tack or gybe to port
• Press , select Tack/Gybe turn then press to tack or gybe to starboard
Example:
SWA is 40°, so the boat will tack, not gybe. If the tack angle is not set to Auto, the boat changes direction
twice:
- first by the tack angle
- second so that SWA is the same as before the tack or gybe, but on the other side:
After the boat has reached the tack angle, the boat turns again so
that the SWA (set wind angle) is the same as the SWA before the
tack, but from the other side
Wind
SWA = 40°
Press , select
Tack/Gybe then press
to initiate a tack
to port.
The tack is finished when the boat reaches the new wind angle
To cancel the tack at any
time, press
At the end of the tack delay, the course changes by the
tack angle (in this example, the tack angle is not set to
Auto). The boat turns.
The boat sails straight while the Explorer AP380 counts down
the tack delay.
The unit gives a long beep at 60 and 30 seconds to go, a short
beep every second from 10 seconds to 1 second to go and a
long beep that finishes when the countdown ends.
3 seconds to go until the tack starts
49Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
There are four possibilities for auto tacking or gybing:
Tack (SWA is 90° or less) Gybe (SWA is more than 90°)
Note: To view or change the tack mode, tack angle, gybe mode, gybe angle or tack delay, go to the
Options menu (see section 6-3).
Press , select
Tack/Gybe then
press to tack
to port.
Press select
Tack/Gybe then press
to tack to starboard.
Press select
Tack/Gybe then
press to gybe
to port.
Example:
SWA is 120°, so the boat will gybe. The tack angle
is not set to Auto:
Example:
SWA is 40°. The tack angle is set to Auto so the
boat changes direction once:
The Explorer AP380
counts down the tack
delay.
The Explorer AP380
counts down the tack
delay.
Press , select Tack /Gybe
then press to initiate a tack to
port
Press , select Tack/Gybe.
Then press to initiate a
gybe to starboard
To cancel the gybe
at any time, press
End of tack, boat is
at new SWA
End of tack, boat is at new SWA
The course
changes by the
gybe angle
Wind
The course changes again
so that the SWA is the
same as the SWA before
the tack
The course
changes so that
the SWA is the
same as the SWA
before the tack
To cancel the gybe
at any time, press
Wind
Press select
Tack/Gybe then
press to gybe to
starboard.
If SWA is more than 90° and the gybe angle is set
to AUTO then the boat will change direction once
during a gybe, so that the SWA is the same as the
SWA before the gybe.
Wind
50 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
3-11 Power steeringWhen the AP380 is in STBY mode the helmsman
must steer the boat manually. However the AP380
has power steering control modes available while
in STBY mode:
To Jog Steer to port:
• hold down to turn the rudder to port
To Jog Steer to starboard:
• hold down to turn the rudder to
starboard
Follow-up steering:
• turn the Control Dial to set the desired
position of the rudder (this function is
disabled until the rudder feedback unit and
the compass have been calibrated
[see section 6-8])
• a popup window will appear at the bottom
of the screen indicating the desired position
and the current position of the rudder.
3-12 Alarms There are several alarms that monitor the condition of the AP380 system, these alarms can not be adjusted. There are also alarms that can be enabled to automatically detect certain conditions, such as low battery.
Alarms that are enabled are shown as black icons in the alarm status box on the Explorer AP380 header.
When an alarm is triggered:
• the beeper sounds
• the external alarm sounds or lamp illuminates (if connected)
• the bezel backlight on the Explorer AP380 flashes
• the alarm window is displayed
• and the alarm status icon is shown in the color corresponding to the severity of the alarm.
Press or to acknowledge and reset the alarm. This action does not disable the alarm.
• Alarms can be set: Menu > Setup > Alarms menu (see section 6-5).
Severity Alarm tone Color Description
Info Single beep Blue Information message, does not affect AP380 operation.
Warning Slow beeping Black A low priority event has occurred.
Caution Moderate beeping Yellow An event has occurred that may require corrective action.
Severe Rapid beeping Orange An important event has occurred requiring immediate
attention.
Critical Rapid beeping, low tone Red A critical problem is preventing the AP380 from controlling
the boat, manual steering is required immediately.
• the rudder will move to the desired position.
• To stop the rudder turning, press ,
or .
To centre the rudder:
• press and release + together to
turn the rudder to amidships (this function
is disabled until the rudder feedback unit
and the compass have been calibrated [see
section 6-8])
• To stop the rudder turning to amidships press
, or
Until the rudder feedback unit is calibrated,
there is no rudder limit and the user must
ensure that the rudder is not driven onto an
end stop when using jog steering (damage
may occur).
51Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
3-12-1 The alarm windowThe alarm window shows a list of the latest active
alarms. The most severe alarms appear at the top
of the list.
Turn the Control Dial to stop the Explorer AP380
from beeping.
Select ‘Details’ to acknowledge the displayed
alarms and jump directly to the Alarm history
screen.
Select ‘OK’ to acknowledge the displayed alarms.
3-12-2 Active alarmsThe Active alarms screen shows a list of the
currently active alarms.
To show the Active alarms screen:
• Select ‘Active alarms’ in the Display menu or,
• Go to Menu > Setup > Alarms > Active alarms.
Turn the Control Dial to select an alarm in the list
and press to see the Alarm details.
3-12-3 Alarm historyThe Explorer AP380 keeps a record of alarms.
The Alarm history screen shows a list of up to 18
recorded alarm events.
To show the Alarm history screen:
• Select ‘Details’ from the alarm window or,
• Go to Menu > Setup > Alarms > Alarm History.
Turn the Control Dial to select an alarm in the list
and press to see the Alarm details.
3-12-4 Alarm detailsThe alarm details window shows extra detail on
an individual alarm.
3-13 KeylockWhen keylock is activated, the Explorer AP380 will
ignore most key presses.
• To turn keylock on:
Press and hold the key for 2 seconds. A ‘Keys
locked’ message will appear and a small lock icon
will appear on the lower right-hand display.
• To turn keylock off:
Press and hold the key for 2 seconds. A ‘Keys
unlocked’ message will appear and the keys are
re-enabled.
3-14 Simulate modeIf the word ‘Simulate’ flashes on the display, then
the unit is in simulate mode.
• Simulate mode allows you to become familiar
with the unit off the water.
• Simulate mode can be turned on or off: Menu
> Setup > Simulate menu.
Do not use simulate mode while at sea.
52 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Options menu:
Data setup - Selects what data is displayed in the info
panel.
Auto Rd/CE/XTE – Automatically switches the displayed
data between rudder, course error and cross track error
depending on the operating mode.
Course error – Shows a course error bar in the info
panel.
Rudder angle – Shows a rudder angle gauge in the
info panel.
XTE – Shows a cross track error bar in the info panel.
4 The displays
Press key to show the Display menu, select a display option using
the Control Dial and press .
Tip: Repeated pressing will cycle the menu selection and will automatically
select after 1 second.
4-1 Display > Basic Displays a standard AP380 display with just the essential AP380 data.
Display area Function
1
Drive
indicators
Left and right boxes light up to indicate when the AP380 is driving the rudder
2 Heading Large digits show the heading of the vessel
3 Info panel This panel can be configured to display different data items. Default:
Automatically switches between Rudder angle, Course error and Cross track
error.
4 Set course STBY mode: shows ‘---’ since the set course is not valid in standby mode
AUTO mode: digits show the current course to steer (CTS), except for
WIND mode: digits show the current set wind angle (SWA)
The colored ring is yellow in STBY mode, green in AUTO mode, magenta in
H-STEER mode and red when there is a critical alarm
5 Steering
mode panel
Shows the steering mode (COMPASS, GPS, WIND)
6 Operating
mode
panel
Shows the operating mode (Standby, Auto, H-Steer). Panel changes to blue
when in AUTO mode.
Basic displays
1
2
34
5
6
53Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
4-2 Display > AutoPilot Displays an advanced AP380 display with essential AP380 data.
Display area Function
1 Data Header Customizable data cells. Each display page has a separate header
configuration. Default: Voltage, Current, Alarm Status (see section 5).
2 Heading Large digits show the heading of the vessel
3 Drive
indicators
Left and right boxes ‘fill up’ to indicate when the AP380 is driving the rudder
and how much power is being used by the drive system
4 Numerical data
panels
Customizable data cells. Default: Course to steer, Course error.
5 Bar data
panels
Customizable indicator bar. Default: Automatically switches between Rudder
angle, Course error and Cross track error.
6 Mode panel Left hand side: shows the steering mode (COMPASS, GPS, WIND)
Right hand side: shows the operating mode (Standby, Auto, H-Steer) inside a
colored tab.
Panel changes to blue when in AUTO mode. The colored tab is yellow in
STBY mode, green in AUTO mode, magenta in H-STEER mode and red
when there is a critical alarm.
Options menu:
Header Menu for configuring the data header in this
display (see section 5).
Data setup Enters the data set-up mode. Use the Control
Dial to highlight a data cell, press to display a list of data
types that can be displayed in that cell.
1
2
3
4
56
AutoPilot displays
54 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
4-3 Display > Compass Displays a standard AP380 display with just the essential AP380 data.
Display area Function
1 Data Header Customizable data cells. Each display page has a separate header
configuration. Default: Course to steer, Heading, Alarm Status
(see section 5).
2 Drive
indicators
Left and right boxes ‘fill up’ to indicate when the AP380 is driving the rudder
and how much power is being used by the drive system
3 Compass card Compass card rotates to show the heading of the vessel under the lubber
mark.
4 Course arrow STBY mode: points to the current heading
AUTO mode: points to the set course, except for:
GPS mode: points to the bearing to waypoint
5 Deviation bar Moves laterally to show course information.
Note: This bar can be configured to display different items.
Default: Automatically switches between Rudder angle, Course error and Cross
track error.
6 Deviation scale Indicates what data the deviation bar is currently showing and the magnitude
7 Mode panel Left hand side: shows the steering mode (COMPASS, GPS, WIND)
Right hand side: shows the operating mode (Standby, Auto, H-Steer) inside a
colored tab.
Panel changes to blue when in AUTO mode. The colored tab is yellow in STBY
mode, green in AUTO mode, magenta in H-STEER mode and red when there
is a critical alarm.
Options menu:
Deviation bar Selects what data is displayed by the
deviation bar.
Auto Rd/CE/XTE – Automatically switches the deviation bar
between rudder, course error and cross track error depending
on the operating mode.
Course error – Shows course error using the
deviation bar.
Rudder angle – Shows rudder angle using the
deviation bar.
XTE – Shows a cross track error bar using the deviation bar.
Header – Menu for configuring the data header in this display
(see section 5).
1
23 4
5 6
7Compass displays
55Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
4-4 Display > Data The data display shows one large data cell, two smaller data cells and a data history graph. Each is
these items can be configured to display a range of data types. The graph is useful for analysing the
performance of the AP380.
Display area Function
1 Big data cell Customizable data cell. Default: Rudder angle.
2 Small data cells Customizable data cells. Default: Voltage, AP380 Status.
3 History graph This graph plots data over a period of time. There are two graph series that can
be configured, red and green. Default: Rudder angle, Course error.
4 Time base The time base of the graph can be set from 2 minutes to 1 hour. This is the
amount of time it takes for new data to scroll from the right hand side to
the left hand side.
Options menu:
Data setup Enters the data set-up mode. Use the Control Dial to highlight a data cell,
press to display a list of data types that can be displayed in that cell.
Time base - Selects the time base of the history graph. Select 2 min, 4 min, 10 min,
20 min or 1 hour.
1
2
3
4
4-5 Display > Active alarmsShows a list of the currently active alarms (see section 3-12-2).
Data display
56 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
5 Data headersData headers are available on the AP380 and Compass screens. A data header is a customizable feature
that can be used to display up to 6 different data items, such as boat speed or alarm status. The AP380
and Compass screens have separate settings for the data header.
Header menu:
Data Turns the data header completely on or off.
Data setup
Enters the data set-up mode. The Data header expands to display all 6 possible data cells. Some data cells
may be blank. Use the Control Dial to highlight a data cell, press to display a list of data types that
can be displayed in that cell.
Size
Selects the size of the data header items. Select Small, Medium or Large.
57Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
6 MenusMany of the Explorer AP380 features and functions are operated through menus.
• To scroll through menu items, scroll through items in a list or change data use the Control Dial. Clockwise scrolls across/down or increments data.
• To select a menu item press .
• To go back to the previous menu press .
• To accept changes press .
• To discard changes press .
Note: Some menu items in the Explorer AP380 menus utilize checkboxes.
• If the box is ‘checked’ (contains a check or tick), then that function is selected (enabled) or ON.
6-1 Setup > System
Language
Select the language for the display. The options
are: English, Italian, French, German, Spanish,
Dutch, Swedish, Portuguese, Finnish and Greek.
Tip: In case you can’t read the current
language, the language setting is the first
item in the system menu.
Backlight
The backlight pop-up is displayed (see also
section 3-4).
The bar setting represents the current level of
backlighting.
Night Mode –Allows low contrast Night mode.
Auto – allows night mode to be selected in
backlight pop-up
On – night mode is active all the time
Off – night mode is not available
Key beep
Enables or disables an audible beep when a
key is pressed or Control Dial is rotated.
Auto power off
Select to have the AP380 power off
automatically every time the boat’s ignition
is switched off. This applies only if the display
unit is wired for Auto Power (see installation
manual).
About
Displays information about the unit.
Factory Reset Resets all settings to the factory
default settings. A warning box asks: Are you
sure? Select Yes and press to confirm, or
No or to cancel.
Main control unit – Resets the MCU’s
settings
Head unit – Resets just this head unit’s
settings
Both – Resets the MCU’s settings and this
unit’s settings
SmartCraft™ Select to enable SmartCraft
functions. SmartCraft is only available with
certain Mercury engines, and requires a
SmartCraft Gateway. For more information
refer to the SmartCraft manual included with
the SmartCraft gateway.
• If the box is ‘un-checked’ (does not contain a check or tick), then that function de-selected (disabled) or OFF.
• To select or de-select a checkbox, highlight the menu item using the Control Dial and press . The change will happen immediately.
The main menu for configuring the Explorer
AP380 is the Setup menu. Press until the Setup menu is displayed (normally twice).
The Setup menu and options are summarized
in this chapter. The factory default settings are
shown where applicable. Each Setup menu
option is explained in the following sections.
58 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
6-2 Setup > Profiles Profiles are used to store a range of AP380
settings for different sea, environmental and
vessel conditions. Up to 5 user profiles may be
configured (see section 8-2).
Profile
Select the current profile to use.
Edit name
Use to edit the name of the currently selected
profile (see section 8-2).
Parameters
Opens the Parameters menu (see section 8-1).
6-3 Setup > Options Options can be selected to set AP380 operating
limits:
Dodge angle
Sets size of the dodge angle steps in degrees.
Minimum = 5 ;̊ maximum = 30˚
Tack mode
Auto – vessel tacks to the same set wind
angle but on the opposing tack.
Set angle – vessel tacks through an angle
set in Tack angle, then steers to the same set
wind angle but on the opposing tack.
Tack angle
Set tack angle if Set angle is selected in Tack
mode.
Minimum = 50 ;̊ maximum = 160˚
Gybe mode
Off – gybing is disabled.
Auto – vessel gybes to the same set wind
angle but on the opposing tack.
Set angle – vessel gybes through an angle set in
Gybe angle, then steers to the same set wind
angle but on the opposing tack.
Gybe angle
Set gybe angle if Set angle is selected in Gybe
mode
Minimum = 40 ;̊ maximum = 140˚
Tack delay
Set delay that the AP380 will use from the
time a Tack is requested to the time a Tack is
carried out by the AP380
Minimum = 0; maximum = 120 (seconds)
Turn Rate
Set the maximum turn rate you want the
AutoPilot to use.
Minimum = 3; maximum = 20 ( /̊second)
6-4 Setup > Vessel Vessel type can be selected to alter the
performance characteristics of the AP380
depending on the vessel hull type:
Vessel type
Select Planing, Displacement or Sailing.
Changing the vessel type causes the steering
parameters to be reset to default values in the
current profile.
Drive type
Configures the AP380 to drive the type of
steering system. See installation section for
details.
Wind features
Controls whether wind features such as
Tack/Gybe are accessible.
59Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
6-5 Setup > Alarms
Some of the AP380 alarms are user configurable.
Alarm trigger settings can be defined to suit the
boat and individual preferences as follows:
Course error
The alarm will sound if the vessel strays from
its intended course by more than the set
error. Set OFF or a value in degrees.
Minimum = 1 ;̊ maximum = 90˚
XTE
Cross Track Error – The alarm will sound if
the vessel strays from it’s intended track by
more than the set error. Set OFF or a value in
nautical miles.
Minimum = 0.01; maximum = 2.0 (nautical
miles)
Waypoint akn
The alarm will sound and ask the user for
confirmation, when in GPS mode, when
arriving at a waypoint before steering to the
next waypoint.
Set ON or OFF.
Wind shift
The alarm will sound if, when in Wind mode,
the wind shifts by more than the set angle
since engaging AUTO.
Set OFF or a value in degrees.
Minimum = 1 ;̊ maximum = 90˚
Low battery
The alarm will sound if the vessel battery
voltage is below the setting.
Set OFF or a value in Volts.
Minimum = 7; maximum = 14 (Volts)
High current
The alarm will sound if the current drawn
from the battery by the rudder drive system
exceeds the setting.
Set a value in Amps.
Minimum = 5; maximum = 20 (Amps)
Active alarms
Displays a list of currently active alarms (see
section 3-12-2).
Alarm history
The AP380 keeps a record of alarms. Displays
the alarm history list (see section 3-12-3).
Clear alarm history
Allows the alarm history to be cleared.
A warning box asks: Are you sure?
Select Yes and press to confirm, or No or
to cancel.
6-6 Setup > Units
Select the units you prefer the AP380 to display:
Distance
All distance readings are displayed in the
selected units.
nm (nautical miles), mi (miles), km
(kilometers)
Compass
All compass readings are displayed in the
selected units.
°T (degrees True), °M (degrees Magnetic)
Magnetic variation
Set the local magnetic variation in degrees.
Minimum= -°90(W); maximum= +°90(E)
(degrees)
Wind
All wind readings are displayed in the
selected units.
App (Apparent), True (True)
60 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
6-7 Setup > Comms
Use this feature when the AP380 is connected to
other Northstar instruments through NavBus or
any compatible NMEA instrument.
NMEA mode
Select NMEA port mode.
Input – NMEA port can receive NMEA data
Slow – NMEA port outputs heading and
rudder angle once per second
Fast – NMEA port outputs heading data ten
times per second
NavBus group
Use this when a group of Northstar
instruments are connected together using
NavBus, to specify a group of instruments for
backlighting, if required. Then, if the backlight
setting on one instrument in the group is
adjusted, the other instruments change
automatically. Otherwise, select 0.
6-8 Setup > Calibrate
The calibrate wizard screens are used during the
initial AP380 installation stage or if any previously
installed AP380 transducers have changed or
moved.
It is vital to the performance of the AP380 that the
transducers are installed in the best location and
carefully calibrated.
Compass
Use this calibration wizard to calibrate the
compass.
Follow the on-screen instructions:
• Slowly turn boat 2.5 times, observing the
turn rate indicator
• Align heading – press and dial in the
current heading
• Accept calibration
• Calibration complete
Rudder
Use this calibration wizard to calibrate the
rudder.
Follow the on-screen instructions:
• Centre the rudder
• Turn rudder to Maximum Port
• Turn rudder to Maximum Starboard
• Set angle – press and dial in the
current rudder angle
• Centre the rudder
• Stand clear of the rudder and linkages so
the AP380 can test the limits.
• Testing limits – press at any time to
abort the calibration
• Accept calibration
• Calibration complete
Align heading
Use to align the compass to the actual boat
heading. If a compass calibration has recently
been performed, it is not necessary to align the
heading again.
Use the manual helm to sail a straight course
and ensure the boat heading does not change
during this procedure. Use an accurate reference
compass or external GPS to find the actual boat
heading. If you are using an external GPS, sail
as fast as convenient to ensure the heading is
accurate.
Enter the actual course heading.
Minimum = 0°; maximum = 359° (degrees)
Centre Rudder
Use to set the rudder centre position. If a rudder
calibration has recently been performed, it is
not necessary to set the rudder centre position
again. Ensure the rudder is in the centre position
and that there is no cross-wind or tidal current
affecting the rudder.
Select OK and press when the rudder is
centreed.
6-9 Setup > SimulateTurn simulate mode on and off
(see section 3-14).
61Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Actual boat heading is 45°
CTS (course to steer, the intended
AP380 course) 55°
Course error = 10°
Important:
• The AP380 cannot control the boat better than a helmsman. The AP380 is not intended for use in
extreme weather, in adverse conditions or near other boats, dangerous waters or land.
In these conditions, disengage the AP380 and steer manually.
• Never leave the helm unattended, keep a watch at all times and be ready to
resume steering the boat manually.
• Do not try to turn the rudder by hand when the AP380 is engaged.
• Local variations in magnetic field can affect the accuracy of the compass heading.
Such variations are the responsibility of the user.
7 Steering modes
7-1 Compass steering modeThe AP380 has three ways of steering the boat, compass, GPS and wind. To select an appropriate mode,
see section 3-7. In Compass mode, the AP380 steers the boat to a set course, called CTS (Course to steer).
7-1-1 Compass steering data
62 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
HANDSTEER:
Steer the boat manually. Display CTS in
the info data or course error in the bar
data and use these to steer by.
To engage AUTO,
press
Heading = 45°
For example:
To engage HANDSTEER,
hold
AUTO:
The AP380 steers the boat automatically.
The Explorer AP380 sets CTS (course to steer) to the
current heading, in this example 45°, and starts steering
on this course.
To disengage the AP380, press
The AP380 returns to STBY mode. Steer the boat
manually.
Heading = 45°
CTS = 45°
Manually steer the boat to
open waters. Sail straight on the
intended course.
7-1-2 Engaging and disengaging the AP380 in compass mode
63Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Destination
DTG (distance)
TTG (time)
BRG (bearing)
SOG (speed)
Course error (angle)
CTS (bearing)
Plotted course
BoatXTE (distance)
Start
COG (bearing)
7-2 GPS steering modeThe AP380 has three ways of steering the boat, compass, GPS and wind. To select an appropriate mode,
see section 3-7. In GPS mode, the AP380 uses data from a GPS to steer the boat along a route or to a
waypoint.
7-2-1 GPS navigation dataNavigating to a waypoint:
The boat is sailing from the start to the destination and has moved off the GPS plotted course from the
start to the destination:
BRG Bearing to destination
The bearing to the destination from the boat.
COG Course over ground
Direction in which the boat is moving over the ground.
CE Course error
The difference between CTS and the boat heading.
CTS Course to steer
Optimum course to steer to return to the plotted course.
DTG Distance to go
Distance from the boat to the destination.
SOG Speed over ground
The current boat speed over the ground. This is not necessarily the same as the boat speed
through the water nor the speed at which the boat is approaching the destination.
TTG Time to go
The estimated time to reach the destination.
XTE Cross track error
The distance from the boat to the nearest point of the plotted course. XTE may have a letter:
R means steer to the right to return to the plotted course, L means steer to the left.
64 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
HANDSTEER:
Steer the boat manually. Display CTS in
the info data or course error in the bar
data and use these to steer by.
To engage AUTO,
press
To engage HAND STEER,
hold
AUTO:
The AP380 steers the boat automatically.
To disengage the AP380, press
The AP380 returns to STBY (standby). Steer the
boat manually.
BRG (direction
of GPS course)
Manually steer the boat to
open waters. Start the GPS
navigating to a waypoint,
either a waypoint on a route
or a single waypoint.
XTE (distance to GPS
course)
GPS plotted course to
a waypoint
GPS
plotted
course
When the Explorer AP380 is engaged, if the XTE is more than 0.05 nm or the
boat heading is not within 30° of BRG then the Explorer AP380 displays
a warning:
Press to remain in STBY mode or press to have the Explorer
AP380 steer the boat to the course.
When the Explorer AP380 is engaged, it uses data from the GPS
to steer the boat along the plotted course to the waypoint.
7-2-2 Engaging and disengaging the AP380 in GPS mode
65Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
7-2-3 Arriving at waypointsIf the GPS is following a route and the boat reaches an intermediate waypoint:
If the Waypoint Acknowledge alarm (see section 6-5) is off, the AP380 automatically starts steering to the
next waypoint in the route. If the Waypoint Acknowledge alarm is on, the AP380 shows the following
alarm:
The AP380 continues steering on the old course. Select “OK” to start steering to the next waypoint.
When the boat reaches the final waypoint, the AP380 shows the following alarm:
The AP380 continues steering on the old course. Select “OK” change to Compass mode and continue
sailing at the current heading. Press to return to STBY mode.
Note: To return to the last waypoint if the boat has passed the waypoint, restart the GPS navigating to
the waypoint.
7-2-4 GPS gainIn GPS mode, The GPS gain determines how much correction is applied to remove cross track error. A
high setting will cause the AP380 to steer quickly back towards the track. A low setting will cause the
AP380 to steer very gently back towards the track.
66 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Boat heading
Course error
CTS (intended AP380 course, to achieve the SWA
[set wind angle])
SWA (set wind angle), 41°
Wind angle
can be APP (apparent) or TRUEWind
APP Apparent wind angle The apparent wind angle at the boat. P in front of the angle means the
wind is from port, S means that the wind is from starboard.
CTS Course to steer The course to steer to maintain the SWA (set wind angle).
Course error The difference between APP (wind angle) and SWA (set wind angle).
SWA Set wind angle The desired wind angle.
TRUE True wind angle The true wind angle at the boat. P in front of the angle means the wind
is from port, S means that the wind is from starboard.
7-3 Wind steering modeThe AP380 has three ways of steering the boat, compass, GPS and wind. To select an appropriate mode,
see section 3-7. In wind mode, the AP380 steers the boat to a set angle to the wind, called SWA (set wind
angle).
7-3-1 Wind steering data
67Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
7-3-2 True and apparent wind speed and directionApparent wind speed and direction are the values measured on the boat. True wind speed and direction
are the values after allowing for boat speed through the air.
If the boat is moving, then the apparent wind speed is different to the true wind speed and the apparent
wind direction is different to the true wind direction, as shown below.
Boat moving upwind
Apparent wind speed is greater than true wind speed
and apparent wind direction is closer to dead ahead than true wind direction
Boat is at
rest
True wind speed is the same as apparent wind speed and
true wind direction is the same as apparent wind direction
True
wind
speed
20 kts
Boat moving downwind
Apparent wind speed is less than true wind speed and apparent wind direction is closer to
dead ahead than true wind direction
True
wind
speed
20 kts
True
wind
speed
20 kts
Boat
speed
10 kts
True
wind
speed
20 kts
Boat
speed
10 kts
Boat
speed
10 kts
Apparent wind
speed 15 kts
Boat
speed
10 kts
Apparent wind
speed 15 kts
True wind
direction
45º
True wind
direction
135º
Apparent
wind
direction
107º
Apparent
wind
direction
30º
Apparent
wind speed
28 kts
Apparent
wind speed
28 kts
Boat at rest
68 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
7-3-3 Engaging the AP380 in wind mode
HANDSTEER:
Steer the boat manually. Display CTS in the info data or course error in the bar data and use these to steer by.
To engage AUTO,
press
To engage HAND STEER,
hold
AUTO:
The AP380 steers the boat automatically.
To disengage the AP380, press
The AP380 returns to STBY (standby). Steer the
boat manually.
GPS
plotted
course
The Explorer AP380 sets CTS (course to steer) to the current heading, in this
example 45°, sets SWA (set wind angle) to the current wind angle and starts
steering at this wind angle.
SWA = 45°
Wind
APP = P40°
For example:
SWA = 45°
Wind
APP = P40°
APP = S40°
SWA = 40°
Wind
APP = S120°
SWA = 120°
Wind
The Explorer AP380 can also be engaged on the
starboard tack, for example: or when running, for example:
Manually steer the boat to
open waters. Sail straight at
the intended wind angle.
The Explorer AP380 info
data can display TRUE
(true wind angle) or APP
(apparent wind angle) (see
section 6-6)
69Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
7-3-4 Wind gainIn GPS mode, The wind gain determines how much correction is applied to reduce any difference
between the set wind angle and the actual wind angle. A high setting will cause the AP380 to be
strongly affected by changes in the wind. A low setting will cause the AP380 to be very mildly
affected by changes in the wind.
8-1 Steering parameters
The AP380 has seven steering parameters
which can be adjusted to optimize steering
performance. Select the Advanced checkbox to
view all parameters.
These parameters can be adjusted using the
Parameters menu. To adjust the parameters, go to
Menu > Setup > Profiles > Parameters (see section
6-2). From the Basic, AP380 or Compass screens,
press to open the Parameters menu directly.
Adaptive
This is an adaptive response setting where the
AP380 adjusts how far the boat can move off
course to maintain a constant rate of rudder
corrections. The adaptive setting eliminates the
need to set the response according to varying
weather conditions.
• The range is A1 (adapts slowly) to A5 (adapts
quickly).
Response (dead band)
How far the boat will be allowed to fall off
course before it makes a correction.
A lowest response setting lets the boat
fall very far off course before the AutoPilot
corrects. The highest response setting
corrects for every boat movement
• The range is 1 (broad course keeping) to 10
(tight course keeping).
Ratio (gain)
How far the rudder moves relative to the
degrees of course error
• The range is 1 (small corrections) to 10 (large
corrections).
Trim
Trim gain -(Integral gain) Watches if the boat
is off course consistently in one direction
(Ex. Due to a strong wind, or poor weight
distribution ).Trim Gain causes the AP380 to
slowly apply extra rudder in the opposite
direction to correct for the course error.
• The range is 1 (trim slowly) to 10 (trim quickly)
and 0 (OFF no trim effect).
C-rudder
Counter rudder gain – (derivative gain) At the
end of the turn, counter rudder will steer in
the opposite direction to help stop the turn
at the desired heading. If the boat is turning
quickly towards the set course, the AP380
with start to apply rudder in the opposite
direction to prevent to boat steering past
the desired direction, this is called counter
rudder. Counter rudder gain sets how strong
this effect is.
• The range is 1 (low: Most often used with a
plaining boat) to 10 (high : Most often used
with a sail boat or displacement boat) and 0
(OFF no counter rudder effect).
GPS gain
In GPS mode, this determines how much
correction is applied to remove cross track
error.
• The range is 1 (steer gently back on track) to
10 (steer quickly back on track).
Wind gain
In wind mode, this determines how much
correction is applied to reduce any difference
between the set wind angle and the actual
wind angle.
• The range is 1 (slowly affected by wind
change) to 10 (sensitive to wind change).
8 Optimising steering performance
70 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Optimum steering
Change the values of the steering parameters for
optimum steering performance.
Generally:
• For calm seas, increase response; for rough
seas (or to save power) decrease response.
• For higher boat speeds, decrease ratio; for
lower speeds, increase ratio.
• In case of cross-winds or weather-helm,
increase trim; In case of balanced steering,
decrease trim.
• For large displacement boats and boats
with insensitive steering, increase counter
rudder; for lightweight boats and boats with
responsive steering, decrease counter rudder.
• For higher boat speeds and large GPS routes,
decrease GPS gain; for lower speeds and tight
GPS routes, increase GPS gain.
• For higher and/or more stable winds, increase
wind gain; for lower and/or unstable winds,
decrease wind gain.
Ideally, in AUTO the AP380 should steer the boat
to the course without the rudder moving too
often.
8-2 ProfilesThe AP380 provides five configurable steering
profiles that can be quickly recalled to alter the
AP380’s performance based on changing sea,
environmental and vessel conditions.
• To change a profile go to: Menu > Setup >
Profiles > Profile menu.
Each of the five profiles can be individually
named and configured with different steering
performance settings, and recalled as needed.
To name the currently selected profile, go to
Menu > Setup > Profiles > Edit name then:
• Use the Control Dial, and to edit
the name of the profile.
• Rotate the Control Dial to select numerical
and upper and lower case alphabetical
characters. Maximum number of
alphanumeric characters is 8.
• Repeatedly press to finish editing.
Note: When using more than one Explorer AP380,
profile names are not transferred between units.
So when naming profiles, be sure to name the
profile on each Explorer AP380.
How to use profiles:
1. When the AP380 is installed, the steering
parameters in all the profiles are set to their
default values.
2. Select User 1, and adjust the steering
parameters for optimum steering in typical
conditions.
3. If the conditions change and the steering is
no longer optimum, select another profile
and adjust the steering parameters again
Repeat this step as required to adjust the
parameters in each profile.
4. When using the AP380 to steer, select a
profile suitable for the current conditions. For
example different profiles can be configured
for rough conditions and calm conditions,
sailing or motoring.
71Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
8-3 Adjusting the steering parameters
Problem: drifts off course to one side
Increase ratio.
Increase trim gain.
Increase response.or
Problem: boat moves too far off course closely before the rudder turns to correct the course
Decrease ratio.
Decrease counter rudder gain.
Decrease trim gain.
This causes wear on the steering linkage and uses
power.
Decrease response.
Reduce ratio.
Reduce counter rudder gain.
Problem: rudder turns too frequently
Problem: oscillations from side to side build up
Decrease ratio.
Problem: after a large course change, boat takes too long to settle to new course
Decrease counter rudder gain
Problem: after a large course change, boat overshoots and oscillates before settling to new
course
Increase counter rudder gain
72 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Increase trim gain
Decrease trim gain
1 minute
1 minute
a Boat takes much more than one minute to trimSideways force starts
b Boat takes much less than one minute to trimSideways force starts
Problem: boat oscillated around GPS course
Decrease GPS gain.
Increase GPS gain.
Problem: drifts off GPS course
or
or
Problem: after a sideways current or wind, the correction is applied too quickly or too slowly
If the boat encounters a sideways force, then it will move off course sideways. The AP380 will
automatically bring the boat back to the correct heading by applying a few degrees of rudder, called
trim. Trim gain sets how quickly the trim is applied. Trim gain should be adjusted to trim the boat in
about one minute. Getting the Trim gain setting right can be difficult for your specific boat and it is easy
to alter the Trim gain too much. Change the settings slowly and conservatively at first, until the right
settings are known.
73Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
This troubleshooting guide assumes that you
have read and understood this manual.
It is possible in many cases to solve difficulties
without having to send the unit back to the
manufacturer for repair. Please follow this
troubleshooting section before contacting the
nearest Northstar dealer.
There are no user serviceable parts. Specialized
methods and testing equipment are required to
ensure that the unit is reassembled correctly.
Repairs to the unit must only be carried out by a
service centre approved by Northstar.
Users who service the unit themselves will void
the warranty. More information can be found on
our Website: www.northstarnav.com.
1 Unit will not turn on:
a Fuse blown or circuit breaker tripped.
b Battery voltage is outside the range 10.5 to
30.5 V DC.
c Power/data cable damaged.
2 AP380 makes too frequent course
corrections:
The value of response is too low (see
section 8-1).
3 When sailing a straight course, the boat
drifts from side to side of the course:
a The boat should drift from side to side of the
course when the AP380 steering is optimized.
b Change to a profile suitable for boat speed
and sea conditions (see section 8-2).
c If the boat drifts too far from the course,
adjust response, ratio, counter rudder gain,
GPS gain (if AP380 is in GPS mode) or wind
gain (if AP380 is in wind mode)
(see section 8-1).
9 Troubleshooting
4 When sailing a straight course, the boat
drifts off course:
a Change to a profile suitable for boat speed
and sea conditions (see section 8-2).
b Adjust response, ratio, counter rudder gain,
GPS gain (if AP380 is in GPS mode) or wind
gain (if AP380 is in wind mode)
(see section 8-1).
5 When making a large course change, boat
does not follow the expected course:
a Change to a profile suitable for boat speed
and sea conditions (see section 8-2).
b Check turn rate is not too low
(see section 6-3).
c Adjust counter rudder gain
(see section 8-1).
6 Boat turns too sharply:
Reduce turn rate (see section 6-3).
7 The word SIMULATE flashes on the
display, values displayed are unexpected:
Unit is in simulate mode (see section 3-14).
8 The display fogs:
a Moist air has entered the breathing tube at
the rear of the unit. Air the boat or run unit
with backlight fully on.
b Water has entered the breathing tube. Return
unit for service.
74 Northstar Explorer AP380 System Installation and Operation Manual
Electrical
Supply voltage: 10.5 to 30.5 V DC.
Supply current ( at 13.8 V):
Without backlighting: 160 mA.
With full backlighting: up to 410 mA.
Other optional instruments: refer to the
instrument’s operation manual.
Interfaces
NavBus: connection to MCU and other Northstar
instruments.
AP380 Display unit power/data cable wires:
Black connector - Power
Pin Wire color Signal
5 Red Power positive, 10.5 to 30.5 V DC
1 Black Power negative
6 Orange NavBus +
4 Blue NavBus -
7 Yellow Factory use (isolate, do not cut)
3 White Factory use (isolate, do not cut)
8 Green External alarm, switched to ground, 30 V DC and 250 mA max.
2 Brown +9V out
Green connector - NavBus expansion
Pin Wire color Signal
5 Red Factory use (isolate, do not cut)
1 Black Power negative
6 Orange NavBus +
4 Blue NavBus -
7 Yellow Factory use (isolate, do not cut)
3 White Factory use (isolate, do not cut)
8 Green Factory use (isolate, do not cut)
2 Brown +9V out
Standards compliance
EMC compliance:
USA (FCC): Part 15 Class B
Europe (CE): IEC 60945:2002 Clause 9 & 10.
New Zealand and Australia (C Tick):
IEC 60945:2002 Clause 9.
Environment:
IPx6 and IPx7 - completely waterproof.
10 Specifications
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