Discover Seamless Steering with the NAC-2 Core Pack
Imagine gliding across open water without constantly adjusting the helm— that’s the freedom the Simrad NAC-2 Autopilot Core Pack delivers for boats up to 33 feet. This all-in-one kit transforms manual steering into effortless navigation, handling everything from calm bays to rough swells. At its heart, the NAC-2 computer packs advanced algorithms honed for real-world conditions, ensuring precise control whether you’re chasing fish or cruising coastal routes.
Crafted for smaller vessels, it pairs perfectly with low-powered hydraulic pumps, mechanical steering systems, or solenoid setups. Boaters rave about its reliability in daily use, from weekend warriors to serious anglers who need gear that just works without fuss.
Everything You Need in One Complete Kit
- NAC-2 Autopilot Computer: The intelligent core that processes sensor data, drives your steering unit, and maintains course with minimal power draw.
- Precision-9 Compass: A rugged, solid-state sensor delivering heading, rate of turn, roll, and pitch data at high update rates—20 Hz for heading and ROT, 10 Hz for motion—right over your NMEA 2000 network.
- RF25N Rudder Feedback Unit: Tracks exact rudder position with a 5-meter NMEA 2000 Micro-C cable, ensuring the system knows your boat’s response in real time.
- N2k Backbone Starter Kit: Kickstart your network with power cable, 4.5-meter cable, three T-connectors, and terminators—plug-and-play simplicity for new or existing setups.
This bundle eliminates guesswork, giving you pro-level autopilot performance without piecing together components.
Standout Features That Make a Difference
- NMEA 2000 Certified: Seamless integration with chartplotters, multifunction displays, and sensors for a unified onboard ecosystem.
- IPX5 Splashproof Rating: Built tough for marine environments, shrugging off spray and splashes during unexpected downpours or waves.
- Auto-Tuning and Calibration: Spend less time tweaking— the system self-adjusts steering parameters and compass alignment on the water for spot-on accuracy.
- Versatile Drive Compatibility: Handles up to 8A continuous (16A peak) for hydraulic rams, mechanical drives, or valves, ideal for efficient, low-draw systems.
- Wide Power Range: Runs steadily on 9-31.2V DC, adapting to your boat’s 12V or 24V setup without issues.
These aren’t just specs; they’re practical edges that save time, boost safety, and let you focus on the horizon.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Operating Temperature | -25°C to +55°C (13°F to 131°F) |
| Protection | IPX5 Splashproof |
| Power Supply | 9-31.2 V DC |
| Load | 140 mA + drive unit load |
| Drive Performance | 8A continuous, 16A for 1 second |
| Network | 1x Micro-C (NMEA 2000) |
| Rudder Feedback | 0-5V Variable Voltage/Resistive |
| Solenoid/Clutch | 12/24V DC, 10mA-10A solenoid, up to 3A clutch |
Compact at 180mm wide by 57mm high and just 0.6kg, it fits neatly into tight console spaces.
Effortless Installation and Setup Tips
Getting up and running is straightforward thanks to color-coded, plug-and-play connectors—no soldering required. Mount the NAC-2 in a dry, ventilated spot, connect the backbone kit to power and your drive unit, then link the Precision-9 and RF25N. Fire up your controller or MFD, run the auto-tune while motoring in open water, and watch it calibrate on the fly.
Pro tip: Position the Precision-9 away from speakers or metal objects for flawless heading data. Common pitfalls? Skipping the network terminators—always cap both ends. In under an hour, you’ll have responsive autopilot that feels custom-tuned.
Perfect Compatibility for Your Setup
Works hand-in-hand with a lineup of controllers like keypads or displays, plus wireless remotes for steering from the bow. Pair it with existing NMEA 2000 gear for heading overlays on charts, wind data integration, or route following. It’s a natural fit for hydraulic setups like compact pumps, tiller drives, or outboard steering—keeping your small boat agile and automated.
Why Boaters Trust the NAC-2 for Everyday Adventures
In real use, this pack shines on day sails, fishing trips, or trailerable boats where space and power matter. Its algorithms adapt to sea state, minimizing rudder hunts and overcorrections that wear out gear. Skip the helmsman fatigue on long hauls, and enjoy features like no-drift turns or depth-contour tracking when networked. Durable, efficient, and expandable—it’s autopilot done right for vessels that punch above their size.
Frequently Asked Questions
What boats is the Simrad NAC-2 Core Pack suited for?
It’s designed for rudder-steered vessels up to 10 meters (33 feet), ideal for trailer boats, small yachts, or fishing skiffs needing reliable autopilot without high power demands.
