Ground breaking New Simrad Instrument and Autopilot System

Simrad Yachting, a world leader in instruments and autopilot systems, is pleased to announce the new Simrad IS40 instrument and OP10 autopilot control range. Designed for power boaters and sailors alike, Simrad Yachting has developed the IS40 and OP10 to provide high quality, clear and easy to use navigation systems.

Simrad IS40 offers the biggest instrument display, with its 4.1-inch sunlight viewable screen being nearly 40 per cent larger than most traditional models. This is matched with a unique LCD display bonding process, which provides unrivaled contrast with zero risk of condensation, outstanding longevity and unmatched durability.

The full colour IS40 display also excels in readability, with the brightest 800nit screen and large, clear digits, which reach a height of 50mm, almost 10mm larger than any current rival display. Utilising a multi-lingual user interface, IS40 display offers intuitive menus that are easy to use and includes a dedicated Page key to allow quick selection of data.

Boat builders and dealers will appreciate the straightforward installation of IS40 instruments due to the use of industry standard micro-C connectors and simple daisy-chain connection option. IS40 has wide compatibility with NMEA 2000^® products and benefits from accurate engine data displays, so power boaters can keep a keen eye on what’s going on below deck.

The Simrad IS40 can be linked with an autopilot, allowing boaters to switch from manual steering to auto at the touch of a button, safe in the knowledge that they’re in control. Sailors can make the most of steering to compass or wind, while power boaters can quickly navigate to a waypoint or follow a route from a chartplotter such as the Simrad NSS or NSE.

The IS40 instrument display can also be used alongside the new OP10 Autopilot Controller for easy access to primary autopilot functions, or as an accompaniment to a chartplotter. The OP10 also supports autopilot control for Volvo IPS drives.

The OP10 is perfect for retrofit, as it is compatible with any Simrad recreational autopilot that currently uses AP24, AP28, Simrad NSS, NSE or NSO for autopilot control. The unit’s large buttons, LED backlit keypad and illuminated status bar, ensure safe and reliable Autopilot control whatever the conditions.

Product Line Director of Simrad Yachting, Mike Fargo, said: “Simrad products are renowned for their high levels of system integration. The IS40 and OP10 continue to meet this standard of expectation.

“From monitoring engine data to controlling your autopilot and working in tandem with your chartplotter, we are confident in providing users with the best on water experience possible.”

CEO of Navico, Leif Ottosson, said: “We are constantly pushing the boundaries of design innovation while improving the user experience. No matter how often boaters indulge in their passion or whether they travel by wind or motor, we’re confident Simrad will be their first port of call for electronics.”

Simrad IS40 instrument and autopilot control system will be available from October 2012.  The displays are priced from AU$699.  For more info, please visit www.simrad-yachting.com