Connecting GPS with Auto Pilot

[Dave S]

Curious if one can hook any of the popular Autopilots with a GPS so that ones boat follows a predetermined plot trail? If so, what kind of output connection on the GPS and input connection on the Autopillot does one need? Any additional software required?

[AquaMan]

None currently unless you get a the kind used on large vessels and sail boats. However that is cost prohibitive for a small (20' and less) fishing boat. Those units tie into the steering system for long distance waypoints and cannel navigation.

PinPoint has a system that will follow the shore line or bottom contour or channel using the 3 different sonar heads in the trolling motor.

I am waiting for Lowrance and MinnKota to come up with the exact system you are looking for. However, until the margin of error for plotting is reduced further, tracking with a GPS and trolling motor could have swings of 30-40 feet either way. Since fishing is more geared to a specific structure on the lake bottom, the PinPoint has more benifits to the fisherman. Following a breakline or maintaining a certain depth is more critical then a general water surface line.

AquaMan~~~~~~~~~~~~~

.·´¯° --- "It all begins and ends at the water's edge"

Eric@crowncomputerinc.com

[willowcat23]

If you are talking about a autopilot for your kicker motor, a
TR-1 will allow you to hookup the GPS with the autopilot. I believe it uses the NMEA output from the GPS to send data to the TR-1

[Dave S.]

Yes I am talking about an autopilot for a kicker motor. I know that TR-1 and Raytheon make autopilots. Just don't know if either can be controlled via a predefined plot trail on a GPS unit.

[JWilson]

Dave,

I am not sure if they can follow a plot trail but they will follow a route that you have set up plus I am pretty sure they will use the "go to cursor" to get you to a spot.

You can call them at (800) 588-7655 they are usually very helpful.

[Boatnut]

I had a raytheon sport pilot that was capable of interfacing with a gps, although i never hooked it up. It would take the boat to a predetermined waypoint, then "BEEP" but would not actually turn the boat to the next waypoint.
Mike(boatnut)

[Bo #582]

Dave, the TR-1 Gold will do the trick for you. Look on WC products page. They are selling them. Bo #582

[ND]

Yes, the raytheon sport pilot can get a siginal from the gps.
The sport pilot uses NMEA siginals to adjust course.....
I have mine (kicker) linked to the main motor and it works quite well.There are challenges,however,and in seas over four feet,high winds,and current it won't do .
........but I fish solo quite a bit and it is the extra hand and money well spent.
It has been a trouble free system.

[Dave S]

Thank you! Does anyone know if the more popular mapping GPS units all come with a standard NMEA output?

[Bo #582]

Dave, I know for sure the Lowrance units do.