Instead of a conventional compass sensor, the English company uses a combination of acceleration sensors, gyroscope and compass in the Evolution autopilots. This should not only ensure very accurate steering behaviour - in combination with the new autopilot software, there is also no need to compensate the compass. According to the manufacturer, setting up the device is limited to selecting the type of boat, the drive and setting whether the autopilot should steer comfortably, particularly precisely or in an energy-saving manner. The rest is done automatically by the software during operation.
The system is available with a linear drive, geared motor and as a hydraulic version. The EV-200 combination for ships with a displacement of up to eleven tonnes costs 2993 euros with a linear drive, while the hydraulic version is available for 2636 euros. The EV-400 variant is intended for larger yachts and costs just under 3000 euros without drive.
Further information can be found at: www.raymarine.de.
Hauke Schmidt
Test & Technology editor
