Important Notice for Safe Use of Satellite Compass and Autopilot System::FURUNO SG – Maritime Equipment and Training Facilities

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“Important Notice for Safe Use of Satellite Compass and Autopilot System”

1 June 2023

A serious issue has been identified with the automatic steering function when the Autopilot System is used with the Satellite Compass. The boat might steer in an unexpected direction, depending on the Satellite Compass conditions. This may lead to an accident such as a collision, especially in narrow channels.

Models Affected

Satellite Compass: SCX-20/ SCX-21/ SC-30/ SC-33/ SC-50/ SC-70/ SC-110/ SC-130

Autopilot System: NAVpilot-300/ NAVpilot-500/ NAVpilot-511/ NAVpilot-520/ NAVpilot-611/ NAVpilot-700/ NAVpilot-711/ NAVpilot-711C/ NAVpilot-720

Scenarios to take Caution!

1.Right after Satellite Compass is Turned On

The heading signal data input to the Autopilot System from the Satellite Compass might differ from the actual heading of your boat immediately after the Satellite Compass is turned on. If the automatic steering function is activated while the heading signal data differs from the actual heading, your boat might steer in an unexpected direction.

For your safety, be sure to check that the heading displayed on the control unit of the Autopilot System matches with the actual heading of your boat (*) before starting the automatic steering function.

2.When Satellite Compass Heading Signal is Lost and Restored

A difference from the actual heading might also occur if the heading signal from the Satellite Compass is lost and restored due to signal interruption or satellite positions. If the heading signal from the Satellite Compass is lost, a message indicating that there is no heading data will appear on the control unit of the Autopilot System.

If such as message appears, immediately cancel the automatic steering function. Be sure to check that the heading displayed on the control unit of the Autopilot System matches with the actual heading of your boat (*) before resuming the automatic steering function.

3.Do not activate Automatic Steering Function in Narrow Channels or Areas that requires Multiple Course Change

If your boat steers in an unexpected direction while the automatic steering function is activated, a collision might occur. To prevent such risk, the use of the automatic steering function is prohibited in narrow channels or areas where vessels change course often, such as a cape or small island.

Please follow the instructions shown in “SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” of the Operator’s Manual.

(*) Check the actual heading of your boat with other sensors such as magnetic compasses or surrounding landmarks as points of reference, etc.

Heading Data Displayed on Control Unit of Autopilot System (marked in Red Box)

NAVpilot-300