Si-Tex introduces new SP-120C compact color autopilot

Affordable, Easy to Install System Makes Ideal Steering Solution for Wide Range of Boats

The new SI-TEX SP-120C Color Autopilot features a compact, rugged housing and bright full-color LCD display that can be easily viewed from a variety of different angles on open or enclosed helm stations. This makes the SP-120C and ideal autopilot option for a wide variety of vessels up to 38 feet in length, including center console fishing boats, sailboats and cruisers. It has quickly become popular with Great Lakes and Pacific Northwest anglers looking for an easy, affordable way to control their vessels while downrigger trolling for salmon.

The SP-120C comes paired with SI-TEX’s powerful new precision nine-axis Gyro compass for quick course detection and steering control in changing sea conditions. The system can work with or without a Rudder Feedback unit depending on the installation preferences. The Virtual Rudder Feedback mode makes outboard installations a breeze.

This pilot’s new color display provides navigators with a range of useful new graphic presentations, including a Rudder Angle Meter and Compass Steering Display. Its compact (4.1” X 4.1”) waterproof control head and bright color LCD display make the SP-120C an easy fit on any console or helm station, while providing clear visibility on enclosed or open vessels in a wide range of light conditions.

The SP-120C offers four steering modes: Manual, Auto, GPS Waypoint Steering (when interfaced with GPS) and Wind Steering, which steers to wind when interfaced with wind sensors for sailboat applications. The color display shows Compass Heading, Selected Heading, Rudder Angle information, Input voltage, and amperage simultaneously.

For mechanically steered vessels, the SP-120C is available with cable steering drive unit with built-in Rudder Feedback Sensor, and all necessary installation hardware. This configuration replaces the original cable helm with a heavy-duty helm unit with the drive motor and rudder feedback built in. This means that Installation on vessels with manual or power assisted cable steering takes place in the helm area, without the need to run wires to the stern. The SP-120C also does not require a separate junction box; everything simply connects to the rear of the control head.

The SP-120C is also an ideal solution for a range of hydraulically steered boats using either a reversing pump or continuous drive unit, with or without a Rudder Feedback Sensor. In this configuration, the SP-120C comes complete with control unit, hydraulic pump, nine axis rate compass and all necessary hardware for flush or bracket mount installation.

The new SP-120C Autopilot carries a starting MSRP of only $2,049 (varies depending on drive system and options). Like all SI-TEX products, the SP-120C is backed by the company’s Two-Year Warranty and customer-friendly Long Island, New York-based service department. For more information about the SP-120C or the company’s full line of autopilots, MFDs, radars, sonars, AIS systems and other marine electronics, contact SI-TEX at (631) 996-2690 or visit online website at www.si-tex.com.