What is Rudder Gain?
Boats can vary widely in their response to helm, and by adjusting the rudder gain you can change the S1000's steering characteristics. Rudder gain is a measure of how much helm the S1000 applies to correct course errors – higher settings mean more rudder is applied. This can be set in the range 1 to 9.
To determine if your rudder gain is appropriate, make a 40º turn in AUTO mode
Gain is correct when you make a crisp turn followed by an overshoot of no more than 5˚.
Gain is too high when you overshoot the turn by more than 5˚ and there is a distinct ‘S’ in the course (A)
Gain is too low when the boat’s performance is sluggish and it takes a long time to make a turn. There is also no overshoot (B)
New
heading
B
New
heading
Rudder gainA too low
New
Rudder gainheading too high
Correct rudder gain
Quick Tip | You will find it easier to recognize the steering | |
response in calm sea conditions | ||
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18 | Raymarine S1000 Autopilot |
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