The Raymarine EV-100 is a modern autopilot system designed for ease of installation and integration with Raymarine’s SeaTalkNG (NMEA 2000) network. This guide is based on detailed technical documentation, user experiences, and official manufacturer instructions, providing a comprehensive overview of the installation process, hardware components, and software update procedures.
Overview of the EV-100 System
The Raymarine EV-100 is part of the Evolution autopilot line, which features a modular design and plug-and-play components. The system is engineered for compatibility with Raymarine’s SeaTalkNG network, ensuring seamless communication between the autopilot and other onboard electronics.
The core components of the EV-100 system include:
- EV1 Sensor Core: This unit functions as the central processing unit and heading sensor. It is essential for determining the boat’s direction and calculating the necessary adjustments to maintain course.
- ACU (Actuator Control Unit): The ACU manages the steering actuators and is selected based on the type of steering system in use (e.g., hydraulic or electric).
- Control Heads (p70 or p70R): These provide the interface for the user to control the autopilot system. The p70R model includes a rotary knob for more intuitive control.
- STng Converter: For systems that require compatibility with legacy NMEA 0183 devices, a converter is necessary to bridge the gap between NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000.
- Seatalk NG Backbone Kit: This is used to connect the various components of the system to the SeaTalkNG network.
The EV-100 is notable for its ease of installation, with most components designed for plug-and-play functionality. However, proper planning and adherence to manufacturer guidelines are essential for a successful installation.
Installation Process
The installation of the Raymarine EV-100 system involves several key steps, each of which is outlined below based on manufacturer documentation and user experiences.
1. Mounting the EV1 Sensor Core
The EV1 sensor core is the heart of the system and must be mounted in a location that is free from electromagnetic interference and vibration. According to the documentation, the EV1 can tolerate a range of environmental conditions better than many heading sensors, but it should still be installed away from sources of interference such as the engine block.
- Mounting Hardware: The installation kit includes two foam O-rings to help isolate the sensor from vibrations. These should be used during installation.
- Mounting Screws: A long screwdriver or bit is required to reach the mounting screws, which are often located in tight spaces.
- Location Considerations: The EV1 should be installed in a location that allows it to accurately sense the boat’s heading. Avoid placing it near metal objects or electrical components that may interfere with its operation.
2. Installing the ACU
The Actuator Control Unit (ACU) is responsible for controlling the steering actuators. The ACU-200 is commonly used in modern installations and is compatible with a wide range of steering systems.
- Mounting the ACU: The ACU is typically mounted in a convenient location on the boat, often in a dedicated enclosure or under a panel. It should be secured to prevent movement during operation.
- Connecting Cables:
- SeaTalk NG Cable: Connect the SeaTalk NG cable to the ACU to integrate it into the network.
- Power and Pump Wires: The ACU must be connected to the power supply and the hydraulic pump (if applicable). The power supply should be stable and capable of delivering the required voltage.
- Switches: The ACU includes an on/off switch and a power selector switch (12-24VDC), allowing for flexibility in power supply options.
A key consideration is the power supply to the SeaTalk NG network. The ACU-100 does not provide power to the network, so an external power cable is required. In contrast, the ACU-200 and other ACU models do supply power to the network. Users should ensure that the correct power configuration is used based on their specific ACU model.
3. Connecting the p70R Control Head
The p70R control head is the user interface for the autopilot system. It features a rotary knob for intuitive control and is designed to be mounted in a convenient location for the user.
- Mounting the Control Head: The p70R is typically mounted on the helm or in a location that is easily accessible to the operator. It should be securely fastened to prevent movement.
- Connecting to the Network: The p70R must be connected to the SeaTalk NG network to communicate with the EV1 and ACU. This is done using a standard SeaTalk NG cable.
4. Network Configuration
The SeaTalk NG network is the backbone of the Raymarine system and must be properly configured to ensure all components communicate effectively.
- Backbone Cable: The backbone cable connects all networked devices and should be terminated properly to prevent signal loss.
- Power Supply: A single power source is preferred for the network to avoid potential issues with voltage drops or interference. If the ACU is used as the power source, it must be capable of supplying sufficient power to all connected devices.
- Termination: The network must be terminated at both ends to ensure proper signal transmission. This is typically done using termination modules.
5. Integration with Legacy Systems
For boats with legacy NMEA 0183 systems, integration with the EV-100 system may require the use of a gateway device.
- NMEA 0183 to NMEA 2000 Gateway: A gateway such as the Actisense NGW-1-STNG can be used to convert NMEA 0183 signals to NMEA 2000. This allows older devices to communicate with the SeaTalk NG network.
- Cable Compatibility: The gateway must be connected to the network using a compatible cable. The Raymarine network adapter cable is specifically designed for this purpose.
Software Update Procedures
Software updates are essential for maintaining the performance and compatibility of the EV-100 system. Raymarine provides detailed instructions for updating the software, which must be followed carefully to avoid issues.
1. Preparing for the Update
Before initiating a software update, it is important to ensure that the system is compatible with the latest software version.
- Check Current Software Version: Use the MFD (Multifunction Display) to check the current software version of the EV-100 and other connected devices. If the software is up to date, no further action is required.
- Verify MFD Compatibility: The MFD must be running software version v13.37 or higher for a/c/e/eS/gS Series displays, or v4.49 or higher for G Series displays. If the MFD is not compatible, an update must be performed before proceeding.
- Ensure ACU and EV1 Software Is Up to Date: The ACU and EV1 must have the latest software installed to avoid compatibility issues.
2. Downloading the Software
Software updates can be downloaded from Raymarine’s official website. The software is available as an ISO file, which must be copied to a microSD card.
- Select the Correct Software: The software update is grouped by product type (e.g., Pilots – Evolution ACU, Evolution EV-1, p70, p70R). Ensure that the correct software is selected based on the components being updated.
- Avoid Overwriting Data: The microSD card should not be used to store Navionics chart data or other important files during the update process. This helps prevent data corruption.
3. Performing the Update
The software update process involves connecting the microSD card to the MFD and following a series of steps to install the update.
- Insert the MicroSD Card: While the MFD is powered on, insert the microSD card containing the ISO file.
- Initiate the Update:
- If a pop-up notification does not appear, navigate to the following menu: Home Screen > Set-Up > Maintenance > Check Card for Updates.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to install the software update.
- Ensure Stable Power Supply: The update process must not be interrupted, as this can cause the system to malfunction. A stable power supply is essential.
4. Post-Update Considerations
After the software update is complete, several post-update steps should be performed to ensure the system is functioning properly.
- Recalibrate the Autopilot: The autopilot must be recalibrated after the software update to ensure accurate operation. This process typically involves adjusting the heading sensor and verifying the system’s response to course corrections.
- Test the System: After recalibration, test the system to ensure all components are functioning correctly. This includes checking the control head, ACU, and EV1 for proper operation.
Troubleshooting and Common Issues
Despite the ease of installation and software updates, users may encounter common issues during the setup process.
- Power Supply Issues: If the ACU-100 is used, an external power cable must be connected to the SeaTalk NG network. Failure to do so can result in the network not receiving power.
- Network Communication Problems: If the SeaTalk NG network is not functioning properly, check the backbone cable for proper termination and ensure that all devices are connected correctly.
- Software Compatibility Issues: If the software update fails, verify that the MFD and other components are compatible with the latest software version. If necessary, update the MFD before proceeding.
Conclusion
The Raymarine EV-100 autopilot system is a reliable and user-friendly solution for modern boaters. With its modular design and plug-and-play components, the system is designed for easy installation and integration with Raymarine’s SeaTalkNG network. By following the manufacturer’s installation instructions and software update procedures, users can ensure that their system operates at peak performance. Regular software updates are essential for maintaining compatibility and functionality, and users should always verify that all components are up to date before performing an update.