Garmin Introduces GHP 10 Marine Autopilot System

“Boat manufacturers, electronics installers and boat owners should all take notice – the GHP 10 is the technology that you’ve been looking for,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin’s vice president of worldwide sales.  “Garmin’s autopilot is there when you need it, and disengaged when you don’t.  And it’s destined to be one of the most reliable and easy-to-use helm controls on the market.”

Garmin’s GHP™ 10 Marine Autopilot system is a new generation of the TR-1 Gladiator autopilot.  Garmin acquired the assets of Nautamatic Marine Systems, developer of the TR-1, in March 2007.  This new system for hydraulically-steered boats will feature Shadow Drive™, a patented capability that automatically disengages the autopilot if the helm is turned, allowing for quick manual maneuvers.  Once a steady course is re-established by the helmsman, the autopilot automatically re-engages.  This technology is extremely valuable – whether performing an evasive maneuver or while away from the helm.

For reliability, the GHP 10 does not use a rudder angle sensor – the one component in any autopilot system that is most prone to failure.  In addition, the Garmin’s autopilot incorporates a rock-solid gyro-stabilized heading sensor for maximum performance and reliability in rough seas.  The GHP 10 employs the industry-standard NMEA 2000 interface, and is designed primarily for 30-foot to 70-foot recreational power boats that use outboard, inboard, or stern drives that have hydraulic steering.

Boaters can expect Garmin simplicity when it comes to configuring and controlling their autopilot as well.  The GHC™ 10 Autopilot Controller is a dedicated instrument designed to engage and disengage the GHP 10 autopilot.  Three GHC 10 controllers can be interfaced to a single GHP 10, allowing autopilot functionality at a remote location on the boat.  The control sports an easy-to-read 3.5-inch color display, three soft keys, and a dedicated “standby” button, as well as a sleek industrial design that retains the look of Garmin’s newest line of multifunction displays and looks great in modern helms.

Visit www.garmin.com for more information, pricing and availability.