Monitoring and Alarming
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The Pcnautic Autopilot continuously monitors various parameters to ensure safe and reliable operation. Depending on the system type, the following values are monitored:
Each category is explained in more detail below.
Any detected faults are automatically logged in the 'Servo error log', which can be found on the page.
If desired, an audible alarm can be enabled via the web interface. When a fault occurs, the alarm will sound. This can be configured on the page under the option:
The maximum rudder range can be configured on the page. Among other options, the following are available:
Rudder Range Sets the maximum range of rudder movement.
Rudder Displays the current rudder position in real time.
Safety Options
Servo min / max rudder fault active Enables monitoring of minimum and maximum rudder deflections. If the rudder exceeds these limits, a fault will be logged, and the tiller drive will stop moving further in the corresponding direction.
Servo min / max rudder fault beep active Activates an audible alarm from the ControlHead when the rudder position goes beyond the configured range.
Trim rudder range warning Sets an early warning when the rudder approaches the configured limit. The warning threshold is set as a percentage of the Rudder Range. Example: with a setting of 90%, you will receive a warning when the rudder reaches 90% of its maximum deflection.
Max controller temp Sets the maximum temperature (in degrees Celsius) the controller is allowed to reach. If the actual temperature exceeds this limit, a fault is registered. Actual: displays the current measured controller temperature.
Max motor temp Sets the maximum temperature (in degrees Celsius) for the motor. Actual: displays the current measured motor temperature.
Use the + and − buttons to adjust the limits. If the set thresholds are exceeded, the steering function may be temporarily disabled to prevent damage.
Servo max current Sets the maximum current (in amperes) that the servo motor is allowed to draw. If this limit is exceeded, a fault is registered, and the motor will automatically shut down to prevent damage or overheating. Actual: displays the current measured draw.
Trim current warning Allows you to set a warning level as a percentage of the maximum configured current. Example: with a setting of 90% and a limit of 40 A, a warning is issued when the current reaches 36 A. This acts as an early warning for abnormal power usage, for example, due to increased mechanical resistance.
Use the + and − buttons to adjust the values. Be sure to respect the specifications of your servo motor to prevent damage.
The Pcnautic Autopilot operates reliably within a supply voltage range of 9 to 16 volts DC, which matches standard 12V onboard systems.
Voltage that is too low or too high can lead to malfunctions or shutdowns. When voltage falls outside the allowed range, faults will be logged and the steering function may be limited to protect the electronics.
The communication between the ControlHead and the Motor Controller is continuously monitored. A stable connection is essential for correct steering motor control. If the connection is lost or a communication error occurs, a fault will be triggered and logged.
On the page, you can set the maximum allowed temperatures for both the controller and the motor. This helps prevent damage due to overheating.
The Pcnautic Autopilot offers protection against motor overload via configurable current limits. These settings can be found on the page.