Rudder Calibration

Screenshot 'rudder calibration'-page

Servo min / max rudder fault active

The rudder feedback sensor is not required for the autopilot to function. You can use the sensor to limit the maximum rudder travel, but this is not necessary when using the Pcnautic TillerDrive, as it has built-in limit switches.

To prevent the rudder feedback sensor from unintentionally limiting the maximum travel when using the Pcnautic TillerDrive, the Servo min / max rudder fault active function is disabled by default.

If you only want to use the rudder sensor for display purposes, you can leave this function disabled. If you want to actively use the sensor to restrict rudder movement, enable this function.

Servo min / max rudder fault beep active

Enable an audible alarm when the rudder travel limit is exceeded.

Use external NMEA rudder data

Enable this option to prioritize NMEA rudder data from an external device over internal rudder data.

Rudder

Displays the current rudder position.

Rudder Range

Enter the maximum rudder angle here, in degrees.

Trim rudder range

Set this parameter (value < 100%) to trigger an alarm before the rudder moves beyond the allowed range. See the calculated limit value shown.

Steps to calibrate the rudder:

1. Press Reset to clear any previously saved calibration data.

2. Manually turn the rudder fully to port, then to starboard, and finally to the center position. At each of these positions, press the corresponding calibration button. (The order doesn’t matter, but all three positions must be set.)

3. The system will then automatically calculate the scale, offset, and any non-linearity of the sensor.

4. Then manually enter the rudder range (e.g. 35°) to match the actual maximum rudder angle. This value:

   • Defines the calibration range.

   • Limits how far the autopilot can move the rudder during operation.

Tip: You can calibrate using a 35° angle and then later reduce it to 30° to restrict the movement range. The active value determines the maximum rudder travel allowed by the motor controller.

Your rudder is now calibrated. If the rudder reaches the end of its travel, it will only be able to move in the ropposite direction.