Quick Start Guide
1. Delivery and Preparation
The Pcnautic Autopilot set is fully tested and delivered ready to use – plug & play.
To get started smoothly, we recommend installing only the ControlHead first. The green screw connectors make it easy to establish the necessary connections.
The power cable is already connected to the MotorController. You can directly connect 12 volts:
Red = +
Black = –
This allows you to easily test whether the system works before final installation and cable routing.
2. Initial Startup Test
Connect power to the MotorController.
The LEDs on the MotorController will light up.
During startup, the screen may briefly flicker. Wait until the backlight remains on – the system is now fully operational.
3. ControlHead Operation
Arrow buttons: Extend or retract the tiller rod → Hold to start slowly, then accelerate smoothly
M: Open menu
A: Return to home screen
Arrow buttons in menu: Navigate
M in menu: Confirm/select
4. Using the Web Interface
The web interface is the central hub for configuring, calibrating, and operating the system.
Connecting
The Autopilot creates its own Wi-Fi network:
Network name:
pcnautic_APPassword: None by default (unless previously set)
Access
Web browser:
http://192.168.14.1Android app: available on the Google Play Store
Functions
Operate the autopilot
Perform calibrations (compass, offset)
Set drive position (starboard/port)
Change heading modes
Manage NMEA sources
Configure Wi-Fi/network settings
Firmware updates
Detailed help via
info icons
5. Orientation & Calibration
Open the web interface and go to Compass Calibration.
5.1 Alignment
Click the orange "here" button when the boat is level and stationary in the harbor to align the internal sensors.
5.2 Magnetic Heading Offset
ControlHead facing forward → Offset = 0°
Mounted on starboard side → Offset = -90°
Mounted on port side → Offset = 90°
5.3 Compass Calibration (Automatic)
The compass calibrates itself while sailing. Keep the autopilot on during the first trip. See Compass Calibration in the web interface for optimization tips.
6. Using the Tiller Drive
Place the drive in the mount.
Extend it roughly to the expected rudder position.
Press A on the ControlHead.
Move the rudder toward the drive – the drive will react and move with it.
Snap the drive onto the rudder pin.
7. Autopilot Display & Heading Control
Green LED on: Autopilot is active
Top course = current heading
Bottom course = set heading
Adjusting Course (Auto Mode)
Short press arrow → change by 1°
Hold arrow → first changes by 5°, then 10°, up to a max of 100°
Selecting Mode
Use the web interface or the ControlHead menu to select:
C: Compass (default)
G: GPS course
W: Wind direction
TW: True Wind (requires GPS)
N: Navigation (with route)
The active mode is shown as a square around the letter on the display.
8. NMEA Data Exchange (TCP)
For integration with navigation software or other instruments:
IP Address:
192.168.14.1Port:
20220
This enables exchange of heading, GPS, wind, and navigation data. For full setup, refer to the NMEA Connections guide.
9. Connecting Instruments via USB
USB GPS mouse: Plug & play (baud rate auto-detected)
NMEA0183 via USB adapter: For example, wind sensors or multiplexers → Compatible adapter: 👉 Isolated NMEA0183 input to USB – pcnautic.com
Data is also forwarded via Wi-Fi to, for example, OpenCPN (if configured).
10. Installation Details
Drive Mounting
Default: starboard side
Mounted on port side? → Set in the Web Interface → Configuration → Servo mounted left
MotorController Connections
The green screw connectors are plug-in terminals:
Gently pull the green plug loose (there’s slack in the cables, so they won’t immediately disconnect).
Unscrew the cable glands.
Push the cable inward from the top side for easy access to the screws.
Once loosened, you can remove the cables, finish mounting, and route everything neatly.
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