NMEA data connections (TCP / USB)

The Autopilot can be accessed via the integrated WiFi or an optional LAN adapter. For more information on setting up network access, please refer to the WiFi / Network Config page.

This chapter explains how to set up NMEA data connections via TCP or USB. These connections are used for communication between the autopilot, navigation software, and other navigation equipment.

TCP NMEA data connection

A TCP connection allows NMEA data (such as GPS, wind, or AIS) to be shared over the network — either wirelessly or wired — with navigation software such as OpenCPN. This makes it easy to view data from the autopilot or other equipment on a tablet, laptop, or smartphone.

You can establish a TCP NMEA data connection for NMEA data exchange with the Autopilot. The NMEA data server of the Autopilot can be accessed via the following (default) network address:

• IP-adress: 192.168.14.1

• Port: 20220

• Protocol: TCP or UDP

As soon as a device connects to this address and port, the Autopilot will automatically:

1. Transmit NMEA data to the device

2. Receive NMEA data from the device (if applicable)

For specific instructions, see:

• TCP connection with Yacht Devices YDWG

• TCP connection with OpenCPN

• TCP connection with Autopilot as NMEA data client

USB Connection

With a USB connection, you can exchange NMEA data via connected devices, such as:

• USB GPS receiver
• NMEA 0183 device via a USB-to-serial converter
• NMEA 2000 or SeatalkNG device via a USB converter

Automatic Data Recognition

Incoming NMEA data via TCP or USB is automatically recognized. As a result, no manual configuration is needed. As soon as valid data is received (from a GPS, wind sensor, or navigation source), additional modes will be automatically activated, such as:

• GPS

• (True) Wind

• Navigation

The ControlHead will display the first letter of each available mode. Additionally, the received data will be shown directly on the main screen of the web interface, as illustrated in the example below:

Support for Incoming NMEA0183 Sentences (TCP / USB)

Sentence	Description	Use by the Autopilot
RMC	Recommended Minimum Navigation Information	Used to determine position, speed over ground (SOG), and course over ground (COG). Important for GPS mode and Navigation Mode.
MWV	Wind Speed and Angle (Relative or True)	Used to receive apparent or true wind speed and angle. Essential for Wind and True Wind modes.
RSA	Rudder Sensor Angle	Provides rudder angle information. Can be used for precise course control and rudder angle monitoring.
APB	Autopilot Sentence "B" (Waypoint Steering)	Contains navigation data such as cross track error and desired course to a waypoint. Used in Navigation Mode to automatically follow routes or waypoints.
DPT	Depth	Measures water depth beneath the boat. Not used directly for steering control, but useful for monitoring and safety.
VHW	Water Speed and Heading	Measures the boat’s speed through the water and actual heading. Can be used to calculate true wind speed more accurately.
HDG	Heading (Magnetic)	Provides magnetic heading, including variation and deviation. Important for maintaining an accurate heading in Compass mode.

Support for Outgoing NMEA0183 Sentences

The Autopilot can transmit steering information and sensor data in NMEA0183 format via both TCP and a USB (serial) output, depending on configuration:

Medium	Transmits	Details
TCP	APXDR, APHDM, APMWV, APRSA	Sent to connected TCP clients. Only active when at least one TCP client is connected.
USB (Serial)	APXDR, APHDM, APRSA	Sent via the USB (serial) output. Only active when a serial port is properly configured and connected. (NMEA OUT)