Raymarine, Inc. announced its new SmartPilot X Series Autopilot Line, which features unprecedented levels of autopilot accuracy and reliability. Depending on which type of autopilot is selected, Raymarine offers a number of control head options, including the new ST70 Autopilot Control. Featuring a 3.5" sunlight-viewable color display, the ST70 was designed for the SmartPilot X-Series and takes full advantage of its capabilities and performance.

    Building upon Raymarine's award-winning SmartPilot technology, the SPX line includes a comprehensive range of advanced course computers that can be used for all types of recreational boats. Easy to configure and use, the ST70 features intuitive icons and menus and offers digital display, compass rose or 3D steering screens. When combined, the SPX course computers and the ST70 give fishermen an edge with pre-programmed automatic fishing patterns.

    Now boaters can automatically steer an orbit around a favorite hot spot or use the Cloverleaf mode to make repeated passes over one specific location. Additionally, Zig Zag mode automatically creates random course changes to make bait more realistic and tempting. Available in a surface or flush mount, the ST70 offers a sleek design, making it a perfect match for any boat's design. Boaters can also easily add additional control heads or optional wireless autopilot controls via Raymarine's SeaTalk network.

    Each SPX autopilot system is comprised of the control head, the only part seen above deck; the course computer, which constantly checks and adjusts the boat/pilot performance to match the conditions; and the drive unit, which is mounted below deck and linked directly to the boat's steering system. Each SmartPilot X-Series course computer is equipped with a built in rate gyro sensor, which enables SmartPilot Advanced Steering Technology software to intelligently monitor vessel yaw and anticipate course changes.

    Autopilots are designed to maintain an accurate course in various sea conditions with minimal helm movements. Because they steer so accurately, they will save fuel and get you to your destination faster, especially when connected to a chartplotter. Inboard autopilots are permanently mounted below decks and are more powerful, more reliable, steer your boat better and can be supplied with a range of autopilot controllers. Raymarine autopilots work so well that it’s easy to forget that they can’t see – so they can’t avoid obstacles or other vessels.

    SmartPilot AST software then produces razor sharp course keeping without overshoot or instability. The SmartPilot X Series course computers offer additional capabilities that make it Raymarine's smartest autopilot to date:
    - AST technology and SPX course computers enable SmartPilot to AutoLearn a vessel's steering characteristics, simplifying calibration and allowing the autopilot to constantly adapt to changing sea conditions.
    - Raymarine SmartSteer technology ensures smooth and accurate helm control at all speeds, including zero speed trolling.
    - Smart Rudder Sense technology enables precision steering without the use of a rudder feedback sensor; ideal for outboard engines and installations that cannot fit a rudder sensor.
    - All SPX course computers are compatible with Raymarine's super fast SeaTalkng data network for seamless integration with ST70 instruments and NMEA2000 networks.
    - When used with the ST70, SPX autopilots feature a new one button Dodge mode.
    - Improved integration with Raymarine's award-winning line of multifunction displays allows boaters to engage the autopilot directly from the chartplotter interface.
    - The SPX course computers offer improved hardware with enhanced short circuit protection, reverse polarity protection and new removable connectors.