Garmin’s latest autopilot – it’s compact and reactive

by Ben Sandman on 28 Jun 2016 Ideal for outboard-powered boats up to around 9m in length, Garmin’s GHP Compact Reactor Hydraulic Autopilot is the newest addition to its GHP autopilot series.

The GHP Compact Reactor is based on the same advanced solid-state 9-axis AHRS technology as other autopilots in Garmin’s award-winning Reactor series. With three different configurations available, all using a 1L pump, it’s a flexible solution that allows boaters to choose the features they need and how much they want to spend.

The Compact Reactor Starter Pack includes the core autopilot components needed to install and use alongside a compatible chartplotter, such as Garmin’s echoMAP CHIRP combos and GPSMAP series. Another configuration is available with a GHC 20 Autopilot Control Unit, and the third option adds both the GHC 20 and the Garmin-patented Shadow Drive. Shadow Drive allows users to disengage the autopilot with a turn of the wheel, allowing them to always remain in control of the vessel for any quick maneuvering or safety procedures.

Fully integrated with compatible Garmin electronics, the Compact Reactor series can be controlled directly from the chartplotter. The autopilot can also be engaged to follow Garmin’s Auto Guidance technology (when used with BlueChart g2 Vision charts), which eliminates the hassle of entering different waypoints to create a route to your destination. Simply move the cursor on the map to where you want to go and the chartplotter will automatically plan the route from your vessel’s current location – avoiding shallow water and other charted obstructions – and then engage the autopilot.

RRP from AU$1799.

For further information, visit website.