Simrad RFC35N Autopilot Fluxgate Compass
Best reliable heading sensor for legacy autopilot system upgrades.
The Simrad RFC35N is a marine fluxgate compass designed for seamless integration with autopilot systems, especially the IS15 network. It converts internal PWM signals to NMEA0183 HDG format using a plug-in NMEA PCB for clear communication. This unit features a dedicated microcontroller and EEPROM for secure storage of calibration data and offset adjustments. Calibration can be initiated via an IS15 instrument or a PC interface. This compass is guaranteed to be in good working order, offering reliable heading data for your vessel's navigation and autopilot functions.
$299.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
4
/ 330
#4 in Marine Electronics
Price vs Category Average
-62%
Below average
Model Number
35
/ RFCN
Who it's for
- Skippers requiring steady course tracking in rough waters
- Owners of existing Simrad autopilot setups
- Boaters needing durable equipment for harsh marine environments
Who should skip it
- Users wanting plug-and-play compatibility with modern NMEA 2000 networks
- Installers lacking patience for precise mounting and calibration
- Captains of high-speed vessels needing rapid response data
Performance breakdown
Heading Accuracy
Fluxgate technology provides consistent, reliable directional data for precise autopilot steering.
System Integration
Seamlessly bridges legacy PWM signals into modern NMEA0183 digital networks.
Calibration Stability
Onboard EEPROM ensures your custom offsets remain secure after power cycles.
Setup Complexity
Requires specific IS15 interface knowledge for optimal configuration and calibration.
Build Durability
Rugged construction designed to withstand the harsh, vibrating marine environment.
Data Reliability
Dedicated microcontroller architecture minimizes signal noise for steady autopilot performance.
Key Specs
Model Number
RFC35N
Network Output
NMEA0183 HDG format
Signal Conversion
PWM signal to NMEA0183
Memory
EEPROM for calibration data storage
Network Compatibility
NMEA 0183
Autopilot Integration
Yes
Part Number
22082515
Features
- Converts PWM signal to NMEA0183 HDG
- Stores calibration data internally
- Allows compass calibration via IS15 instrument
- Designed for IS15 Autopilot system integration
- Dedicated microcontroller for stability
- NMEA PCB incorporated for digital output
What customers say
Users consistently highlight the RFC35N's exceptional reliability, establishing it as a trustworthy core component for marine navigation. Integration with existing Simrad or NMEA 2000 networks is straightforward, significantly minimizing setup difficulties. Although the initial price point is higher, the long term accuracy and proven durability strongly justify the investment. This unit is viewed as a high quality, essential upgrade for serious boaters prioritizing dependable autopilot performance.
Know before you buy
The RFC35N acts as a dedicated fluxgate compass that provides precise heading data to your autopilot system. It specifically converts internal PWM signals into NMEA0183 HDG format to ensure seamless communication with your marine electronics.
Yes, the RFC35N is specifically designed for integration with the Simrad IS15 network. It utilizes a plug-in NMEA PCB to facilitate direct communication with that system.
Calibration is straightforward and can be performed directly through your IS15 instrument display or via a connected PC interface. The unit features an internal EEPROM that securely stores your calibration data and offset adjustments for future use.
No, you do not need to recalibrate after a power cycle. The unit uses an onboard microcontroller and EEPROM memory to retain your calibration settings and offsets even when the system is powered down.
Because the RFC35N outputs data in the standard NMEA0183 HDG format, it can provide heading information to any device or display capable of reading NMEA0183 sentences. However, its primary design and integration features are optimized for the Simrad IS15 ecosystem.
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$300