Furuno FPS8 Power Steering Module f/NavPilot 700/711/720

FPS8 Valve Block

The Optional FPS8 valve block unit is designed to be used together with a Furuno HRP pump. The FPS8 and is mounted directly onto the HRP pump unit. When combined with our "Whisper Quiet" HRP11 and HRP17 pump units, the FPS8 Module provides Safe Helm and Power Assist steering functionality for any vessel with a hydraulic helm steering system. The FPS8 module is installed in the hydraulic steering system between the HRP pump unit and the Steering Helm/Rudder Actuating Cylinder. If the FPS8 is not engaged or enabled, there is no effect on steering performance. Additionally, when the NavPilot system is turned off, or if the NavPilot software has not yet been updated to provide Safe Helm and Power Assist capability, hydraulic fluid simply passes through the FPS8 module as if it is not present. If you are interested in utilizing the "SAFE HELM" and "POWER ASSIST" features, it is highly recommend that, when installing the NavPilot 700 Series Autopilot, the optional FPS8 Power Steering Module is purchased and installed at the same time. This will eliminate the need to re-plumb the hydraulic system and run additional connection cables in the future. When the new software is available this Fall, you will only need to update the NavPilot software and make a few setting changes in the installation menu.
FPS8 and HRP pump sold separately - pump not included.
Power Assist Mode: Power Assist mode is activated when the two direction helm pump sensors in the FPS8 detect helm movement in either the port or starboard direction. Power Assist Mode is programmable by selecting an appropriate rudder assisted speed. Power Assist is also vessel speed dependent and programmable. For example, at programmable higher vessel speeds, the power assist mode can be disabled so that the vessel does not over-correct when the helm is used. Then as the boat slows down for maneuvering, power assist will automatically re-engage. If the NavPilot is in Standby Mode, the Power Assist function is automatically disabled by default. As long as the operator provides helm movement, Power Assist will continue to move the rudder. This unique mode will greatly reduce steering effort for the operator. HRP reversing pump is operated in the same direction as the oil flow from the helm pump. As the helm operator turns the helm pump the reversing pump will continue to operate. When the helm wheel is stopped the PS8 sensors turn off the reversing pump.
Safe Helm Mode: Safe Helm uses two directional helm pump sensors in the FPS8 to interrupt autopilot control of the vessel. Whenever the direction sensors detect helm movement, Safe Helm is activated. The sensitivity of the Safe Helm is programmable and can be adjusted so that minor helm movements do not automatically evoke Safe Helm. Once helm movement is stopped the previous NavPilot mode of either Auto or NAV will resume automatically after a programmable delay of several seconds.

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