Garmin Introduces New GHP™ Reactor™ Autopilot Systems

Garmin, the global leader in satellite navigation, has launched its new GHP Reactor Autopilot Series – its most responsive autopilot on the water.

Designed to mount nearly anywhere and in any orientation, the GHP Reactor Autopilot Series sets the standard for performance, ease-of-use and safety while minimising set up and commissioning time.

“We’ve built off the successes and innovations of our previous generations of autopilots and developed our best system yet,” said Dan Bartel, Vice President of Worldwide Sales. “As our first recreational autopilot system to utilise AHRS technology, the Reactor Series boasts the usability, installation flexibility and safety features that prove to be valuable features for any vessel. With minimal set-up time required, you’ll be able to safely get out on the water faster than ever.”

The GHP Reactor Autopilot Series provides unprecedented performance by integrating a new, solid-state 9 axis attitude and heading reference system (AHRS) that yields less heading error and course deviation, reduced rudder movement and lower power consumption, thus providing a smoother ride and overall better experience for the mariner.

Autopilot installation has also been streamlined as a result of the new Reactor Series. The autopilot blackbox can be mounted nearly anywhere on the vessel and in any orientation, providing the freedom for extensive mounting options. Integrating new technology and a new blackbox form factor, installation is easier than ever. Once installed, the GHP Reactor Autopilot Series reduces configuration and calibration time from 20 minutes to as few as five, allowing mariners to get out on the water with more confidence and in a shorter timeframe.

Still utilising the Garmin-patented Shadow Drive™ feature, the GHP Reactor Autopilot Series automatically disengages the autopilot with a turn of the helm, allowing the mariner to always remain in control of the vessel for any quick manoeuvring or safety procedures. For hydraulic installations, the SmartPump™ can also be implemented, providing improved reliability, lower power consumption and installation simplification.

Fully integrated with current Garmin chartplotters, the Reactor Series can be controlled from the chartplotter’s display. With full autopilot incorporation from the screen of the chartplotter, the system can be easily manipulated and controlled. What’s more, the autopilot can be engaged to follow patented Garmin Auto Guidance technology. This allows the mariner to enter a destination and the chartplotter searches the relevant charts to create a safe path based on the dimensions and parameters of the vessel.¹

The GHP Reactor Autopilot Series will replace all current autopilot models2. Prices will start from £1374.99 and the Series will be available Q1 of 2015. For more information about the Reactor Autopilot Series, visit www.garmin.com.

Garmin’s portfolio includes some of the industry’s most sophisticated chartplotters and touchscreen multifunction displays, sonar, high-definition radar, autopilot, high-resolution mapping, sailing instrumentation and other products and services that are known for innovation, reliability, and ease-of-use.

For 25 years, Garmin has pioneered new GPS navigation and wireless devices and applications that are designed for people who live an active lifestyle. Garmin serves five primary business units, including automotive, aviation, fitness, marine, and outdoor recreation.

-ENDS-

Notes to editors:
For further press information, please contact Amy Hutson or Abbie Whitehouse on 01460 241641 or email [email protected] or [email protected].

1Auto Guidance is a feature available with BlueChart® g2 Vision or LakeVü™ HD Ultra cartography.

2The Volvo Penta G4 autopilot system will not be impacted by these hardware changes.

About Garmin International Inc.

Garmin International Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation. Since 1989, this group of companies has designed, manufactured, marketed and sold navigation, communication and information devices and applications – most of which are enabled by GPS technology. Garmin’s products serve automotive, mobile, wireless, outdoor recreation, marine, aviation, and OEM applications. A component of the S&P 500 index, Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. Garmin is a registered trademark of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

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