Autopilot Control Heads: Features and Choices

What is a control head?

A control head is the part of an autopilot system that you use to turn the autopilot on, set a course, adjust settings, and see what the autopilot is doing. It is the human interface between you and the rest of the system, which includes the course computer, the drive unit, and the heading sensor.

Some autopilot packs include a control head in the box; others do not. When a pack is described as a core pack, it typically omits the control head, leaving you to choose one separately. This article helps you understand the options so you can pick a control head that matches your boat and how you use it. For more on how control heads fit into the broader system, see autopilot control head features.

Types of control heads

Control heads come in several forms. The most common are dedicated displays that mount at the helm. These can have pushbuttons, rotary knobs, or a touchscreen. Some autopilots can also be operated from a compatible chartplotter or multifunction display, which may eliminate the need for a separate head.

Wireless remotes are another option. They let you control the autopilot from anywhere on the boat, not just at the helm. For example, the Furuno NavPilot 300 includes a Gesture Controller that uses Bluetooth signals to let you point and shoot a new heading from up to 10 meters away, as described on the Furuno product page.

The choice between a dedicated head and a chartplotter-based interface often comes down to where you spend your time on the boat. A dedicated head at the helm is always visible and accessible. A wireless remote gives you freedom to move around, which can be useful when fishing, docking, or handling lines. For a deeper dive on wireless options, see wireless remote options.

Display and control features

Displays vary in size and type. The Furuno NavPilot 300, for example, has a 4.1-inch color LCD with a gesture controller, as stated on the Furuno product page. Larger displays may be easier to read from a distance, but they take up more space at the helm.

Controls can be pushbuttons, rotary knobs, or touchscreens. Pushbuttons are straightforward and work well with gloves. Rotary knobs allow fine adjustments. Touchscreens offer flexibility but may require more attention to use while the boat is moving.

Some control heads include a built-in keypad, while others rely on the display for all input. Tiller pilots, for instance, often have a small built-in keypad because they are self-contained units mounted at the tiller, as noted in the Raymarine product line. A separate control head gives you more screen space and more buttons, which can make complex settings easier to manage.

Wireless remotes

Wireless remotes are a popular addition to an autopilot system. They let you adjust the course without being at the helm. The Furuno Gesture Controller is one example: you push and hold a button, point to the desired heading, and release to let the autopilot redirect the boat, as described on the Furuno NavPilot 300 page.

Wireless remotes are especially useful on boats where you spend time away from the helm, such as when fishing from the stern or handling lines on the foredeck. They can also serve as a backup if the main control head fails.

When considering a wireless remote, think about range, battery life, and how it connects to the autopilot. The Furuno Gesture Controller uses Bluetooth and works within 10 meters, per the product page. Other remotes may use different wireless protocols. Always check the maker's specifications for the specific remote you are considering. The Best Marine Autopilot guide can help you compare systems that offer remote options.

Control head in the box vs. sold separately

When you buy an autopilot pack, the control head may be included or not. Complete packs usually include a control head, while core packs do not. This is a key difference to understand when comparing listings.

If you already have a compatible control head or plan to use a chartplotter as the interface, a core pack might be all you need. If you are starting from scratch, a complete pack with a control head ensures you have everything to operate the autopilot out of the box.

The site's buying guides, such as Best Autopilot with Control Head, Best Complete Autopilot Packs, and Best Autopilot Core Packs, compare packs on stated details, including whether a control head is included. Use these guides to see which packs match your needs.

Using a chartplotter as a control head

Many modern autopilots can be operated from a compatible chartplotter or multifunction display. This can save space at the helm and reduce the number of dedicated displays you need. The autopilot connects to the chartplotter over a network, such as NMEA 2000, which allows data and commands to be shared, as explained on the NMEA 2000 page.

If you already have a chartplotter that supports autopilot control, you might not need a separate control head at all. However, a dedicated control head can be easier to use while steering, as it is designed specifically for autopilot functions and may have larger buttons or a simpler layout.

The choice between a dedicated head and a chartplotter interface depends on your helm layout and personal preference. Some boaters prefer a dedicated head for quick access, while others like the integration of a chartplotter. Consider how you use your boat and what feels most comfortable. For more on network integration, see NMEA 2000 connectivity.

Multi-station control

On larger boats, you may want to control the autopilot from more than one location, such as the flybridge and the lower helm. This requires multiple control heads or a network that allows control from different stations.

A network like NMEA 2000 can support multiple control heads, as it is a multi-transmitter, multi-receiver network, according to the NMEA 2000 standard description. This means you can have a control head at each station, and they all communicate with the same autopilot system.

If you are planning a multi-station setup, make sure the autopilot and control heads you choose support this. Check the maker's specifications for the number of control heads that can be connected. This is a question to ask your dealer or installer.

Choosing the right control head for your boat

Start by deciding where you need to control the autopilot. If you only need control at the helm, a dedicated display is a solid choice. If you want to control from anywhere on the boat, consider a wireless remote.

Think about the display size and type. A larger color display may be easier to read, but it takes up more space. A smaller display might be sufficient if you are not spending much time looking at it.

Consider the controls. Pushbuttons are simple and reliable. A rotary knob allows precise adjustments. A touchscreen offers flexibility but may require more attention. The Furuno NavPilot 300's gesture controller is a unique option that lets you point to a heading, which can be intuitive.

Finally, think about integration. If you already have a chartplotter, check if it can control the autopilot. This might save you from buying a separate control head. If you prefer a dedicated head, look for one that matches your existing equipment and network. For a broader view, consult the Best Marine Autopilot guide.

Questions to ask the seller

Before buying a control head, ask the seller whether it is included in the pack or sold separately. This is a common point of confusion.

Ask about the display size and type, and whether it is color or monochrome. This affects readability.

Ask about the controls: pushbuttons, rotary knob, touchscreen, or gesture. Make sure it matches your preference.

Ask about wireless capability. If you want a remote, check if one is included or available as an accessory.

Ask about network compatibility. Does the control head work with your existing chartplotter or network? The maker's page is the source for compatibility details.

Finally, ask about installation. A control head needs to be mounted and connected to the autopilot system. This is typically done by a qualified installer, as described in the maker's manual.

What to pick for your situation

Questions

What is an autopilot control head?

A control head is the interface you use to operate the autopilot. It lets you set a course, adjust settings, and see the autopilot's status. It can be a dedicated display, a chartplotter screen, or a wireless remote.

Do all autopilot packs include a control head?

No. Complete packs usually include a control head, while core packs do not. Check the listing details to see what is included. The site's buying guides compare packs on stated details, including whether a control head is in the box.

Can I use my chartplotter as a control head?

Many autopilots can be operated from a compatible chartplotter over a network like NMEA 2000. This can save space at the helm. Check the maker's specifications for compatibility.

What is a wireless remote for an autopilot?

A wireless remote lets you control the autopilot from anywhere on the boat. For example, the Furuno Gesture Controller uses Bluetooth and works within 10 meters, as stated on the Furuno product page. It allows you to point to a heading and release to set the course.

What should I consider when choosing a control head?

Consider where you need to control the autopilot, the display size and type, the controls (pushbuttons, knob, touchscreen, or gesture), wireless capability, and network compatibility. Also decide whether you want a dedicated head or to use a chartplotter.

Can I have control heads at multiple stations?

Yes, on a network like NMEA 2000, which is a multi-transmitter, multi-receiver network, you can have multiple control heads. Check the maker's specifications for the number of control heads supported.