SI-TEX SP-120 Color Autopilot System with Rudder Feedback
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SI-TEX SP-120 Color Autopilot System with Rudder Feedback
Description
The SI-TEX SP-120C is a full-featured marine autopilot system designed for serious boaters who demand reliable, precise heading control on the water. Built around a vivid new color LCD display, this system delivers constant compass heading and rudder angle indicators so you always know exactly where you're pointed. With IPX6 waterproof protection and an operating temperature range of -10°C to +55°C, the SP-120C is engineered to perform in demanding marine environments.
Compatible with a wide range of drive configurations - from hydraulic pumps to mechanical dash drives and remote mechanical drives - this system adapts to virtually any powerboat or inboard/outboard setup. NMEA-0183 connectivity allows seamless integration with GPS and compass systems already on your vessel, making the SP-120C a natural fit for both new installations and upgrades.
Key Features
- Color LCD Display: New full-color LCD screen provides clear, at-a-glance readout of heading and rudder data in all lighting conditions.
- Constant Compass Heading Indicator: Always-on display of your current compass heading keeps navigation effortless and accurate.
- Rudder Angle Indicator: Real-time rudder position feedback shown directly on the control head for precise steering control.
- IPX6 Waterproof Rating: Fully protected against powerful water jets, making it safe for exposed helm installations.
- 12/24 Volt DC Compatible: Dual-voltage support works with nearly any marine electrical system.
- Low Standby Draw - 0.5A: Draws only 0.5 amps at 12VDC in standby mode, preserving battery life on extended trips.
- Maximum Drive Output - 15 Amps: Handles demanding drive units with up to 15 amps of output current.
- Course Detection <1 Degree: Sub-degree course detection precision ensures tight, responsive heading maintenance.
- NMEA-0183 Connectivity: GPS input and 10kHz compass heading output for full integration with onboard navigation electronics.
- Compact Control Head - 110mm x 110mm: Space-efficient design fits neatly at the helm without crowding other instruments.
Model Options & Which to Choose
- w/Rudder Feedback - No Drive Unit: Includes the control head and rudder feedback unit only. Best for boaters who already have a compatible drive unit installed or are sourcing one separately.
- w/Rudder Feedback & 18CI Pump: Adds an 18 cubic inch hydraulic pump - ideal for hydraulic steering systems on larger powerboats requiring greater fluid displacement.
- w/Rudder Feedback & Type "S" Mechanical Dash Drive: Includes a Type S mechanical dash drive for vessels with standard mechanical steering systems. A popular choice for mid-size powerboats.
- w/Rudder Feedback & Type "T" Mechanical Dash Drive: Includes a Type T mechanical dash drive, suited for boats with a different mechanical steering geometry or cable routing setup.
- w/Rudder Feedback & Remote Mechanical Drive - 1994+ Mercury I/O, Volvo Gas: Configured for 1994 and newer Mercury inboard/outboard and Volvo gas engines with remote mechanical drive. The right pick for newer I/O setups.
- w/Rudder Feedback & Remote Mechanical Drive - 1983-93 Mercury I/O, Volvo Diesel: Designed for older Mercury I/O and Volvo diesel engine configurations. Ensures compatibility with legacy drive systems from that era.
- w/Rudder Feedback & Remote Mechanical Drive - Inboard Engines: Optimized for traditional inboard engine installations with remote mechanical drive. Well-suited for classic cruisers and workboats.
- w/Virtual Feedback - No Drive Unit: Uses virtual (electronic) feedback instead of a physical rudder sensor. A clean, no-sensor solution for boats where rudder feedback installation is impractical.
- w/Virtual Feedback & 9CI Pump: Pairs virtual feedback with a compact 9 cubic inch hydraulic pump - ideal for smaller hydraulic steering systems where a physical rudder sensor is not used.
Shipping
Ships free! Please email us at service@omahasportsandgames.com for a delivery ETA or to confirm shipping details.
What's Included
- SP-120C Color Autopilot Control Head
- Rudder Feedback Unit (Rudder Feedback models)
- Drive unit (model-dependent - see options above)
- Mounting hardware and wiring harness
Why You'll Love It
SI-TEX has been a trusted name in marine electronics for decades, and the SP-120C carries on that tradition with a system that is straightforward to install and even easier to use on the water. The vivid color display and sub-degree course detection mean you spend less time correcting your heading and more time enjoying the ride. Whether you're cruising coastal waters or heading offshore, the SP-120C's rugged IPX6 waterproof build and wide operating temperature range give you confidence in any condition.
With nine drive configurations available, this system fits an exceptionally broad range of boats - from legacy inboards to modern I/O setups - making it a go-to choice for captains upgrading older autopilots or equipping a new vessel. Its low standby current draw and dual 12/24V compatibility mean it integrates cleanly without stressing your electrical system. For the boater who values precision, reliability, and genuine versatility, the SP-120C is a smart, lasting investment.
Product Specifications
View Product Specs
| Waterproof Rating | IPX6 |
|---|---|
| Control Head Dimensions | 110 mm L x 110 mm W |
| Voltage Supply | 12/24 Volts DC |
| Standby Current Consumption | 0.5 amps at 12VDC |
| Maximum Drive Output Current | 15 Amps |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C to +55°C |
| Course Detection | <1 Degree |
| Data Connections | NMEA-0183 GPS Input, NMEA-0183 10kHz Compass Heading Output |
| Display | Color LCD |
Manuals & Guides
FAQ
What is the difference between Rudder Feedback and Virtual Feedback models?
Rudder Feedback models include a physical sensor that attaches to the rudder or steering mechanism to measure actual rudder position. Virtual Feedback models use electronic computation to estimate rudder position without a physical sensor - a good option for boats where mounting a rudder sensor is difficult or impractical. Physical rudder feedback generally provides slightly more accurate position data, while virtual feedback offers a simpler, cleaner installation.
Do I need to purchase a drive unit separately?
It depends on which model you choose. The "No Drive Unit" variants include only the control head and feedback unit, so you would need a compatible drive unit separately. Other variants come bundled with a specific drive unit - such as an 18CI hydraulic pump or a Type S/T mechanical dash drive - matched to common boat configurations. Check which drive type suits your steering system before ordering.
Is the SP-120C compatible with my existing GPS chartplotter?
Yes, in most cases. The SP-120C features NMEA-0183 connectivity for GPS input, which is the standard communication protocol used by the vast majority of marine GPS chartplotters and navigation electronics. This allows the autopilot to receive heading data from your GPS and maintain a precise course automatically.
Can the SP-120C be used on both 12V and 24V electrical systems?
Yes. The SP-120C is designed to operate on both 12 and 24 Volt DC systems, making it compatible with a wide range of boats. Its low standby current draw of 0.5 amps at 12VDC also ensures it won't place significant strain on your battery bank when not actively steering.
What does the IPX6 waterproof rating mean for helm installation?
IPX6 means the control head is protected against powerful water jets from any direction - essentially spray and splashing from heavy rain, waves, or helm wash. This makes it suitable for exposed helm stations on open powerboats. It is not rated for full submersion, so it should not be installed below the waterline.
Thank you for trusting us with your order! This product is shipped directly from the manufacturing warehouse to get to customers all over the U.S. as soon as possible!
While many of our products are prepared and shipped out within 48 hours, some of our items are built to order or require custom pieces that could take 2-6 weeks to prepare before shipping! Please contact us at 888-884-2234 for a delivery ETA if you have a strict timeline.
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Omaha Sports & Games Team
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