Garmin Introduces New GHP Reactor Autopilot Systems

Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd.

, the global leader in satellite navigation, today announced the new GHP Reactor Autopilot Series. 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 minimizing 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 utilize 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 utilizing 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 maneuvering 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 off of the dimensions and parameters of the vessel.1 The GHP Reactor Autopilot Series will replace all current autopilot models2 and will range in price from $999.99 - $6,796.99. The GHP Reactor Autopilot Series will be available Q1 of 2015. For more information about the Reactor Autopilot Series, visit www.garmin.com/marine2015. 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. For more information, visit Garmin's virtual pressroom at garmin.com/newsroom, contact the Media Relations department at 913-397-8200, or follow us at facebook.com/garmin, twitter.com/garmin, or youtube.com/garmin. 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.