🔍 Key Concepts

• Autopilot control functions – what each adjustment typically changes (sensitivity, response, deadband, etc.) • Difference between course-keeping in calm vs. rough weather • Meaning of deadband/null band in a steering system

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: In rough seas, do you want the rudder to be constantly moving with every tiny course change, or do you want to ignore small, temporary swings? • Which choice describes changing the SIZE of the course error allowed before the rudder is moved, rather than how fast or how far the rudder moves? • Think about which control would reduce unnecessary rudder activity and wear in heavy seas.

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which option refers to a range of no-response (dead zone/null band) instead of speed or amount of movement • Eliminate any options that talk about speed of rudder action (that is usually a different control) • Make sure the option you pick relates to filtering out small course errors in bad weather, not changing the basic steering geometry