One of the latest innovations presented by Mercury Marine is the joystick that allows, even on boats equipped only with one engine, the throttle and rudder to be operated in a combined manner, making it easier to maneuver in harbor and navigate in confined spaces. The American company, part of the Brunswick Group, has now released a new update for the SmartCraft operating system, the beating heart of the accessory. With this update, new predictive features are added to the joystick, which can adjust the boat’s movement based on wind and waves.
Easier control even with one engine
We have already told you about Mercury Marine’s new joystick and also explained how it works within our video, which you can find below. The real convenience of this accessory is that it combines, in a single device that is very simple and intuitive to control, the function of the throttle and that of the steering. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n7zSjQzqJ4w
What changes with the update
The software update will currently be available – as standard – on new multi-engine installations equipped with Joystick Piloting from Mercury, Mercury Diesel, MerCruiser and Mercury Racing. This update allows the SmartCraft operating system to detect if the boat is moving off its intended course due to waves, wind or drift. At this point it automatically adjusts acceleration and steering allowing the helmsman to avoid any corrections. Whenever the system detects a change, that is, when the boat encounters a force such as wind or wave, it automatically increases or decreases the throttle to stay at the set speed.
Additional features on V12 engines
On all Mercury V12 engines on which the new joystick upgrade can be installed, there is also an extra feature. On this type of installation, the joystick now also allows you to control transmission slip, reducing the thrust generated by up to 90 percent (where necessary) and propeller rpm, to increase accuracy in controlling the boat.
