John S. : I talked with a Simrad guy this am and checked out their web site. They claim that the unit senses the conditions and adjusts to keep you on course. This capability appears to have a lot to do with the computer - compass interface. The software analyzes the changes in heading. Presumably under windy conditions that could spin you off course faster, the software detects this and then compensates by more aggressively keeping on top of the steering corrections needed to stay on course.

While it might sound like I know something....I don't. All I know is it would be a HUGE relief to be able to fish by myself and not struggle with boat all the time. It got to the point where late in the season if I could not find someone to go out I'd just stay home. With a working autopilot I just might have gone out a few more times.