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Yamaha Marine recently announced updated and new Helm Master EX boat control system features in addition to a new XTO EC (“Extra Cup”) propeller that delivers better grip in specific boat applications.
Yamaha Helm Master EX software updates include a Joystick Station option to control and maneuver boats equipped with Helm Master EX Full Maneuverability from the deck.
“Helm Master EX is the pinnacle of fully integrated digital boat control. These updates expand the system’s features to include improvements and completely new, customer-requested capabilities,” said David Meeler, New Product Introduction Manager, Yamaha Marine Engine Systems. “The new XTO EC prop helps the blades hold water longer for better grip in those applications where ventilation can be an issue. Developed from builder, dealer and customer feedback, these new products further enhance boating experiences for a wide variety of applications.”
New Helm Master EX Features
The new Helm Master EX includes a Joystick Station option to control and maneuver boats equipped with Helm Master EX Full Maneuverability. Lateral Assist better compensates automatically for wind and current, helping to maintain heading and direction when moving laterally in joystick mode. The Pattern Steer feature adds a Williamson Turn and Pattern Search, which joins spiral and zig zag patterns for easier operation and more flexibility. Also new is a measurement feature for Distance Remaining.
When fine-tuning any SetPoint function using the joystick, the display now indicates the total distance requested and the amount of distance remaining in the adjustment. This helps operators know how much additional movement to expect.
Boaters now have access to a single function Trim Assist button through their Digital Electronic Control (DEC) to toggle this function on or off without having to use the gauge. Also, a new Automatic Off Timer automatically powers the entire system down after one hour without activity – just in case the operator forgets before leaving the boat. The Helm Master CL5 and Yamaha Multi-Functional Display Interfaces (MFDI) equipped displays now offer Bennett trim tab settings, which show position of the tabs and allow for adjustment of the AutoTrim Pro (ATP) setting.
Select Furuno-brand Multi-Functional Displays (MFDs) are now compatible with Helm Master EX. By installing a Yamaha MFD Interface with HDMI output, Furuno NavNet TZtouch 16F and 19F models can show Yamaha display information directly on the MFD, and the operator can view and execute Yamaha functions through a convenient, included hand-held controller. TrackPoint with Way Point Arrival is also now active for these models. This includes automatic deceleration with selectable distance and the ability to select which SetPoint mode to enter upon arrival at the final waypoint. In addition, direct transition from DriftPoint Track to DriftPoint is now available without deleting the route on the MFD.
Course Hold Offset is now stackable up to 10 times. Operators can easily add multiples of the pre-selected offset distance (10, 20, or 50 feet) simply by holding the joystick. A beep will sound for each multiple, and the distance remaining appears on the display.
Existing Helm Master EX customers who wish to upgrade their software and/or hardware can do so through their authorized Yamaha Marine dealers beginning in Spring of 2022.
New XTO EC Propellers
Yamaha introduces a new line of propellers intended specifically for XTO Offshore applications requiring additional propeller grip on the water.
New XTO “Extra Cup” (EC) propellers feature the Yamaha Shift Dampener System, a large diameter and specially designed blade surface area engineered with an extra trailing edge cup. Pitch models include 17-inch, 20-inch, 21-inch, 24-inch and 25-inch in both right- and left-hand rotation. The new XTO EC propellers will become available over the spring and summer of 2022.
For more information about the new Helm Master EX features and the new XTO EC propeller including photography, visit yamahamarinemedia.com.
To learn more about other Yamaha marine products, visit www.yamahaoutboards.com.
