Searching for Garmin Autopilot Controller

The message "Searching for Autopilot Controller" is displayed when the GHC display does not receive a signal from the Course Computer Unit (CCU).

To resolve this message, follow these troubleshooting steps:

NOTE: If the autopilot is a GHP 10 or 12, begin at step one. If using a GHP 20, GHP Reactor / GHP Reactor 40 Hydraulic, GHP Reactor / GHP Reactor 40 Mechanical / Retrofit / Solenoid, or a Reactor 40 Kicker, skip to step number four.

1. Check that the yellow signal wire from the GHC display's power / data cable connects to the CCU / ECU interconnect cable's yellow wire. The yellow wire acts as a remote turn on for the CCU; the GHC display powers on the CCU

2. Check to ensure that the black wires of the GHC power/data cable, the NMEA 2000 backbone that powers the CCU, and the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) power cable connect to the same ground source on the boat

   • NOTE: It is important that the ECU and CCU share a data ground, as the CCU is searching for the ECU. The GHC or chartplotter is essentially relaying the message that they are not communicating due to an incomplete common ground. Also, a faulty or worn interconnect cable can also interrupt communication, and testing for continuity doesn't necessarily rule out that the pins are stressed to the point of not making good solid continuous contact

3. Identify the serial number of the GHC display. If the serial number begins with 1Y4, the GHC display is powered by NMEA 2000, do not connect the red power wire. Disconnect the red power wire if it's connected to a power source
   

4. Inspect the NMEA 2000 network to verify the installation is correct. See NMEA 2000 Troubleshooting if visual inspection looks complete

A complete NMEA 2000 network at minimal should contain the following: 

• Three NMEA 2000 T-Connectors

• One Male NMEA 2000 Terminator

• One Female NMEA 2000 Terminator

• Two NMEA 2000 Drop Cables

• One NMEA 2000 Yellow Power Cable