DIY Electronics Technology
20/03/2026

🚤 How to Build a Wireless Autopilot Remote for Simrad for Under $20 (DIY R3000X)

By admin

Did you know you can control your autopilot wirelessly without spending over $200? 🤯

In this article, I’ll show you how to build your own wireless remote control compatible with Simrad, B&G and Robertson (R3000X) autopilots for under $20, using cheap and easy-to-find components.

👉 But first, here’s the full video with the complete step-by-step process:

🎥 Full Video

⚓ Why build your own autopilot remote?

Original remotes for autopilots like Simrad or B&G can easily cost over $200, and in many cases, they are still wired.

The reality is:

  • The system is extremely simple
  • There’s no complex technology behind it
  • It can be easily replicated with basic components

👉 And that’s exactly what we do in this tutorial.

🔧 What will you learn?

In the video, you’ll learn:

  • How the original R3000X remote works
  • What each connector pin does (PORT, STBD, GND…)
  • How to replicate the system using relays
  • How to make it wireless with RF
  • How to add extra functions using diodes
  • And even how to control it from your phone

🧰 Required materials (very cheap)

Here are the components you’ll need:

💡 These links support the channel at no extra cost to you.

🔌 How the R3000X system works

The original remote is based on something surprisingly simple:

  • One button connects GND to PORT
  • Another button connects GND to STBD
  • The mode button connects both at the same time

👉 This makes it very easy to replicate using relays.

📐 Basic wiring diagram

⚙️ Relay-based setup

Using a relay board, we can fully replicate the original remote behavior:

  • Relay 1 → STBD + GND
  • Relay 2 → PORT + GND

This already allows full control of the autopilot.

📐 Relay wiring diagram

📡 Adding wireless control (RF)

With a cheap RF remote, you can activate the relays remotely:

  • Full control from anywhere on the boat
  • Perfect for solo sailing
  • Much more convenient than a wired remote

🔋 Diode trick for extra functions

By adding 4 diodes, you can:

  • Simulate the mode button automatically
  • Use an extra button on the remote
  • Greatly improve usability

📐 Diode wiring diagram

📱 Control from your phone (PRO level)

If you want to take it further:

👉 You can use a WiFi-to-RF adapter to control your autopilot from:

  • Your phone
  • A smartwatch
  • Even voice control

🛒 Don’t want to build it yourself?

If you prefer a ready-to-install solution:

👉 https://www.thelowcostsailor.com/shop

We offer a version that is:

  • Improved
  • Ruggedized
  • Ready to install
  • With ON/OFF button
  • Includes lanyard

💬 Is it worth it?

Honestly:

👉 Absolutely.

Because:

  • You save over $180
  • You understand how your system works
  • You gain independence from expensive brands

And… it’s actually fun 😄

🔥 Conclusion

This project proves something important:

👉 Many marine solutions are much simpler than they seem… and much cheaper when you understand them.

That’s exactly what The Low Cost Sailor is all about.