NAVpilot 711C with Airmar H2183

I'm interested in buying the NAVpilot 711C. We already have a fully functional NMEA 2000 network in place. One of the devices connected is an Airmar H2183 Heading sensor. Can I use the H2183 instead of buying the Furuno heading sensor? If so, will there be any deficit in performance by using the H2183? The application is for our Tashiba 40' sailboat (heavy displacement). Thanks

The NavPilot 711C comes standard with the PG700R heading sensor. I strongly recommend that it is used as the primary heading sensor in our autopilot. We have not tested the H2183 and while it might have adequate performance for your current N2K network it might compromise the autopilot performance.

How close can I mount the PG700R to my other compass the Airmar H2183? Will they interfere with each other if too close? Thanks.

A foot or two apart should be fine. If the Airmar is up and running try placing the PG700 close and see how it effects the display on your N2K network.