YAMAHA MARINE ENGINE SYSTEMS HOT SHEET

EFFECTIVE July,1, 2020

HELM MASTER EX
®

M.V.

Yamaha’s Next Generation

Integrated Boat Control System
Multiple levels of control now available to a
wider range of boaters

Introducing the next generation of Yamaha’s Helm Master

integrated boat control system, Helm Master EX. Helm Master
HELM MASTER EX
®

EX offers boaters customizable, integrated boat control

with more ease and convenience than ever before. Available
for single through quad applications, Helm Master EX
brings ultimate boat control and fishability to a wider
variety of boaters.

We’ve taken all the benefits of the original Helm Master

system and improved upon them. Helm Master EX has:
• Re-designed joystick with new smooth-shifting
software and control capabilities Helm Master EX is the first
• Effortless autopilot that can be adjusted with product launched under
the joystick Yamaha’s CommandBlue TM

• Precise digital electric steering that can be added philosophy. CommandBlue

to any DEC-capable Yamaha outboard (except represents Yamaha’s
3.3liter F250 and F350A models) commitment to move
• New digital electronic control box engineering development into

• Sharp looks and design the realm of the customer,

ultimately delivering products

Also new, Helm Master EX (or its properly configured system that are easier to use and
create greater satisfaction
components) can be installed by the boat builder at the factory
and confidence on the water.
or by dealers when re-powering customer boats at the
dealership. This allows boaters flexibility in tailoring their
Helm Master EX system to their specific desires.

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 HELM MASTER EX ® YAMAHA MARINE
ENGINE SYSTEMS
HOT SHEET

HELM MASTER EX and Component Systems*

FUNCTION HELM MASTER EX® AUTOPILOT DES DEC

Single Lever 3 3 3 3
NEW Speed Control 3 3 3 3
NEW Trim Assist** 3 3 3 3
Center Engine 3 3 3 3
Neutral Hold (Formerly “Free Throttle”) 3 3 3 3
NEW Pattern Shift 3 3 3 3
NEW Adjustable/Variable Lock to Lock 3 3 3
Adjustable/Variable Steering Friction 3 3 3
NEW Heading Hold 3 3
NEW Course Hold 3 3
NEW Track Point 3 3
NEW Pattern Steer 3 3
NEW Autopilot with Waypoint Arrival and Joystick Adjustability 3
NEW SetPoint Suite Features 3
NEW Full Joystick Maneuverability 3
*DES system must contain DEC system. Yamaha Autopilot system must contain DES and DEC systems. Helm Master EX must contain Yamaha Autopilot, DES, and DEC systems.
**Now activated on gauge

WHAT’S NEW
• Binnacle DEC control box (single or twin handle w/ identically sized base)
• Bolt-on Digital Electric Steering (DES)
• Available, smaller, non-tilt Helm Unit
• Autopilot
• Joystick (w/ new single joy function and DriftPoint® Track)
• New Electronic Key Switch (EKS)
• Keyless ignition fob (works with EKS)
• Five-inch Touchscreen Display (CL5) – works with all DEC and Command Link-compatible
outboards (F20 and up)
• Touchscreen integration with Garmin® Multi-functional Displays (MFDs)
• Integration with Raymarine® AXIOM® XL MFDs using remote
• Updated Analog Gauge Interface - now for use with Helm Master EX

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HELM MASTER EX ® YAMAHA MARINE
ENGINE SYSTEMS
HOT SHEET

HELM MASTER EX - BENEFITS

• Enhanced joystick maneuverability with smooth, quiet, precise operation, new
single-function buttons, and new features like DriftPoint Track
• Convenient Yamaha Autopilot features like course and heading hold, Track Point (NAV
along waypoints), and two types of pattern steer that seamlessly integrate with Speed
Control and Pattern Shift
• Increased comfort, control, and convenience with joystick-adjustability that allows fine
tuning of Yamaha Autopilot and SetPoint without leaving current mode – ease of use and
more capability
• Incredibly fast and responsive Digital Electric Steering (DES) means precise control with
an uncluttered bilge (and can now be added to any current and most previous DEC-
capable Yamaha outboard models)
• Totally redesigned Digital Electronic Control (DEC) for ergonomic comfort and ease of
use – all functions previously on the Helm Master control are now standard on all
Helm Master EX system configurations
• Suits a wide variety of boats/applications – fits all current Yamaha DEC outboards and
back-fits most for a wide range of re-power flexibility
• Yamaha PowerMatched® Limited Warranty applies to all components within the system

THE HELM MASTER EX SYSTEM

Completely new with modern styling, premium feel and ergonomics,
the Yamaha Helm Master EX system features an all-new joystick with
new software. It offers smoother shifting and single-function
buttons for easy operator understanding. The new Helm Master EX
joystick also allows fine tuning of autopilot (both speed and
direction) and positioning adjustments within SetPoint,
without leaving the individual mode.

NEW JOYSTICK CONTROL FOR

SINGLE ENGINE APPLICATIONS
Previously available only for multiple engines,
Helm Master EX is now also available for single Yamaha
DEC outboard installations. That means joystick
maneuverability for single engine boats!

NOTE: The joystick is the same part as used on

multi-engine systems, however the StayPoint button is
non-functional and the ability to move the boat straight sideways via
joystick command is not available in single engine Helm Master EX applications.

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HELM MASTER EX ® YAMAHA MARINE
ENGINE SYSTEMS
HOT SHEET

SINGLE-ENGINE JOYSTICK CAPABILITIES INCLUDE:

• FishPoint Bow
• FishPoint Stern
• DriftPoint
• DriftPoint Track
• Heading Hold
• Course Hold
• Track Point (autopilot)
• Pattern Steer
• Joystick Adjustability
• Directional Control

By simultaneously controlling shift, throttle and steering in one easy-to-use joystick, Helm Master EX
for single engines provides advanced low-speed maneuverability, as well as a host of SetPoint modes
useful for fishing or general boating enjoyment.

AUTOPILOT
Yamaha’s new autopilot offers a host of customer amenities and
benefits, and is a required installation for the full Helm Master EX
system. It includes a small panel on the console, a heading sensor under
the console, an antenna above the boat, and a control unit. Yamaha
autopilot provides many convenient features for boat control and
operation, and serves as the gateway to new features and benefits.

BENEFITS INCLUDE:
• Single-touch, useful convenience features like heading hold, course hold, pattern steer
andheading/course adjustability
- Heading Hold – automatically maintains set compass heading, but allows for drift.
Can also be used in reverse pattern shift as necessary for back-trolling at
slower-than-idle speeds
- Course Hold – keeps course, even under current and/or wind
- Pattern Steer – allows boaters to select one of two pre-set steering patterns (zigzag or
expanding circle) without having to set waypoints. Speed Control and Pattern Shift
(very slow trolling) are available to use while in Pattern Steer mode
• Track Point pilots automatically along an operator-input set of waypoints (route). Easy
manual override for operator-commanded change of direction
• Seamless integration with Speed Control, Trim Assist, and other Helm Master EX
functions/modes

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HELM MASTER EX ® YAMAHA MARINE
ENGINE SYSTEMS
HOT SHEET

• Waypoint Arrival provides automatic deceleration when approaching the final waypoint
(route) and automatically puts the outboards into neutral upon arrival. Helm Master EX
can also engage one of the pre-selected SetPoint functions at the place where the
operator returns the controls to the neutral position, if selected. (See Helm Master EX
Operator’s Manual for additional information on exact sequence and set up – requires
joystick and joystick software.)

NOTE: Boat deceleration and

stopping characteristics may differ
between MFD manufacturers.
Boat may pass by final waypoint
in some situations during
Waypoint Arrival. Operator
attention is necessary at all
times when approaching a
final waypoint.

DIGITAL ELECTRIC STEERING

Yamaha’s Digital Electric Steering (DES) - similar to that built
in to every XTO Offshore - can now be added to any
current Yamaha DEC-controlled outboard* for
single through quad installations. Since there
are no conventional steering
pumps, hoses, or wiring,
Yamaha DES offers a clean,
more spacious bilge.
There are also no valves, hoses, or control units,
and no need for fluid filling, purging,
bleeding, or clean-up resulting
from these. Boaters will love the
smooth, precise action, too.

*Except 3.3L F250 DEC or F350A models

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HELM MASTER EX ® YAMAHA MARINE
ENGINE SYSTEMS
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BENEFITS INCLUDE:
• Incredible speed and precision. Electric power steering is very responsive and requires very little
effort to operate.
• Greater vessel control. Zero lag time, while new variable lock-to-lock settings (four-nine rotations)
and adjustable steering friction (100 – 200 percent) become available automatically based on
outboard rpm. Boaters can then choose to select heavier steering load manually (for example in
heavy seas) or can set the DES system to not use auto-increase/decrease features.
• Additional space in the bilge and under the console. No pumps or conventional steering-related
rigging means new-found room in the bilge area. A new smaller, no-tilt helm is also now available to
save space under the console(s).
• More net battery charging power. Increased available net charging power over hydraulic systems.
The system is not constantly drawing amps like some conventional power steering pumps. This
offers the potential for more charging amps to help power on-board electronics.

DIGITAL ELECTRONIC CONTROL

and KEYLESS IGNITION
The all-new Helm Master EX DEC control boxes
have been redesigned with a sleek new look,
greater ergonomic comfort and new
capabilities. The user can
access the features
with individual
buttons. In addition
to its great feel and
precision, the
all-new Helm Master EX control is available to
boaters who may not want the full Helm Master EX
suite of capabilities.

Helm Master EX DEC controls are available in

single-handle, or twin handle for twin- through
quad-engine installations. In both instances, the
base of the control is the same. New, single-
function buttons are back-lit, easy to read in both
day or night conditions, and simplify operation.

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HELM MASTER EX® YAMAHA MARINE
ENGINE SYSTEMS
HOT SHEET

NEW DEC CONTROLS INCLUDE:

• Speed Control (includes automatic Pattern Shift
mode for slower-than-idle-speed trolling)
• Neutral Hold (formerly Free Throttle)
• Station Selector
• Single Lever*
• Center Engine(s)*
• All Engine Trim
• Individual Engine Trim*
• Shift Detent (new for DEC-only
equipped boats)
• Throttle Friction Adjustment
*Twin handle controls only.

NOTE: Trim Assist is now easily controlled through

whatever display configuration is selected.

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HELM MASTER EX ® YAMAHA MARINE
ENGINE SYSTEMS
HOT SHEET

ELECTRONIC KEY SWITCHES (EKS)

All new back-lit switch panels offer a slim, space-saving, push-button design and modern look.
These new panels save critical dash space (i.e. a small “All Start” panel can be mounted on the
console on multi-engine installs, while
the required individual outboard
push-button start panel can be
located in a less useable and/or
noticeable location). This leaves space
for more equipment, and the modern
look of the panels can help the
aesthetic appeal of the console.

KEY FOB AND KEYLESS IGNITION

A buoyant wireless fob (push-button) allows use of keyless start/stop push-button ignition panels.
It also serves as the on/off device for Y-COP® functionality (anti-theft), enabling ignition and the
fuel-injection system of the outboards. An under-dash mounted wireless receiver automatically
connects with the fob to allow one-touch starting while at the helm (maximum distance
approximately 32 inches – less with an aluminum console). The fob can manually unlock/lock
ignition from up to 15 feet away.

If necessary, such as in the case of loss, the operator can unlock the
system using a four-digit code assigned at the factory or one chosen
by the operator. Additionally, the battery-operated fob self-monitors
its battery level and audibly alerts the operator when the battery is low.
It floats, and is water resistant for immersion for five minutes at a depth
of 10cm (approximately 4 inches). Two fobs are provided with each
Electronic Key Switch (EKS) kit, and up to four more can be programmed
into the system.

NOTE: Y-COP, as a separate function, can be installed on any Yamaha mechanical and Command
Link® compatible outboard down to the F20, and DEC-only installations using a conventional key
switch (single and twin). In single or twin installations using the new Helm Master EX DEC control
with current 6X6 key switches, the push-button ignition function is not available.

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HELM MASTER EX ® YAMAHA MARINE
ENGINE SYSTEMS
HOT SHEET

SETPOINT ® MODES
All SetPoint modes have been modified for the
Helm Master EX system, increasing effectiveness
DriftPoint
while providing smoother operation.

• SetPoint®
- Collective term for suite of Yamaha position-hold StayPoint
modes
• StayPoint®
- Seeks to automatically maintain both boat heading
and position (not applicable to Helm Master EX
Single Maneuverability system). Automatically uses
up to Thrust Level 5 as needed to maintain position
• FishPoint®
- Seeks to automatically maintain boat position only
(not heading) using minimal rpm for fishing
- Can set boat ahead (FishPoint Bow) or astern
(FishPoint Stern) to prevailing current/wind
- Automatically resets to Thrust Level 1 each time
FishPoint is activated
• DriftPoint® Thrust or
- Seeks to maintain heading (only) while allowing Steering
natural drift via prevailing current/wind Sensitivity
Joystick
- Automatically resets to Thrust Level 1 each time Adjustment
DriftPoint is activated FishPoint (depending on
• DriftPoint® Track then-current mode)
- Seeks to maintain heading while drifting along a
track (route) of operator-selected waypoints
• Repositioning in SetPoint Modes (StayPoint,
- Automatically resets to Thrust Level 1 each time
DriftPoint, DriftPoint Track, FishPoint Bow,
DriftPoint Track is activated
FishPoint Stern)
- Move 5 feet, 10 feet, or 20 feet per
movement of joystick forward, reverse,
JOYSTICK ADJUSTABILITY or either side (interval pre-selected by
• Speed (in Autopilot only) operator via display) without leaving
- Up or down, by rpm or by GPS speed over ground the mode
- Move boat heading 1 degree with a
(operator-selected via display), in preset
short twist or 5 degrees with one long
increments, by pushing joystick forward (up speed)
twist of the joystick. Hold the joystick in
or backward (down speed)
the twisted position to “stack” 5-degree
• Heading* increments of movement, up to 50
- Rotate handle once for one degree or hold until degrees total
beep for 5 degree heading adjustment (stackable • +/- button
up to 50 degrees by twisting and holding) - Level can be adjusted from Level 1
• Course* (lowest, least system effort) to Level 5
- Change course by rotating same as heading, or (highest, most system effort)
offset course parallel by moving joystick sideways - Joystick thrust
(10-foot, 20-foot, 50-foot intervals as pre-selected - Steering sensitivity/effort to maintain
selected by operator through display) operator-selected A/P input

*These joystick adjustments are stackable up to 10x if no longer than a three-second delay between inputs.

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HELM MASTER EX ® YAMAHA MARINE
ENGINE SYSTEMS
HOT SHEET

ENHANCED SETPOINT FEATURES

Waypoint Arrival with SetPoint
The operator can select what the autopilot does when reaching its final waypoint: do nothing, decelerate and
automatically place the engines into neutral at the waypoint, or decelerate to the waypoint, automatically
place the engines in neutral, and then enter a SetPoint mode pre-selected by the operator at the exact point
at which the operator returns the controls to the neutral position. Two beeps from the display inform the
operator the final waypoint has been reached and to return the control handle position to neutral.
Immediately upon doing so, the boat will enter the pre-selected mode (i.e. FishPoint, DriftPoint, etc.).

NOTE: Boat deceleration and stopping characteristics may differ between MFD manufacturers. Boat may
pass by final waypoint in some situations during Waypoint Arrival. Operator attention is necessary at all times
when approaching a final waypoint.

NEW DISPLAY OPTIONS

CL5 COLOR TOUCHSCREEN DISPLAY
An all-new, thin Yamaha CL5 touchscreen is small
in size but big on information and ability. Its
sophisticated, modern design features intuitive
operation and matches the latest boat console
trends, while its compact size leaves more room
on the console for other equipment. Plus, it’s fully
compatible with all previous DEC applications and
Command Link- compatible mechanical control
outboards (F20 and up).

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HELM MASTER EX ® YAMAHA MARINE
ENGINE SYSTEMS
HOT SHEET

CL7 MULTI-FUNCTIONAL
DISPLAY (MFD)
Like the all-new CL5, the CL7
automatically displays Yamaha autopilot
as well as other outboard and boat
information based on the system
configuration at the time of power-up.
However, the Yamaha CL7 is a compact,
fully functional MFD with many
additional features and capabilities well
beyond the operation and monitoring
of Helm Master EX.

MFD INTERFACE (MFDI) – GARMIN®

Allows direct connection and display of system information, and use of touchscreen capabilities,
on the following Garmin® MFD models:

GPSMAP® 74xx/7600 series (J1939 compatible)

GPSMAP® 8400/8600 Series
GPSMAP® 8700 Black Box
GPSMAP® 7x2/9x2/12x2 PLUS Series

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HELM MASTER EX ® YAMAHA MARINE
ENGINE SYSTEMS
HOT SHEET

MFD INTERFACE (MFDI) – OTHER MANUFACTURERS

(currently Raymarine® only *)
Allows connection and display of system information on various manufacturers’ compatible MFD
models. Selection and input is achieved through a buoyant handheld controller that can be
retained on the console via a holster provided with the unit.

*Raymarine® is an approved manufacturer for its Axiom™ XL model MFDs.

OPTIONS AND ACCESSORIES

NEW ANALOG GAUGE INTERFACE (AGI)

Flexibility - Although not technically part of the

Helm Master EX system, the AGI has been updated
to allow use of analog gauges with the all-digital
Helm Master EX system offering greater flexibility.

This Hot Sheet is strictly confidential. Do not copy, disseminate, distribute, or disclose to any person or entity without the prior written consent of Yamaha.
This document contains many of the valuable trademarks and service marks owned and used by Yamaha throughout the world. The document may also contain
references to other company, brand and product names that may be the trademarks/service marks of their respective owners. These company, brand and
product names are used herein for identification purposes only, and references to any names, marks, products or services of third parties do not constitute
or imply endorsement, sponsorship or recommendation of the third party or the products or services. Information and data contained herein is approximate
and subject to many different factors and variables, including but not limited to atmosphere, water, equipment conditions, and operator ability. It is provided
as a guideline only and should not be relied upon as a representative of actual performance. Due to Yamaha’s ongoing commitment to product improvement,
we reserve the right to change without notice, equipment, availability, specifications, and prices. Also, due to various factors, including the boat’s actual weight
and wind and water conditions, the product’s performance may be different than the information contained herein. Please confirm the specifications and
performance data on your specific boat/engine combination with your dealer prior to purchase.

REMEMBER to always observe all applicable boating laws. Never drink and drive. Dress properly with a USCG-approved personal floatation device and
protective gear. Boat smart from the start. Take a boating safety course and get a free vessel safety check annually for your boat. For more information, contact:
United States Coast Guard Auxiliary online at [Link], or United States Power Squadrons at 888-for-usps or [Link].

© 2020 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved.

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