Connecting All Boats to the Future – Old and New
By Andy Adams
Communications, Information, Navigation and Entertainment
Without a doubt, the fastest moving sector of the marine industry is electronics and all the operational and navigation systems that encompasses. I recently attended the NMEA (National Marine Electronics Association) Annual Conference and Expo for marine electronics professionals in Providence, Rhode Island and learned a host of amazing things. The biggest news is something that wasn’t even being talked about two years ago. It’s called Starlink, part of SpaceX and Elon Musk’s amazing new ventures. One of the opening sessions at the NMEA Conference was a discussion about the various satellites that are now in orbit around planet earth. Within that field, there are now a number of different companies specializing in bringing connectivity to your boat when travelling or just moored at the pier.
Especially during the Covid-lockdowns, lots of people have invested in live-aboard boats. Then other developments in business that followed allowed the “work from home” option for people, and some of the creative ones who could afford the investment interpreted that as “work from boat”.
Connectivity
As long as we have a good Internet connection, many of us can do our work from wherever we happen to be. Internet connections to the home are very common; pretty much everybody is now connected in our society. But being connected from a boat is a little more complicated. If you’re near the shore and there’s a reliable cell signal you can run on cellular data, but as soon as you cast off and move out of range, (often only a few miles out) everything changes.
The opening presentation at the NMEA conference discussed the rapid adoption of satellite driven internet around the world. But even as recently as 2019, when there were already thousands of satellites orbiting Earth, it was still very expensive to get satellite time for offshore phone calls or Internet, and the antenna systems were often big, complicated, and housed in high-mounted domes on superyachts. Now that has really changed. The latest development is Starlink Services LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of SpaceX. Although Starlink Services are available through many retail sources, it looks as though KVH Industries offers the most “marine-friendly” version, with data packages designed for the unique needs of boaters.
KVH and Starlink
Last year we wrote about the KVH One Network, a multi-orbit, multi-channel communications network that supports a range of products, including the KVH TracNet family products, which feature hybrid connectivity with VSAT, 5G LTE and WiFi all under one dome. The system has automatic switching among satellite, cellular and WiFi networks as well as additional connected services. With the KVH TracNet, you can stay connected on virtually any vessel, even in rough seas or at high speeds.
Now, KVH has added Starlink to the KVH ONE network, enabling boaters to enjoy the benefits of Starlink along with VSAT, 5G, and Wi-Fi from a single source.
Every system has its own benefits, even the older ones, and there are many different reasons to choose, but the service that pleasure boaters will probably care most about at this point is Starlink. Starlink is a satellite internet constellation providing coverage to over 100 countries and territories. It also aims to provide global mobile broadband. The Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites that make up the Starlink system have been much more affordable to set up than higher altitude systems, and there are now some 6,700 satellites in orbit, making this the largest group in the world. The LEO satellites are 550 km to 700 km above the planet, so they have very low latency (the amount of time it takes for data to get from the boat to the satellite and then connect to the internet), and offer download speeds as fast as 200 Mbps, comparable to home connectivity.
Looking ahead, Project Kuiper is an Amazon initiative, part of the same Devices and Services division responsible for Kindle, Echo, Fire TV, eero, Ring, and other tech devices. (Blue Origin is a separate company founded by Jeff Bezos). Project Kuiper is a competitor to Starlink expected to come to market in 2025-2026, and others are entering the race as well. The main point is simply that having Internet on board is now much more affordable and practical than ever before, and competition is heating up. A Starlink connection with the Mobile Priority service option from KVH can be as little as $250 per month, and friends have told me that the performance is almost like being at home or the office.
This opens up more than just working from home. You can download all kinds of information and content such as navigational data and engine repair info, you can “reflash” engine control software, modules, and do all kinds of other things. Downloading music and movies are also an option!
The technology is moving very fast in this space, and it seems logical to expect wide-spread access and adoption in the coming years. This will all be great when you buy a new boat, but what about now? What about your current boat and the systems it has onboard? Can your legacy equipment work with newly introduced equipment and systems? The answer is, quite possibly, yes.
Connecting The Old to the New
Electronics and your boat’s current systems are getting a big boost through companies like Airmar, Maretron, Actisense and others. A growing number of companies now offer electronic components that can facilitate a wide range of input and output connections from legacy equipment senders by serving as a universal gateway. For example, Actisense has created an NMEA 2000 small boat network that is very compact and affordable.
With the Actisense SBN-1 4-port NMEA network, you can connect 4 devices to the network with ease. The SBN-1 includes built-in termination resistors and an integrated 3-meter power cable. If you’re looking for a low-cost way to integrate multiple NMEA devices, the Actisense SBN-1 is a perfect solution. Need to connect more than 4 devices? Actisense offers the SBN-2, an 8-port network to connect 8 devices to the N2K network.
Another brilliant new product is the Airmar SmartBoat, a solution for simple and cost-effective boat upgrades. It seamlessly integrates and converts data from various sensors—both analog and digital—onto the NMEA 2000® network, with all data available on the multifunction display (MFD). This enables real-time monitoring of vessel systems, provides alerts, and allows remote access via the SmartBoat Cloud. Unlike brand-specific systems, SmartBoat works with a wide range of devices from different manufacturers, making it an ideal solution for both retrofits and new installations.
Here’s a brief video demonstrating how SmartBoat was used to upgrade a 1988 Nautique diesel cruiser.
Old equipment can work with the latest and greatest, making your boat almost as capable as the newest models. You can gain the functions that make boating better without having to buy a late-model or brand-new boat.
AIRMAR Achieves World’s First OneNet Product Certification – a Significant Milestone in the Evolution of Boating
SmartBoat by Airmar
We wrote about Airmar’s SmartBoat in our December 2023 issue because this product was such a game-changer, and now this year their SmartBoat has achieved OneNet certification, the third generation NMEA Standard for marine data interfacing and networking. SmartBoat is the only marine electronics solution that integrates devices using current, future, and legacy standards including NMEA 0183, NMEA 2000, and OneNet.
In addition to utilizing Ethernet technology for a more robust and faster data exchange platform than the widely adopted NMEA 2000, OneNet advantages include easier integration of marine electronics with onboard and internet-based systems via IP networking, enhanced security with encrypted features, and improved interoperability and compatibility among different manufacturers’ marine electronics.
“Airmar’s SmartBoat Solution is a leading example of innovative technology that is designed to simplify the management of onboard systems, improve navigation and safety, and enhance the overall boating experience,” says Mark Reedenauer, NMEA President & Executive Director. “As the industry adapts to the new OneNet standard, the benefits of more integrated, efficient, and advanced marine systems will become increasingly apparent.”
Airmar’s SmartBoat solution retrofits with minimal labor and is a cost-effective way to integrate existing vessel sensor data (regardless of their protocol) with a newly upgraded, modern helm, so almost any new MFD can be installed and connected.
Each SmartBoat module features multiple inputs that can be converted to monitor fluid levels, temperature, pressure, and almost all analog sensors (thermistors, resistive senders, binary switches, relays, run detectors and more). Analog and digital sensors are easily connected without the need for expensive, proprietary sensor translation modules, which can drive up the cost of traditional upgrades and refits.
Easily Set Conditions and Alerts
Each SmartBoat module has an internal web server hosting browser-based software called SmartFlexTM View. This software features drop-down menus that guide installers through the set-up and allow for customization of each sensor on the network. The flexibility to connect multiple sensors to one module and easily configure and set conditions and alerts is impressive.
Retrofits for Boats of All Sizes
All modules have built-in Wi-Fi capabilities and hard wired NMEA 2000® capabilities, with advanced modules including a second CAN (controller area network) network (NMEA 2000, J1939 or diesel fuel flow sensors), Ethernet and USB 2.0 capability. Additional modules can be added to an install as required, and the network expanded to include wired or wireless connections between modules. This makes it straight-forward to retrofit larger vessels by integrating legacy sensors on the boat onto the MFDs at the helm.
Buying a SmartBoat module in Canada ranges in price, with MSRPs (Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price) from $700 to $1445—not a huge investment compared to other solutions. Visit www.Airmar.com.
Actisense Pro-NDC- 1E2K – World-first Type Approved Multiplexer with NMEA 2000
Actisense, the marine electronics and NMEA specialists based in Poole, UK, have unveiled two new products to address some of the critical onboard connectivity challenges faced by boaters and technical installers.
The PRO-NDC-1E2K is a next-generation multiplexer, which features five NMEA 0183 inputs and two isolated outputs. This new version also packs the power of NMEA 0183 to NMEA 2000 conversion with both protocols able to stream at high speed over ethernet, made possible thanks to the copper ethernet connection.
The PRO-NDC-1E2K was developed to solve many of the interconnectivity challenges faced onboard, enabling high-speed data transfer for GPS, AIS, Autopilot and other onboard devices whilst simultaneously overcoming bandwidth limitations. Default configurations, flexible configuration on the go, auto-switching and sentence level filtering allow for efficient management and greater control of instrument data. Ideal for those who want to retain legacy equipment but also connect with modern NMEA 2000 systems. The product has been Type Approved by RINA, making it the world’s first type approved multiplexer featuring three connectivity protocols: NMEA 0183, NMEA 2000 and ethernet.
In addition to the PRO-NDC-1E2K, Actisense also released a new NMEA 2000 Wi-Fi gateway, WGX-1. This multi-functional gateway provides seamless connection between NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 bidirectionally, as well as the ability to cast both protocols over Wi-Fi. It offers a data transfer mode, as well as an SD card slot to allow for extensive data logging.
Both products also come loaded with Actisense-i, Actisense’s smart NMEA diagnostic suite. Both products were initially previewed at METSTRADE and are now available for purchase through their global distribution partners. For more information about the full Actisense range of NMEA connectivity solutions, visit www.actisense.com.
NMEA OneNet – Revolutionizing Marine Data Networking with Next-Gen Ethernet Integration
Backgound and FAQs
We’ve talked a lot about NMEA 0183, 2000, and now OneNet. So, what is the background here, and what is OneNet?
NMEA OneNet is the third-generation NMEA Standard for marine data interfacing and networking. Operating on Ethernet, it has the power to bridge all three NMEA Standards (NMEA 0183, NMEA 2000®, and OneNet) together into a combined data network. OneNet is an open industry standard, based on the power of high-speed Internet Protocol v6 (IPv6). It provides a standard method for sharing NMEA message data over modern boat networks today.
Is OneNet a Replacement for NMEA 2000®?
No. NMEA OneNet was designed to overcome protocol limitations in NMEA 2000/0183 and deliver all the benefits of accessing high bandwidth networks within a data security envelope. NMEA 2000 remains a priority-based real-time messaging protocol for vital system integration. OneNet is an add-on that extends the capabilities of existing NMEA 2000 and other CAN (controller area networks) networks, which are widely adopted as a global standard.
OneNet increases the capabilities of existing NMEA applications, offering redundant solutions, intelligent applications, and comprehensive analysis of vessel intelligence. For boaters, this promises a more integrated and homelike experience. It can simplify the management of onboard systems, improve navigation and safety, and enhance the overall boating experience.
What Marine Products are OneNet Certified?
Airmar Technology Corporation has achieved the world’s first OneNet certification for its SmartBoat Solution. As the industry adapts to this new standard, the benefits of more integrated, efficient and advanced marine systems will become increasingly apparent.
In Summary
NMEA OneNet is the cutting-edge marine data standard that integrates Ethernet technology to unify NMEA 0183, NMEA 2000, and OneNet into a single, high-speed network. Leveraging IPv6, OneNet offers unparalleled bandwidth, enabling seamless data exchange, scalability, and integration of numerous devices without PGN limits. It simplifies network expansion and management, supports power over Ethernet, and ensures robust security. Designed to enhance interoperability and future-proof marine electronics, OneNet revolutionizes marine data networking with its flexible and comprehensive approach.
Multi-Function Devices (MFDs)
Twenty or so years ago, the first screens to find their way onto a boat were small, hard to see in daylight, and were mainly sonar screens for depth and basic chart plotters for navigation. Now MFDs are available up to 27-inches in 4K definition and carry software that delivers an incredible range of functions and adjustments to give owners the information they want for fishing, navigation, controlling lights, accessories, and even entertainment. And with devices like Airmar SmartBoat and Actisense PRO-NDC-1E2K now solving many of the interconnectivity challenges in upgrading equipment on existing boats, upgrading your MFD for a larger size, faster processing and sharper screen resolution is both more realistic and less expensive. Here are a few of the top new MFDs.
B&G Zeus S
At the IBEX show in Florida this fall, we interviewed Christian Olsson from the Navico Group. He explained that B&G has brought out a new operating system for the Zeus S model with a focus on sailing and ease of use at its core. The Zeus S comes with new sailing modes, preset dashboards, and data views for a variety of sailing situations, along with many enhanced features for a simpler sailing experience. See the data you need, when you need it. Simply select the correct Sailing Mode for your situation, giving you just the information required for cruising or racing. Improve your sailing with easy to interpret pointers from B&G’s award-winning features for cruising and racing, with updates to SailSteer™, Laylines, StartLine, Routes, Racing and many more. C-MAP®powered Safety Alerts guard against grounding and dangerous objects. ZeusS makes data easy to read and even easier to digest. The interface is built to feel immediately familiar and can be tailored to your needs with drag and drop customization. Zeus S also features a handy new Set-up Wizard to get you started.
Furuno NavNET TZtouch XL TZT16X
Furuno is a consistent award winner at the NMEA conference every year, and the NavNet TZtouchXL multifunction display is part of a new line that delivers top quality, power and performance in an extra-large, ultra-sharp, full high-definition display. The TZtouchXL line are all networkable with the full range of Furuno sensors; NXT radars, DFF3D, SCX 20 Satellite Compass, and are all fully NMEA 2000 compliant. The TZT XL introduces new features such as TZ Maps with BathyVision and AI routing. There are also safety tools like Risk Visualizer and AI Avoidance Route for early detection and avoidance of hazards. TZtouchXL takes full advantage of award-winning sensors, including solid state NXT and traditional X-Class radars, a wide array of fish finder, AIS and VHF options, NAV pilot autopilot, satellite compasses and multiple weather tracking choices. Also available in the 24” TZT24X and 22” TZT22X, plus two hybrid control models, the 10” TZT10X and 13” TZT13X that blend multitouch capabilities of the TZtouchXL series with Furuno’s RotoKey control knob and dedicated soft-touch keys.
Www.furunousa.com
BREAKING NEWS
Furuno Electric Company Receives Prestigious IEEE Recognition
Just as we were finishing this feature on marine electronics, we learned that the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) has recognized Furuno’s first Fish Finder as an IEEE milestone. IEEE is the world’s largest technical professional organization and is dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity. Furuno has been honored for its ground-breaking commercialization of the world’s first practical Fish Finder, a device that quickly became a staple of both commercial and recreational fishing, and for its contribution to modernizing the global fishing industry.
Two brothers, Kiyokata and Kiyotaka Furuno, worked diligently to develop their electronic device to detect fish. Fighting against norms and tradition, the pair struggled to get a working fishing vessel to allow them to install their device onboard. In May of 1948, they achieved success aboard a ship called the Choseimaru. The skipper believed they would find no sardines given their location and the tides, but Kiyokata Furuno insisted he’d seen a smoke-like image on the device. The ship returned to where he’d seen the dim reflection, and the skipper shone a lamp into the water, revealing a school of sardines. This dramatic moment was a turning point for the brothers, and Furuno Electric Industries was founded in December of 1948. From their humble beginnings as electrical installers, the two adopted a new attitude, saying “We are no longer electricians. We have to become fishermen. Furuno doesn’t sell a box of equipment to our customers—we sell them results.” It was a principle that would become a founding tradition of the fledgling company.
Garmin GPSMAP 9000 Series
Building on the success of Garmin’s flagship MFD series (the previous GPSMAP 8600 series was announced seven years ago), the new GPSMAP 9000 series offers bigger, best-in-class 4K displays, lightning-fast processing speeds, and the ultimate connected boating experience on the new Garmin BlueNet gigabit network.
An IBX Innovation Award winner in 2023, the Garmin GPS MAP 9227 delivers superior design and performance as the industry’s first and largest chart plotter at 27-inches with 4K resolution. The GPSMAP 9000 series are available with 19”, 22”, 24” or 27” displays, the industry’s largest integrated touchscreen chart plotter size. These all-in-one MFDs offer stunning resolution with edge-to-edge clarity, powered by a processor that’s seven-times faster than previous generations. Utilizing Garmin’s new BlueNet gigabyte network, mariners can link the GPS MAP 9227 with multiple chart plotters, cameras, radars, and more at 10-times faster networking speeds than their previous generation. As the command centre of the boat, the GPS MAP 9000 Series offers easy and expansive integration capabilities with onboard systems including engine monitoring, OneHelm digital switching and more. And with seven times the processing power, it’s the ultimate connected boating experience. The GPSMAP 9000 series also offers enhanced multimedia streaming and seamless video integration, so onboard entertainment has never looked better—users can even play and hear the same video throughout multiple screens and speakers on the network with HDCP.
Available now, the GPSMAP 9200 series comes preloaded with Garmin Navionics+ mapping (while the GPSMAP 9000 has a worldwide basemap) and has retail pricing starting at $9,999USD. When your hands are full, use spoken commands to operate the chart plotter (compatible headset required and not included); plus, navigate the waters with ease thanks to preloaded Garmin Navionics+ charts, or upgrade to premium Garmin Navionics Vision+ charts with high resolution relief shading.
Www.garmin.com
Humminbird SOLIX 15 CHIRP MSI+ G3
While all brands offer sonar on their MFDs and have a wide range of fishing features, Humminbird from Johnson Outdoors has a clear fishing focus in their product line and their website has a smart and well-organized series of questions that will direct you to the most appropriate MFD based on your interests and your budget. For boaters who are more into fishing than navigating and who may not use other functions like switching, audio/video and so on, there are great choices in complete units that are easier to install and more affordable too. Some are even sized to allow bracket mounting and easy removal for storage or security.
The SOLIX 15 CHIRP MSI+ G3 combines cutting-edge technologies like MEGA Side Imaging+, MEGA Down Imaging+, Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar and AutoChart Live on an ultra-clear Cross Touch display. Take full advantage of the generous 15.4″ touchscreen display with customizable views and settings that allow you to see multiple technologies at once and find what you want quickly via the convenient sidebar menu. Leverage the networking power of built-in Wi-Fi and NMEA 2000, as well as Bluetooth and Ethernet connections for compatibility with the One-Boat Network family of products from Humminbird, Minn Kota and Cannon.
Www.humminbirdjohnsonoutdoors.com
Lowrance Eagle
The new Lowrance Eagle is easy to use, quick to install and features newly designed TripleShot high definition and SplitShot HD sonar, with FishReveal technology and autotuning sonar settings for a quick and optimal set up. The new IPS screen provides higher resolution and visibility from all angles, even with polarized sunglasses, and the detailed C-Map charting allows you to quickly navigate to the best fishing spots. TripleShot HD and SplitShot HD offer improved clarity, depth, and sensitivity, leading to better performance under the surface. And FishReveal on DownScan and CHIRP make it easier than ever to tell the fish from the weeds. Autotuning sonar gives you the optimal settings from the start, so you don’t have to spend time trying to find them yourself.
www.lowrance.com
Raymarine Axiom 2 XL
Raymarine’s new top-of-the-line Axiom 2 XL is designed to grace the helms of the most exclusive sportfishing yachts, offshore battle waggons and luxury cruisers. The axiom two XL lineup is available in 16”, 19”, 22” and 24” sizes. These displays feature enhanced networking and extended multimedia capabilities, like HDMI input/output and touchscreen pass through. Raymarine Axiom 2 XL users can also enjoy RealVision MAX Sonar technology with the addition of the new RVM-1600 3D Sonar Module to their network. This black-box sonar processor can be added to the new Axiom 2XL series or any other legacy Raymarine Axiom system. Anglers adding RealVision MAX systems can also choose between a transom mounted RVM100 or the through-hull RVM400-series of transducers.
With the recently introduced LightHouse 4.7 Axiom, users can now get Power-Pole Integration for shallow water fishing and the new Smart DriftTM feature. This takes the guesswork out of starting a drift when bottom fishing, deep dropping or fishing over wrecks. More fishing features include important fish finder improvements. On the fish finder screen, anglers can use the zoom mode to automatically track the bottom when in view. The streamlined magnification window is easier to view, and in addition anglers can enter a Go-To destination waypoint directly from the fish finder screen via a long press on any target of interest.
New Sailing Features include customizable expanded polar tables, and Axiom can now take into account Beat and Run Angles for more efficient sailing in a range of conditions. Users can customize the Axiom interface with selectable route and track colors and upload a favorite image to use as a background wallpaper, which can be shared across all Axiom displays if multiple are networked together.
On the chart screen, a long press anywhere on the chart pops up a context-sensitive menu that can be dragged with a finger, and the data it displays will update based on the cursor’s new location. For the ultimate in on-the-water entertainment, LightHouse 4.7 is now compatible with Wet Sounds WS-BB-10 marine audio receiver via NMEA 2000. This offers complete control of the audio direct from the display without the need for a dedicated remote, providing a cleaner helm space.
Simrad NSX ULTRAWIDE
A unique new option in marine electronics is Simrad’s new NSX ULTRAWIDE multifunction display. This delivers the benefits of a dual screen in one place for a more streamlined and immersive experience. For the first time, see apps as they were meant to be seen—uninterrupted by bezels or dead space. NSX ULTRAWIDE offers the same active area as two smaller displays, but in terms of functionality, it offers much more. Experience optimized splits and uninterrupted data flows that are easier to digest, unlocking more data, more controls and more possibilities. Get a unique eye-catching dashboard and experience C-MAP’s X-Gen charts in more detail than ever. The bundles C-MAP Discover X charts for North America and Canada are optimized specifically for the NSX ULTRAWIDE.
The NSX ULTRAWIDE’s high pixel density shows super-sharp resolution like never before, giving you unprecedented levels of detail. An upgrade to the stunning REVEAL™ X adds Satellite Imagery and incredible Shaded Relief for 3D floor views on par with the best in the industry—a true game-changer for anglers and divers.
We spoke to Navico’s Ryan Flynn at the IBEX show this fall, where he demonstrated how the NSX ULTRAWIDE works. The starting point was to use this big wide screen as a split screen. You’re basically getting two screens worth of real estate in one seamless screen all the way across. Charts look amazing, especially in full screen. Or you can use the split-screen’s width to drag other applications onto the screen so you can set up the information exactly how you want. Once the images are split, you can interact with them independently or just hit one button to pull them onto full screen. Collapse it back into your splits when you are done.
We have been talking about upgrading your helm electronics, but many older boats were not built with a big dashboard area. With the Simrad NSX ULTRAWIDE, you may be able to get a large display without having to add a second screen or fit more screen area where the boat originally had gauges or a hard mounted stereo unit. Engine instruments like your Mercury controls could be close to the driver while the navigation charts run closer to the companion seat.
Keep your charts up along with engine instruments, add a rearview camera for water sports observation and still have room for the audio controls, each working independently. Get more screen real estate with a Simrad NSX ULTRAWIDE and use your boat for what you want!
www.simrad-yachting.com.
CMP SMartyr SCP
Introducing the SMartyr SCP System: A new era in marine protection and an Innovation Award Winning new product. Since the invention of the sacrificial anode in 1824 by Sir Humphry Davy, cathodic protection has been essential for safeguarding marine vessels. While traditional anodes made from zinc, aluminum, and magnesium have protected boats for centuries, they come with environmental drawbacks, especially zinc, which can harm marine ecosystems.
CMP Group, in partnership with Piombino Tech and Quality Mark, has revolutionized marine protection with the SMartyr SCP System. This innovative, solar-powered device offers continuous, eco-friendly corrosion protection without the need for frequent replacements. By harnessing underwater solar energy, SMartyr SCP ensures optimal, sustainable protection for all types of vessels, fundamentally changing how we approach marine corrosion defense.
On the morning of October 1st at IBEX in Tampa, Florida, the SMartyr SCP System won the first Innovation Award presented at the Industry Breakfast. Judge Tim Murphy stated, “Nearly every boat needs to be protected from galvanic corrosion, but our typical metal sacrificial anodes add toxic metals to the water we boat in. The CMP SMartyr impressed-current cathodic protection solves this problem and satisfies the ABYC E-2 power requirement with a self-contained lithium battery charged by solar cells. The unit senses hull potential, self-regulates and indicates proper functioning with LED lights. It’s a clean solution at a similar price to sacrificial anodes.”
Key Features & Benefits
•Innovative Technology: An internationally patented device that captures underwater solar energy to power an impressed current cathodic protection system (ICCP), safeguarding metal components from galvanic corrosion.
•Eco-Friendly: Free from harmful elements like cadmium, mercury, indium, and copper, ensuring no deposits are left on the seabed and marine ecosystems remain protected.
•Smart Device: Automatically detects and adjusts to the level of corrosion protection required for all water salinity types, ensuring optimal performance in any environment.
•Simplification: A single device replaces the need for various sizes, shapes, and alloy types of traditional anodes.
•Longevity: Equipped with a high-efficiency solar panel and large-capacity lithium-ion batteries, the SMartyr SCP System has a lifespan of at least 2-3 years, reducing maintenance costs.
•Slim Design: Hydrodynamically optimized to minimize drag in high-flow underwater applications, such as hulls, rudders, and trim tabs.
•Ease of Installation: Quick and secure attachment with no drilling or wiring required.
•Safety & Security: Protects vital vessel components from corrosion, ensuring reliable operation of propulsion and steering systems.
The SMartyr SCP System is the next step in marine protection—smart, sustainable, and future-proof.
https://martyranodes.com/smartyr-scp-system
Garmin GC 245 and GC 255 Cameras
With many new cars and trucks coming with a back-up camera as standard equipment, why shouldn’t your boat have a camera too? Now you can dock your boat with confidence using the all-new Garmin GC 245 and GC 255 marine cameras. These 1080p 2Full HD cameras are built for Garmin chart plotters and can provide distance markers and guidance lines to enhance situational awareness during low-speed maneuvers, such as docking in tight quarters.
Enhanced Visibility on the Water
Utilizing cutting-edge camera technology, the GC 245 and GC 255 provide several enhanced video features for increased situational awareness and collision avoidance, including:
•Multiple views: See what’s around the boat from different perspectives, including wide-angle, FishEye View, and Bird’s Eye View1, which gives a projected overhead view of the boat, similar to Surround View. All views work in normal and low light conditions.
•On-screen guidance: Distance markers and guidance lines offer helpful visual references for boaters to understand the proximity of surrounding objects. These markers can be shown in standard or Bird’s Eye view.
•Multi-camera streaming: See up to four camera feeds simultaneously on a compatible chart plotter, or share video across networked chart plotters for better viewing throughout the vessel.
• Digital zoom and pan: Utilize digital zoom to take a closer look at a specific area of interest or pan around the field of view to focus on anything within sight.
Mounting and Aesthetic Options
Engineered for a wide range of boats, the GC 255 has a stainless steel thru-hull design that can be flush-mounted for a sleek and modern aesthetic. The GC 245 features a surface-mount design with black or white options to complement your boat’s color scheme. It can be mounted with the dome up or down and does not require cutting into the vessel’s hull for simple installation. Both camera models also offer easy setup and full integration on the Garmin Marine Network or the Garmin BlueNet™ network. Rugged and weatherproof, these cameras have an IPX7 rating to withstand typical marine environments, including water and dust.
Available now, the GC 245 surface mount camera has a suggested retail price of $699.99 USD, while the flush mount GC 255 camera has a suggested retail price of $999.99 USD. They are compatible with a wide range of Garmin chart plotters and multifunction displays, including the GPSMAP®x2, GPSMAP x3, GPSMAP 8400/8600 and GPSMAP 9000 series, along with the GPSMAP 8700 Black Box and the new GPSMAP 9500 Black Box. To learn more, visit garmin.com/marine.
*1Professional calibration required.
**2Full HD resolution (1080p) is available on the Garmin BlueNet network only; up to 720p (HD) resolution is available on the Garmin Marine Network.
