The National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) has been the leading organization in setting standards for marine electronics for over 50 years. The NMEA 2000 is a communication standard that enables data exchange between marine electronic devices such as GPS receivers, chartplotters, sonar, and radar. The objective of this wiring diagram guide is to provide an easy-to-understand overview of the NMEA 2000 wiring diagram, including the cables, connectors, and terminators required to create a reliable marine network.
What is NMEA 2000?
NMEA 2000 is a marine communication protocol that enables devices to communicate with each other on a network. The NMEA 2000 network is a two-wire system consisting of a backbone and drop lines. The backbone is the primary cable that runs the length of the boat, while the drop lines connect to the individual devices. The backbone and drop lines are connected using connectors and terminators to ensure the network operates correctly.
The NMEA 2000 standard is designed to be plug-and-play, meaning that any device that is compliant with the standard can be easily integrated into the network. This makes it easy to add new devices to your existing network without having to reconfigure the entire system.
NMEA 2000 Cables and Connectors
There are several different types of cables and connectors that are used in a NMEA 2000 network. These include:
| Cable Type | Connector Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Micro-C | Male/Female | Used to connect devices to the backbone or drop lines. |
| Power | Male/Female | Provides power to the network. |
| Backbone | Male/Female/Tee | Connects the drop lines to the backbone. |
The connectors used in a NMEA 2000 network are designed to be waterproof and corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for use in a marine environment.
NMEA 2000 Terminators
Terminators are essential components in a NMEA 2000 network. They are used to ensure that the network operates correctly by terminating the signal at both ends of the backbone. There are two types of terminators: passive and active.
A passive terminator is a simple resistor that is connected to the backbone between the two connectors. An active terminator, on the other hand, contains electronic components that enable it to communicate with the network and ensure proper termination.
NMEA 2000 Wiring Diagram
Creating a NMEA 2000 network requires careful planning and attention to detail. The following wiring diagram provides an overview of the different components required to create a reliable network.
Step 1: Plan Your Network Layout
The first step in creating a NMEA 2000 network is to plan the layout. This involves deciding where the backbone will be routed, where the drop lines will be connected, and where the terminators will be installed.
When planning the layout, it is essential to consider the requirements of each device in the network. For example, devices that require a lot of bandwidth, such as chartplotters and radar, should be connected directly to the backbone to ensure optimal performance.
Step 2: Install the Backbone
Once the layout has been planned, the next step is to install the backbone. This involves running the primary cable from one end of the boat to the other, ensuring that it is securely attached to the boat’s structure.
The backbone should be installed away from sources of interference, such as electrical wiring and motors, to ensure that the signal is not disrupted.
Step 3: Install Drop Lines
With the backbone in place, the next step is to install the drop lines that connect the individual devices to the network. Drop lines should be connected to the backbone using T-connectors, and devices should be connected to the drop lines using Micro-C connectors.
Devices should be installed in a logical order, starting with the most critical devices and working outwards. This ensures that the network operates efficiently and that critical devices have access to the bandwidth they require.
Step 4: Install Terminators
The final step in creating a NMEA 2000 network is to install the terminators. Terminators should be installed at both ends of the backbone to ensure that the signal is correctly terminated.
Passive terminators can be installed by connecting a 120-ohm resistor across the two wires in the backbone. Active terminators, on the other hand, should be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
NMEA 2000 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the maximum length of a NMEA 2000 network?
The maximum length of a NMEA 2000 network is 200m (656ft) using a backbone and drop lines. However, if you require a longer network, you can use multiple networks connected using gateways.
Do I need to use terminators in my NMEA 2000 network?
Yes, terminators are essential components in a NMEA 2000 network. They ensure that the signal is correctly terminated at both ends of the backbone, which is critical to ensure proper operation of the network.
Can I add devices to my NMEA 2000 network?
Yes, one of the key benefits of the NMEA 2000 standard is that it is designed to be plug-and-play. This means that any device that is compliant with the standard can be easily integrated into the network, making it easy to add new devices to your existing network.
What happens if a device fails in my NMEA 2000 network?
If a device fails in your NMEA 2000 network, it will not affect the operation of the network. The failed device can be easily replaced without having to reconfigure the entire system.
In conclusion, creating a NMEA 2000 network requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this wiring diagram guide, you can create a reliable network that will provide years of trouble-free operation.
