Power distribution

Recommendations and best practice.
PowerDistribution

  • The product is NOT supplied with a power cable. An appropriately rated 2 core power cable is required.

  • Refer to the Power connection section for more information on how to identify where to connect the power cable on your product.

  • See below for more information on implementation for some common power distribution scenarios:

Important

Ensure that the negative power cable (0 V return) of the system is connected to the same battery negative as all input and output devices that are being controlled or monitored by that system.

Note

  • When planning and wiring, take into consideration other products in your system, some of which (e.g. sonar modules) may place large power demand peaks on the vessel’s electrical system, which may impact the voltage available to other products during the peaks.

  • The information provided below is for guidance only, to help protect your product. It covers common vessel power arrangements, but does NOT cover every scenario. If you are unsure how to provide the correct level of protection, please consult an authorized dealer or a suitably qualified professional marine electrician.

Implementation — connection to distribution panel

  1. Power supply negative (-) Black wire

  2. Power supply positive (+) Red wire

  3. Waterproof thermal circuit breaker or inline fuse (rating determined by system current draw).

  • ConnectionsDistribution panelPowerDistribution panelIt is recommended that the supplied power cable is connected to a suitable breaker or switch on the vessel's distribution panel or factory-fitted power distribution point.

  • The distribution point should be fed from the vessel’s primary power source.

Implementation — direct connection to battery

  • ConnectionsBatteryPowerBattery connection Where connection to a power distribution panel is not possible , the power cable supplied with your product may be connected directly to the vessel's battery, via a suitably rated fuse or breaker.

  1. Power supply negative (-) Black wire

  2. Power supply positive (+) Red wire

  3. Waterproof thermal circuit breaker or inline fuse (rating determined by system current draw).

More information

InstallationBest practiceIt is recommended that best practice is observed in all vessel electrical installations, as detailed in the following standards:

  • BMEA Code of Practice for Electrical and Electronic Installations in Boats

  • NMEA 0400 Installation Standard

  • ISO 13297: Small craft — Electrical systems — Alternating and direct current installations

  • ISO 10133: Small craft — Electrical systems — Extra-low-voltage d.c. installations

  • ABYC E-11 AC & DC Electrical Systems on Boats

  • ABYC A-31 Battery chargers and Inverters

  • ABYC TE-4 Lightning Protection