VCM100 grounding requirements

VCM100 grounding requirements.
Note

The Magnum is not grounded directly, but is connected to ground via the VCM100. The following grounding requirements apply to the VCM100:

  • The VCM100 power cable screen must be connected to the vessel’s common ground point.

  • It is recommended that the common ground point is a bonded ground, i.e. with the ground point connected to battery negative, and situated as close as possible to the battery negative terminal. If a bonded ground system is not possible, a non-bonded RF ground may be used.

VCM100groundingGroundingVCM100

  • A — Bonded ground system (preferred)

  • B — RF ground system (alternative)

  1. Power cable to VCM100.

  2. VCM100 drain (screen).

  3. Bonded (preferred) or non-bonded RF ground.

  4. Power supply.

Implementation

If several items require grounding, they may first be connected to a single local point (e.g. within a switch panel), with this point connected via a single, appropriately-rated conductor, to the boat’s common ground. The preferred minimum requirement for the path to ground (bonded or non-bonded) is via a flat tinned copper braid, with a 30 A rating (1/4 inch) or greater. If this is not possible, an equivalent stranded wire conductor maybe used, rated as follows:

  • for runs of <1 m (3 ft), use 6 mm2 (#10 AWG) or greater.

  • for runs of >1 m (3 ft), use 8 mm2 (#8 AWG) or greater.

In any grounding system, always keep the length of connecting braid or wires as short as possible.

Important

Do NOT connect this product to a positively-grounded power system.

References and best practice

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