Cabling and Interconnect
The only cabling standard approved by the NMEA for use with NMEA 2000 networks is the DeviceNet cabling standard, which is controlled by the Open DeviceNet Vendors Association. Such cabling systems are permitted to be labeled "NMEA 2000 Approved". The DeviceNet standard defines levels of shielding, conductor size, weather resistance, and flexibility which are not necessarily met by other cabling solutions marketed as "NMEA 2000" compatible.
There are two sizes of cabling defined by the DeviceNet/NMEA 2000 standard. The larger of the two sizes is unfortunately denoted as "Mini" (or alternatively, "Thick") cable, and is rated to carry up to 8 Amperes of power supply current. The smaller of the two sizes is denoted as "Micro" (or alternatively, "Thin") cable, and is rated to carry up to 3 Amperes of power supply current.
Mini cable is primarily used as a "backbone" (or "trunk") for networks of larger vessels (typically with lengths of 20 m and above), with Micro cable used for connections between the network backbone and the individual components. Networks on smaller vessels often are constructed entirely of Micro cable and connectors.
An NMEA 2000 network is not electrically compatible with an NMEA 0183 network, and so an interface device is required to send messages between devices on the different types of network. Examples include the Maretron USB-100, Simrad AT10 and Actisense's NGW-1. These devices vary in which messages they will translate between the two networks. An adapter such as the Actisense NGT-1-USB, Airmar U200 or Maretron USB100 is also required if NMEA 2000 messages are to be received by or transmitted from a PC.
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