Maintaining and Upgrading your NMEA 2000 network

The NMEA 2000 network is the backbone of modern marine electronics, connecting everything from GPS systems and fish finders to engine monitoring systems and autopilots. Although NMEA 2000 is a robust system based on CAN technology, regular maintenance and sometimes equipment upgrades are required – either out of necessity or to improve functionality.

Why is NMEA 2000 maintenance important?

Regular maintenance of your NMEA 2000 network ensures reliable operation of connected devices, prevents data communication issues, and extends the lifespan of network components. Neglecting maintenance can lead to poor performance, communication errors, and even damage to expensive equipment.

Tips for maintaining NMEA 2000 networks

1. Regular inspection of cables and connections

One of the most common problems with NMEA 2000 networks is poor connections between cables and T-pieces, often caused by excessive strain or improper tightening. Regularly check cables, connectors, and T-pieces for signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Replace them if necessary, as they are affordable components that can solve many connection problems.

2. Clean and protect connections

Marine environments are harsh, with saltwater, high humidity, and temperature fluctuations contributing to corrosion and degradation. Use cables and connectors designed to withstand these conditions. Metal connectors, such as those in the Actisense A2K series, offer higher reliability due to their robust design.

3. Check proper termination and power supply

An NMEA 2000 network requires proper termination at both ends of the backbone and a stable power supply. Ensure terminators are correctly installed, that there are only two terminators on the backbone, and that the power supply remains within the required range of 9–16 VDC. Poor or excessive power supply can cause communication errors or device failures.

4. Monitor network traffic

Using an NMEA 2000 gateway, such as NGX-1, is highly recommended for network monitoring and recording. With Actisense NGX-1 and NMEA Reader, you can see all devices on the network and the data being sent, including the PGN transmission frequency.

Upgrading your NMEA 2000 network

Sometimes upgrades are necessary if equipment has failed, and other times it's just a desire – for example, to get a new, larger screen or a more accurate GPS. Some things to consider when performing upgrades and adding extra devices to the network are:

1. Assess network capacity

Before adding new devices, assess your current network capacity. Large networks can suffer from power issues, especially with long backbone connections with multiple devices where devices at the ends do not receive enough power.

2. Upgrade to better cables and connectors

If you plan to add more devices, consider upgrading to higher capacity cables and connectors. Choose NMEA 2000 certified cables with better shielding and durability, especially if you work in demanding environments. Switching from micro cables to medium cables can also reduce voltage drop across the network, although it can be time-consuming for existing networks.

3. Add more power nodes

When expanding the network, ensure the power supply is sufficient. You may need to add more power nodes to distribute power evenly across the network, preventing voltage drops and ensuring stable operation.

4. Integrate new devices seamlessly

When adding new devices, ensure they are NMEA 2000 certified to avoid interference with other instruments. Always follow the manufacturer's installation instructions and thoroughly test the network after installation to ensure everything works correctly.

Conclusion

Maintaining and upgrading your NMEA 2000 network is crucial to ensuring the reliability and performance of your boat's electronics. Through regular inspections, careful upgrades, and staying updated with the latest standards, you can keep your network in top condition.

Actisense has created an E-book "The Ultimate Guide to NMEA 2000 Networking" that goes through the setup of an NMEA 2000 network in more detail.