NMEA 2000 Standard Version 3.000 – New PGNs and improved certification

Discover what's new in NMEA 2000 version 3.000: more PGNs, better interoperability, and upgraded certification tool for marine electronics.

NMEA has officially released version 3.000 of the NMEA 2000 standard. This update is a milestone for the marine electronics Industry and offers improved interoperability, new PGNs (Parameter Group Numbers), upgraded certification tools, and clearer documentation. The goal is to meet the needs of a rapidly growing market and ensure that all NMEA 2000 devices work seamlessly together.

What's new in NMEA 2000 version 3.000?

In the latest version, 19 new PGNs have been added:

• Lighting PGNs – For advanced lighting control, from simple navigation lighting to complex LED setups for superyachts.
• Linear Actuator PGN – For controlling outboard engine jack plates and davits.
• Bow Thruster PGN – For better maneuverability and control.
• Windlass PGN – For safer and more automated anchor handling.
• Lift PGN – For controlling lift functions on board.
• Vessel Acceleration PGN – For collision detection and increased safety.

In addition to these new features, all previous additions and corrections from the previous version have been integrated. Appendix D also contains detailed notes on the implementation of the new PGNs.

Why is the update important?

"Hopefully, installers and end-customers will feel confident that the NMEA 2000 standard is evolving to meet the needs of the market. The new lighting suite enables better control between Manufacturers – from simple navigation light switching to advanced LED setups for scene and mood."
– Andy Campbell, Chief Engineer at Actisense and Chairman of the NMEA 2000 Technical Steering Committee

Requirements for Manufacturers

Manufacturers must certify new products according to the updated standard within 18 months (deadline August 2023). NMEA also encourages firmware for existing products to be updated to support the new PGNs.

Improved certification tool

The new certification tool for hardware and software has been improved with support for automated regression testing, making the process faster and more reliable. Manufacturers can order the latest version via [email protected].

Purchase options for the standard

NMEA now offers flexible purchase options based on development needs:

• NMEA Network Message Database (Appendix A & B)
• NMEA 2000 Core (Main document, Appendix C, D, H)
• NMEA 2000 Physical Layer (Appendix I)

Version 3.000 is free for members who previously purchased the standard. Non-members can renew membership or purchase the update at a reduced price.