SimNet

Electronics giant Simrad announce new protocol

Leading marine electronics manufacturer Simrad will unveil its revolutionary data sharing and control network, SimNet, to the marine media at METS 2003. This high-speed, high-capacity network utilises the smallest cables and plugs of any maritime network available. It facilitates the full connection of Simrad products, allowing for such features as the display of dVHF messages on navigation consoles.

The new Simrad SimNet plug and play integration system provides an exceptionally easy installation and interface between plotters, radar, autopilots, VHF radios and other instruments. SimNet offers the simplest solution for the integration of marine electronics and is set to revolutionise on board connectivity between navigation, steering and communication systems. It’s size makes installation of onboard networks easy - 10mm holes are all that are required to feed the cable through bulkheads and walls and deck. This has been achieved by downsizing the plugs themselves and by designing the system to run without the large ‘ferrite interference suppresser’ blocks found on other data cabling systems.

SimNet provides NMEA 2000 compatibility, enabling connection to other systems such as engine monitoring. Using an active interface SimNet is also able to connect to existing equipment using NMEA 0183.

The introduction of the SimNet system highlights Simrad’s dedication to providing flexibility within its range of advanced marine electronics. Simrad’s new product range will utilise the benefits offered by SimNet and offer full compatibility with the systems.
New products featuring SimNet on show at METS 2003 include the 34 Series multi-role products, the AP16 and AP25 Series autopilots and Simrad’s benchmark modular dVHF radios, the RS86 and RS87.