BMEA

Mastervolt is adding an ‘intelligent’ digital switching module to its MasterBus system. The Digital DC 10x10A module reduces the size, weight and complexity of wiring on board while increasing the degree of control over incandescent, halogen and LED lights and all types of electrical motor-driven appliances to give a completely integrated electrical system. Digital switching even makes it possible to switch on lights, fridge, air conditioning or heating, ready for the owner’s arrival, by simply sending a SMS text message to the boat!

The addition of the Digital DC 10x10A means that Mastervolt now offers both AC and DC digital switching. Another bonus this system has to offer is that 12V lights can be used on 24V battery sets.

Compatible with both 12V and 24V, the system allows the operator to control any product from anywhere on board. For example, you can dim the cabin lights from the cockpit or flying bridge, or switch off the generator from the berth in the master cabin. Alternatively, you can control the whole system from a central switch panel – the choice is yours.

It also provides extra functionality such as the ability to dim the cabin lights without adding a dimming switch or add a toilet fan overrun using the system’s programming. It can automatically switch off loads should the batteries start to become low or sound an alarm should the bilge pump run longer than, say, one hour.

The MasterBus monitors the boat’s power consumption and balances it with the remaining battery capacity on the DC system. For example, if the air conditioning is switched on (a high consumption load) it will automatically start the generator to ensure the batteries remain charged. It can even automatically switch off loads when leaving the boat.

It’s a sophisticated system and yet it’s easy to configure. The MasterBus protocol was introduced last year and was designed to allow high-level integration of the onboard electrical system. Mastervolt already has 53 of its own products that can be connected for full control and automation by a single wire. And this number is still growing.  The Mastervolt Modbus interface allows other makes of equipment to be included in the system.

The Digital DC 10x10A provides 10 load connections of up to 10A each with pre-determined settings such as bilge pump output and lighting output. For greater loads, up to ten channels can be paralleled to control up to 100A.

All outputs can be named – for example, reading light, bilge pump, navigation light – combined with a user interface in your own language (using a choice of 10 languages).  Operation is very easy.  Power consumption at rest is an ultra low 2mA.

Installation is made easy with simple snap-in connections on a single-line ‘daisy-chain’ using strain-relieved cables. Troubleshooting is also simplified. The system can indicate whichever was the last module to control it – simple yet crucial help in fault finding for bus systems. There’s an option to restore the original yard settings and a manual on/off override on all outputs. In the event of an item failure, the system is designed to recognise when a part is replaced and will ask whether you wish to restore the same configuration.

Digital switching – one system, one cable, easy to install and easy to use. What could be simpler?