Connecting the Bridge Control Unit cables
When you connect the cables, make sure that they are all properly secured, and able to withstand the vibration and movements of the vessel.
Context
All the connectors and ports you need to get started are on the rear side of the Bridge Control Unit.
Image
A NMEA data input serial connector
B Third-wire deck cable connector
C Ethernet port
D Remote Panel connector
E Voltage selector switch
F Power socket
G Power switch
H Ground pin
WARNING
Beware of high voltages in the Bridge Control Unit. Do not open the unit. There are no serviceable parts inside.
Procedure
1 Connect a GPS to the Bridge Control Unit using a serial line.
Most global positioning system (GPS) receivers provide NMEA 0183 datagrams containing geographical latitude and longitude information, as well as current speed and sailed distance.
a Connect an RS-232 cable to the nine-pin NMEA data input serial connector (A). Make sure the pin signals are wired as follows.
•  Receive signal Rx on pin 2.
•  Transmit signal Tx on pin 3.
•  Common Ground on pin 5.
b On the GPS system, wire as described in the relevant documentation.
c Make sure that the total length of the serial line cable does not exceed approximately 50 meters.
If a longer cable is required, you may need to use buffer amplifiers on the serial line.
2 Connect the third-wire deck cable from the winch to the third-wire deck cable connector (B).
3 Connect the Ethernet cable from your Processor Unit to the Ethernet port (C).
4 If you have a Remote Panel (optional), you can connect its cable to the Remote Panel connector (D).
5 Select the correct voltage using the voltage selector switch (E).
Caution
You must change the input supply voltage on the Bridge Control Unit to match the ship’s mains power. Failure to select the proper AC Input Voltage to match the ship’s mains power may damage the Bridge Control Unit.
6 Connect the power cable from the AC power outlet to the power socket (F).
7 If your power cable is not earthed (does not have a ground wire), then you must connect a grounding cable from the dedicated ground pin (H) to the vessel’s ground in the fuse box (or other common grounding point).
Note
Another ground pin is located on the front of the Bridge Control Unit for your convenience.