The ultimate solution for the distribution of onboard navigation, safety and device data.
The Actisense PRO-NDC-1E2K is a world’s first and industry-leading, type approved NMEA 0183 multiplexer, NMEA 2000 and Ethernet gateway designed to revolutionise marine data management. This device offers a plethora of benefits that make it an indispensable tool for both leisure and commercial marine applications.
One of the most significant advantages of the PRO-NDC-1E2K is the ability to seamlessly integrate legacy and modern instruments, overcoming many interconnectivity challenges. It supports five opto-isolated NMEA 0183 inputs and two ISO-Drive NMEA 0183 outputs, ensuring that all connected devices can communicate without interference. This high level of isolation protects against hazardous ground loops, which are a common cause of equipment failure in marine environments.
The device also sports an NMEA 2000 M12 Connection, which allows for direct connection to an NMEA 2000 network. Bi-directional data conversion is supported by the 1E2K, thanks to the legendary Actisense conversion library that’s baked in. This means that the NMEA 0183 legacy instruments connected to the multiplexer can have their data converted and shared with the NMEA 2000 instruments, without the need for an external gateway or any other products.
However, the power of the 1E2K doesn’t stop there… we also have bi-directional streaming of data via Ethernet! Multiple data formats are supported over the Ethernet socket, meaning you can send NMEA 0183, RAW, Actisense NGT and other formats, and also receive the same data via an Ethernet connection. This completely removes the issue of data rates and bandwidth concerns, as Ethernet is 40-40000x faster than a serial connection (speed of Ethernet dependent).
User-Friendly Configuration
Configuring the PRO-NDC-1E2K is straightforward, thanks to its user-friendly web-based graphical interface. This eliminates the need for manual text string entries or commands to be entered, making the setup process much more accessible. This intuitive interface ensures that even those with limited technical expertise can manage their marine data effectively.
Connecting to the device is very straightforward as well. Connect the device via Ethernet to an existing DHCP Router / Network and then reach the web page by either entering http://prondc-xxxxxx (where x is replaced with serial number) or entering the assigned IP address of the 1E2K.
Link local connections also work, by connecting an Ethernet cable directly between a PC/Laptop that has internet access and the 1E2K. The device also supports of static IP address setting, meaning that the device can be locked to one IP address that will never change. This is ideal for busy networks with lots of IP devices, or for systems which have remote monitoring and access from onshore locations as the IP address will never change. (Please make a note of your IP address if you set a static address!).
Data Routing and Advanced Filtering
To optimize bandwidth and ensure that only relevant data is transmitted, the PRO-NDC-1E2K features both simple data routing and advanced sentence filtering capabilities. This feature is particularly beneficial in complex marine environments where multiple data sources are in use. Simple data routing is useful when the user wants to limit certain inputs to specific outputs. For example, a GPS input may be routed so it only goes to the N2K Port and the AIS/VHF for example, and will be blocked from a wind instrument because this has no use for the data.
Advanced filtering and routing are utilised where bandwidth and amount of data start to become an issue. The principle works the same as the normal routing, however this is done on an individual sentence level, rather than just the device itself. In this scenario, we may have 5 or 6 sentences coming from the GPS, but we actually only want GGA and GLL to be received by the connected device, so we can block the rest of the sentences from being output. Another great use case for this is if we have instruments with fast output rates, such as fast heading. These can consume serial bandwidth very quickly when sending 10 messages a second. For this, we may only want one specific sentence to be sent and the rest to be blocked so that unnecessary bandwidth is not consumed.
Robust and Reliable
Built to withstand the harsh marine environment, the PRO-NDC-1E2K boasts a rugged stainless steel housing. This durability ensures that the device can endure the rigors of marine life, providing reliable performance over the long term. The device is also RINA type-approved, making it suitable for both leisure and commercial installations.
Unlike most manufacturers in the industry who only offer 12 or 24-month warranty on their products, we are so confident in the reliability and strength of our products that we offer 5-year warranty on all registered products. Actisense has always been a big advocate of reliability and we’ve made incredibly robust products for years, with no intention of stopping. Many installers refer to our products as a ‘fit and forget’ product, because they never have to worry or get called back about them failing! A true testimony to our robust product range.
Diagnostic Capabilities
The PRO-NDC-1E2K is equipped with multiple LEDs that provide quick-glance diagnostics. These indicators show power status, data in/out activity, and overall system health, allowing users to identify and troubleshoot any issues quickly. This feature is invaluable for maintaining optimal system performance and ensuring that all connected devices are functioning correctly.
Alongside this, the 1E2K also carries Actisense-i diagnostic tools within its web interface. This suite of tools is great for monitoring your NMEA 2000 network, enabling visibility of all connected devices on the bus, bus voltage, load and installer reports which can be signed and dated. This means that the device can be visually checked for NMEA 0183 operation via the LEDs, and NMEA 2000 operation + Ethernet data connection and transfers via the web interface.
Oh and not forgetting, the Actisense-i tools are free, as they are included in the firmware of the product. This means that whenever an improvement or extra feature is added to Actisense-i, it will be accessible by updating the product, which will always be free. Why pay for access to network diagnostics from other manufacturers, when we can offer the same at no cost?
Actisense has designed the PRO-NDC-1E2K with future-proofing in mind. The device supports free firmware updates, ensuring that it remains compatible with the latest technologies and standards. This commitment to ongoing improvement means that users can invest in the PRO-NDC-1E2K with confidence, knowing that it will continue to meet their needs for years to come.