New-Tech Europe Magazine | Jan 2018

Built for a life at sea NMEA2000(standardisedasIEC61162- 3) is a plug-and-play communications standard used for connecting marine sensors and display units within ships and boats. It has established a powerful framework for safer, more reliable marine communications, streamlining the connectivity of boat engines, navigation, control, power distribution, water, waste and other mechanical and monitoring systems. Signal integrity, data management and electrical voltage grounding are key challenges when designing the connected boat. Reliability and safety depend on the integrity of power and signal connections that must perform unfailingly, regardless of harsh ambient conditions. That is why it is vital to use robust, proven products to create reliable integrated on-board networks, with the lowest install and maintenance costs over time. Molex marine connectivity solutions are ideal for developing on-board digital applications and equipment, and meeting demand for higher data speeds and bandwidth. From navigation systems, bilge pumps and fishfinders or sounders, to conveniences like hot water heaters, refrigerators and high- speed Ethernet, Molex IP-rated connectors assure that on-board systems are built for a life at sea. A comprehensive portfolio of Molex sealed quick disconnects, high- speed connectors, terminators and power products have been tested and validated to withstand extreme vibrations, temperature and saltwater exposure. These powerful technologies support electrical and network platforms, including marine engine controls, instrumentation panels, navigation equipment, power steering and autopilot systems, body electronic modules and dockside charging systems.

Image 1: MX150L™ Industrial Sealed Connector System

Redefining sealed marine connections Rugged marine solutions start with dependable sealing technology. Saltwater, fuel, cleaning chemicals and other contaminants can lead to electrical system malfunctions and failures if connection system seals are ineffective or compromised. Molex’s innovative and cost-competitive ML- XT™ Sealed Connection System is redefining seal reliability in marine connectivity for critical wiring applications in harsh environments. Its twin-shot LSR (liquid-silicone rubber) moulding and recessed rear seals combine to lock out contaminants from engines, pumps and other marine operations. The covalent bond between the seal and connector body permanently connects the two components at a molecular level. The ML-XT system mitigates seal positioning and movement problems. Its HCR (high-consistency rubber) recessed rear seals completely resist movement during cable routing. Protected by a rigid back cover, the

seal allows flexible cable movement, and its recessed, fixed nature significantly reduces the possibility of leak-paths found in traditional designs. The unique 18-circuit ML- XT sealed system, with field-proven XRC™ terminals, colour-coded housings and custom options, ships fully assembled — ready to deliver full IP68, IP69K and SAE J2030 compliance and dependability where and when it is most needed. High-speed bandwidth on the high seas On-board connections must be capable of being quickly connected or disconnected without risk of misaligned mating or loss of signal or power. A wide variety of keying and cabling options, as well as compact size and rugged sealing, make M12 a mainstay technology — as well as an NMEA OneNet (a future higher bandwidth upgrade from NMEA 2000) recommended connector for marine applications. Traditional threaded M12 connectors

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