Intelligent switching for smaller vessels

Netherlands-headquartered mobile and marine power systems specialist Mastervolt has announced the launch of the CZone Combination Output Interface (COI), a compact and intelligent replacement for a traditional fuse box and panel of circuit breakers when using digital switching technology.

CZone is a proven CANbus technology where a single data cable is used to operate clusters of switches around the vessel. In larger vessels, there could be an average of 5 separate output interfaces, each installed at key locations and operating dozens of local appliances along with ancillaries such as timers and dimmers. The new Combined Output Interface, however, uses just one compact 30-channel unit to provide all the necessary outputs, making it ideal for much smaller vessels.

The COI is essentially a complete CZone system in a single, rugged box, making it a cost effective solution where space – and budgets – are limited. By using fewer connection points along with industry-standard ‘plug and play’ Deutsch connectors, Mastervolt says that the COI is very easy to install.

The designers have also added a USB port to improve remote serviceability and allow for easy upgrades, while a high power 150 amp unit fields enough energy for modern domestic appliances that may be run through the boat’s systems.

A CZone touchscreen is used to operate a boat’s systems centrally, and as the ABYC and CE safety authorities require every circuit to have both a fuse and a bypass; this is provided within the COI. Each blade fuse can be simply withdrawn to isolate a circuit, and pushed into a different position to create a bypass. To aid identification of the individual fuses, Marinco has developed an improved adhesive circuit label, which is printed to a customer’s exact requirements. A clear plastic viewing cover protects the fuses, although a large clipping system provides fast access. Red and green LEDS indicate a circuit’s status at a glance.

The COI unit has multiple layers of protection provided by software, hardware and mechanical means for ultimate reliability. The casing is built to the IPX5 water ingress standard, and to aid aesthetics, an optional plate can be used to hide the cable’s glands.

Other features include high power bilge pump channels to allow manual control, plus ‘pump running’ feedback from a single channel without the need for additional wiring.

In a typical 27 ft boat, the COI provides 6 digital switch inputs (wiper, horn etc), 8 analogue inputs (start battery, fuel gauge sender etc) 12 low current outputs (courtesy lights, anchor light etc) and 4 high current (25 A) outputs (bilge and water pumps).

With a smaller footprint, simple connections and the ability to upgrade via a USB, the new Combination Output Interface is the ideal cost effective solution for a wide range of small commercial vessels that want the safety and convenience of digital switching, but without multiple output units.

The UK recommended retail price is £1,623 excluding VAT.