3.4 ConnectBox Display Connections

Seakeeper 6 Display Options

A compatible multi-function display (MFD) is required with the installation of a Seakeeper 6 to support the full functionality of the unit through the Seakeeper App in addition to the ConnectBox. The Seakeeper App provides an interface for controlling the Seakeeper or viewing the Settings, Service, Info, and Alarm pages. The Seakeeper ConnectBox can be helm-mounted to provide an additional interface for the control of the Seakeeper but does not replace the need for a compatible display.

The Seakeeper 6 has several options for establishing a Seakeeper display interface to support the Seakeeper App:

1. Preferably, connect the Seakeeper to a compatible Multifunction Display (MFD) (Fig. 40A).
2. A combination of a compatible MFD with a remote-mounted ConnectBox is also available (Fig. 40B).

Figure 40 provides a schematic of the preferred display option. The subsequent sections outline the instructions and references for connecting the Seakeeper 6 in each of these display options.

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Connecting to a Compatible MFD

1. The Seakeeper 6 can be connected to a variety of available MFD systems. Refer to the Technical Bulletins Section of the Seakeeper Technical Library for manufacturer specific MFD compatibility technical bulletins.
   
   • MFD specific Technical Bulletins will be updated regularly as new MFD systems become compatible. Currently GARMIN, RAYMARINE, NAVICO (Simrad, Lowrance, B&G), and FURUNO offer compatible MFD models.
   • Once a compatible MFD has been selected, refer to the appropriate manufacturer specific Technical Bulletin for integration instructions.
2. Connect Seakeeper-supplied M12 D-Code, 32.8 ft (10 m), cable (P/N 30330) to MFD manufacturer-specific Ethernet adapter cable. Custom Ethernet cables for specific MFD manufacturers are available through Seakeeper and must be purchased with the Seakeeper 6 if connecting to an MFD.

NOTE: The ethernet cable MUST be connected to the ConnectBox.
The Seakeeper 6 will not work properly if the ethernet cable is
connected to the optional 5″ Touch Display.

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NMEA 2000 Network Connection

The Seakeeper 6 requires a connection to the vessel’s NMEA 2000 network backbone via a drop cable for access to the GPS signal. The Seakeeper 6 will monitor information on the NMEA network to support and optimize the performance of the Seakeeper 6. If no GPS signal is detected, a warning will appear on the Seakeeper display. The Seakeeper will not spool-down, but the operation of the unit will be limited until the GPS signal returns.

1. Install customer-supplied NMEA 2000 Tee Adapter (space required: approximately 4 W X 3 H in. (102 X 76 mm).
2. Connect NMEA Backbone to Tee Adapter.
   NOTE: NMEA drop cable can be no longer than 19.6 ft (6 m) in length.
3. Connect Seakeeper-supplied NMEA cable (P/N: 30332) to the customer-supplied NMEA 2000 Tee Adapter on vessel’s NMEA 2000 backbone.
   
   1. An active NMEA 2000 compatible GPS signal is required on the vessel’s NMEA 2000 backbone to operate the Seakeeper 6.
      
      • If no GPS signal is detected, a Speed Over Ground (SOG signal) warning will be present on the Seakeeper app. See TB-90640 for NMEA connectivity guidance.

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ConnectBox Helm Mounting – Optional

The ConnectBox helm mounting may be considered when replacing an earlier Seakeeper model with a 5″ Touch Display and connecting to a compatible MFD. This configuration eliminates the need to run an Ethernet cable from the Seakeeper to the MFD.

1. Console space required: Approx. 3.41 L x 4.15 W in. (87 x 106 mm).
2. Mounting Instructions, Surface Mount: Refer to Drawing No. 90558 – Seakeeper ConnectBox Helm Mounting Kit for details. Seakeeper ConnectBox 3D Model available upon request.
3. Mount the ConnectBox Replacement Blank insert into the Seakeeper 6 top cover at the original location of the ConnectBox.