Albatross NMEA2000 Integration

2.4 Summary of Sensor Compatibility

Typical sensor type output adaptation Albatross module calibration method

American fuel level 10-180 Ω Alba Multi two-point calibration

European/VDO pressure 0-5 V Alba Engine/Alba Multi two-point or three-point calibration

European Temperature (PT100) 100-150 Ω Alba Multi (Resistance Mode) Standard Curve

AC generator voltage 12-14 V Alba Engine (direct input) read directly

Frequency/speed square wave Alba Engine (digital input) pulse per revolution setting

Network topology design and hardware installation

3.1 Main and branch cabling

The standard NMEA2000 network adopts a trunk+branch topology:

The backbone uses 5-core shielded cables: red (power+), black (power -), white (CAN H), blue (CAN L), and bare (shielded). Both ends of the main line must be equipped with 120 Ω terminal resistors (or use T-shaped connectors with terminal resistors).

The length of the drop cable should not exceed 6 meters (for high-speed networks, it is recommended to be less than 1 meter).

The total length of the trunk line can reach 100 meters (Micro connector) or 250 meters (Mini connector), with a maximum of 50 nodes.

Albatross modules typically use Micro-C or Mini-C specification interfaces, and adapter connectors need to be selected based on the existing network type at the shipyard.

3.2 Power Supply

The NMEA2000 mainline must and can only be powered by one power source (usually a 12V marine battery). In 24V ships, a DC-DC converter must be used to reduce the voltage to 12V. The Albatross module has extremely low power consumption (typical value<1W) and can be directly powered by the main line. If there are high current devices (such as electric actuators), it is recommended to provide separate power supply.

3.3 Key points of physical installation

Waterproof and moisture-proof: Although the Albatross module is not labeled with a specific IP rating (usually IP54 or above), it is recommended to install it in the engine room distribution box or dry control box to avoid direct watering.

Signal line connection: Shielded cables are used for sensor wiring, and the shielding layer is grounded at one end (on the Albatross module side). For the case of parallel connection to existing instruments, appropriate resistors should be connected in series to maintain accurate readings of the original instruments (not detailed in the manual but attention should be paid to the load in practice).

NMEA2000 connector: Ensure that the fastening nut of the T-shaped connector is tightened to avoid vibration loosening. Unused ports should be equipped with waterproof plugs.

Configuration and Calibration Process

4.1 Using Alba CPU and Albatross On Board software

Although the Albatross module can be directly connected to any NMEA2000 display, advanced configurations (calibration curves, alarm thresholds, parameter transmission rates) must be completed through the Alba CPU and Albatross On Board software. Recommended workflow:

Hardware connection: Connect the Alba CPU to the NMEA2000 backbone network (as a regular node) and connect it to the configuration computer or touch screen via Ethernet or Wi Fi.

Install software: Run Albatross On Board Software (at least basic package Alba OB I is required).

Auto discovery module: The software automatically scans all Albatross modules on the network and displays their serial numbers and current firmware versions.

Set module parameters:

For Alba Engine: Select the sensor type (American/European/VDO), input the number of pulses per revolution of the engine (usually 4 or 6), and set the upper and lower limits of the oil pressure alarm.

For Alba Multi: Select the input channel and specify the measurement type (liquid level/pressure/temperature). Perform two-point calibration:

Zero point calibration: Record the sensor resistance value (or voltage) when the container is empty, and input the corresponding engineering value (such as 0 L, 0 bar).

Full range calibration: Record the sensor value when the box is full, and input the corresponding engineering value (such as 500 L, 10 bar).

Support non-linear curves: For irregularly shaped fuel tanks, accuracy can be improved through multi-point calibration.

Set alarms and notifications: High and low limit alarms can be configured and sent through software pop ups or NMEA2000 alarm PGN.

4.2 Direct use without Alba CPU

If data only needs to be displayed on a third-party MFD without modifying the calibration curve (the sensor is already a factory standard curve), Alba Engine and Alba Multi can be plug and play directly. By default:

The liquid level sensor is linearly mapped from 0-180 Ω to 0-100%.

The temperature sensor follows the PT100 or VDO standard curve.

If the output characteristics of the sensor do not match the default, it must be calibrated once through the Alba CPU, and then the module will save the calibration data. Even if the Alba CPU is removed, it can still work independently.

4.3 Remote monitoring and multi client

Albatross On Board Software adopts a client server architecture. Alba CPU, as a server, can simultaneously push data to multiple clients (tablets, phones, laptops) through Wi Fi or Ethernet, enabling monitoring of engines, fluid levels, air conditioning, etc. in any cabin. This feature is particularly useful for super boats and catamarans.