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In English Deutsch Français Nederlands
Look here to see all models: Overview All Models
NMEA Combiner / Multiplexer
The Brookhouse NMEA Combiner / Multiplexer combines NMEA 0183 data from up to four marine instruments ( NMEA-talkers ) into a single data-stream for input via a single computer port, or “ NMEA listener ”. The term " NMEA Multiplexer " is widely used, but this type device is also referred to as " NMEA Combiner " or " NMEA Concentrator ". All Brookhouse NMEA Multiplexers use the same micro-processor and well-proven software.
This model Brookhouse NMEA Multiplexer has LED's (Light Emitting Diodes) to indicate which channel is transmitting data and when. Seatalk support is now also available for this model as an option. In ST-mode, channel 1 is connected to the Raymarine Seatalk bus. Data from Seatalk marine instruments is converted into standard NMEA format and is output via the RS232 output port together with NMEA data from other instruments, connected to the 3 other channels. In this mode, the Brookhouse Multiplexer is effectively both a NMEA multiplexer and Seatalk bridge. The Seatalk page contains detailed information about the Seatalk Option for Brookhouse NMEA Multiplexers.
Other Brookhouse NMEA products are:
the Standard NMEA Multiplexer and
the NMEA Multiplexer/Repeater .
Why a NMEA Multiplexer?
Navigation with the aid of a computer has come of age. Many discerning yachtsmen have recognised the advantages of using a computer on board for chartplotting and navigation. On smaller yachts this is often a laptop computer. There are many excellent programs available that can process a variety of data produced by a number of marine instruments and that offer a tremendous amount of useful navigational information in a user-friendly format, which makes navigation easier and safer. These programmes receive their ( NMEA ) input via a single COM-port. The most important for navigation is of course the data coming from the GPS. However, on a modern yacht with modern electronics there are usually a number of different sources of NMEA - data, such as data from the speed-log, wind-instruments, electronic compass, depth sounder, etc. To make optimal use of all this data in the computer, it is necessary to combine the NMEA data into one data-stream that can be input by the program via a designated COM - port. On many laptop computers the USB port will be used for this purpose (see below). After investing thousands of dollars in instruments it only makes sense to be able to access all data produced by these instruments at a central point, i.e. the board computer, where the benefits are at their maximum.
The NMEA combiner can also be used in set-ups without a computer, for example if 2 or more NMEA sources need to be combined for input into an autopilot. The availability of the NMEA combiner makes it no longer necessary that for compatibility all instruments have to be of the same product-range or the same manufacturer, as the standard NMEA format now allows combining and mixing of different brands of instruments.
The Brookhouse Product
The Brookhouse NMEA Combiner makes use of the latest microcontroller technology which requires a minimum of components. This makes the device reliable and low cost. Smart firmware to manage and buffer the NMEA data ensures high efficiency and data-integrity.
Operation of the unit is fully automatic. When power is switched on, it starts acquiring data and starts outputting the combined data via the output-port.
A useful feature of this model Brookhouse NMEA Combiner/Multiplexer are the LED's which indicate if NMEA data from the input ports is being received. In one glance the proper operation of the instruments can be checked. For each connected instrument, the corresponding LED lights up for a short period every 1-2 seconds when NMEA data is detected.
USB
Many of today's laptop computers have no RS232 port and only support USB. The Brookhouse Standard NMEA Multiplexer is available with integral USB interface. For the original model Brookhouse NMEA Multiplexer with LED's, as described on this page, you can order a compact low-cost USB-RS232 adapter. The adapter comes with a 6 ft USB cable and driver software. It is only available to NMEA Multiplexer customers.
Installation and Cabling
Installation is simple and can be carried out by anyone with a basic understanding of electrics. This model Brookhouse NMEA multiplexer comes complete with a RS232 cable with 9-pin plug already connected, ready to be plugged in the computer port or USB adapter. The power cable is also in place and just needs to be connected to 12V. All that has to be done next is connect the NMEA outputs of your instruments to the mux. Straight forward instructions are included and inside the mux, the connections are clearly indicated so no mistake is possible. For connection of Seatalk instruments, separate instructions are given. Also refer to the Seatalk page.
4 Input ports for NMEA "talkers" (GPS, Windinstr. etc.) or RS232 (Computer).
1 Output RS232 port (typically for connection to computer)
Data speed: 4 Input ports: 4800BPS (standard NMEA speed), RS232 Output port: jumper selectable 4800/9600 BPS
Indicators: red LED for power, green LEDs to indicate NMEA activity per port.
Supply Voltage: DC 9-15 Volts.
Power Consumption: 100 mAmps. @ 12V
Physical size: 110x65x37mm (hxwxd)
Weight: 120 grams
Mounting: bulkhead mounting with screws.
Installation is very simple. From each NMEA device 2 wires have to be connected (+ and -). The documentation of the instruments will describe this. If the output port is connected to a computer, the + and - have to be connected to pins 2 and 5 of a standard female 9-pin connector.
More technical information Brookhouse home
Note: Seatalk is a trade-mark of RayMarine.
