

This allows one display unit to show many different types of information. The backbone powers each instrument and relays data among all of the instruments on the network. Various instruments that meet the NMEA 2000 standard are connected to one central cable, known as a backbone. The protocol is used to create a network of electronic devices-chiefly marine instruments-on a boat. Raymarine SeaTalk 2, Raymarine SeaTalk NG, Simrad Simnet, and Furuno CAN are rebranded implementations of NMEA 2000, though may use physical connectors different from the standardised DeviceNet 5-pin A-coded M12 screw connector, all of which are electrically compatible and can be directly connected. The higher-level protocol format is based on SAE J1939, with specific messages for the marine environment. Electrically, NMEA 2000 is compatible with the Controller Area Network ("CAN Bus") used on road vehicles and fuel engines. Communication runs at 250 kilobits-per-second and allows any sensor to talk to any display unit or other device compatible with NMEA 2000 protocols. NMEA 2000, abbreviated to NMEA2k or N2K and standardised as IEC 61162-3, is a plug-and-play communications standard used for connecting marine sensors and display units within ships and boats.
