4.1 General cabling guidance
Cable types and length
It is important to use cables of the appropriate type and length
• Unless otherwise stated use only standard cables of the correct type, supplied by Raymarine.
• Ensure that any non-Raymarine cables are of the correct quality and gauge. For example, longer
power cable runs may require larger wire gauges to minimize voltage drop along the run.
Routing cables
Cables must be routed correctly, to maximize performance and prolong cable life.
• Do NOT bend cables excessively. Wherever possible, ensure a minimum bend diameter (Ø) of
200 mm (7.87 in) / minimum bend radius (R) of 100 mm (3.94 in).
• Protect all cables from physical damage and exposure to heat. Use trunking or conduit where
possible. Do NOT run cables through bilges or doorways, or close to moving or hot objects.
• Secure cables in place using cable clips or cable ties. Coil any extra cable and tie it out of the way.
• Where a cable passes through an exposed bulkhead or deckhead, use a suitable watertight
feed-through.
• Do NOT run cables near to engines or fluorescent lights.
Always route data cables as far away as possible from:
• other equipment and cables,
• high current carrying AC and DC power lines,
• antennas.
Strain relief
Ensure adequate strain relief is provided. Protect connectors from strain and ensure they will not pull
out under extreme sea conditions.
Circuit isolation
Appropriate circuit isolation is required for installations using both AC and DC current:
• Always use isolating transformers or a separate power-inverter to run PC’s, processors, displays
and other sensitive electronic instruments or devices.
• Always use an isolating transformer with Weather FAX audio cables.
• Always use an isolated power supply when using a 3rd party audio amplifier.
• Always use an RS232/NMEA converter with optical isolation on the signal lines.
• Always make sure that PC’s or other sensitive electronic devices have a dedicated power circuit.
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