NMEA 2000 cables and connectors - Field-installable micro/medium male straight connector

An NMEA 2000 "field-attachable" connector is a component that allows installers to create cables of specific length or repair existing cables directly at the installation site. Unlike pre-assembled cables, this type of connector offers maximum flexibility to customize the wiring according to the precise needs of your NMEA 2000 network.

The "micro/mid" designation refers to the most commonly used NMEA 2000 connector type, also known as Micro-C. This standard is ideal for main networks (backbones) and drop cables carrying data and low-current power. It is a standardized size ensuring broad compatibility within the NMEA 2000 ecosystem.

The Raymarine FA-CM-ST connector is a male connector. It is designed to plug into a female port, typically found on T-connectors, terminations, or other NMEA 2000 equipment.

This FA-CM-ST connector is straight-shaped. Its straight design is particularly useful for installations where space is limited and where a direct cable layout is required to minimize clutter and optimize wiring routing.

Using NMEA 2000-certified products is crucial because they undergo rigorous testing to meet specific safety criteria and ensure correct implementation of network management and messaging. This certification guarantees reliability, interconnection, and future compatibility within your marine electronics system, including tests for priority messaging, automatic addressing, electromagnetic interference (EMI) immunity, and electrical isolation.

This connector is compatible with standard Micro-C NMEA 2000 cables. These cables are commonly used for building backbone and drop lines in NMEA 2000 networks.

Yes, as a certified NMEA 2000 component, this connector is designed to operate reliably in a marine environment. It undergoes rigorous testing, including immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and noise, as well as electrical insulation, which is critical for use at sea.

The Raymarine FA-CM-ST connector is sold separately. The tools required for its installation on a cable, such as a cable stripper, a small screwdriver, or a crimping tool (depending on the internal fixing type), are generally not included and must be purchased separately.

This connector is designed for NMEA 2000 networks that typically operate at 12 V DC. It complies with the electrical specifications of the NMEA 2000 standard.

NMEA 2000 Micro-C type connectors, such as the FA-CM-ST, are designed for low-current data and power applications. They typically support up to 3 amperes of current for network power supply, in accordance with NMEA 2000 specifications.

Installing a "field-installable" connector typically involves stripping the NMEA 2000 cable wires, inserting them, and securing each wire individually inside the connector, often using small screws. Careful cable preparation and adherence to wire color codes are essential to ensure a reliable and standards-compliant connection.

Yes, the field-installation design of this connector is perfectly suited for repairing existing NMEA 2000 cables. You can cut out the damaged section of the cable and use this connector to restore a reliable and secure connection, thereby extending the lifespan of your wiring.

When routing the wiring, the straight shape of this connector helps minimize bulk, which is particularly beneficial in tight spaces. It is important to respect the minimum bend radii of NMEA 2000 cables to avoid damaging the conductors and compromising signal integrity.

Yes, this connector is ideal for creating custom-length drop cables. These cables connect individual devices to the main NMEA 2000 backbone via a T-connector, and the flexibility of this connector allows the cable length to be adapted to each specific installation.

Yes, as a NMEA 2000 certified product, the Raymarine FA-CM-ST connector is designed to be fully interoperable with all equipment and cables compliant with the NMEA 2000 standard, regardless of brand. The certification ensures seamless communication and power supply within the network.

No, the FA-CM-ST connector is exclusively designed for NMEA 2000 networks. NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 are distinct communication protocols with incompatible physical and electrical specifications. This connector cannot be used with NMEA 0183 equipment or cables.

This connector is specifically designed for NMEA 2000 cables of the Micro-C type, which have standardized wire cross-sections. To ensure a secure and reliable electrical and mechanical connection, the outer diameter of the cable and the cross-section of the conductors must match the connector's specifications.

No, this connector is of the "Micro/Medium" (Micro-C) type. NMEA 2000 connectors of the "Mini" type are physically larger and are typically used for applications requiring higher power or longer cable lengths. They are not directly interoperable with Micro-C connectors.