Marine Computing: Navigation PCs, Networks and Internet on Board

Computers are no longer just for checking emails; they've become the brains of the ship. From weather forecasting and routing to entertainment, Skysat's IT collection includes equipment specifically designed to withstand marine environments and operate on battery power (12V/24V) with controlled energy consumption.

Marine PCs and Navigation Computers

Forget about fragile, standard laptops. To run your mapping software (TimeZero, Adrena, OpenCPN), choose robustness:

• Fanless Marine PCs : Silent, dustproof and shockproof.

• Direct 12V or 24V power supply to avoid energy-intensive converters.

• High-brightness remote touchscreens for the chart table.

Onboard Network: WiFi and 4G/5G Routers

Having internet access on your boat has become a necessity. Create your own local area network (LAN) to connect your devices:

• 4G/5G Marine Routers : To capture the mobile network far from the coast (up to 20 miles with a good antenna).

• WiFi access points : To distribute the connection (or that of Starlink) to all crew members (tablets, smartphones, TVs).

• Amplified antennas and WiFi boosters to pick up harbor master's office hotspots.

Ethernet Switches and Cabling

With the proliferation of radars, sounders and IP cameras, the Ethernet network is the backbone of modern electronics.

• Industrial network switches (powered by 12/24V).

• Marine Ethernet cables : Shielded, with waterproof connectors to resist oxidation.

• Converters and gateways to interface your NMEA instruments with your PC.

Routing and Software

The computer is the ultimate tool for race strategy or cruise planning.

• Interfaces for retrieving wind/speed data on the PC.

• Solutions for downloading weather files (GRIB) via satellite or internet.

💡 Skysat expert advice

The number one enemy of onboard computing isn't water, but salt in the air and voltage fluctuations. Never use household appliances (standard 220V) without protection. Always opt for marine-grade PCs or use a stabilized DC/DC converter to protect your sensitive equipment from engine surges.