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EmpirBus

010-02642-00

Empirbus WDU v2

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Retail priceBenefit from the professional rate

404,86€

404,86€ ~~529,00€~~

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Low stock

Free pickup point shipping over €150 in France
Pickup at Skysat possible

Custom installation

Trust Skysat to install the equipment on board

Request a quote

Installers near you

thanks to our network of approved installers

Find an installer

Support service

Opt for additional installation assistance

Technical specifications

Product use	Unité d'interface de commutation numérique pour systèmes électriques marins
Product range	EmpirBus Digital Switching Systems
Type d'architecture système	Commutation numérique via bus CAN (NMEA 2000)
Compatible EmpirBus	Oui
Compatible NMEA 2000	Oui
Wired network	NMEA 2000,Garmin Marine Network
Wireless connectivity	Wi-Fi
Courant de sortie maximal par canal	N/A
USB port count	0.0
Nombre de ports Ethernet	1.0
NMEA 2000 Load Equivalency Number (LEN)	2 LEN
Connector type	NMEA 2000 (Micro-C), Garmin Marine Network (propriétaire)
Plage de section de câble	N/A
Galvanic isolation	Oui
Operating voltage range	12/24VDC
Powering method	NMEA 2000, 12/24VDC
Typical power consumption	1.2W
Configuration software name	EmpirBus Supervisor
Support mise à jour firmware	Oui
Mounting type	Montage en surface
IP rating	IPX7
Operating temperature range	-15°C à +55°C
Weight	0.82 kg
Dimensions (W x H x D)	170 x 100 x 35 mm

Detailed description

The GARMIN Empirbus WDU v2 is a digital switching interface unit designed to optimize the control and management of electrical systems aboard vessels. This module is powered by 12/24VDC and can also be powered directly by the NMEA 2000 network, simplifying its integration. It provides robust connectivity via NMEA 2000, Garmin Marine Network, and Wi-Fi, enabling seamless communication between compatible multifunction displays and other equipment. The unit is offered with a 2026 pricing, confirming its current position in the lineup.

System integration and performance

The GARMIN Empirbus WDU v2 is a key component for implementing an EmpirBus digital switching system. It enables the transmission of switching signals via a CAN bus compatible with NMEA 2000, complying with ISO 61508 standards and the WEEE directive, as well as NMEA 2000 certification. The unit is rated IPX7 for water resistance, ensuring reliability in demanding marine environments. It is designed to interact with compatible Garmin multifunction displays, displaying graphics, HTML, and shared controls across the entire Garmin Marine Network. This integration streamlines the management of critical systems, from bilge pumps to anchor winches, by providing a unified user interface.

Network design and safety

The EmpirBus system architecture, including the WDU v2, emphasizes human factors, safety, and redundancy. The physical design of the linear NMEA 2000 bus is critical, requiring proper termination at the bus ends and centralized power supply to prevent data overload and ensure reliable responses. For managing inductive loads (such as anchor motors or pumps), installing "flyback" diodes is mandatory. These diodes must be placed as close as possible to the load and specified for the expected voltage and current (e.g., GPN 010-12913-01 for 12V or GPN 010-12912-03 for 24V). Compared to traditional complex-wired switching systems, the Empirbus WDU v2 significantly reduces cabling volume while offering advanced safety features, such as overcurrent protection or safety switches for mobile equipment like retractable platforms. The WDU v2 serves as a central element for reliable and secure marine automation, similar to network management interfaces like Garmin's GMS 10, but specifically optimized for EmpirBus digital switching.

Expert opinion

Pol CONIN

Digital Manager

« Empirbus WDU v2 : l'interface centrale pour la commutation numérique Garmin »

L'Empirbus WDU v2 de Garmin représente une avancée significative dans l'intégration des systèmes électriques à bord. En tant qu'interface clé de l'écosystème EmpirBus, il permet une gestion centralisée et intelligente des charges via les réseaux NMEA 2000 et Garmin Marine Network. Sa capacité à être alimenté directement par le NMEA 2000 simplifie l'installation, tandis que la connectivité Wi-Fi facilite la configuration initiale et les diagnostics via EmpirBus Supervisor, bien qu'il soit recommandé de désactiver le Wi-Fi après les ajustements. Sa robustesse est attestée par son étanchéité IPX7. L'intégration avec les écrans multifonctions Garmin offre une interface utilisateur unifiée, essentielle pour une navigation moderne. Il est crucial de respecter les bonnes pratiques d'installation, notamment l'utilisation de diodes "flyback" pour les charges inductives et une terminaison correcte du bus CAN, afin de garantir la fiabilité et la sécurité du système. Le WDU v2 est un composant stratégique pour les architectes de systèmes marins visant une automatisation fiable et une réduction du câblage.

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Empirbus WDU v2

404,86€

404,86€ ~~529,00€~~

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the Empirbus WDU v2 and what is it used for?

The Empirbus WDU v2 is a digital switching interface unit. Its role is to centralize and simplify the control of your onboard electrical systems (such as lights, pumps, winches) from a compatible multifunction display. It transmits control signals via the NMEA 2000 network.

How is the Empirbus WDU v2 powered?

The device is powered directly from the NMEA 2000 network to which it is connected, simplifying installation and eliminating the need for a dedicated power connection.

Which networks is this device compatible with?

The Empirbus WDU v2 offers multiple connectivity options for full integration:

NMEA 2000 for switch data communication. Garmin Marine Network for integration with Garmin multifunction displays. Wi-Fi for device configuration.

What is the IP rating of the Empirbus WDU v2?

This product has an IPX7 waterproof rating, ensuring protection against temporary immersion in water and reliability in demanding marine environments.

How should I connect the WDU v2 to my Garmin multifunction display?

You must connect the WDU v2 to a free NETWORK port on your compatible Garmin chartplotter using a Garmin Marine Network cable.

What to do if there are no available network ports left on my Garmin chartplotter?

If all NETWORK ports on your chartplotter are in use, you will need to install a network switch, such as the Garmin GMS 10, to expand the number of available ports on your Garmin Marine Network.

If I connect the WDU v2 to a single display, will I be able to control my devices from other displays?

Yes. Even though the WDU v2 physically connects to a single Garmin chartplotter, its graphs, interface, and controls are shared with all other compatible screens and devices connected to the same Garmin Marine Network.

How does the WDU v2 physically connect to the NMEA 2000 network?

The device connects to the backbone of your NMEA 2000 network using an NMEA 2000 T-connector and a drop cable. The drop cable must not exceed 6 meters (20 feet).

What are the certifications of the Empirbus WDU v2?

The Empirbus WDU v2 is certified compliant with the NMEA 2000 standard.

Should I leave the Wi-Fi connection of the WDU v2 permanently enabled?

No. It is recommended to disable the Wi-Fi connection via the EmpirBus Supervisor software once you have completed the device configuration and modifications.

Can the WDU v2 operate standalone or must it be connected to other devices?

For proper operation, the WDU v2 must be connected to both the NMEA 2000 network and a compatible Garmin chartplotter via the Garmin Marine Network.

What is the weight of the device?

The Empirbus WDU v2 weighs approximately 206 g.

What types of equipment can I control with an EmpirBus system?

A digital switching system from EmpirBus, which includes the WDU v2, can control a wide range of electrical equipment, such as bilge pumps, anchor winches, interior and exterior lighting, and other onboard electrical loads.

Is specific software required to configure the device?

Yes, the documentation mentions using the EmpirBus Supervisor software to make modifications and configure the WDU v2 device, including via its Wi-Fi connection.

Are there precautions to take when designing an NMEA 2000 network?

Yes, it is essential to follow best practices for an NMEA 2000 network (CAN bus). Ensure proper termination is applied at each end of the backbone to guarantee reliable communications.

What input voltage is supported by the WDU v2?

The device is designed to operate with a 12 or 24 V DC power supply.

Can I use this device with displays from brands other than Garmin?

Technical documentation states that the WDU v2 connects to a compatible Garmin chartplotter and shares data over Garmin Marine Network. Compatibility with displays from other brands is not specified.

What is the Wi-Fi connection on the Empirbus WDU v2 used for?

Wi-Fi connectivity is primarily used for device configuration and maintenance via the EmpirBus Supervisor software. It is not intended for continuous use.

Which are the two essential network cables for the installation?

For a functional installation, you will need two main cables:

A NMEA 2000 drop cable to connect it to the data network. A Garmin Marine Network cable to link it to your Garmin chartplotter.

Is the device supplied with a NMEA 2000 T-connector?

The exact contents of the box are not detailed, but installation requires a NMEA 2000 T-connector to link the WDU v2 to the backbone of the network. You may need to source one if it is not already present on your network.