Collection: NKE Marine Electronics

NKE Marine Electronics: High-Performance Racing Instruments

NKE Marine Electronics is a French manufacturer specializing in the design and production of navigation and performance instruments for competitive sailing. Recognized in the offshore racing and distance racing world, NKE offers advanced technical solutions for sail trim optimization, performance analysis, and tactical navigation. Their systems are favored by professional skippers for their reliability, precision, and ability to operate under the most extreme conditions. Skysat has the expertise to integrate these cutting-edge systems and ensure optimal configuration tailored to racing demands.

Wind Instruments and Vane Anemometers

NKE’s vane anemometers deliver precise and responsive measurements of apparent and true wind, essential for optimizing sail trim and tactical routing. Their robust design and high-precision calibration ensure total reliability during racing.

• HR (High Resolution) Vane Anemometer: Ultrasonic wind sensor with no moving parts, offering instant responsiveness and no mechanical wear. Simultaneous measurement of apparent wind direction and speed with a 0.1° angular resolution. Ideal for fine-tuning sail trim in close-hauled sailing.
• Reinforced Cup Anemometer: Traditional sensor with ceramic bearings for extended lifespan and minimal maintenance. Proven accuracy across all wind ranges, from light breezes to storm conditions.
• True Wind Calculation: Automatic processing of apparent wind data, surface speed, and compass heading to display true wind (TWS/TWD). Adaptive filtering to eliminate oscillations and provide stable, tactically usable information.

Navigation Displays and Speed Sensors

NKE’s navigation displays integrate multiple sensors (speed, depth, magnetic heading) and compute real-time performance parameters essential for navigation and sail trim. Their modular architecture allows for progressive and scalable integration.

• Paddlewheel or Electromagnetic Speed Sensors: Accurate measurement of surface speed (STW) and log (distance traveled). Electromagnetic sensors offer the advantage of having no protruding moving parts, reducing the risk of algae entanglement and drag.
• Digital Depth Sounders: Water depth measurement with configurable threshold alarms. Integration into current and drift calculations to refine coastal navigation.
• Fluxgate Electronic Compass : Provides precise and stable magnetic heading for true wind calculation and navigation data display. Automatic heel and pitch compensation to maintain accuracy in all conditions.

Topline System: Integrated Performance Analysis

The NKE Topline system is a comprehensive real-time performance analysis platform, combining all sensors, data processing, and display on tactical screens. It is the reference tool for offshore racing teams seeking to maximize VMG speed and strategic efficiency.

• Performance Polar Display: Instant comparison of actual boat speed with theoretical speed from polars, enabling continuous identification of performance margins and sail trim optimization.
• Tactical VMG/VMC Calculations: Display of velocity made good (VMC) and velocity made good to wind (VMG) to aid tactical decision-making during close-hauled sailing and downwind gybes.
• Data Recording and Playback: Navigation session logging for post-race analysis and crew debriefing. Log file export for integration into advanced analysis software.
• NMEA 2000 Network Interface : Communication with other onboard equipment (autopilot, radar, AIS) to centralize information and optimize the racing bridge ergonomics.

Repeaters and Multifunction Displays

NKE offers a full range of repeaters and multifunction screens for clear and readable display of all navigation and performance parameters, even in full sunlight or at night.

• HD Graphic Displays: High-resolution screens with adjustable LED backlighting. Customizable display pages to adapt information to different sailing phases (close-hauled, downwind, night navigation).
• Analog and Digital Repeaters: Dedicated instruments for speed, depth, wind, and heading. Immediate and ergonomic reading for quick maneuvers and real-time trimming.
• Wireless Remote Display: Wireless repeater solutions for cockpit and mast, eliminating cable routing and simplifying installation on racing sailboats.

💡 Skysat’s Tip

Installing an NKE performance system requires careful attention to sensor placement to avoid aerodynamic and hydrodynamic disturbances. The vane anemometer should be mounted at the masthead in a zone of stable airflow, and speed sensors should be installed in a hull area free of turbulence. Complete calibration of polars and sensors after installation is essential to obtain reliable and race-ready data. Ensure a stable and protected power supply to guarantee continuous operation during extended offshore passages.