Marine Computing: Navigation PCs, Networks and Internet Onboard

Computing is no longer just for checking emails: it has become the brain of the vessel. From weather to routing to entertainment, Skysat’s Computing collection brings together hardware specifically designed to withstand marine environments and run on battery power (12V/24V) with controlled consumption.

Marine PCs and Navigation Computers

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

• Fanless Marine PCs (fanless): Silent, dustproof and shock-resistant.

• Direct 12V or 24V power input to avoid energy-hungry converters.

• High-brightness touchscreens for the chart table.

Networking Onboard: WiFi and 4G/5G Routers

Having internet on your boat is now a necessity. Build your own local network (LAN) to connect your devices:

• Marine 4G/5G Routers: To connect to mobile networks far from shore (up to 20 nautical miles with a good antenna).

• WiFi Access Points: To distribute the connection (or Starlink’s) to all crew members (tablets, smartphones, TVs).

• Amplified antennas and WiFi boosters to pick up hotspots from marinas.

Switches and Ethernet Cabling

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

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

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

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

Routing and Software

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

• Interfaces to retrieve wind/speed data on the PC.

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

💡 Skysat Expert Tip

The number one enemy of onboard computing isn’t water—it’s salt in the air and voltage fluctuations. Never use consumer-grade hardware (standard 220V) without protection. Always prefer marine-grade PCs or use a stabilized DC/DC converter to shield sensitive equipment from engine surges.