Wind instrument wiring

[ATCBird]

I am trying to wire up my new ST40 wind instrument and have a few wiring questions that I hope someone can help with.

1. The cable had to be cut to get it through the coach roof, can I join it with normal choc block or do I need a special connection?

2. I have a depth/speed already wired to the instrument switch, can I just wire the wind instrument to exactly the same terminals? Will the fuse be ok? Will I blow it up?

3. The depth/speed is a very old autohelm, but has a sea talk connection, can I connect this to the wind and then connect to the same terminals? Will the sea talk work as the autohelm system is so old?

4. The instructions mentions ferrite suppression, do I need to put one on? It doesn't make it clear.

5. Should I get an electrician to do it as my knowledge is so basic????

Any help gratefully received.

Tania

 

[mcanderson]

Tania,

You can use block to join the 2 pieces of wind instrument wiring. My ST 60 wind cable runs down my mast and into the cabin where it joins a cable to the display head in the manner you have described.

Seatalk cables are different cables with specific plugs. However, most Raymarine stuff is plug and play. If you have trouble try the raymarine help line on their website. It's very good.

 

[pvb]

Choc block is fine, but the wires are very thin, so you'd be better using the more expensive choc blocks which have a little metal "leaf" which contacts the wire, rather than the screw going directly on to the wire. If possible, use a connection box which will keep moisture away from the connections. See http://www.indexmarine.co.uk/junction.html for examples.

You can wire the wind system to the same power supply, they use very little power. The fuse will be OK.

SeaTalk should work.

You shouldn't need to use a ferrite.

Only you know how basic your knowledge is. I'd say have a go yourself - it's very straightforward, and if you get it wrong it won't endanger you.

 

[nigelmercier]

1. Choc blocks are not the most reliable means of connection, I suggest soldering and adhesive-lined heat-shrink.
2. Yes, but ...
3. If both have SeaTalk, just connect these together instead.
4. Do you have a ferrite ring in the pack? If so, put it on a power cable.
5. Your call.

 

[ATCBird]

Many thanks for the advice; I will have a go at the weekend!

Tania

 

[AngusMcDoon]

I'm in Romsey this week with not much to do in the evenings. I could come and get it all wired and going for you on an evening this week if you like.

 

[ATCBird]

Many thanks for the offer that is extremely kind, but I have worked out that the easiest option is to 'daisy chain' the wind to the bidata (which i can do) and I spoke to one of the guys at the marina tonight who said he would sort the cable for me.

Tania