Albatross NMEA2000 User manual

1
USER MANUAL
MANUAL DE USUARIO
Alba-Engine
Analog to NMEA2000 engine data interface
Conversor de datos de motor analógicos a
NMEA2000
© COPYRIGHT 2009 EMMI Network S.L. All rights reserved - 30728283 Rev PA6 27-01-2009
USER MANUAL
MANUAL DE USUARIO
Alba-Engine
Analog to NMEA2000 engine data interface
Conversor de datos de motor analógicos a
NMEA2000
© COPYRIGHT 2009 EMMI Network S.L. All rights reserved - 30728283 Rev PA6 27-01-2009

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English version ……………………………………………... 3
Versión en español …………………………………………40
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English version ……………………………………………... 3
Versión en español …………………………………………40

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Document revisions
Revision Date Comments/Changes
PA1 2006-11-28 First version
PA2 2006-12-22 Minor updates
PA3 2007-01-02 Connection diagram to VDO gauges updated
PA4 2007-01-22 Format review
PA5 2008-07-01 Config Tool configuration (Revision 1.6)
PA6 2009-01-27 Format revision
No part of this document may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the
copyright owner.
The contents of this document are subject to revision without notice due to continued progress in
methodology, design and manufacturing. EMMI Network SL shall have no liability for any error or
damage of any kind resulting from the use of this document.
The information provided in this document concerning capacity, suitability and performance shall
not be considered commercially binding.
Please note that all capacity figures and dimensioning methods are based on EMMI Network’s SL
own models of how devices behave in a network. The document is intended to be used by
professionally trained personnel. It is strongly recommended to involve EMMI Network SL in
discussions covering the contents of this document.
Any feedback that may help EMMI Network SL improve the documentation and information
methods is welcome. 3
Document revisions
Revision Date Comments/Changes
PA1 2006-11-28 First version
PA2 2006-12-22 Minor updates
PA3 2007-01-02 Connection diagram to VDO gauges updated
PA4 2007-01-22 Format review
PA5 2008-07-01 Config Tool configuration (Revision 1.6)
PA6 2009-01-27 Format revision
No part of this document may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the
copyright owner.
The contents of this document are subject to revision without notice due to continued progress in
methodology, design and manufacturing. EMMI Network SL shall have no liability for any error or
damage of any kind resulting from the use of this document.
The information provided in this document concerning capacity, suitability and performance shall
not be considered commercially binding.
Please note that all capacity figures and dimensioning methods are based on EMMI Network’s SL
own models of how devices behave in a network. The document is intended to be used by
professionally trained personnel. It is strongly recommended to involve EMMI Network SL in
discussions covering the contents of this document.
Any feedback that may help EMMI Network SL improve the documentation and information
methods is welcome.

4
Contents
1. Introduction...................................................................................................................................5
2. Specifications ...............................................................................................................................6
3. Quick installation ..........................................................................................................................7
3.1. Unpacking the unit ....................................................................................................................7
3.2 Choosing a location to mount the module..................................................................................8
3.2.1. Module location if analogue gauges are already present...................................................8
3.2.2. Module location when the vessel contains analogue gauges………………………………10
3.3 Alba-Engine Connections.........................................................................................................12
3.3. Conexiones del Alba-Engine...................................................................................................12
3.3.1 Alba-Engine connection to a motor with VDO analogue gauges.......................................13
3.3.2 Alternator and mass connection........................................................................................15
3.3.3 Alba-Engine connection to a motor with no control panel..................................................16
3.3.4 Conexión al bus NMEA2000 .............................................................................................17
3.4 Alba-Engine Configuration .......................................................................................................20
3.4.1 NMEA instance number and address................................................................................21
3.4.2 Sensor calibration and commercial brand choice..............................................................25
3.4.3 Custom sensor calibration.................................................................................................26
3.7 Technical specifications...........................................................................................................27
3.8 Technical support.....................................................................................................................28
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Contents
1. Introduction...................................................................................................................................5
2. Specifications ...............................................................................................................................6
3. Quick installation ..........................................................................................................................7
3.1. Unpacking the unit ....................................................................................................................7
3.2 Choosing a location to mount the module..................................................................................8
3.2.1. Module location if analogue gauges are already present...................................................8
3.2.2. Module location when the vessel contains analogue gauges………………………………10
3.3 Alba-Engine Connections.........................................................................................................12
3.3. Conexiones del Alba-Engine...................................................................................................12
3.3.1 Alba-Engine connection to a motor with VDO analogue gauges.......................................13
3.3.2 Alternator and mass connection........................................................................................15
3.3.3 Alba-Engine connection to a motor with no control panel..................................................16
3.3.4 Conexión al bus NMEA2000 .............................................................................................17
3.4 Alba-Engine Configuration .......................................................................................................20
3.4.1 NMEA instance number and address................................................................................21
3.4.2 Sensor calibration and commercial brand choice..............................................................25
3.4.3 Custom sensor calibration.................................................................................................26
3.7 Technical specifications...........................................................................................................27
3.8 Technical support.....................................................................................................................28

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1. Introduction
Thanks for purchasing the new Albatross digital control system component.
The purpose of this document is to provide the user with the necessary instructions for the
installation and usage of the NMEA 2000 Albatross Alba-Engine interface. The NMEA 2000
Albatross Alba- Engine is a device intended to monitor NME A2000 marine motors.
The following handbook deals with the Alba-Engine firmware version 1.20.
The following handbook contains important information regarding the installation, operation and
maintenance of your new digital control system. In order to get the best results from the unit, please
read this handbook thoroughly.
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1.Introduction
Thanks for purchasing the new Albatross digital control system component.
The purpose of this document is to provide the user with the necessary instructions for the
installation and usage of the NME A2000 Albatross Alba-Engine interface. The NME A2000
Albatross Alba- Engine is a device intended to monitor NME A2000 marine motors.
The following handbook deals with the Alba-Engine firmware version 1.20.
The following handbook contains important information regarding the installation,
operation and maintenance of your new digital control system. In order to get the best
results from the unit, please read this handbook thoroughly.

6
2.Specifications
The Albatross Alba-Engine interface has the following specifications:
•NMEA 2000 interface
•Adapts standard (10-180 ohm) European resistive sensors to the NMEA 2000 network.
•Adapts standard (30-240 ohm) American resistive sensors to the NMEA 2000 network.
•Adapts non-standard resistive sensors () to the NMEA 2000 network
•Adapts VDO technology- equipped sensors (0-5 V) to the NMEA 2000 network
•Can be calibrated both in resistive and voltage modes.
•Can work in parallel with already installed analogue gauges or connected directly to sensors
(in motors without a control panel)
•Motor RPM measurement
•Alternator tension measuring
•Oil pressure measuring
•Boost pressure measuring
•Cooling agent temperature measuring
•Oil temperature measuring
•Cooling water pressure measuring
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2.Specifications
The Albatross Alba-Engine interface has the following specifications:
•NMEA 2000 interface
•Adapts standard (10-180 ohm) European resistive sensors to the NMEA 2000 network.
•Adapts standard (30-240 ohm) American resistive sensors to the NMEA 2000 network.
•Adapts non-standard resistive sensors () to the NMEA 2000 network
•Adapts VDO technology- equipped sensors (0-5 V) to the NMEA 2000 network
•Can be calibrated both in resistive and voltage modes.
•Can work in parallel with already installed analogue gauges or connected directly to sensors
(in motors without a control panel)
•Motor RPM measurement
•Alternator tension measuring
•Oil pressure measuring
•Boost pressure measuring
•Cooling agent temperature measuring
•Oil temperature measuring

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3.Quick installation
To install the Alba-Engine interface, you must complete the following steps. Please study each
referenced individual section for in-depth information on each of them:
1 Unpacking the box.
2 Choose a location for the interface installation.
3 Connect the interface.
4 Interface configuration.
5 Sensor calibration depending on its commercial model.
6 Optional: Custom sensor calibration
3.1. Unpacking the unit
When you unpack the box containing your Albatross Alba-Engine interface, you should find the
following elements:
Alba-Engine interface
Alba-Engine User Manual
Bag with the mounting screws
If any of these elements is damaged or not present, please contact Emmi network
7
3.Quick installation
To install the Alba-Engine interface, you must complete the following steps. Please study each
referenced individual section for in-depth information on each of them:
7 Unpacking the box.
8 Choose a location for the interface installation.
9 Connect the interface.
10 Interface configuration.
11 Sensor calibration depending on its commercial model.
12 Optional: Custom sensor calibration
3.1. Unpacking the unit
When you unpack the box containing your Albatross Alba-Engine interface, you should find the
following elements:
Alba-Engine interface
Alba-Engine User Manual
Bag with the mounting screws
If any of these elements is damaged or not present, please contact Emmi network

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3.2. Choosing a location to mount the module
Figure 1. Module mounting
3.2.1. Module location if analogue gauges are already present
Alba-Engine has two types of connection:
1 – Motor sensors connection
2 – NMEA 2000 network connection
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3.2 Choosing a location to mount the module
Figure 1. Module mounting
3.2.1. Module location if analogue gauges are already present
Alba-Engine has two types of connection:
1 – Motor sensors connection
2 – NMEA 2000 network connection

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Thus, the Alba-Engine interface
should be placed between the main
NMEA 2000 network and the
analogue gauges. This is because
you'll have to connect some wires
from the interface to the back of the
gauges and others to the NMEA
network.
Emmi network recommends putting
the Alba- Engine at a maximum
distance of 4 metres from the motor
sensors. The Alba-Engine interface
should be connected to the main
network at a maximum distance of 6
metres, although the user should
consider putting it as close to the main
NMEA network as possible to save in
cable costs.
Figure 2. Wiring diagram from the module to the motor
sensors
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Thus, the Alba-Engine interface
should be placed between the main
NMEA 2000 network and the
analogue gauges. This is because
you'll have to connect some wires
from the interface to the back of the
gauges and others to the NMEA
network.
Emmi network recommends putting
the Alba- Engine at a maximum
distance of 4 metres from the motor
sensors. The Alba-Engine interface
should be connected to the main
network at a maximum distance of 6
metres, although the user should
consider putting it as close to the main
NMEA network as possible to save in
cable costs.
Figure 2. Wiring diagram from the module to the motor
sensors

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3.2.2. Module location when the vessel contains analogue gauges
Alba-Engine has two kinds of connections:
1 – To the motor sensors
2 – To the NMEA 2000 network
Thus, it should be connected between the main NMEA-2000 network and the analogue gauges.
This is because you’ll have to connect some cables to the back of these gauges, and the interface
to the NMEA network.
Emmi network recommends putting Alba-Engine at a maximum distance of 4 metres from the
analogue gauges. It can also be connected to a maximum distance of 6 metres from the NMEA
network, although the boat-owner may consider installing it closer to the main NMEA network in
order to save on the cost of cable.
Interface install location is not critical, and taking into account that all NMEA cables and connector
are watertight (IP 67: protection against temporary immersions in water), the interface could be
placed virtually anywhere on the vessel.
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3.2.2. Module location when the vessel contains analogue gauges
Alba-Engine has two kinds of connections:
1 – To the motor sensors
2 – To the NMEA 2000 network
Thus, it should be connected between the main NMEA-2000 network and the analogue gauges.
This is because you’ll have to connect some cables to the back of these gauges, and the interface
to the NMEA network.
Emmi network recommends putting Alba-Engine at a maximum distance of 4 metres from the
analogue gauges. It can also be connected to a maximum distance of 6 metres from the NMEA
network, although the boat-owner may consider installing it closer to the main NMEA network in
order to save on the cost of cable.
Interface install location is not critical, and taking into account that all NMEA cables and connector
are watertight (IP 67: protection against temporary immersions in water), the interface could be
placed virtually anywhere on the vessel.

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Figure 3. Connection diagram of the module in parallel with analogue gauges
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Figure 3. Connection diagram of the module in parallel with analogue gauges

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3.3 Alba-Engine Connections
There are two (see figure) connection points for the Alba-Engine:
1 – Motor sensor connections
2 – NMEA 2000 network connection
You should also take into account that Alba-Engine requires an Alba-USB connected to a laptop
computer to configure the sensors once all the connections are ready
Figure 4 Wiring diagram to the Alba-USB
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3.3. Alba-Engine Connections
There are two (see figure) connection points for the Alba-Engine:
1 – Motor sensor connections
2 – NMEA 2000 network connection
You should also take into account that Alba-Engine requires an Alba-USB connected to a laptop
computer to configure the sensors once all the connections are ready
Figure 4 Wiring diagram to the Alba-USB
Alba-Engine module
Alba-USB
PC with Albatross ConfigTool
Alba-Engine module
Alba-USB
PC with Albatross ConfigTool

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3.3.1 Alba-Engine connection to a
motor with VDO analogue gauges
Alba-Engine can work together with analogue
motor gauges without affecting their measuring.
To make this kind of connection you will have to
follow the instructions given in the following
illustrations
3.3.1 .1 Connection to a Tachometer
For this type of connection you'll need to derive
a wire from the (orange-coloured) one marked
W in the gauge, connecting it to input number 2
in the Alba-Engine.
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3.3.1 Alba-Engine connection to a
motor with VDO analogue gauges
Alba-Engine can work together with analogue
motor gauges without affecting their measuring. To
make this kind of connection you will have to follow
the instructions given in the following illustrations
3.3.1 .1 Connection to a Tachometer
For this type of connection you'll need to derive a
wire from the (orange-coloured) one marked W in
the gauge, connecting it to input number 2 in the
Alba-Engine.
1.- Signal
2.- Ground
2.- Ground
Figure 5. Wiring diagram of the module
to a VDO tachometer.
Figure 5. Wiring diagram of the module
to a VDO tachometer.
1.- Signal
+
-
+
-

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3.3.1 .2 Connection to a pressure or
temperature gauge
You'll need to unscrew the connector’s nut in
these gauges and hook a new cable to be
connected to either the 4, 6, 8 or 10 inputs in
the Alba-Engine.
Gauge terminals Proposed cable
colour
Tensión (+, +12V, I, IGN) Red
Ground (-, ⊥,G) Black
Sensor (S, G) Green
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3.3.1 .2 Connection to a pressure or
temperature gauge
You'll need to unscrew the connector’s nut in
gauges and hook a new cable to be connected to
the 4, 6, 8 or 10 inputs in the Alba-Engine.
Gauge terminals Proposed cable
colour
Tensión (+, +12V, I, IGN) Red
Ground (-, ⊥,G) Black
Sensor (S, G) Green
Figure 6. Wiring diagram of the module to a VDO
pressure or temperature analogue gauge.
Figure 6. Wiring diagram of the module to a VDO
pressure or temperature analogue gauge.

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3.3.2 Alternator and mass connection
To connect the alternator’s input and
measure the incoming voltage from it, you’ll
need to connect a cable to the +V connector
in the voltmeter gauge. If your motor’s control
panel has no voltmeter, locate the
alternator’s connection to the battery bank.
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3.3.2 Alternator and mass connection
To connect the alternator’s input and
measure the incoming voltage from it, you’ll
need to connect a cable to the +V connector
in the voltmeter gauge. If your motor’s control
panel has no voltmeter, locate the
alternator’s connection to the battery bank.
Figure 7. Wiring diagram from the module to a VDO
voltmete
r
Figure 7. Wiring diagram from the module to a VDO
voltmete
r

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3.3.3 Alba-Engine connection to a motor with no control panel
If you have a motor with no control panel, you’ll need to connect Alba-Engine’s inputs directly to the
motor sensors following this diagram:
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3.3.3 Alba-Engine connection to a motor with no control panel
If you have a motor with no control panel, you’ll need to connect Alba-Engine’s inputs directly to the
motor sensors following this diagram:
Figure 8. Connection Diagram of the module to resistive sensors
1- NEGATIVE
2- W SIGNAL/ SENSOR
3- NEGATIVE
4- RESISTIVE SENSOR
5- NEGATIVE
6- RESISTIVE SENSOR
7- NEGATIVE
8- RESISITIVE SENSOR
9- NEGATIVE
10- RESISITIVE SENSOR
11- NEGATIVE
12- ALTERNATOR VOLTAGE MEASURE
Figure 8. Connection Diagram of the module to resistive sensors
1- NEGATIVE
2- W SIGNAL/ SENSOR
3- NEGATIVE
4- RESISTIVE SENSOR
5- NEGATIVE
6- RESISTIVE SENSOR
7- NEGATIVE
8- RESISITIVE SENSOR
9- NEGATIVE
10- RESISITIVE SENSOR
11- NEGATIVE
12- ALTERNATOR VOLTAGE MEASURE

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3.3. 4 Connection to NMEA 2000 bus
The Alba-Engine interface can connect to a NMEA 2000 bus through a 5- pin Micro- C connector.
You’ll have to connect the Alba-Engine interface to the NMEA 2000 bus using a cable of the suitable
length from the module to a T-connector to the main network.
Make sure the cable is firmly connected and the connector’s collar is screwed tight.
Illustration 1
Male
connector
Illustration 2
Female
connector
Figure 9. View of the NMEA
2000 Micro-C connectors
Pin 1: Protective Braid
Pin 2: NET-S. (Positive feed,
+V)
Pin 3: NET-C. (Common feed,
-V)
Pin 4: NET-H. (CAN-H)
Pin 5: NET-L. (CAN-L)
Figure 10. Inside view of a Micro-C cable
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3.3. 4 Conexión al bus NMEA2000
The Alba-Engine interface can connect to a NMEA 2000 bus through a 5- pin Micro- C connector.
You’ll have to connect the Alba-Engine interface to the NMEA 2000 bus using a cable of the suitable
length from the module to a T-connector to the main network.
Make sure the cable is firmly connected and the connector’s collar is screwed tight.
Illustration 3
Male
connector
Illustration 4
Female
connector
Figure 9. View of the NMEA
2000 Micro-C connectors
Pin 1: Malla
Pin 2: NET-S. (Alimentación
positiva, +V)
Pin 3: NET-C. (Alimentación
común, -V)
Pin 4: NET-H. (CAN-H)
Pin 5: NET-L. (CAN-L)
Figure 10. Inside view of a Micro-C cable
Data:
Blue: NET-H (CAN-H)
White: NET-L.(CAN-L)
Feed:
Red : NET-S. Positive
feed, + V
Black: NET-C. Common
feed, -V
External
protective
braidin
g
Data:
Blue: NET-H (CAN-H)
White: NET-L.(CAN-L)
Feed:
Red : NET-S. Positive
feed, + V
Black: NET-C. Common
feed, -V
External
protective
braidin
g

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3.3.4.5 Albatross system integration
Figure 15A. Connection diagram of the Alba-Engine to a laptop with Alba-USB and Albatross ConfigTool
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3.3.4.5 Albatross system integration
Figure 15A. Connection diagram of the Alba-Engine to a laptop with Alba-USB and Albatross ConfigTool

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Figura 15B. Connection diagram of the Alba-Engine to an Albatross System
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Figura 15B. Connection diagram of the Alba-Engine to an Albatross System

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3.4 Alba-Engine Configuration
The following illustration shows the main configuration screen for the Alba-Engine interface.
Figure 16. Main dialog box for the configuration of the Alba-Engine
To ensure the proper functioning of your vessel, you need to configure each and every parameter in
this dialog before using it. DON’T USE this product until you have gone through the whole
configuration process, which is explained in detail in the following sections
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3.4 Alba-Engine Configuration
The following illustration shows the main configuration screen for the Alba-Engine interface.
Figure 16. Main dialog box for the configuration of the Alba-Engine
To ensure the proper functioning of your vessel, you need to configure each and every
parameter in this dialog before using it. DON’T USE this product until you have gone
through the whole configuration process, which is explained in detail in the following
sections