Review Simarine VIA Set

This time topRik experts explore the features of the unique digital switching system Simarine VIA set, which with various Simarine system monitor modules was tested at sea on a yacht and in a van on the roads of Croatia and Montenegro. You already know that we offer marine equipment only after having previously examined it in practice.

Now at our marketplace we boldly recommend Simarine Via set to all owners of motor and sailing yachts of any configuration and size who are faced with choosing a digital switching system for their boat.

Why do we talk about yachts of any size and configuration when we offer the Simarine VIA set? It’s because Simarine System monitor is a modular system. You can select modules and shunts depending on the needs of each specific yacht. And all the information will flow to the VIA control panel, so that the captain can control many functions from one place, from one monitor. We describe which ones exactly below.

When the automotive industry began to use digital switching systems, also known as “distributed power,” manufacturers of small boats and equipment began to wonder if such a system could be developed for vessels. At that time, all cars of every more or less popular brand were equipped with digital switching systems, which made it possible to reduce the amount of wiring, increase the functionality of the equipment and the level of safety.

More than 10 years ago, digital switching systems for boats began to appear. The first options, as befits pioneers, were overly complex. Boat owners were disappointed not to receive the expected comfort when operating ship equipment and monitoring the life systems of the boat.

As technology improved and the popularity of recreational boating grew, unique switching systems for boats began to appear, and the greatest demand was for modular digital switching systems. This is not surprising given the constant shortage of space on yachts, no matter what size they are, and even more so if we are talking about mass-produced boats.

Since designers of digital switching systems for cars and boats have always had the goal of minimizing size while constantly expanding functionality, their control panels have evolved from simple signaling devices to complex human-machine interfaces that increase the efficiency of process control. The only paradox is that the control panel of simple signaling devices with many indicators, buttons and switches occupied significant areas, and the complex human-machine interfaces that replaced them were limited to one control panel with a change of screens, the number of which depended on the number of functions performed.

Simarine Via set is a clear confirmation of innovation in this area, especially if you know that the developers of Simarine monitoring systems did not stop at offering their customers one single model of a digital control panel. But more on this below.

Key Features and Specifications

VIA is a device used to control appliances and monitor DC power supplies such as batteries, inclinometers, tanks, appliances (refrigerator, cooktop, air conditioner), lighting and signal lights, water pump and solar panels on your yacht or RV, motorhome, caravan. This combination of control panel and universal power distribution unit is everything you need to control the equipment listed above and much more that is not yet included in this list.

3.5" HD IPS display with Gorilla Glass and anti-reflective coating on which information is displayed provides a clear picture and excellent visibility in any light and in any weather. The display is equipped with 8 control buttons that complement the touch screen, providing convenience for users with different preferences.

Power Off button can be configured so that when pressed, the panel goes to Sleep Mode. In this case, the control panel will only consume 5 mA while still collecting all the necessary data. In normal operation, the illumination is 70% and consumption is 40 mA.

VIA is capable of monitoring up to 6 batteries, 14 tanks, 14 temperature levels and 20 independent current sensors (shunts), as well as managing 2 relay switches. It is equipped with a Wi-Fi module for communication with an application available for Android and iPhone smartphones.

The application allows you to access live data, analyze saved data, customize the panel and update the system firmware.

Functionality and Integration

The digital switching system Simarine VIA set is compatible with almost all modules of the Simarine System monitor:

• SC303 Digital Shunt – 300A Shunt, for up to 75V systems;
• SC503 Digital Shunt – 500A Shunt, for up to 75V systems;
• SDI01 Inclinometer – High-resolution digital inclinometer for pitch and roll with manual calibration;
• SCQ25 Quadro Digital Shunt Module – 4x25A Shunt, for 12V and 24V systems;
• SCQ50 Quadro Digital Shunt Module – 4x50A Shunt, for 12V and 24V systems;
• SCQ25T Quadro Digital Shunt and Analog input module 4x25A Shunt and Analog input module with 4 resistance and 3 voltage inputs;
• ST107 Analog input interface module with 4 resistance and 3 voltage Inputs.

The compatibility of Simarine with VIA set modules and shunts makes it possible to expand the functionality of the monitoring system on your yacht solely in accordance with your needs as a skipper. You choose which functions you need to monitor, including those that are required for data transfer to FDR (Flight Data Recorder) in accordance with international maritime legislation.

V power distribution unit , which is supplied with the VIA control panel. This universal module has:

• 6 switching channels distributed over 12 fuses;
• A shunt for service battery;
• 40A shunt for wall charger;
• A shunt for solar battery.

The power distribution unit provides power to other external modules and shunts. In addition, it is fully compatible with all existing expansion modules, including Simarine SN 01 NMEA 2000 gateway, which allows you to transfer data from any device connected to the monitoring system.

In case of panel malfunctions, the Simarine VIA set switching system provides the possibility of manual switching.

Below we'll detail some of the most important features of Simarine's VIA digital switching system.

Battery Management and Monitoring

Whether you are using a Simarine monitoring system in a motorhome or on a yacht, you should always monitor the charge of your batteries, including your solar panels. VIA always provides you with accurate data on your batteries' voltage, state of charge, remaining amp-hour capacity, charging or discharging time, and even battery compartment temperature.

At the same time, you can monitor several power sources and control the energy consumption of individual household appliances (refrigerator, coffee maker, electric stove, etc.) and yacht equipment, such as lighting.

To do this, simply expand the capabilities of your digital switching system by adding innovative modules, the list of which is listed above, and which we talk about in detail in other reviews of our blog.

All modules, shunts and shunt modules can be purchased in the appropriate sections of the topRik marketplace , which offers unique equipment for Simarine monitoring systems.

Remote Control and Automation Capabilities

Work processes in the equipment of a yacht or motorhome can be monitored remotely if they are supported by the Simarine PICO monitoring system. You can also remotely control the entire range of control functions:

• batteries of all types (depending on the choice of connection to the shunt or module);
• tanks with fuel, drinking, sea and hot water, black and gray water;
• temperature;
• roll and pitch of a ship or car, if you expand the capabilities with an innovative inclinometer, an additional module of the system.

To ensure you can monitor the condition of your yacht's batteries and other equipment, download the free Simarine mobile app. It will be easy for you to customize your panel and update the firmware.

After connecting Wi-Fi Direct on the panel (localhost) you will be able to view the data that is displayed on the Simarine VIA set digital panel communicator in real time.

Integration With Other Simarine Systems and Third-Party Devices

The Simarine VIA digital control panel is compatible with all Simarine systems. It can even be integrated into PICO systems of all three versions that were released earlier, and if you have them installed. This is the main advantage of Simarine systems: if you want to expand functionality, you do not need to change your “old” monitoring equipment. Let PICO remain an additional display monitor, even without changing location. Simply connect the system to a much more convenient monitor that displays information better and more comprehensively, and also allows you to control the intuitive interface using buttons.

All other modules and shunts that worked in your PICO system will also perform their functions perfectly, transmitting information to the VIA control panel.

It may happen that you installed a PICO monitoring system, and later additional modules were released, for example, an inclinometer, and you want to simultaneously expand the capabilities of your monitoring system with a new module and with the VIA control panel.

Great solution and great news for you: it's all compatible! The VIA control panel, integrated into the PICO system, will correctly display the roll and pitch of a vessel or vehicle if you connect it to the SDI01 Inclinometer module, which was originally developed to enhance the capabilities of PICO monitoring systems.

What else have we forgotten? You probably have high-current combined shunts SC303 and SC503. If they perform their functions, you will not have to change them when connected to the VIA control panel system.

If the alarm relays of the SCQ25 and SCQ50 modules are programmed via the PICO monitor to turn on/off depending on a parameter, for example, battery charge level, voltage readings, tank level, temperature, you can leave this connection and display other parameters on the control panel.

Remember when you ran out of free voltage and resistance inputs to monitor your system's tank level, temperature and batteries, and added an ST107 module with voltage and resistance inputs and an additional alarm relay? It also works great when connected to a VIA panel.

Well, you understand: you don’t have to remove the existing monitoring system from your yacht or car, just start connecting the panel and reconnecting existing modules to it, including the PICO monitor.

We believe that those who expand the already installed Simarine monitoring system PICO and those who are installing this efficient system with a VIA control panel for the first time will find the SN 01 NMEA 2000 Gateway module very useful . This is an interface device for exchanging data between devices of any digital system. The data transfer speed via the NMEA 2000 protocol is much higher, information from devices and equipment will be displayed faster on the control panel.

Compatibility with third-party navigation devices and electrical equipment depends on the availability of inputs and outputs with the required current and voltage ratings, as well as matching connectors.

Software Capabilities and User Interfaces

Operating the VIA menu is intuitive and simple. All settings can be made using the four touch buttons below the screen. The initial menus and settings may differ from the menus and settings when updating the firmware, but these will be minor.

To enter the settings menu, press the touch button on the far right. The buttons on the right are used to quickly and easily open and navigate the various additional screens.

Through these buttons you can perform all operations that are provided by the mounted system. The information displayed on the screen depends on which modules are installed in the monitoring system.

Advantages and Disadvantages

topRik experts had the opportunity not only to learn about the capabilities of the Simarine digital communication panel Via set as users in road and navigation conditions. Experts with the appropriate tolerances were also able to evaluate the installation and calibration conditions. Based on the testing results, we posted our impressions in this section.

Benefits of Via Set

• The panel has not only an intuitive user interface, but also an intuitive installation and calibration process - it’s simple and reliable, the main thing is to follow the instructions so that everything works correctly.
• Wide integration possibilities not only in Simarine systems , but also in many modern third-party brands, since developers do not want to limit users to their system.
• Quite a solid warranty period of 3 years.
• Wide functionality that allows you to use the Simarine Via patch panel set on large campers or small yachts.

Another advantage is the exquisite design solution: the panel fits perfectly with the most luxurious interior of a yacht, campervan or motorhome. Nothing superfluous or pompous, and at the same time, the VIA control panel has everything that should be in a modern device: an anodized aluminum body, an optically bonded high-resolution IPS screen with a polarizing filter, automatic backlighting of the display and buttons.

Disadvantages of Via Set

• High cost of the device compared to more primitive analogues.
• Possible compatibility limitations with some systems.

Comparison of Via Set and Nereide 2 Set

Above we promised that we would talk about other Simarine patch panels. We are talking about an innovative project that was published not so long ago, but has already received recognition from the leaders of the yacht building industry. Simarine is proud to announce that their Nereide 2 digital switchboard complements the interiors of yachts from one of the world's largest sailboat manufacturers, HanseYachts AG. Today the Nereide 2 control panel can be found on Hanse, Dehler and Fjord.

From this it is clear that, unlike Via Set panel Nereide 2 Set is a complete digital switching solution for yachts. Therefore, while Nereide 2 offers all the functions of the Pico monitoring system: battery, tank and temperature monitoring, as well as air pressure measurement, significant attention is paid to monitoring the navigation electronics.

topRik experts, who were on board a sailboat with a Nereide 2 digital switchboard installed, will talk about this Simarine development in the next review.

FAQ

How to install Via set on my ship?

The VIA panel should be installed in a location that provides excellent access and good legibility to the helmsman's eyes. Usually this is the instrument (helm) panel of the yacht's helm station or any suitable place in the camper.

Before installation, determine exactly how much space the panel will take up, but do not forget that the calculation of the area should not be based on the size of the screen, but on the size of the frame in which it is mounted. Then follow the steps exactly as instructed:

• mark and drill all mounting holes;
• connect the connector on the back panel of the VIA to the splitter cable, aligning the pins correctly and securing it;
• turn the safety ring clockwise;
• complete the installation on the back side using the supplied hardware - screws, rods and nuts - hand tightening to avoid damaging the threads.

The connection of the panel itself and the modules must be carried out by professionals who have special permission to work with electrical systems. Each module is connected in accordance with the recommendations of the relevant manuals , which are provided by the manufacturer complete with each module, shunt and shunt module.

And here it all depends on whether you will use the panel on a boat or in a camper, and what modules you will connect to expand monitoring capabilities.

Is Via compatible with existing systems on board?

The developers tried to ensure that you do not have to demolish any systems that are familiar to you for the sake of a new panel. Therefore, the inputs and outputs, current and voltage readings, polarity , as well as VIA panel connectors are compatible with most navigation equipment. But it’s a good idea to check this before purchasing. And don’t forget to clarify (remember) what type of sensors are used to monitor tank levels and temperatures.

And the fact that the VIA digital control panel is fully compatible with all Simarine modules, shunts and monitors, we described in detail above in the corresponding section.

What is the warranty on Via set from Simarine?

The manufacturer provides a three-year warranty on all modules, shunts, monitors and panels of the monitoring system. Provided that the user does not violate the operating rules, which include, among other things, a ban on hacking the panel not agreed with the manufacturer or doing independent repairs during the warranty period.

Will I be able to update the Via software myself?

Stay tuned for manufacturer announcements regarding new software releases for the VIA Digital Control Panel set. Find out how to update the software from the instructions that came with the package. We do not provide a complete description here because we do not want to be held responsible for user errors.

For remote control you can download the free Simarine mobile app on Google Play and App Store. Very simple, intuitive setup, after which you should update the firmware if you have an older version installed.

To view real-time data on the screen, you will need to turn on Wi-Fi Direct on VIA panel set (localhost) and view the data in real time.