NMEA releases latest version of installation standard

2014 edition of NMEA 0400, Version 4.00 features extensive updates and new information

(SEVERNA PARK, Md.) — The National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) has just published Edition 2014, Version 4.00 of the NMEA 0400 Installation Standard, which contains information on new technologies, updated sections, and additional appendices. NMEA 0400 is a valuable tool and reference guide for installing any piece of marine electronics equipment. Edition 2014, Version 4.00 includes two new sections — Black Box Installation and Cameras & Security Installation. Every section listed below was reviewed and updated by industry experts consisting of NMEA member manufacturers and NMEA accredited installers. Three new appendices were also added: NMEA 0183 Sentence Information, NMEA 2000® PGN Descriptions, and VHF/DSC Wiring Information. “What makes the 0400 unique is the fact that all sections are non–manufacturer specific, so these best installation practices, which were agreed upon by industry experts, can complement any manufacturer’s installation manual,” said NMEA Managing Director Mark Reedenauer. “The Installation Standard serves as yet another level of technical information for the manufacturer, installer, boat builder, and retailer.” NMEA 0400 will now have a presence in the international marine electronics community, due to the addition of many international references, such as IEC, IMO, ISO, and ITU. New language that defers to local regulations for AC and DC wiring, along with measurements and wire sizing listed in metric units, facilitates international use of the standard. NMEA has reduced the pricing of Version 4.00 to further the goal of getting more copies of the standard in the field. This will result in higher-quality installations and help create a better experience on the water for boaters. Visit www.nmea.org or call 410-975-9425 for more information.

NMEA 0400 Version 4.00 includes these sections:  

•    AC and DC Wiring Installation
•    Grounding, Bonding and Lightning Protection
•    Battery Installation
•    Power Inverter Installation
•    Coaxial Cable Installation
•    Data Interfacing—NMEA 0183, NMEA 2000® & Ethernet
•    Antenna Installation
•    Display Installation
•    Black Box Installation
•    Transducer Installation
•    Compass Installation
•    Radar Installation
•    Autopilot Installation
•    Electromagnetic Interference
•    VHF & SSB Radio Installation
•    Computer System Installation
•    Automatic Identification System (AIS) Installation
•    Satellite TV & Communications System Installation
•    Security, Tracking & Video/Camera Installation
•    Test Criteria    

Founded in 1957, the NMEA has led the way in establishing technical standards for data exchange in marine electronics, with the widely accepted NMEA 0183 data protocol, NMEA 2000® and certification standards for marine electronics technicians. NMEA standards and programs focus on ensuring that the boating consumer is provided with reliable products and professional service. For more information, visit the NMEA website at www.NMEA.org

By Professional Mariner Staff