Might be a stupid NMEA question
 

So I’m installing a fusion head unit. I would like to connect it to my Garmin screen. My Garmin has nothing else running to it so do I need to build the backbone or can I plug it directly into the screen? Thanks

You need to build a backbone with power, and termination resistors

Unlimited's comment is correct. Powered backbone then drop cables from each device to backbone.

What they said and just like this, connect your device to the drop and your ready to go. I powered my backbone from my GPS power switch.


https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.off...00b9c680a7.jpg

Thanks for the info. I’m curious how everybody supplies the power.

When I did mine a few years ago, I purchased a backbone kit that had the termination resistors and power supply included. Make it simple and buy a complete kit, you ll be glad you did.

This will be everything you need. All connectors, cables, power and terminator resistors needed for your particular install all in one package


Chris

it really depends on the system.

I’m assuming it needs to be key on power and not just ran to the battery?

another option

https://www.imarineusa.com/ActisenseA2K-SBN-2.aspx

He is wanting to add the ability to control his Fusion with his Garmin. Not create a backbone for a ship. Anyway the Amazon link I listed is perfect and expandable if needed. As far as power. It should not be integrated into the key. It needs power anytime the battery switch is giving power to the dash. I would look under the dash and wire it to something that has power when the battery switch is on or just to where the radio gets its power. Sometimes the radio is powered through a switch on the dash that is fused. That will work fine. If your power is not coming through a fused source then you need to add a 5 amp fuse in line. Reason for skipping the key is you want to have power to the network at anchor. A bit more complex but this is my setup. Any screen can control the radio which is a Fusion connected to the backbone.

https://mightytext.net/zVrZEs

Chris

so he can add a power drop, 2 terminating resistors, 2 t's and 2 drop cables. or a 4 or 8 port of the actisense unit.... same end result different way to get there...

Same result but different price. Most boats on here will never run more than 2 screens and a Radio. So even if he needed another T my choice would be cheaper.

Chris

price point you are absolutely correct... it was just another option. I think it’s a cleaner install but to each their own.

Thanks for the info guys. I’ll run it off the radio power most likely as it is switched.