So-called smart shunts, i.e. current sensors that can be paired with a phone or tablet, are nothing new (see below). However, not having a dedicated battery indicator also has disadvantages, as the charge status can only be recognised if the smartphone with the appropriate app is at hand. If the manufacturer decides at some point to no longer adapt its app to the latest operating systems, the current sensor will be completely useless.
The Smart Shunt from Lxnav promises a remedy. Although the current sensor from Slovenia can also be connected to tablets and smartphones via Wi-Fi, it also has an NMEA2000 interface, which means that the battery charge status and current flow can be displayed on any connected multifunction display. The small box also offers voltage and temperature measurement inputs for three batteries.
The shunt provides a Wi-Fi hotspot for the connection to the smartphone. The data is then configured and displayed web-based via any browser, meaning that the system works independently of apps or operating systems. The Smart Shunt is suitable for vehicle electrical systems from 12 to 65 volts and can be loaded with a maximum of 100, 300 or 500 amps, depending on the version. In order to adapt the displays to the battery technology used, charge and final charge factors and voltages can be set separately. Various alarms can also be programmed. The price is 290 euros.
Lxnav's main area of business is electronics and navigation systems for sports aircraft, but the Slovenians have also been active in the marine sector for several years and, in addition to the Smart Shunt, also produce multifunction displays, GPS antennas and their own plotter system.
- Further information at marine.lxnav.com
Alternatives on the market
Battery monitoring via Bluetooth
The Smart Shunt from Victron can be connected to your mobile device via Bluetooth using the manufacturer's app. All monitored battery parameters such as state of charge, remaining runtime and history information can be easily read out. Price: 135 euros.
- Info under victronenergy.com
Analogue becomes digital
Veratron's LinkUp products convert analogue ship and engine information into NMEA2000 data format for display on new instruments. Battery monitoring (voltage, current and capacity) is also available here for 265 euros.
- Info under svb.de
