Equipment: Smart switching with minimal cabling - plus anchor and manoeuvring aid

The Düsseldorf-based company Revotion started out in the motorhome segment, but its Bluetooth-based bus system is also suitable for yachts. It is very easy to install and can be controlled via a customisable app. The system consists of a central unit, known as the brain, and the nodes as function modules. The special thing about it is that the nodes only require a 12 or 24 volt power supply and can be connected in series, for example, as a chain along a line running from the bow to the stern. Communication with the Brain takes place via Bluetooth, so no additional data lines are required.

Depending on requirements, the nodes can perform switching and measuring functions or feed data from tank sensors into the system. There is also an ambient node for lighting control and a battery module for power distribution, which can be used to monitor a battery and five consumers. The module can handle currents of up to 200 amps at the battery connection, whereby each of the five channels can be loaded with 60 amps. To connect a powerful charger or a powerful alternator, for example, several channels can be linked.

Revotion bus system can be expanded

If more than 200 amps are to flow, for example to operate an inverter, the system can be expanded with a Smartshunt from Victron. A node is required for each load to be switched, which is looped into the supply line at the appropriate point. Installing the nodes is also very simple. All connections are designed as Wago terminals, so neither cable lugs nor wire end ferrules are required. The outputs are electronically monitored and can be protected against overload with a fuse programmable to up to 20 amps.

The system is controlled via an app in which each node can be assigned a name and function, creating a virtual control panel. A fixed display based on a standard Samsung Android tablet can also be installed as an option.

Up to 25 nodes can be controlled with the Brain. The central unit is equipped with a GPS and a position sensor, allowing the boat to be tracked. Software updates are carried out automatically via an LTE-M module with an integrated SIM card. In the near future, remote access to the bus system will also be possible. The Brain costs 599 euros, and Revotion charges 149 euros for each switching node. The battery module costs 299 euros.

Port King" app

The new "Port King" app helps with harbour manoeuvres and anchoring. The application explains the common situations from casting off at the mooring line to mooring alongside in offshore winds step by step and clearly in individual drawings and supplementary animations. There are also further tips and the typical mistakes are mentioned. The texts are written in English and German. "Port King" costs 4.99 euros and is available for IOS or Android.

• More information: skipperfriends.com

Robust chain marking

Coloured markings for the anchor chain are not a new idea; the coloured hard rubber parts that are pressed into the chain links have been around for years. However, these merely clamped markers are quickly lost when the chain runs through the nut and jams in the anchor locker. The Anchor Right system is designed to be much more durable. To ensure that the markers remain in the chain, they are screwed together from two halves. Versions are available for 6, 8, 10 and 12 mm chains. One set consists of 30 markers in six colours. The scope of delivery also includes a board on which the colour-chain length assignment can be set, so that you can see at a glance how many metres of the basic harness have gone into the water. Prices start at just under 26 euros per set.

• More information: Lindemann-kg.de