Overview

The Garmin 010-12531-02 is an adapter cable that bridges a Garmin BlueNet network port to a standard RJ45 Ethernet connection. It lets you tie in compatible equipment that uses an RJ45 network jack, including Fusion PartyBus stereos, OneHelm digital switching hardware with an RJ45 port, IP cameras, and other third-party network devices. Garmin BlueNet supports network connection speeds up to 1 Gbps, and the BlueNet side uses a connector that is similar in size to a NMEA 2000 plug for easier routing behind the helm.

This cable is meant for bringing RJ45-based devices onto a BlueNet network. It is not used to connect legacy Garmin Marine Network devices directly to a BlueNet port in a mixed network setup.

Key features

• Adapter between a Garmin BlueNet network connector and a standard RJ45 Ethernet port
• Used to connect a network-compatible Fusion PartyBus stereo to a Garmin BlueNet device
• Supports connecting compatible IP cameras and other third-party Ethernet devices to a Garmin BlueNet device
• Fits Garmin BlueNet network layouts built around a Garmin BlueNet chartplotter or a Garmin BlueNet 20 switch
• Helps avoid mismatched connections when integrating RJ45 devices into a BlueNet-based network

Compatibility and fit

This adapter is a good match when your boat has Garmin BlueNet networking but the device you need to add uses a conventional RJ45 Ethernet port. It is most often installed at the helm, inside an electronics locker, or near a network switch where the RJ45 side can stay protected from spray and washdowns.

The BlueNet connector can look similar in size to a NMEA 2000 connector, but it is for Ethernet networking and does not connect to a NMEA 2000 backbone.

Installation and setup

Route the cable with gentle bends and secure it so vibration does not stress the connectors. Leave a small service loop at each end so you can unplug equipment without pulling on the cable run.

Because RJ45 connections are best kept in a dry, sheltered spot, plan the termination point so the RJ45 end lands inside a protected enclosure or behind a gasketed panel whenever possible.

On-board use notes

This adapter makes sense when you are upgrading to Garmin BlueNet chartplotters and still want to network a Fusion PartyBus stereo, add an IP camera feed, or bring a third-party Ethernet device onto the boat network for configuration and troubleshooting.