Overview

The B&G Zeus³S Glass Helm is a full-glass multifunction display range for sailboat helms, offered here in 16", 19", and 24" screen sizes with System Pack and Display Only configurations. Every size uses a Full HD 1920 x 1080 touchscreen with 1000 nits of brightness, so charts, instruments, and sailing data stay readable in sun and spray.

It runs on 12/24 V DC (10 to 31.2 V DC) and is rated IPX6 on the front when panel-mounted correctly with only the front exposed. Connectivity is set up for larger networks: NMEA 2000, multiple NMEA 0183 ports, Ethernet, and built-in Wi-Fi, so it can sit at the center of charting, radar, sonar, autopilot control, and onboard data sharing without adding a separate processor box.

Key features

• Full HD 1920 x 1080 multi-touch display rated at 1000 nits for visibility in bright cockpit light.
• 12/24 V DC power input (10 to 31.2 V DC) to match typical sailboat electrical systems.
• IPX6 front rating when panel mounted correctly with only the front exposed for open-helm washdowns and spray.
• NMEA 2000 (Micro-C) plus 4 NMEA 0183 ports for integrating legacy instruments, AIS, and other talkers.
• Three Ethernet (RJ45) ports for networked radar, sonar modules, and other high-bandwidth accessories.
• Internal Wi-Fi (802.11b/g/n) for wireless connectivity and onboard updating workflows.
• Video support including HDMI input and HDMI output (1080p), plus composite video inputs for camera feeds.
• Operating range from -15 C to +55 C, with shock and vibration specs suited to hard-driven offshore boats.

Variants

Screen size varies across 16", 19", and 24" options, while the core display specs remain consistent across the range, including 1920 x 1080 resolution and 1000 nits brightness. Power draw changes with size, up to 40 W (16"), 50 W (19"), or 80 W (24"), which matters when planning helm power distribution on a 12 V or 24 V system.

Pack option varies between System Pack and Display Only. System Pack configurations bundle the display with a ZG100 GPS sensor, an MI10 microSD card reader for convenient card access at the helm, and a ZC2 controller for keypad-style control alongside touch. Display Only configurations are the MFD itself for builds where sensors, card access, and controllers are already handled elsewhere in the system.

Installation and setup

For a true glass-helm look and the stated front waterproof rating, plan on a proper panel mount with the front face exposed and the rear protected behind the dash. Bracket mounting is supported when you need a more flexible helm layout or a temporary positioning during a refit.

Fuse sizing depends on screen size: 6 A at 12 V (3 A at 24 V) for 16", 7 A at 12 V (4 A at 24 V) for 19", and 10 A at 12 V (5 A at 24 V) for 24". Keep standard compass separation in mind during layout, with a 50 cm safe distance noted for magnetic compasses.

Network and system integration

This platform fits well on boats already running an instrument backbone and Ethernet switching. NMEA 2000 handles shared vessel data, while the four NMEA 0183 ports cover older talkers and dedicated serial devices. Ethernet supports higher-throughput accessories, and Wi-Fi is built in for wireless connections. J1939 connectivity is also supported for compatible engine data installations.

Use on board

This is a strong match for blue water sailing boats, multihulls, and larger yachts where the helm needs a flush, wide display that can carry navigation, sailing pages, and system data without juggling multiple small screens. It also makes sense for racing programs that want quick access to B&G sailing features like SailSteer and RacePanel while keeping charting and instruments on the same glass helm.

Maintenance and care

Rinse salt residue off the face with fresh water and wipe with a soft cloth to keep the touchscreen responsive. Avoid harsh solvents and abrasive pads that can haze the glass or damage screen coatings.