Overview

The Garmin 010-12528-20 is a field-installable adapter kit for wiring a Garmin BlueNet network cable when the run needs to be routed through the boat before any factory connectors are on it. It is built for custom-length BlueNet Ethernet runs and for re-terminating a cable after you trim it to fit a refit, reroute, or repair.

The kit supports terminating both ends of a single cable: you crimp RJ45 ends, seal them inside the included waterproof housings, then connect the included BlueNet adapter cables and tighten the locking rings at the devices. The termination process strips back 16 mm (5/8 in.) of jacket before crimping, and the strain-relief nut is tightened with a 15 mm wrench.

Key features

• Creates a custom-length Garmin BlueNet network cable by terminating bulk cable on the boat, after it has been pulled through conduits and chases.
• Includes components for both ends of one cable, so you can build a complete BlueNet-to-BlueNet run in one go.
• RJ45 crimp connectors are protected inside waterproof termination housings for a sealed connection at the cable end.
• BlueNet adapter cables interface the terminated RJ45 ends to Garmin BlueNet device ports using a locking ring connection.
• Supports clean installations where pre-made cable lengths do not land well between devices, switches, arches, hardtops, or masts.
• Uses common installation tools such as wire cutters, an Ethernet stripping tool or utility knife, an RJ45 crimping tool, and a 15 mm wrench.

What's included

• Two sets of RJ45 crimp connectors with waterproof termination housings (enough to terminate both ends of one cable)
• Two Garmin BlueNet network adapter cables (one for each end)

Installation and setup

For most installs, route the unterminated cable first, then cut it to length once you have your slack where you want it. Each end is terminated as an RJ45, seated into the housing, and secured with the strain relief so the jacket is supported instead of the conductors taking the load.

Because the two ends are wired differently, pay close attention to the side-specific wire order during termination and complete both ends before assembling the final cable with the adapter cables. Once assembled, connect the BlueNet ends at the devices and hand-tighten the locking rings so vibration does not back them off.

Compatibility and fit

This kit is for Garmin BlueNet networking. It is used to make a cable that connects between Garmin BlueNet network ports, such as the ports found on compatible Garmin chartplotters, radars, sonar modules, and BlueNet network hardware.

It does not convert a BlueNet run into NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, or a generic Ethernet patch lead. Plan your run so both ends land on BlueNet network ports, and use the correct BlueNet cable type for the build.

Use on board

This makes sense for new electronics installs and refits where you are pulling cable through a radar arch, hardtop, conduit, or rigging tube and do not want a factory connector snagging on every turn. It is also a practical fix when a cable needs to be shortened or re-terminated after a change in equipment layout.

Maintenance and care

After installation, give the housings and locking rings a quick check during routine maintenance, especially on boats that see heavy vibration or frequent washdowns. Keep sealing surfaces clean when you disconnect and reconnect, and support the cable so the termination does not carry the weight of a long hanging run.