Overview

The Garmin 010-11580-00 is a NMEA 2000 power isolator that lets network data pass while stopping NMEA 2000 bus power from passing through that point in the backbone.

It is used when a device on the network can also feed power onto the NMEA 2000 bus, which can lead to the backbone being powered in more than one place. NMEA 2000 networks are powered from 12 Vdc, and connected devices are intended to operate from 9 to 16 Vdc with a nominal 12 Vdc supply.

Key features

• Allows NMEA 2000 data communication while blocking network power across the isolator
• Helps prevent a connected device from backfeeding power onto the NMEA 2000 backbone
• Fits inline in the NMEA 2000 backbone between two network segments where power separation is needed
• Supports mixed installations where an engine or other equipment may be capable of powering the network
• For NMEA 2000 systems that use 12 Vdc network power (devices typically operate 9 to 16 Vdc)

Installation and setup

Install the isolator in the backbone between the portion of the network that could introduce bus power and the rest of the backbone. It is placed in-line, not on a device drop, so it separates power paths while keeping the data path intact.

After installation, confirm the network is still built as a proper linear backbone with terminators at both ends, and confirm you are not powering the backbone in more than one place unless an isolator separates those power connections.

Compatibility and fit

This part is for NMEA 2000 networks that use micro-style connectors commonly found on modern marine electronics. If your existing backbone uses NMEA 2000 mini connectors, an adapter is required to interface a micro-connector component into that backbone.

Electrical and network considerations

This isolator does not act as a power tap and it does not replace correct network power wiring. The NMEA 2000 backbone should be powered from a switched 12 Vdc source using a dedicated NMEA 2000 power cable, with network loading and voltage drop handled through proper backbone layout and power connection placement.

Use cases on board

This is a practical fit for refits where you are adding new electronics to an existing NMEA 2000 backbone, especially when you cannot confirm how the network is powered. It also applies when integrating equipment like certain engines that may be able to supply bus power while still needing to exchange NMEA 2000 data with the rest of the system.