IBEX 2024: Maretron MConnect
It has been quite a few years in the making, but Maretron’s MConnect is out! MConnect is Maretron’s succesor to N2KView. With a modern user interface, delivery via HTML5, and attractive price point, MConnect is a major step forward for Maretron and boaters with advanced NMEA 2000 systems. At IBEX, I spent time with the lead developer for the product and got an in depth tour of its capabilities.
The WSV100 – MConnect launches with introductory pricing of $599 which strikes me as a spectacular bargain. The hardware includes dual NMEA 2000 interfaces, Ethernet and WiFi connectivity, and accepts 9-32 volt power. Maretron says the unit consumes only 5 watts.
The WSV100 does not have a direct video output, instead the user interface is served up via HTML5 to a connected, HTML5 compatible display system including chartplotters from Furuno, Garmin, and Raymarine. Additionally, a computer or mobile device with a web browser can access and control the system. Leveraging a VPN, that access can be local or remote, allowing off-boat access to the entire system.
N2KView most recently retailed for $995 and still required hardware to run it. Although in the short term there may be some functionality not fully replicated in MConnect, the user interface, flexibility of HTML5 presentation, and remote capabilities mean there’s a lot to look forward to with MConnect.
MConnect’s potential uses are nearly limitless. It can be used to create engine dashboard pages, electrical monitoring pages, and vessel status pages. It has a drag-and-drop user interface to create, edit, and customize screens. Although I haven’t spent too much time with my hands on MConnect, what I’ve seen thus far suggests the only limit to the customizations is the creativity of the user.
Maretron doesn’t just envision MConnect being used by boaters. As an integration tool, especially for low volume manufacturers, MConnect can provide HTML5 user interfaces for control and instrumentation. For example, Maretron was showing the above screens illustrating how MConnect could be used by an electric propulsion manufacturer to provide dashboard functionality. Using MConnect means the propulsion manufacturer avoids developing their own system. MConnect has tools for the integrator to lock down the system so it can be branded and integrated as part of their solution.
Both Ben Ellison and I will receive MConnect units to evaluate shortly. I’m looking forward to getting my hands on a unit and furthering the hard work of over-equipping my 28-foot Edgewater.
I was really excited with this when first announced, but on digging into the details decided to hold off. As confirmed by a Maretron rep you only have one network connection (no WiFi until an update next year). That means you have to choose between the Garmin network or regular LAN/WAN since the two can’t talk to each other. That was huge disappointment. I understand that it’s a Garmin issue, not Maretron that the network is isolated, but nonetheless significantly reduces the benefit as remote access and ability to view on a tablet or computer goes away. If I could view on an MFD and get remote/local iPad access I would have bought immediately.
As a side note I known that folks have successfully bridged the Garmin network to the boats network, but directions online are all incomplete and really only for networking experts. If someone has a realiable solution hit me up. I am willing to make it worth your while.
Hi Tom, you can connect a USB to Ethernet adaptor to the USB port and connect that directly to your router. Alternatively, you can plug a 4G/5G USB dongle directly into the USB port.
Full disclosure, I work for Maretron and have the most experienced with the MConnect.
I too would rather not have to choose between connecting to my router or being able to use it with my Garmin. That said, when I’m underway, my data requirements are fully met by my existing displays so I wonder if MConnect pages would just be another distraction. I’m intrigued by the possibility of remote access.I do plan on ordering it, once it actually becomes available, but don’t even get me started on early announcements followed by protracted availability…