Description
Shadow-Caster NMEA 2000 Light Controller | Boat Supply Store
For boat owners requiring precise NMEA 2000 network integration for advanced LED illumination, this controller offers unparalleled zone management and customization. It supports up to 18 distinct lighting zones, including 4 zones for RGB/RGBW fixtures, and features 6 "Instant ON" switch inputs for direct manual control. Engineered with a rugged IP67-rated housing and Deutsch IP67 connections, it handles 15 amps per channel with digital fusing and supports over 600 watts of RGB lighting, ensuring robust performance in harsh marine environments.
Key Features
- Global NMEA 2000 network control of all vessel lighting.
- Expandable control up to 18 independent lighting zones.
- Direct manual light activation via 6 "Instant ON" switch inputs.
- Full RGB and RGBW color spectrum support for dynamic illumination.
- Rugged IP67 water-resistant housing with robust Deutsch connectors.
- Advanced digital fusing protects circuits at 15 amps per channel.
- Integrated music synchronization with 3.5mm audio input and built-in microphone.
- High-capacity support for over 600 watts of RGB lighting loads.
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| NMEA 2000 Zones | 6 (expandable to 18) |
| RGB/RGBW Zones | 4 |
| Instant ON Switch Inputs | 6 |
| IP Rating | IP67 |
| Connections | Deutsch IP67 |
| Digital Fusing | 15 amps/channel |
| Input Voltage | 10-30V |
| RGB Lighting Support | 600+ watts |
| Audio Input | 3.5mm female |
| Music Sync | DSP, built-in microphone |
| Expandability | Shadow-NET® bus |
| Dimensions | 8.9" x 4.75" x 1.8" |
Who This Is For
Vessel owners and marine professionals seeking sophisticated, integrated NMEA 2000-based LED lighting control. Prioritizes robust environmental protection and seamless system integration without wireless dependencies.
How It Compares
| Feature | Shadow-Caster NMEA 2000 Light Controller | Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Zones (Base) | 6 | 4-8, 4 |
| Maximum Expandable Zones | 18 | 8, 4 |
| RGBW Support | Yes | Yes, Yes |
| Connectivity | NMEA 2000 Only | NMEA 2000, Bluetooth, NMEA 2000 |
| Music Sync | Yes (Built-in mic & 3.5mm input) | Varies by model, No |
| IP Rating | IP67 | IP65, IP67 |
| Digital Fusing per Channel | 15 Amps | Varies by model, Varies by model |
Common Concerns Answered
Will I miss Wi-Fi or Bluetooth control with this NMEA 2000-only unit?
This controller is specifically designed for dedicated NMEA 2000 network integration, offering robust and reliable control without the potential interference or complexities of wireless systems. If your vessel's network architecture prioritizes NMEA 2000, this unit provides superior integration.
I'm concerned about the installation complexity. How difficult is it to set up?
Installation is rated as moderate (3/5), requiring a foundational understanding of NMEA 2000 network setup and wiring. The Deutsch connectors simplify physical connections, but proper network configuration is essential for optimal function. The "Instant ON" switch inputs add an additional wiring step.
What if I have very specific lighting requirements beyond basic on/off?
The controller excels in advanced customization, supporting full RGB/RGBW color palettes with 24-bit color and gamma correction, allowing for precise scene setting and dynamic lighting effects tailored to your marine environment or activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary function of the Shadow-Caster Light Commander NMEA 2000 Only?
It serves as a dedicated NMEA 2000 interface for controlling multiple zones of marine LED lighting, offering advanced features like scene customization and music synchronization directly through your vessel's existing NMEA 2000 backbone.
How many distinct lighting zones can be managed by this controller?
The unit natively supports 6 independent zones, which can be expanded up to a total of 18 zones by connecting additional Shadow-Caster modules via the Shadow-NET® bus.
Does the controller support the full range of LED colors, including white?
Yes, the Shadow-Caster Light Commander supports both RGB (Red, Green, Blue) and RGBW (Red, Green, Blue, White) lighting configurations, providing comprehensive color mixing capabilities.
Is this controller compatible with Multi-Function Displays (MFDs) on an NMEA 2000 network?
While it integrates seamlessly into an NMEA 2000 network, this controller is designed to operate independently of MFDs for its core lighting control functions. It also offers direct switch inputs for manual operation without MFD interaction.
What is the total power handling capacity for lighting connected to the unit?
The controller can manage over 600 watts of RGB lighting and provides digital fusing protection rated at 15 amps per channel, ensuring safe and reliable operation for high-demand lighting installations.
