Maritime
Engine monitoring, navigation integration, and vessel diagnostics
CAN bus is the standard communication backbone for marine electronics — from engine management systems to navigation equipment. Helix provides vessel operators and marine engineers with real-time visibility into CAN-based systems, helping ensure reliable operation at sea where downtime is not an option.
The Landscape
NMEA 2000, the dominant marine electronics network, is built on CAN bus technology. It connects engine management systems, GPS receivers, depth sounders, and autopilots on vessels of all sizes. Marine engineers face unique challenges: equipment must operate reliably in harsh saltwater environments, vessels spend extended periods without connectivity, and engine monitoring is safety-critical.
Key Figures
How It Works
Industry Challenges
What makes CAN bus work in maritime uniquely demanding.
Engine monitoring
Marine engines communicate critical parameters like RPM, coolant temperature, oil pressure, and fuel consumption over CAN. Missing an abnormal reading at sea can lead to engine damage or dangerous situations with no immediate access to repair facilities.
Remote operation
Vessels spend extended periods away from port with limited or no internet connectivity. Data captured during a voyage cannot be accessed remotely until the vessel returns — delaying fault analysis and maintenance decisions.
Multi-system integration
Vessels typically have separate CAN networks for propulsion, navigation, and auxiliary systems. Each network may use different message definitions, making it difficult to get a unified view of vessel health.
How Helix Helps
Built-in capabilities that address maritime requirements.
Engine parameter dashboards
Configure radial gauges for RPM, temperature, and pressure with linear gauges for fuel levels and tank status.
Continuous voyage logging
Record all CAN traffic throughout a voyage for post-trip analysis, compliance documentation, and maintenance planning.
Cloud connectivity
Forward critical parameters to shore-based monitoring systems via MQTT when connectivity allows.
Ready to get started?
See how Helix fits into your workflow. Browse our hardware, software, and plugin products.