B&G Zeus "External wireless modules setup"

[bobmcd625]

Originally Posted by kaz911

If the WiFi-1 starts up and then dies - it can be a defective capacitor. But it has been ages since I looked inside so no tips ready at hand.

I would put in another WiFi "distribution" access point. It is easy(ish) to convert the Navico Yellow ethernet connectors to RJ45 - and put it all in a waterproof wall mount box. If your mount point is "waterproof" - then I would still put it in a box with glands to keep moisture from RJ45 pins and provide strain relief for the cables.

Sounds right. A failed component but beyond my ability to trace and replace!
Could you recommend a specific device for that access point? I have seen some bad reports about Yacht Devices. What about Wave Wi-Fi? Just askin!

[kaz911]

Originally Posted by bobmcd625

Sounds right. A failed component but beyond my ability to trace and replace!
Could you recommend a specific device for that access point? I have seen some bad reports about Yacht Devices. What about Wave Wi-Fi? Just askin!

Most of Yacht Devices network units are actually (often) re-branded Teltonika. Latest 5G version from YD is for certain the same router I run (RUTX50)

I run Teltonika units in my network and they are great. Usually about 1/3 of the price Yacht Devices charge. So about $500 for WiFi + 5G dual sim router + 4 port switch + single port WAN.

I run "tailscale" VPN on it - meaning I can remote access the boat devices securely. Tailscale is a very easy to use VPN many people can setup and use without their children coming to help.

I always pick the units with 9-30/9-32 V power input as they are usually reasonably protected even on a 24v boat like ours.

But I run all main routing from my backup "12v" system with separate 12v backup battery - but POE Ethernet devices run via 24v POE Teltonika switch - so Raymarine keypads and cameras etc - and that switch only runs when boat is "active"

[bobmcd625]

Originally Posted by kaz911

Most of Yacht Devices network units are actually (often) re-branded Teltonika. Latest 5G version from YD is for certain the same router I run (RUTX50)

I run Teltonika units in my network and they are great. Usually about 1/3 of the price Yacht Devices charge. So about $500 for WiFi + 5G dual sim router + 4 port switch + single port WAN.

I run "tailscale" VPN on it - meaning I can remote access the boat devices securely. Tailscale is a very easy to use VPN many people can setup and use without their children coming to help.

I always pick the units with 9-30/9-32 V power input as they are usually reasonably protected even on a 24v boat like ours.

But I run all main routing from my backup "12v" system with separate 12v backup battery - but POE Ethernet devices run via 24v POE Teltonika switch - so Raymarine keypads and cameras etc - and that switch only runs when boat is "active"

Again...great advice which I'll try to absorb! My "needs" are rather modest (short range coastal cruising) but I want it all to work, whatever I have. Will investigate the units you mention. May have to enlist a local techie but should ask my kids first, just to test their skills. Thanks again...

[bobmcd625]

I have been advised by a local electronic expert to get a Yacht Devices wi-fi module (YDWG-02R) with a GL.iNet travel router (Slate AX) to replace the B&G WiFi 1.
Does this make sense? Main function is to mirror the B&G Zeus2 on an iPad.

[Swan42]

I would be careful with some of these marine OEM routers. when i checked the hardware details I found the product was Teletonika & about to be obseleted. they are also more expensive. i can very much recommend Teletonika RUT X50, it has a dual SIM which is handy for cruising in Europe so you can purchase a prepaid card and install. it has a unique feature of being able to access in both Access mode and client mode, so you can access marina hotspot and share internet connection with all other devices on board.

i use it to provide WiFi through out the yacht and connect Vesper Cortex, Victron Cerbo and B&G Zeus and Smart TV.

[bobmcd625]

Originally Posted by bobmcd625

I have been advised by a local electronic expert to get a Yacht Devices wi-fi module (YDWG-02R) with a GL.iNet travel router (Slate AX) to replace the B&G WiFi 1.
Does this make sense? Main function is to mirror the B&G Zeus2 on an iPad.

I have to correct the above. It is the Yacht Devices N2K to Ethernet module he recommended and I now have in my boat connected to the Slate AX router. Have not yet managed to get it working!!! I can join the local net with my iPhone but don't see the router on my Zeus2. Need more time to work things out...Stand by!!!

[bobmcd625]

Tried again to get the Slate AX to show up on the Zeus2 but no go! I did see the Zeus2 on the B&G app on my iPhone which had picked up the wi fi signal, but still would not connect to the MFD. Back to the "expert"! Any other ideas?

[bobmcd625]

It's been a while since I posted here but have, since last time, dumped the "new" WiFi router and Ethernet gateway in favor of a new Vulcan9 at the helm and moved the old Zeus2 to the chart table. They both seem to work OK but there is apparently no synchronization between them. Is that normal?
The Vulcan's wi fi does connect to the marina'a network and does seem to connect to my iPhone but no "mirroring" of the Vulcan which is why I got this in the first place.
I know I need to spend more time working on this but thought I'd see if any one could comment on this setup.

[stevead]

dumped the "new" WiFi router and Ethernet gateway in favor of a new Vulcan9

Begs the question, how does your existing Zeus2 connect to the network?

[bobmcd625]

Originally Posted by stevead

Begs the question, how does your existing Zeus2 connect to the network?

Zeus2 is connected to both the N2K and Ethernet networks. It works fine in itself showing boat data etc. I guess I was hoping for some interaction of chart data. Like waypoints or routes. I have not yet tried to connect the Zeus2 to the Vulcan wi fi network. That’s next!
Thanks for the advice!

[bobmcd625]

Failed to get the Zeus2 to connect to the new wi fi network created by the new Vulcan. It's there as both iPhone and iPad do connect although there is no "mirroring" as there should be. Strange... May just have to live with these devices as being separate. Not the worst arrangement I guess, but would like to see these devices perform as advertised...

[bobmcd625]

Update to my situation and a few questions.
1, Got the new Vulcan to connect to my iPhone in both Mirror and Control mode which is great. Now I have to learn how to use the combination. Ideally I'd like to be able to create Routes on the iPhone (at home or in the cabin) and have them available on the Vulcan, but none of the routes I have already in the B&G app on the iPhone showed up on the Vulcan.
2. Still no sign that the older Zeus2 (now at the chart table) can "talk" to the Vulcan. Not sure if that is possible but I was hoping to mirror the Vulcan on the Zeus. Anyone done this?