Installation Standards

The National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) with this Installation Standard is providing a methodology that will yield consistent and professional results in the installation of marine electronics on vessels. NMEA 0400 provides voluntary standards that clarify and define competent installation practices applicable to vessels from 20' to 150' and up to 300 gross tons.  These standards are published to aid electronics installers, technicians, electricians, surveyors, owners and/or others who may have occasion to install, service or modify the installation of electronics, electrical systems or other associated peripherals.

The intended application of this NMEA standard is for vessels that will use large and sophisticated systems of marine electronics for communication and navigation purposes. Installation practices for less complex systems and accessories are well covered by standards already available from the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC). This NMEA Installation Standard is designed to complement the ABYC Standards, thus making knowledge and understanding of the well-established ABYC document a prerequisite. Specifically, ABYC Section E-11, "AC and DC ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS ON BOATS".

Highly qualified and experienced experts from the marine industry and NMEA, have reviewed emerging trends for the use of more sophisticated CPU based and multitasking equipment and systems on vessels. Many times, equipment utilizing these latest technological advances require different and new methodologies for reliable and safe installations. These latest trends have increased the capabilities of communication, navigation, and related systems but also have necessitated a higher degree of network integration . Frequently, these devices involve additional backup or provision for emergency power sources. NMEA addresses these changing conditions in this Standard and prepares for future requirements as well.

NMEA’s membership includes national and international technical experts from the private sector and government agencies. Many have contributed generously from their experience, expertise and vision to the development of this document.

NMEA has convened a working committee who will continually monitor technological changes in marine electronics and periodically revise this standard as deemed necessary.