TeleflexMorse says the decision to use a commerciallyavailable display offered significant advantages for Volvo Penta in terms of reduced development time and expense.

However, a potential downside of this decision was a costlier bill of materials, as commercial displays typically offer more features than are required - a critical consideration for a player operating in a competitive global market.

This was resolved by Volvo Penta becoming the lead customer for a new generation of TeleflexMorse's CANtrak display - the 2600. The 2600 was initiated, says TeleflexMorse, to meet the stringent cost goals of the automotive industry and exploits advanced technologies to reduce component count and manufacturing costs including chip-on-tab and a custom case moulding incorporating a waterproof connector socket.

The resulting display platform - although still offering a general-purpose solution - proved to be close enough to Volvo Penta's cost targets, allowing them to offer their customers a display alternative providing much more data than is possible with conventional dedicated gauges.

Another key hardware hurdle for CANtrak in this application was its environmental specification, as boatbuilders often site the instruments on a flybridge which can be open to the weather. Interaction during the design process ensured that CANtrak met all of Volvo Penta's exacting environmental requirements in this area which include protection against moisture, vibration, cold, electrical interference and many other adverse factors.

CANtrak's IP67 protection in particular, which covers immersion in water, provided more than adequate waterproofing for any weather exposure.

TeleflexMorse Electronics T: 01268 522861 E: sales@teleflexmorse.com W: teleflexmorse.com