A Smarter Standard for Marine OEMs
Today’s marine industry demands innovation at every level. Boat builders are expected to deliver vessels that are not only efficient and reliable, but also intelligent and connected. Smart marine technology is no longer a luxury reserved for top-tier yachts – it’s quickly becoming a standard. For original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), the shift to digital control isn’t just a trend; it’s a strategic opportunity to simplify production, enhance functionality, and meet the growing expectations of modern boat owners.
A smart boat control system replaces traditional mechanical switches and complex wiring harnesses with sleek, fully sealed, software-configurable panels connected via NMEA 2000. These systems reduce labor, increase reliability, support plug-and-play expansion, and offer modern features like app connectivity and remote diagnostics.
Barantech’s ecosystem exemplifies this transformation. At its core is the Cruzo Boat Control System, which includes the Cruzo Panel Series, Cruzo Smart Relay, and Cruzo Connect App. Additional interface products like the MarineTouch 4-Key panel and Boat Guard 20A Relay extend functionality to auxiliary zones and retrofit applications, allowing OEMs to scale intelligently across boat types.
Lower Costs Through Wiring Reduction & Modular Design
Traditional mechanical switch systems, based on individual toggle switches, fuses, and point-to-point wiring, require extensive custom harnessing, manual routing, and labor-intensive installation. Each function typically demands a dedicated wire from the helm to the load, inflating both material usage and build time.
In contrast, smart marine control systems use a modular architecture with decentralized relay packs and standardized communication protocols like CAN or NMEA 2000. By transmitting commands digitally over a shared backbone, these systems can significantly reduce wiring complexity and length, in some configurations by up to 40%, depending on vessel layout and functionality requirements. This not only simplifies installation but also results in long-term cost savings and easier maintenance.
Cruzo Implementation:
- The Cruzo Panel Series supports up to 16 programmable keys per panel, using only a power and NMEA 2000 connector.
- The Cruzo Relay Pack connects directly over NMEA 2000 and handles switching loads per PGN 127502 commands.
- Panels and relays are plug-and-play and preconfigured for each model, reducing production variance and testing complexity.
Improved Reliability in Harsh Marine Conditions
Marine vessels face constant exposure to salt, humidity, UV, and vibration. Traditional mechanical switches corrode, break down, or require frequent replacement. Solid-state touch panels with sealed enclosures eliminate these issues.
The Cruzo Advantages:
- Tempered glass IP67-rated panels withstand dirt, water, and glove operation.
- All components are built with marine-grade sealing, with no moving parts to fail.
- Redundant physical switches and diagnostics ensure failsafe operation.
Simplified Customization for Different Boat Models
OEMs often build a product line with multiple layout variants. Traditional switchboards require re-engineering for every change. A smart control system separates the hardware from configuration, allowing software-defined control logic.
Cruzo Workflow:
- OEMs define the function of each switch (momentary/latching/timed) during the configuration phase.
- Keys are backlit in selectable colors (White, Red, Green, or Blue), with laser-etched icons customized per model.
- Device Instance rotary switch enables multiple panels on one NMEA 2000 network without conflict.
Seamless Integration with Modern Vessel Systems
Today’s boats include MFDs, digital engines, lighting zones, pumps, and entertainment systems – all increasingly controlled over NMEA 2000.
Cruzo Integration:
- Full PGN compatibility ensures interoperability.
- Can be remotely operated using the Cruzo Connect App via Bluetooth for system checks and control.
Scalability for Vessels of All Sizes
Whether the vessel requires a single switch, a compact keypad, or a full glass control panel, Barantech’s product line is scalable.
Cruzo Panel Series: Core control interface with customizable size and layout
MarineTouch 4Key: Robust 4-button touch panel for essential onboard functions, built for harsh marine conditions
Boat Guard 20A Relay: Rugged standalone switch with integrated relay, ideal for isolated or retrofit loads
This product diversity allows OEMs to rely on a single supplier for a wide range of marine control needs — minimizing complexity without compromising flexibility.
Faster Assembly and QA
Standardized panel designs with predefined PGNs and software reduce both prototype and production cycle time. By using uniform modules and control logic across boat models, OEMs can eliminate much of the variability and rework that traditionally complicate marine electronics integration.
This approach also minimizes training time for assembly staff and technicians, who can rely on a consistent process across models. Quality assurance becomes faster and more reliable with built-in feedback and panel-level diagnostics.
Cruzo QA Benefits:
- Built-in self-diagnostics that run during power-up and runtime.
- Visual error indicators on keys to quickly isolate faults.
- Remote testing and validation via the Cruzo Connect App without needing to power up the full vessel.
- Reduced risk of wiring mistakes due to plug-and-play architecture and fewer connections overall.
Bringing It All Together
Integrating a smart boat control system allows OEMs to modernize vessel production from the inside out. By replacing traditional mechanical switches with NMEA 2000-connected panels and modular relay systems, manufacturers can dramatically reduce wiring complexity, streamline testing, and deliver boats that meet today’s expectations for reliability, personalization, and connected functionality. Whether used in auxiliary control zones, or in retrofit applications, smart marine interfaces provide scalable solutions that enhance both the production process and end-user experience.
The shift to digital marine control is more than a technology upgrade — it’s a long-term strategy that supports efficiency, adaptability, and innovation. For OEMs seeking to simplify integration without compromising on design or performance, this approach offers a clear and measurable advantage.
Barantech offers a full line of products, including the Cruzo Panel Series, Cruzo Smart Relay, Cruzo Connect App, MarineTouch 4-Key, Solo switch, and Boat Guard 20A Relay – all built for seamless integration and proven durability across vessel classes.
