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 Relay Pack, 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
Mechanical panels require custom harnessing, fusing, and routing, which inflates both labor and materials. A smart boat control system reduces wire length by up to 40% by decentralizing switching via relay packs and communicating over a shared CAN/NMEA 2000 network.
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 spray, humidity, UV, and vibration. Traditional mechanical switches corrode, break down, or require frequent replacement. Solid-state touch panels with sealed enclosures eliminate these issues.
Cruzo Product Advantage:
- 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 custom RGB colors with laser-etched icons tailored 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.
- Compatible with Garmin and CZone ecosystems.
- Can be remotely operated using the Cruzo Connect App via Bluetooth for system checks and control.
For smaller or auxiliary control zones, Barantech also offers solutions like the MarineTouch 4-Key panel — a compact, IP69K aluminum interface ideal for cabins, transoms, or engine rooms.
Scalability for Vessels of All Sizes
Whether the vessel needs one switch, a compact keypad, or a full glass helm, Barantech’s product line is scalable.
Scalable Ecosystem:
- Cruzo Panel Series: Core helm control with custom size and layout
- MarineTouch 4-Key: Compact interface for secondary stations
- Boat Guard 20A Relay: Rugged standalone switch with integrated relay for isolated or retrofit loads
This product diversity allows OEMs to maintain one supplier for multiple marine control needs without over-engineering solutions.
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 at the helm, 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 supports this transformation with a full ecosystem of marine control products, including the Cruzo Panel Series, Cruzo Relay Pack, Cruzo Connect App, MarineTouch 4-Key, Solo switch, and Boat Guard 20A Relay — all built for seamless integration and proven durability across vessel classes.
