Capi2 distributed power system: “An excellent choice”
Reduction of cabling, more flexibility and more safety. Those are the main advantages of the Capi2 Distributing Power System, that is being introduced by Capi2 Nederland BV, a Dutch/Swedish company based in The Netherlands. We are a leading supplier of distributed power systems worldwide, mainly to yacht builders, refitters and electricians. Capi2 is meant both for serial production and one time build in.
Capi2
We at Capi2 Netherlands BV develop and produce the 12V-24V/DC multiplex distributed power system Capi2, based on digital bus technology.The name Capi2 has two meanings; 1. Capito which is Italian for I understood it! and 2. Compatible And Power In 2 wires.
The patented system is controlled by electronics and software. Inside the boat one or more loops of cabling are installed. Everywhere on these cables nodes can be placed to connect the lights, instruments, pumps etc.. Several nodes can be placed next to each other or as singles. A chip inside these nodes communicates with the switchboard.
Protocol
Capi2 uses the patented “Capi2” protocol, instead of, for example, the CAN-protocol or another communication bus. It is “Much too complex to install and programme” is often heard about competing systems. “With Capi2 it’s much easier to handle and maintain”
Bus
The main cable set “the bus” only consists out off 3 wires: plus / minus cable and a data cable. It is possible to connect lights, instruments, pumps or domestic appliances with nodes (electronic switch) anywhere you want.
Node
To optimalize the system several nodes can be placed next to each other or as singles. Each node contains an automatic electronic fuse. A chip inside these nodes communicates with the switch panel.
Push-button panel
The push-button panel is the system’s brain. It contains a number of computer chips, which communicate with the nodes. It also gives you, at a glance, information on the status of your on-board equipment providing you, for example, detection of broken cables and lamps.
The panel is practically a plug-and-play display that automatically detects all devices connected to the network. All the information you need is at your fingertips on a single interface. Moreover, it uses almost 60% less cables and reduces the weight of the power system dramatically.
Advantages
Capi2 offers several advantages. In the first place the use of this system reduces the need of cables by up to sixty percent. Add the easy way to install the system (easy ‘snap on’ of nodes, no soldering) and a reduction of labour costs of twenty five to sixty percent can be expected. Since every node contains a fuse, the risk for short circuit and cable or system overload is reduced. Faults can easily be recognised and located by the overload protection indicator in the switch panel. This switch panel is compact designed including backlight for use at night.
Summary
We at Capi2 develop and produce bus systems that give you a 12V-24V system for power supply and information feedback that:
- Is easy to install
- Is easy to configure
- Is easy to use
- Is easy to upgrade
- Is easy to maintain
- Uses one node for each load
- Minimizes the amount of cables and weight with 60%
- Indicates: Wire failure, Low voltage, High power consumption
- Features a backup system in case of failure
- Gives you value for your money
All this is made possible by our own Capi2 protocol, which lets us:
- Use non-shielded cables
- Use standard components
- Send information as well as 10 A power on two wires
- Use one node (electronic power switch) per load
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