A shared marine network
NMEA 2000 uses a CAN-based physical network with a powered backbone, terminators and drop connections to individual devices. Compatible equipment communicates using standardized Parameter Group Numbers, commonly called PGNs, that represent categories of data.
What data might be available
Depending on the boat and gateways, the network can expose navigation data, GPS information, engine RPM, temperatures, pressures, fuel information, battery data, tank levels and many other signals. Availability is vessel-specific. A display showing a value does not always mean every third-party device can consume it in the same way.
Why gateways matter
Many engine manufacturers have proprietary networks or data layers in addition to NMEA 2000. A gateway may be required to expose selected engine data onto the NMEA 2000 backbone. Exact support depends on propulsion brand, model year, installed gateway and configuration.
How SmartTrim uses it
SmartTrim can use supported NMEA 2000 data as additional context alongside its own motion and GPS sensing. The architecture does not assume NMEA 2000 is present for every core function, which makes the platform more practical for older boats and simpler pilot installations.