Ranger Boats Introduce New Networking System

October 11, 2005
Boating News Archive

FLIPPIN (October 11, 2005) Ranger Boats and Lowrance Electronics have joined forces to produce the ultimate networking system, the Ranger LowranceNET System Package, for all boats equipped with Lowrance electronics for the 2006 model year.

   Consistent with the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) 2000 networking protocol, LowranceNET offers an affordable and expandable solution for monitoring electronic boat systems. The flexibility of the system allows for boat owners to easily share data from one display device to another.

   The Ranger LowranceNET System Package includes three basic components: a LowranceNET "backbone" data communications line, a NMEA 2000 certified Lowrance thru-hull water temperature sensor and a NMEA 2000 certified, professional grade Lowrance fishfinder.

   The heart of the innovative LowranceNET system is a single data communications cable (backbone) that runs the length of the boat enabling data to be sent and received. An infinite number of NMEA 2000 certified sensors, gauges and head units can be networked for data sharing via easy, plug-&-go, T-connectors that are simply daisy-chained together into the central backbone line. This five-wire line allows for future network display and sensor devices to be easily connected and disconnected through T-connectors that are both waterproof and corrosion resistant. The backbone line also saves significant space when compared to "black box" systems.

   The new high performance LowranceNET networking system allows owners of both large and small boats to monitor an array of vital engine and boating functions through easy-to-install intelligent sensors. These intelligent sensors, called Electronic Probes or EPs, can effectively monitor fuel flow, fluid level (e.g. fuel and water), speed and temperature while onboard. Each EP has its own built-in microprocessor (brain) that transmits its monitored data in NMEA 2000 format. The data travels through the backbone to every device installed and each EP is fully programmable for the greatest accuracy.

   By allowing multiple displays to share data readings, the LowranceNET network system offers comprehensive management capabilities from anywhere on the boat. The data, presented in both a graphic from and digital readout, is extremely accurate and easy to read.

   "The brilliance of the LowranceNET network system is that it gives the boater even greater control over important boat system information. Anglers and boaters can conveniently access this information from multiple locations within the boat. Whether they're viewing data at the console, bow, or even a saltwater tower, the EP sensors provide real-time information on water temperature, fuel use and other readings," said Keith Daffron, Vice President of Sales for Ranger Boats. "An incredible benefit to any user, this system reinforces our long-standing commitment to consistently deliver superior quality, performance and value for our family of owners."