Blog - CAN Bus Systems

Understanding VETUS V-CAN: Integrations with NMEA2000, J1939, and marine electronics

Modern marine electronics rely heavily on seamless communication between devices. Whether it’s navigation equipment, thrusters, or electric propulsion, today’s vessels demand integration, reliability, and safety. At the heart of this interconnected environment is the CAN bus system, a robust digital communication network designed for monitoring and controlling onboard devices.

In this article, we’ll explore how CAN bus technology works in marine applications, the role of VETUS’ proprietary V-CAN system, and how it integrates with widely adopted standards like NMEA2000 and J1939.

What is a CAN bus system?

The Controller Area Network (CAN bus) is a communication protocol originally developed for the automotive industry. It enables multiple devices (nodes) to share information over a single communication line, reducing complex wiring and ensuring fast, reliable data exchange.

For marine applications, the most common CAN bus networks are:

J1939® – often used for engine and heavy-duty applications.
NMEA0183® and NMEA2000® – industry standards for marine electronics, enabling chart plotters, autopilots, sensors, and more to work together.

VETUS and the V-CAN system

Recognising the unique demands of , VETUS has developed V-CAN, a proprietary CAN bus system designed exclusively for VETUS products.

The V-CAN network serves as the nerve system for connected, enabling:

Reliable and secure data exchange between propulsion, thrusters, and control systems.
Smooth and responsive thruster control.
Flexible, modular installation thanks to plug-and-play cabling.
Robust and safe communication with built-in redundancy and safety features.

By controlling its own CAN bus protocol, VETUS ensures that the system’s safety-critical functions remain protected. This means external devices cannot directly control VETUS systems unless authorised, helping maintain reliability and preventing potential misuse.

Bridging V-CAN with NMEA2000 and J1939

While V-CAN is proprietary, VETUS understands the importance of integration with the broader marine electronics ecosystem. That’s why VETUS has developed CANVERTER gateway devices that enable communication between V-CAN, NMEA2000, and J1939 networks.

This integration allows:

Richer system insights — performance data such as battery levels, range, RPM, and temperature can be displayed directly on NMEA2000-compatible chart plotters and multifunction displays.
Smarter maneuverability — VETUS thrusters can work in tandem with outboard engines, providing greater precision and control when docking or navigating in tight spaces.
Simplified monitoring and diagnostics — mixed-brand systems share critical information seamlessly, making it easier to track performance and identify issues early.

Importantly, VETUS is an active member of NMEA2000 and has contributed to the standard’s development, particularly in areas such as thrusters and electric drive systems. This ensures that VETUS equipment not only integrates but also helps shape the future of marine electronics interoperability.

CANVERTER: the backbone of integration

The VETUS CANVERTER is purpose built for marine environments and optimised for seamless integration of V-CAN with NMEA2000 and J1939 networks. It does more than simply connect systems. It ensures:

Safe interoperability by allowing only authorised signals to pass through, protecting safety critical functions from interference.
Easy compatibility with VETUS products, removing the trial and error often experienced with third party gateways.
Future ready performance that evolves with NMEA2000 standards, where VETUS is an active contributor.

The result is integration that is more reliable, better protected, and forward compatible compared with generic alternatives.

V-CAN cables: reliable connections made for marine

Competitor systems often rely on standardised cabling, while VETUS has developed cables specifically for demanding onboard conditions. V-CAN cables are:

Marine grade and tested against vibration, salt, and heat for long lasting durability.
Interference resistant with shielding that minimises electromagnetic disturbance, keeping communication clear and reliable.
Modular and daisy chained so each node can be wired directly to the next, making installation straightforward and expansion simple.

Together, the CANVERTER as the integration backbone and V-CAN cables as the physical layer give VETUS systems a clear advantage: safer, easier to install, and more dependable than using off the shelf components.

Integrations

Beyond its own systems, VETUS has also developed proven integrations with leading engine and control brands including Yamaha, Mercury, YANMAR, Honda-Ultraflex, Suzuki-Ultraflex, and Glendinning-Cummins. These partnerships ensure that VETUS thrusters, drives, and control solutions work seamlessly alongside widely used systems. For boat builders and owners, this means easier installation, smoother operation, and the confidence that VETUS equipment will integrate reliably with systems trusted across the marine industry.

Key takeaways

CAN-bus networks are the backbone of modern marine electronics, enabling devices to share data quickly and reliably.
VETUS V-CAN is a proprietary system that ensures safe, efficient communication across VETUS products.
Through CANVERTERS, V-CAN integrates seamlessly with NMEA2000 and J1939, allowing compatibility with third-party marine systems.
VETUS’ involvement in NMEA2000 ensures their systems remain forward-compatible and industry-leading.

Final thoughts

As vessels become more advanced, integration between propulsion, navigation, and monitoring systems is no longer optional, it’s essential. VETUS’ V-CAN system strikes a balance between maintaining control for safety while offering flexibility through NMEA2000 and J1939 gateways.

For boatbuilders, installers, and owners, this means reliable performance, simplified installation, and future-ready compatibility with the latest marine technologies.

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