Maintaining strong wireless connectivity between your sensors and the Vanemar Gateway is essential for accurate boat monitoring. This guide provides best practices and solutions to improve your sensor network.
Understanding Vanemar Wireless Sensor Network
Vanemar wireless sensor network consists of:
Vanemar Gateway – The central hub that collects and transmits data.
Wireless Sensors – Devices placed throughout the boat to monitor various conditions.
Wireless Sensors (Extenders) – Vanemar Boat Electrical Plug and Vanemar Marine Battery Sensor (VMBS2 model only). These devices not only serve their primary functions but also act as network extenders, improving the range of the wireless network.
Best Practices for Stronger Connectivity
Follow these guidelines to optimize your sensor signal strength:
1. Place the Vanemar Gateway Strategically
Position the Vanemar Gateway centrally to minimize the distance between sensors.
Avoid placing it near metal structures or electronic devices that may cause interference.
2. Optimize Sensor Placement
Maintain a clear line of sight between sensors and the gateway when possible.
Keep sensors away from thick walls, metal surfaces, and large electronic devices.
3. Perform Regular Signal Checks
Periodically test connectivity, especially after boat layout changes or when the sensor or gateway position is adjusted.
Test sensors based on their type by triggering alerts or using the test button if available.
Adjust sensor and gateway placement if you experience sensor disconnections or unstable signals.
Extending The Wireless Range
If you are experiencing sensor disconnections or unstable performance despite following the best practices above, using range extenders can help resolve these issues. Boat electrical plugs and marine battery sensors (VMBS2 model) can act as extenders, improving connectivity in areas where signal strength is weak. Range extenders can also be chained together to further expand your wireless coverage, ensuring comprehensive network reliability.
Plug the smart plug into a power outlet and pair it with your Vanemar Gateway.
No additional setup is required—smart plugs automatically work as range extenders.
Important Note: Smart plugs require continuous AC power and will not function when the plugged outlet loses power. If AC power is interrupted, sensors relying on the smart plug for connectivity may experience disconnections. If AC power is often unavailable on your boat, using a battery sensor (VMBS2 model) as a range extender, as explained in the next section, may be a more suitable solution to maintain connectivity.
2. Vanemar Marine Battery Sensor as Extender (VMBS2 Model Only)
Battery sensors (VMBS2 model) can also function as wireless network extenders, but must first be configured in the Vanemar app.
Follow the steps below to configure:
Open the Vanemar app.
Tap on the battery sensor card you want to configure.
Scroll down and toggle the "Use as Wireless Network Extender." switch.
Important Note: Using the battery sensor as a range extender increases its energy consumption. Since the battery sensor operates by drawing power from the circuit it is connected to, ensure that this circuit remains powered for the extender function to work properly. If the circuit is turned off, the sensor will lose power, potentially causing sensor disconnections.
If you need any more help, feel free to contact our support team.
Happy Sailing,
The Vanemar Support Team