On many motorboats, the electronic systems have evolved over the years: an older chartplotter operates alongside new sensors, the autopilot may be from a different manufacturer, and there’s also battery monitoring and a tablet app. The Pitufino is designed to bring these different data systems together without the need to immediately replace instruments that are still working.
Prioritising sources in a targeted manner
Multiple GPS receivers or sensors operating in parallel may provide conflicting readings within the vehicle’s electrical system. According to the manufacturer, the Pitufino allows a preferred source and alternative sources to be specified for individual data types. This selection applies to both the wired outputs and the data streams provided via Wi-Fi.
The current version, V1.2, features a connector for NMEA-2000 Micro-C cables and can also be connected to SeaTalkNG networks via an adapter cable. It also features two galvanically isolated NMEA-0183 inputs, two outputs and two VE.Direct ports. This allows data from Victron battery monitors, SmartShunts and solar controllers, for example, to be fed into the on-board network.
With the latest firmware, up to four VE.Direct devices are supported, depending on the configuration of the NMEA 0183 connections. Two analogue inputs can measure voltages, count motor hours or trigger alarms. Two switchable outputs, each with a maximum continuous current of one ampere, can be used, for example, to activate an alarm siren or other loads.
Browser displays and Autopilot remote control
The integrated web server displays the on-board data on a smartphone, tablet or computer. This includes instrument readings, AIS targets, waypoint data, and engine, fuel and battery readings. The system also offers, amongst other things, an anchor watch, alarms for depth, wind, course deviation and AIS targets, as well as an automatic logbook.
One notable feature is the autopilot integration. According to the manufacturer, Raymarine Evolution and SPX autopilots, Navico, Simrad and B&G systems such as the NAC-2, NAC-3, AC12, AC42 and H5000, as well as Garmin Reactor autopilots, are supported via NMEA 2000. With the optional SeaTalk1 module, older Raymarine and Autohelm systems can also be integrated.
For compatible pilots, the Pitufino offers a ‘no-drift’ mode. In this mode, the system is designed to maintain the course over ground whilst accounting for drift caused by wind or currents. This can be a useful addition to standard course control, particularly on rivers, in tidal waters or during longer journeys.
Anyone wishing to expand an existing network should check the data protocols, the existing sensor sources and the exact autopilot model before making a purchase. Basic information on the interfaces is also provided by the BOOTE Guide to NMEA Networking. One alternative for a purely Wi-Fi connection for NMEA-2000 data is, for example, the EasyHub by DPNav That’s debatable. However, the Pitufino goes a step further with NMEA 0183, SeaTalk1 and the autopilot remote control.
According to [source], the Pitufino V1.2 costs Manufacturer's shop 300 euros within the EU, plus postage in each case. The Pitufino ST V1.2 model with an integrated SeaTalk1 module costs 330 euros. Further information is available from the manufacturer at the German-language Pitufino website.
Technical specifications: Pitufino V1.2
| Area | Technical Specifications |
| Power supply | 12 or 24 V DC, usually via the NMEA-2000 bus, LEN 3 |
| NMEA 2000 | 1 Micro-C connector; also compatible with SeaTalkNG when used with an adapter |
| NMEA 0183 | 2 galvanically isolated inputs, 2 outputs |
| SeaTalk1 | Optionally via a SeaTalk1 module or as the Pitufino ST V1.2 |
| Victron VE.Direct | 2 connections; up to 4 VE.Direct devices, depending on the pin configuration and firmware |
| Analogue inputs | 2, can also be used as digital inputs |
| Switch outputs | 2, each with a maximum continuous current of 1 A |
| Wi-Fi | Dedicated Wi-Fi with DHCP or integration into the existing on-board Wi-Fi network |
| Network data | TCP, UDP broadcast and UDP unicast for NMEA 0183 data |
| Browser interface | Configuration, updates, instruments, AIS, anchor alarm, logbook, autopilot, engine, fuel and battery gauges |
| Autopilot | Remote control of compatible systems, No-Drift mode for maintaining course over ground |
| Manufacture | Austria |
Book recommendation
Theory and Practice of Vehicle Electrical Systems By Jens Feddern, this book explains on-board electrical systems, from batteries and charging technology through to DC power distribution, interference suppression and troubleshooting. For owners wishing to integrate a data gateway into an existing network, the practical focus is particularly helpful: the book provides guidance on systematically checking the power supply, cabling and existing instruments before carrying out any modifications.
Which instruments or data sources from different generations are still operating side by side on your boat, and would you continue to use them via a gateway or replace them entirely during your next refit? Please share your experiences with us in the comments.
Hauke Schmidt
Test & Technology editor