The answer is by using the NGW-1 NMEA 2000 Gateway. Using this gateway device will allow bidirectional data conversion and sharing, meaning the two networks can in fact act as one. Each NMEA 0183 data source can be easily represented individually on the NMEA 2000 network.
Using an individual NMEA 2000 Gateway for each NMEA 0183 Talker or Listener also offers many benefits over the alternative idea of using an NMEA 0183 Multiplexer:
When using an NMEA 2000 Gateway with a floating NMEA 0183 Talker output, isolation of NMEA 0183 devices is easy – improving the reliability of the installation.
Gateway configuration – of what messages to convert and which to ignore – can be easier, with less compromises required.
For 3 or less NMEA 0183 Talkers and Listeners, the cost of network components and installation will be less – that can even be shown to expand to 4 devices, under certain circumstances.
