Installation (continued)

4.Install feed circuit wires

Install the feed wires from the shore power inlet or other AC source, referring to the wire sizing chart to select the correct wire size. Connect the black AC hot, white AC neutral and green AC safety ground as shown in the illustration.

If the feed wires are from the shore power inlet or the electrical attachment point of a permanently installed shore power cord and the inlet or attachment point is more then 10 feet from this panel, an additional fuses or circuit breakers must be installed within 10 feet of the shore power inlet. The measurement is made along the conductors.

5.Installation of Backlight System

The backlight board is a DC device. When installing it in an AC panel both wire leads must be connected to an appropriate DC source and ground.

Connect the yellow negative wire to a DC ground. Connect the red positive wire to any DC positive supply, usually a switch that controls the vessel’s other nighttime illumination.

The Purpose of a Panel

There are six purposes of a marine electrical panel:

Power distribution

Circuit (wire) protection

Circuit ON/OFF switching

Reverse Polarity Indication

Metering of voltage and amperage (In panels with meters)

Condition Indication (circuit energized)

Useful Reference Books

Calder, Nigel, 1996: Boatowner’s Mechanical and Electrical Manual, 2nd edition, Blue Ridge Summit, PA: TAB Books, Inc.

Wing, Charlie, 1993: Boatowner’s Illustrated Handbook of Wiring, Blue Ridge Summit, PA: TAB Books, Inc.

6.Apply branch circuit labels and mount panel

Apply a label for each of the branch circuits from the 30 basic labels provided. If the appropriate label is not included, the Extended Label Set of 120 labels may be ordered from your marine supplier (PN 8067). Individual labels are also available from Blue Sea Systems for specific applications. Refer to the label order form for a complete listing of individual labels.

Fasten the panel to the mounting surface using the panel mounting screws supplied with the panel.

7.Testing

@Connect the vessel’s shore power and verify the Reverse Polarity light is not illuminated. If the red Reverse Polarity light is on then either the hot and ground or the hot and neutral wires have been crossed. Starting at the panel, trace the connections back as far as necessary to locate the error.

@Using a multimeter where the power source is connected to the panel verify:

PN 8618 / PN 8620 - 120 Volt AC

a.120 volts between hot and neutral

(nominal, this may vary depending on source voltage)

b.120 volts between hot and ground.

c.0 volts between neutral and ground.

PN 8619 / PN 8621 - 230 Volt AC

a.230 volts between hot and neutral

(nominal, this may vary depending on source voltage)

b.230 volts between hot and ground.

c.0 volts between neutral and ground.

@Turn on each branch circuit to verify power to each circuit.

@Review the meter installation and operation manual. Reference the Theory of Operation, Use, Installation Overview and operations sections. Verify meter functions.

8.Optional Branch LED’s

This Panel is supplied with LED’s pre-installed in all optional branch positions. For future expansion of the panel remove the hot leg of the LED from the AC Neutral Bus and connect it to the Load side of the branch circuit breaker.

Note

All Blue Sea Systems’ AC electrical distribution panels are furnished with 15 amp or 8 amp circuit breakers for branch circuits. 15 amp circuit breakers are used in all 120 volt panels and 8 amp circuit breakers are used in all 230 volt panels. These ratings were selected to minimize the need for removing the panel’s circuit breakers and reinstalling different size circuit breakers. It is very rare to have more than this amount of current flowing in any one circuit. Therefore, these circuit breakers will satisfy the vast majority of marine circuit protection situations.

Wiring Diagram

AC Main Power Distribution Panel

with AC Digital Multimeter

(PN 8620 shown for reference)

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Blue Sea Systems PN 8621 Install feed circuit wires, Installation of Backlight System, Purpose of a Panel, Testing

PN 8619, PN 8621, PN 8620, PN 8618 specifications

Blue Sea Systems offers a range of high-quality marine electrical products designed for the unique demands of boating and marine applications. Among these are the PN 8618, PN 8621, PN 8620, and PN 8619, each tailored to provide reliable performance, user-friendly interfaces, and superior safety features.

The PN 8618 is a high-performance circuit breaker designed for use in a marine environment. Its main feature is the thermal magnetic trip system that offers reliable protection against overloads and short circuits. This model is built with a resettable toggle switch, allowing users to easily reset the breaker after an event, enhancing convenience on the water. Its compact design makes it suitable for confined spaces while maintaining a robust construction that can withstand harsh marine conditions.

The PN 8621 is a dual battery switch that enables users to easily manage two battery banks, enhancing the boat’s electrical reliability. The key features include a simple three-position switch that allows for "OFF", "BOTH", or "1/2" operations, helping in optimal battery management. The PN 8621 also integrates a safety lockout feature to prevent accidental switching, ensuring that the batteries are protected. Additionally, its rugged design allows it to perform reliably in high-vibration environments typically found on boats.

The PN 8620 is a battery management system that incorporates advanced technology to monitor and manage battery health effectively. This model features an integrated digital display that provides real-time voltage and current readings, offering users valuable insights into battery status and performance. The PN 8620 is characterized by its ability to handle multiple batteries simultaneously, making it ideal for larger vessels with complex electrical systems.

Lastly, the PN 8619 is designed as a surface-mount circuit breaker panel that blends form with function. Its main features include multiple circuit breakers that can handle various amperages, offering customizable protection for different electrical loads. The panel is designed for easy installation and provides a clear, organized layout that ensures straightforward access and operation. With a corrosion-resistant finish, the PN 8619 is built to last in the demanding marine environment, ensuring that users can depend on its performance.

Together, these products from Blue Sea Systems exemplify the company’s commitment to safety, performance, and innovation in marine electrical solutions. Each model is engineered to enhance the boating experience by offering reliability, ease of use, and durability, catering to the needs of boaters and marine enthusiasts alike.