The Mercury MercMonitor is a digital vessel monitoring system designed for Mercury Marine engines. It offers customizable data displays, engine monitoring capabilities, and integration with SmartCraft technology. The system is available in multiple gateway models, accommodating various power package configurations, from single outboard engines to multi-engine digital throttle and shift vessels. The MercMonitor displays data through a multicolor LED screen and supports up to five customizable tri-data screens. It also incorporates an Engine Guardian System to monitor critical engine sensors and alert operators to potential issues.
System Features and Capabilities
The MercMonitor provides 42 functions and features, though availability depends on the specific engine and installation. Key features include the ability to display three data points simultaneously, customizable screen configurations, and a “favorites” feature for quick access to frequently used displays. Users can select from seven different LED screen colors to personalize the gauge’s appearance.
Specific features available through the MercMonitor include:
- ECO-Screen
- Troll Control™
- Smart Tow™
- Engine Synchronizer
- Trim Pop-Up
- Engine Trim
- Trim Synchronizer
- Steering Angle
- RPM
- Boat Speed
- Digital Speed
- GPS Speed
- GPS Course & Speed
- Speed Sensor Fault
- Auto Speed Sensor
- Transition
- Oil Level
- Oil Temp
- Oil Pressure
- Low-Oil Warning
- Oil System Fault
- Reserve Oil
- Fuel Level
- Fuel Used
- Fuel Flow
- Fuel Range
- Fuel to Waypoint
- Low-Fuel Warning
Operational Overview
Upon ignition, the MercMonitor displays a splash screen showing the gauge name, software level, and version for approximately two seconds. The brightness and contrast of the gauge can be adjusted using dedicated buttons. The “MODE” button is used to navigate through the various information screens. The "+" and "-" buttons are utilized for setting engine speed for cruise control and launch control, as well as for gauge calibrations. Holding the “MODE” button for three to five seconds returns the user to the previous screen.
The MercMonitor incorporates several control features:
- Cruise Control: Allows users to set and maintain a desired engine speed for cruising.
- Launch Control: Manages acceleration from idle to cruise speed.
- Engine Guardian System: Continuously monitors engine sensors for potential problems, reducing engine speed and alerting the operator if issues are detected.
Gateway Models and Data Transmission
Four MercMonitor Gateway models are available. All models display data from only one engine. However, variations exist in their data transmission capabilities. All versions are capable of transmitting engine data via NMEA 2000 (N2K). The Data Level 3 version can transmit data from up to four engines via N2K.
The MercMonitor can also be connected to non-SmartCraft networks, but requires the gateway to be set to “Receive” to avoid generating numerous faults.
NMEA 2000/J1939 Integration
The MercMonitor supports the NMEA 2000/J1939 protocol for data transmission. The system can transmit various engine parameters, including:
- Gear Temp
- Gear Pressure
- Boost Pressure
- Engine Parameters
However, NMEA 2000/J1939 alarm data is limited to seven alarm functions. Descriptive text alarm warnings are available on the MercMonitor screen for Gen I (2007) engines and newer, while universal fault codes are displayed on 4.5L and 6.2L engines.
Display Options and Customization
The MercMonitor offers several display options, including:
- Tri-Data Screens: Customizable screens displaying three data points simultaneously. Up to five screens can be configured.
- Double Screens: Five double screen options are available.
- Optional Screens: Specific screens display combinations of RPM, speed, coolant temperature, oil temperature, seatemperature, water pressure, oil pressure, fuel flow, fuel level, battery voltage, and depth.
The “Outer 2nd Inner” Double Screen options can display RPM, Speed, Coolant Temp, Oil Temp, Seatemp, Water Press, Oil Press, Fuel Flow, Fuel, Battery, and Depth.
Settings and Configuration
The MercMonitor features a comprehensive settings menu accessible through the “MODE” button. The settings menu includes options for:
- Lights/Contrast: Adjusting the display’s brightness and contrast.
- Units: Configuring measurement units.
- Propulsion/ST: Adjusting propulsion-related settings.
- Vessel: Configuring vessel-specific settings.
- Favorites: Managing preferred screen configurations.
- Alarms: Setting alarm thresholds and parameters.
- Ext. Sensors: Configuring external sensors.
- Offsets: Adjusting sensor offsets.
- Clock: Setting the system clock.
- SmartTow: Configuring SmartTow features.
- System: Accessing system-level settings.
- Gateway: Configuring gateway settings, including NMEA 2000, J1939, or OFF modes.
- Help: Accessing help information and tutorials.
Within the Gateway settings, users can configure the number of engines (Single, Dual, Triple, or Quad – Level 3 models only) and assign the gauge to a specific engine (Starboard, Port, Starboard 2, or Port 2).
Alarm System
The MercMonitor incorporates an alarm system that monitors critical engine sensors for potential problems. Alarm warnings are displayed on the MercMonitor screen. The system can generate alarms for various conditions, including low oil levels, high oil temperature, and low fuel levels. The Fuel Critical percentage can be set between 10% and the Fuel Low alarm setting.
Important Considerations
The documentation emphasizes that the MercMonitor can be integrated into diverse power package configurations. Consequently, some features, displays, operations, and warnings may not be applicable to all installations. Users are advised to consult their selling dealer for clarification on the information their specific power package can display. The MercMonitor must be set to “Receive” when connected to a non-SmartCraft network to prevent false faults. Additionally, the generator option requires a generator capable of sending data on the J1939 gateway network.
Conclusion
The Mercury MercMonitor is a versatile digital vessel monitoring system offering a range of features for engine monitoring and data display. Its customizable screens, integration with SmartCraft technology, and Engine Guardian System provide boaters with valuable insights into their engine’s performance and potential issues. The availability of multiple gateway models ensures compatibility with various power package configurations. Proper configuration and understanding of the system’s limitations are essential for optimal operation.