When “Normal” Isn’t Safe: Why Proper Integration Matters

Recently, one of our Dockmate dealers was on board a brand-new yacht performing other equipment installations. The boat was equipped with Volvo engines, and during the delivery, the selling dealer had chosen to outfit the vessel with a competing wireless docking system.

During the new-owner orientation, that competitor’s system began displaying error messages on both the multi-function display and the Volvo control screen. The installer brushed it off, saying “that’s normal”—and then simply cleared the alarms.

But here’s what they didn’t mention:

those “cleared” errors don’t disappear. They are logged deep within the boat’s computer system, where they remain as part of its permanent record. Later, if a warranty issue arises, these error codes could raise red flags—potentially jeopardizing warranty coverage or resulting in extra diagnostic fees as technicians sort through unnecessary alarms and system faults.

Why This Happens

Most competing systems use generic signal injection to imitate engine or joystick commands. While it might seem functional at first, this approach can cause the boat’s proprietary control network—like Volvo’s EVC system—to interpret these signals as irregular or unauthorized, triggering fault codes.

Dockmate, on the other hand, takes a very different approach.

Our high-level interfaces communicate directly with the manufacturer’s approved protocols. This ensures the boat and its systems recognize Dockmate as a trusted part of the network. The result?

• No phantom error messages

• No hidden logs compromising your warranty

• And no awkward service calls where techs have to “weed through” alarm history

The Real Cost of “Almost Compatible”

If this had been an older vessel, long out of warranty, one might understand trying to save a few dollars with a pieced-together solution. But in this case, the yacht was brand new, worth well over a couple million dollars. It’s hard to imagine how anyone could justify risking such an investment to save a small amount on the most critical control system aboard—one that literally moves the boat.

The Takeaway

Choosing a wireless docking system is not just about convenience—it’s about compatibility, compliance, and confidence. Dockmate’s acknowledged interfaces with major engine and joystick manufacturers (including Volvo, Yanmar, ZF, Aventics, and more) ensure your system integrates the right way—the way your boat was designed to operate.

When it comes to your vessel’s warranty, performance, and safety, “close enough” simply isn’t good enough. Choose Dockmate—the only system that truly speaks your boat’s language.