The Docking Master System Owner's Manual

You can find the answers to many of your questions in our Docking Master owner’s manual. We have provided an online copy for you to browse through or you can select a downloadable PDF version if you would like to save it or to take it with you.

I. Safety Instructions
BEFORE USING DOCKING MASTER (DM) PLEASE READ THIS MANUAL AND FOLLOW ALL THE SAFETY RULES AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS WRITTEN ON IT. DOCKING MASTER IS A WIRELESS REMOTE CONTROL SYSTEM USED IN MANEUVERING BOATS WHEN DOCKING, ANCHORING OR MOORING. IT IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROPER KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE. CONSULT DOCKING MASTER’S DEALER OR MARINE AUTOMATION SYSTEMS CORP. IF INSTRUCTIONS ARE NOT COMPLETELY UNDERSTOOD OR IF THERE IS ANY DOUBT ON THE OPERATION OF THIS DEVICE.

II. Introduction
Docking Master (DM), developed by Marine Automation Systems Corp is an electronic wireless remote control which enables you to control a boat and its basic maneuvering and mooring functions. Severe and rugged testing conducted on various types of vessels has proven the resistance and reliability of this device in the marine environment.

With DM, maneuvering of your boat, controlling the bow thruster, stern thruster, main engines, multiple anchors or winches is as easy as pressing buttons. This equipment is electronically safe because it is linked in series with the existing system allowing full manual control override in case it is needed.

In the rare event that communication between transmitter and receiver fails, an acoustic signal informs the user immediately about the need of manual boat control.

1. General transmitter features
The transmission unit is similar to a remote control with different functions buttons. Every transmitter has a unique digital code to prevent any command interaction with neighboring units. Docking Master is housed in a PVC casing that is water-proof. This provides form, fit, function and protection. The control is made of two parts that snap together. The cover is removable to replace batteries. The unit is also equipped with two luminous LED indicators, a yellow light shows transmission and a red light indicated batteries replacement.

Picture may vary depending on Model Number

2. General receiver features
The Receiver is composed of two modules, the RF decoder and the controller unit. Both are place in a high impact watertight enclosure and linked through three power connectors to the boat main electrical systems. This component was designed to accept any voltage range from 10 to 35 vdc. The alarm will go off automatically after any transmission signal cut off of more than 3 second. Besides, in that event all the controls relays will deactivate 2 seconds before the alarm. There are not functions in this part that are accessible to the customer. This unit should be installed by an electrical technician according to Marine Automation Systems specifications.

3. Docking Master operation
The Relays on the receiver are activated by the buttons on the transmitter. It cyclically transfers position status of the switches to the receiver.

The command will remain active as long as it is pressed. In the event of communication failure between the transmitter and receiver, the receiver will automatically place the engines in neutral and activate the acoustic signal.

Warnings

Docking Master should only be used by qualified adults to ensure the proper operation and management of the boat.
Docking Master must be kept away from the reach of children.
Never use the transmitter if you are not on the vessel, product warranty will be immediately void and there can be serious legal implications.
It is not possible to simultaneously command the same receiver from several transmitters.

3.1 Activation procedure
Follow step by step this procedure in order to activate DM.

Start the main engines in accordance with normal procedure.
Enable the boat electronic control station to which DM receiver is connected.
Activate DM receiver with the proper switch (installed on the boat).
Turn the transmitter ON by pressing the proper on/off button (the activation is confirmed when transmission LED lights up).
At this time the receiver and the transmitter should be communicating. Now you can control the engines, propellers, thrusters, anchors etc, by simply pushing the corresponding switches.

IMPORTANT:

The transmitter will turn OFF automatically after five minutes if no buttons are pressed.
The receiver will generate a high audible sound (ALARM) if communication is interrupted. This signal should stop after the link is re-established.

WARNINGS:

The transmitter will turn OFF automatically after five minutes if no buttons are pressed.
The receiver will generate a high audible sound (ALARM) if communication is interrupted. This signal should stop after the link is re-established.

3.2 Deactivation procedure
To deactivate follow this procedure:

Turn transmitter OFF by pressing the ON/OFF button for at least 3 second. At this point the transmission light should turn off and the sound alarm will indicate a break of communication between transmitter and receiver.
Deactivate the receiver by pressing appropriate ON/OFF switch installed on the boat.

IMPORTANT:
In case of emergency you can deactivate Docking Master receiver by simply turning off the receiver ON/OFF switch without turning the transmitter OFF.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Battery replacement

IMPORTANT:
Before working on the transmitter, make sure the receiver is OFF.

When the RED light starts to flash, replace both transmitter batteries as soon as possible. Always keep aboard two first quality AAA alkaline batteries.

To access the batteries, remove the six screws that keep the bottom and top cover together. Once the cover is off, remove the old batteries and replace with new ones.

IMPORTANT:
Always change the batteries in the remote control transmitter before they lose their power and discard the old ones in accordance with local regulations.

IMPORTANT:
In the event the batteries have had some leakage, clean up the contacts and all surrounding areas. Be sure to clean your hands to avoid skin problems

4.2 How to clean the transmitter
After using Docking Master, remove any salt residue by wiping it with a soft cloth using fresh water. NEVER soak or immerse the device in hot water even if Docking Master waterproof, as this may cause damage to the keypad.

5. Technical Specifications

Power:	2 1,5v (AAA) (LR03)
Cover:	ABS. High impact
Number of channels	1
Modulation	FSK
Dimensions (L, W, H)	4.5 x 2.25 x 0.9 inch
Weight:	Inc. batteries 60 g
Operating Temperature	-10º to 70º

6. Customer Service Information
If trouble is experienced with Docking Master or for repairs or warranty information, please contact customer service at (305)467-7614

This product may be serviced only by the manufacturer or it authorized service agents. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Marine Automation Systems could void the user’s authority to operate this product.

6.1 Refer inquiries to:
Marine Automation Systems
6341 Scott Street Hollywood
Florida 33024-4124
Attn: Customer Service

7. Warranty
Docking Master system has 12 months warranty from the date of installation. This warranty is extended only to the original owner. A receipt or other proof of purchase will be required before warranty performance is rendered.

This warranty covers defects in materials, workmanship, manufacturing defects, or malfunction not caused by the user. This warranty explicitly does not cover malfunction due to poor maintenance, improper installation, misuse, abuse, neglect, mishandling, misapplication, alteration or electrical modification. Such warranties are the sole warranties, expressed or implied pertaining to this order. It is understood and agreed that no warranties expressed or implied, are made by seller/dealer including implied warranties of MERCHANTABILITY and FITNESS FOR USE. Seller/dealer does not assume and does not authorize anyone else to assume on its behalf, any other obligations or liability in connection with the sale or use of this device. Purchaser agrees that the manufacturer and seller/dealer shall not be liable for special incidental, consequential or punitive damages. Purchaser agrees manufacturer and seller/dealer’s liability for any accident and/or damage to property and/or personal injury while using this equipment is limited to the purchase price of this equipment.

7.1 Manufacturer’s warranty applies under these conditions:

Installation must be made by a certified installer
Electronic components of both, receiver and transmitter must be intact, not disassembled, tampered with or modified in any way.
Defective equipment must be returned properly packaged to prevent damage in shipping and handling and equipment must be complete with all its accessories.
Package must include a brief description of the problem.
Package must clearly show sender’s address, a return authorization number “RMA” issued by Docking Master customer service.
Return shipping and handling charges at buyers’ expense.
The manufacturer’s responsibility is limited to the replacement or repair of equipment solely based on manufacturing defect.
The repair or replacement warranty of equipment is limited to the applicable warranty period set forth above.

8. FCC Certification

Like any intended transmitter under the FCC regulations DM have an FCC ID. This is a must if the device is to be sold in the USA.