Anchor alarm dbus service

DIY
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1

Hi everyone,

I’m excited to share a new anchor alarm I developed that runs as a Python service directly on the Victron Cerbo. The anchor alarm is built to work smoothly with your existing onboard systems, to help automate your anchoring monitoring process.

Key Features:

  • Digital Inputs Integration: Connects to windlass solenoid (UP/DOWN) via digital inputs for automated anchor position detection.

  • Integrated Relay Support: Use Cerbo’s built-in relay to trigger buzzers, alarms, or other loads.

  • NMEA Compatibility: Receives and sends feedback messages, supports control from Digital Switching on your chartplotter, and enables automatic radius calculation using RPM and SOG data.

  • YDAB-01 NMEA Alarm Button: Supports dedicated alarm button for aubible alarm and quick interaction

  • Full Cerbo Alarm & Notification Integration: Leverages Cerbo’s existing alarm and notification system.

  • Remote Monitoring via VRM: Supports Victron Remote Management for notifications and status updates wherever you are.

  • Advanced Workflows: Integrates with DBUS, MQTT, and Node-RED for custom automation and advanced scenarios.

Requirements & Installation:

  • GPS Source: Requires a constant GPS feed (either a USB dongle or any GPS source on the NMEA network).

  • NMEA Network Connection: Recommended for full functionality and automatic safe radius calculation.

  • Flexible Setup: Configure digital inputs, relay, tolerance, …

How It Works:

  • When the anchor is lowered, the plugin saves your GPS position.

  • When your Speed Over Ground (SOG) drops to zero and engine RPM exceeds 1700, the safe anchor radius is automatically computed (if engine data is available).

  • If the boat drifts outside the safe radius (with a user-defined tolerance), the system triggers an alarm via Cerbo’s integrated relay and/or a YDAB-01 alarm.

  • Real-time anchor status and alerts are displayed right on the Cerbo main screen.

  • Configuration is handled through Victron’s Settings service, making customization straightforward and flexible.

Get Started:

Check out the code and installation instructions on GitHub:

:link: https://github.com/blaaaaaaah/dbus-anchor-alarm

I hope this tool makes your anchoring safer and more convenient. Feedback and contributions are very welcome!

Safe boating,

Thomas