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Chetco Digital Instruments Inc. will be introducing its expanded line of vGaugeTM color digital engine monitoring, fuel management and switch control display panels at the 2009 Miami International Boat Show from February 12 - 16.

Chetco Digital has taken a modular approach to allow users the ability to centralize Gauge and Switch monitoring with one large VGA format color touch panel. The company says its user-programmable panels are unique in the market by combining engine instrumentation, fuel management and switching in one color display.

Commenting on the vGaugeTM, company President Steven James said "The slightest variations in average data output means something is going on inside the engine, usually that something is not good. The color graphics and accurate digital readouts allow for side by side monitoring of single or multiple engines and detection of even small variances."

Chetco Digital says it offers a unique approach to monitoring engine performance by allowing the operator to view a large array of engine outputs, fuel consumption, and other marine performance data in real time.

USB outputs allow the operator to install any standard memory stick and data log engine performance over an extended time. Using the company's vDash virtual instrumentation software, this data can be reviewed at a later time or transmitted by the operator to service personnel.

A Min-max alarm feature allows warnings to be sounded or displayed if any of the gauge readings stray from pre-selected criteria.

"Understanding your engine performance under normal use over time can save thousands in fuel costs and expensive damage to high performance systems," said Joe Burke company CTO.

The addition of fuel consumption gauges for diesel engines can reduce operating costs by allowing an operator to find the most efficient throttle position for given conditions, Chetco Digital said.

These new touch screen color displays when combined with remote mount gauge or switch modules allow for the viewing of 16 gauges and 12 switches per module and up to 32 when attached to multiple units. All remote modules have network interface options including USB, serial, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. These ports allow for data logging and monitoring of engine performance directly on a local PC or remotely via Internet connection.

Burke commented: "Our unique modular approach to helm engine monitoring and remote switching is a first in the industry. We have applied proven 21st technology in order to maximize helm space, allowing users to monitor engine performance and control electrical switches such as lights and pumps from one or more locations around a vessel while opening up helm space for GPS, Radar, Sonar and other vital equipment."

Each unit ships with factory preset gauge layouts or is re-programmable to allow the user design of custom gauge and switching functions. Using the company's proprietary vDashTM virtual instrumentation software, the user can change gauge labels or add/remove functions simply by connecting the unit to a computer via USB, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth modules. With touch screen support, the operator can decide to use a single screen to view all readings or create multiple screens to view prioritized gauge and switch groupings.

"With the addition of wireless options, multiple displays can be easily located on a vessel or viewed on enabled smart phones and laptops," said Burke.

"Integrated Switches and Gauges in one unit enable the user to observe and log engine performance while onboard or remotely from any internet accessible location. Users can monitor what switch functions are on/off and even control these switches remotely. This is great for checking fuel levels, bilge levels, battery charge level, potable or gray water levels prior to arriving at your vessel. You can verify if any device was left on after you leave the vehicle or boat."