ZF

Command system

Total Command

Comfort, reliability and safety, the Total Command series of ZF Marine Electronic represents the most modern and technological generation of lever controls to manage engine acceleration and inverter engagement.

What makes it so cutting-edge?

 

  • The reactivity of the clutch
  • Optimized proportional valve control and adaptive gear engagement
  • The CAN BUS communication protocol through which the levers send signals to the control unit that in turn transmit the command to the motors and inverters

JMS joystick functionality

The JMS joystick is another essential element as it allows to control and manoeuvre the boat with precision, simplicity and safety even in mooring. Thanks to it, you can move parallel to the quay, rotate 360 o’clock on site and easily perform more complex operations.

It is available in two configurations:

  • Open circuit. This is the basic configuration, without automatic route control;
  • Closed circuit. This is the premium configuration, integrated with an electronic compass that allows you to keep the direction of the boat you want.

Thanks to them the boat will keep the direction you have selected despite the current, wind or external forces.

The flexibility and connectivity of total command systems is also visible in the fact that it is possible to interface Thrusters and integrate other on-board systems.

For which engines are the Total Command control heads suitable?

Electronic motors and transmissions with and without trolling valve, for more than one station on board, are the most suitable for the installation of total command systems. They are also available for recreational and work versions.

In addition to state-of-the-art technology, total command systems are distinguished by their elegant, ergonomic, and functional design at the same time, conceived by the Italian designers Giorgetto and Fabrizio Giugiaro. A compact design, with touch pads and soft-touch buttons.

Their safety is guaranteed and certified by some of the most important approval authorities, such as Lloyd’s and DNV.

Built-in control mode

Total Command systems include built-in control modes.

They are:

 

  • Easidock
  • Self-troll
  • Warmup
  • Single lever mode
Easidock

It consists in the ability to modulate the transmission and have control over the engine speed so that the propeller reaches an optimal speed that allows a safe berthing of the boat. It also guarantees simple, safe, and precise manoeuvrability even in the most limited spaces.

Autotroll

Its main function lies in the fact that it guarantees a complete range of control even at lower speeds. In addition, the built-in closed loop feedback sensor allows to maintain and reach the required propeller rpm. Thanks to this process the clutch slip is controlled, and the engine speed remains low.

Warm Up

As the word “heating” suggests, this mode allows the engine to reach the suitable operating temperature quickly. Thanks to it, the engine speed will increase even with the transmission locked in neutral.

Single lever

One lever to operate on multiple motors: thanks to this mode you will be able to operate several motors in a simple way, handling a single lever.

Smart Command

A modern, innovative, and cutting-edge control system, with integrated CAN bus (Controller Area Network) technology that allows a smooth and complete control, automatically synchronizing the motors for any need and mode.

The speed and ease of installation are the main advantages of Smart Command control systems, as between the control unit, the motor and the transmissions only simple connections are needed.

With which engines and transmissions is it compatible?

 

It works with electronically controlled motors and electronically controlled transmissions. The design of the main control unit is innovative and compact and features an ergonomically shaped lever and an intuitive display that will allow you to easily explore and select all functions via soft-touch buttons. Visual indicators will also play a key role in helping you quickly and easily locate the neutral position. The 2-color LEDs, on the other hand, will indicate the units in operation and especially if the corresponding transmission is engaged.

Built-in control mode

In addition to the default mode (Cruise), which allows to easily control gear and rpm engagement thanks to a single lever per motor, Smart Command control systems include the following modes.

Easidock

Thanks to it the clutch responds quickly and positively, allowing to manoeuvre easily and precisely even in the most limited spaces. Moreover, thanks to its ability to modulate the transmission and control the engine speed, the propeller of your boat will reach the optimal speed to enable a safe berthing.

Autotroll

Tutto quello di cui hai bisogno per mantenere basso il regime del motore. Questa modalità, oltre a consentire una gamma completa di controllo a basse velocità, incorpora un sensore di feedback a circuito chiuso che sarà molto utile per mantenere il numero di giri dell’elica richiesto, controllando così anche lo slittamento della frizione.

Warm Up

It acts as a real heating for the engine, increasing its speed when the transmission is locked in neutral. In this way the engine will warm up more quickly, until it reaches the operating temperature required to ride the waves of the sea.

Single lever

Thanks to this mode you can operate different motors, operating only with a single lever.

Technical specifications

  • SmartCommand can be integrated with the ZF JMS joystick system.
  • Metal, watertight container that does not need to be opened.
  • J-1939 protocol CANbus used for communication between the control unit and the main processor.
  • Control lever unit equipped with two microprocessors (one per lever) for the conversion of the analog signal to the digital CANbus output, ensuring a high level of redundancy.
  • Two independent can bus lines connect up to three control levers per line (up to six stations), ensuring high flexibility to define the shortest connection path of the stations, as well as the desired redundancy level.
  • Engine speed control signals available in Voltage – Current – PWM, compatible with all electronically controlled motor models.
  • Transmission control signals available in both analog and digital.
  • Reference signals provided by two independent sensors located on the transmission, measuring the revolutions of the input shaft and the revolutions of the propeller axis.
  • Connections with pre-wired connectors to reduce installation time and avoid incorrect wiring.
  • Four-digit LED display and keyboard on the main processor simplify set-up configuration and facilitate troubleshooting by displaying error codes.
  • Configurable for two-speed transmission control.
  • CE mark and designed to meet the main standards required.
  • Compliant with J1939 and NMEA2000 interfaces.
  • DNV and GL approval for ships, fast boats and light boats.

Cruise Command

A control system designed specifically for larger ships with control stations and for electronic engines and transmissions with gearboxes. Cruise Command represents a real upgrade of the ZF Micro Command and Clear Command families, as it incorporates their standard functions, in particular:

  • The mode of heating
  • The transfer of the station
  • The single lever operation
  • The synchronization of the engine

Their peculiarity concerns the control of the motor, inverter and trolling valve with electric/electronic control thanks to ON/OFF signals at 12 or 24vdc or modulated signals in voltage, current, frequency or duty cycle (duty cycle).

In addition, another novelty concerns the need to install a processor for each motor/ inverter, reaching up to a maximum of 5 motors. 4 control stations can be installed, including portable remote controls.

The configuration is simple and does not require the support of external tools. The control unit has a very advanced self-diagnosis system that allows you to send signals in real time thanks to an alphanumeric led display.

It is prepared as standard with:

 

  • Synchronism of the two-lever engine
  • Synchronism of single lever motor revolutions
  • Warning tone levers in neutral/minimum
  • Contacts for interlocking at the engine start
  • Interlocking contacts for low pressure oil inverter
  • Contacts for external alarm system portable controls
  • Plug&play links

Levers

Interchangeability and compatibility with an incredible number of control systems. The Leve Group models are numerous and designed to meet the demands and needs of the market.

Each model differs from the other, but some standard features are common to all. They are:

  • Direction and speed control with a single lever
  • Easy transfer of control
  • Indicators of the active control station
  • Active motor synchronization signaling LEDs (only for dual lever models)
  • Audible and visual indicators
  • High degree of weather protection
  • Also available for single engine propulsion configurations with choice of right or left base lever

Model 463-4

A simple to use model, designed to withstand the most demanding marine conditions and refined design. The 463-4 is compatible with the following control systems:

  • Mini Command
  • Cruise Command
  • Clear Command 9000 series
  • Clear Command 9000 Series Premium

To make the control of your boat easier, more precise, and safer, it includes four modes of operation:

  • Start Interlock. Thanks to it, engine start is prevented while the transmission is running.
  • Cruise Mode. Thanks to it you can operate two engine systems simply by using a single clutch and accelerator control lever with one lever per engine
  • Multi-station control. Keeping the same speed on multiple engines is never easy, thanks to this mode it will be. This will result in fuel savings and a reduction in noise and vibration.
  • Mode of heating. A very useful mode for engine testing and that will allow you to start faster after bringing the engine to the optimal operating temperature.

From the point of view of the design, it comes with a base finish in matt black and levers in chromed metal and knob with anti-uv protection.

See below the dimensions:

Length

Width

Heigh

5.0 in

4.8 in

6.8 in

127 mm

122 mm

173 mm

 

Model 466-4

The simplicity of use, the ability to withstand the most challenging sea conditions and the elegance of the design are the main features of the model Levers Group 466-4. It is compatible with the following control systems:

  • MiniCommand
  • Cruise Command
  • Clear Command 400 series
  • Clear Command 400 Series Premium

For complete, precise, and smooth control, the 466-4 incorporates the following features. 

  • Start Interlock: to prevent the engine from starting while the transmission is running
  • Cruise mode: to operate two engine systems with a single clutch and throttle lever with one lever per engine
  • Multi-station control: to reduce fuel consumption, noise and vibration by synchronizing the speeds of multiple engines
  • Heating mode: for faster starts, bringing the engine to the optimum temperature

From the point of view of the design, it has a base finish in matt black and levers in low profile chromed metal or glossy black metal.

See below the dimensions:

Length

Width

Heigh

5.0 in

4.0 in

4.0 in

127 mm

102 mm

102 mm

MC2000-0 MODEL

To make your marine experience easier, safer, and more enjoyable. To ensure full control of your boat. To get the max, always.

The MC2000-2 is one of the best levers for the following control systems: 

  • Mini Command
  • Cruise Command
  • Clear Command 9000 series
  • Clear Command 9000 Series Premium

The control of your boat will be complete, precise and easy thanks to the following modes that the 466-4 incorporates. Let’s see them together.  

  • Start Interlock: prevents engine start while the transmission is running
  • Cruise Mode: Which will allow you to operate two engine systems with a single clutch and accelerator control lever with one lever per engine
  • Multi-station control: thanks to which you can easily and safely maintain the same speed on multiple engines, thus promoting fuel savings and noise and vibration reduction
  • Heating mode: very useful to test the engine and especially to allow faster starts after bringing the engine to the optimum operating temperature

From the point of view of the design, it features a base finish with chrome-plated metal levers and a nickel-plated double-layer anti-corrosion. 

See below the dimensions:

Length

Width

Heigh

6.5 in

5.2 in

5.5 in

165 mm

132 mm

140 mm

MC2000-4 Model

A functional model designed both to withstand the most demanding marine conditions and environments, and to meet design standards, giving your control system a touch of sophistication. The MC2000-4 is compatible with the following control systems:

  • Clear Command series 9000
  • Mini Command series 9000
  • Cruise Command series 9000
  • Cruise Command 9000 series Premium

Its control is made complete, secure, and reliable thanks to the following modes it incorporates. Let’s see them together.  

  • Start Interlock: to make your navigation safer, preventing the start of the engine while the transmission is running
  • Cruise mode: with which you can operate two engine systems with a single clutch and accelerator control lever with one lever per engine
  • Multi-station control: Reduce fuel consumption, noise and vibration by synchronizing speed across multiple engines
  • Heating mode: to start faster after bringing the engine of your boat to the most indicated operating temperature

From the point of view of the design, it presents:

  • a base finish in matt black metal;
  • a chromed metal lever;
  • a nickel plated double layer anti-corrosion.

See below the dimensions:

Length

Width

Heigh

6.5 in

5.2 in

5.5 in

165 mm

132 mm

140 mm

Remote control Portable

Standard characteristics

  • Active portable indicator light
  • Standard transfer of control
  • Engine stop button/s
  • Magnetic Security Flash Drive
  • High degree of protection
  • 7.6 m of flexible extension
  • Maximum speed limitation to 80%

 

Optional

  • Adding 1 or 2 buttons for Thruster bow or bow + Thruster stern control respectively
  • Support in stainless steel
  • Additional extensions

Joystick Maneuvering System (JMS)

Have you ever desired to make even the most demanding manoeuvres simple, precise and safe?

Thanks to the Joystick Maneuvering System ZF you can control your boat with greater comfort and light-heartedness.

Its advanced technology integrates both engine and propeller functions, taking your driving experience to the next level.

Its main advantage is represented by the iAnchor option, a move that allows you to keep the position of the boat fixed in a point, only by pressing a button, despite the unfavourable wind and current conditions, with no need to continue to use the handcuffs and propellers.

All this is made possible thanks to the help of a state-of-the-art GPS positioning system. Thanks to it, moving sideways to the quay or rotate 360 χ on the spot will be easier and easier. In addition, through its electronic system you can control the acceleration of the engines and change the transmissions with an accuracy that makes more and more fluid manoeuvres that allow easy docking.

Its use is particularly suitable for twin-engine yachts, cruisers, and sport fishing boats with traditional line-of-axis propulsion. To manoeuvre the boat from the position you like, you can install up to 6 joystick stations.

4200 Model – 4200 LP

To achieve a simple, safe, and complete control of your boat, the 4200 – 4200 LP is a functional solution, as it is designed both to withstand the most demanding marine conditions, both to offer you a refined design that perfectly matches with your yacht. 

It is compatible with Mini Command, Cruise Command, Clear Command 9000 Series and Clear Command 9000 Series premium control systems. 

Some of its key features are made possible by the following modes it incorporates. Let’s see them together.

  • Start Interlock: which will act as a safety system to prevent the start of the engine while the transmission is running
  • Cruise Mode: to achieve the operation of two engine systems with a single clutch and accelerator lever with one lever per engine
  • Multi-station control: which will allow you to reduce fuel consumption, noise and vibration of your boat thanks to engine speed synchronization.
  • Heating mode: thanks to which you can make your departures faster, bringing the engine to the correct operating temperature.

From the point of view of the design, it presents:

  • a base finish in matt black metal;
  • a chromed metal lever (also available for Text microclear);
  • a nickel plated double layer anticorrosion.

See below the dimensions:

Depth

Width

Length

4200

70 mm

2,76 in

132.4 mm

5.21 in

5.75 in

145.25 mm

4200LP

4.97 in

126.3 mm

Steer Command electrical steering systems

A real innovation for the maritime market. An electric steering system that replaces the most common hydraulic and mechanical systems, bringing with it safety, precision, and reactivity. ZF Steer Command makes use of a patented electronic force feedback system designed by ZF that can be compared to the steering systems of luxury cars.  

The CANbus technology is also the main character in Steer Command systems because, thanks to a Helm Unit, it sends the wheel position to the Smart Command processor, which in turn, based on further calculations, sends (always via can bus) the correct position of the rudder. 

It can be easily integrated into ZF propulsion systems and for any type of vessel, especially for heavy loads as it can operate safely and reliably without interruption.

This type of technology has long been a strong point of the aviation industry, which translates into visible advantages:

  • in the control of the boat, more and more precise;
  • in performance, always better;
  • in the maintenance that will be reduced;
  • in the ease of installation.

 

In summary, its main advantages are represented by:

  • better control
  • better performance
  • reduced maintenance
  • an ease of installation
  • a reduced weight
  • a minimum used space

    Performance features

     

    The rudder is easy to handle. It is easy and safe to drive even at above average speeds.

    See below its performance features:

     

    • Fast response of the rudder.
    • Narrower turning radius.
    • High efficiency with continuous microprocessor control.
    • Maximum safety in any sea condition.
    • Smooth and smooth control, with active feedback at the helm.
    • Automatic back-to-zero steering wheel position (optional).

    Technical specifications

     

    From a technical point of view, it has the following characteristics:

    • Standard linear actuator, providing up to 10 kN thrust and 250 mm stroke
    • 24V DC power supply.
    • Communication with CAN bus technology.
    • Microprocessor control integrated in the Smart Command control unit.
    • Smart Command control system with up to 6 stations.
    • Guaranteed CE & ABYC.
    • Double or single steering station (main bridge and flying bridge).
    • Additional rudder control connection (optional).
    • Optional integration with autopilot.
    • Rudder angle varies depending on the speed of the boat.
    • Independent control of port and starboard rudders (available with two linear actuators).

    Micro Commander system series 9000

    Easy control, safety, and precision. The Micro Commander Series 9000 is an electronic control system of the gearbox and accelerator, thanks to which you can master your boat, performing the most demanding manoeuvres and facing the most challenging conditions, with unparalleled simplicity.

    It is designed specifically for the control of motor and inverter with mechanical control thanks to flexible sheath cables such as Morse (33C), Uflex (C8,MACH Zero), etc and updates and replaces the 9000 series.

    Recreational, sports and commercial boats with single or double engines are the most suitable for the installation of the MicroCommander Series 9000. In addition, it is necessary to install an actuator/processor for each motor/inverter, for a maximum of 5 motors.

    There are also 5 control stations that can be installed, including portable remote controls, to control your boat from any location. Only one remote station at a time will have the command and the station in use will be indicated by a red light located on the control head.  

    The ease of use of this control system is already visible from the initial configuration, which does not require the help of external tools. 

    Safety is guaranteed by the self-diagnosis system with real-time signaling by an alphanumeric led display incorporated in the control unit of the control system and by sequential operation that protects the engine and transmissions in emergency situations or during docking in atmospheric conditions not easy to manage. 

    Everything is certified as tested according to the requirements established by surveying companies such as ABS and DNV, meeting ABYC standards and being in possession of the CE mark. 

    It is prepared as standard with: 

    • Synchronism of the two-lever engine
    • Synchronism of single lever motor revolutions
    • Warning tone levers in neutral/minimum
    • Contacts for interlocking at the engine start
    • Interlocking contacts for low pressure oil inverter
    • Contacts for external alarm system
    • Plug&play links
    • Interface for external actuator to control 2 trolling valves

    Specifications

    Its main features include:

     

    • Installation plug-in. Easy installation of the system is made possible thanks to plug-in wiring in prefabricated construction that allows easy connection of all system components 9000 Micro Commander F Series. ZF also provides custom wiring kits to meet all the needs of manufacturing
    • Button setting. Another factor that contributes to the ease of use of the control system. In order for the parameter configuration for the controls to be extremely simple, the button is already set in the best way. Simply enter the parameter code to have the processor make the correct adjustments. You can also change configurations later to meet new and additional specifications based on your needs
    • Starting interlock. An extremely useful function to prevent starting the engine in neutral, unless the controls are switched on and a station is at the control
    • Technology of sequencing. To switch from full bow to full stern with only one movement and preventing damage to the engine or gear, a function made possible by the protection of the gear/speed sequence. It is a very safety-oriented technology, designed to respond instantly to emergency situations
    • Synchronization of the motor that happens in standard way. It allows you to maintain the same speed on multiple engines, thereby improving operating efficiency with fuel savings and noise and vibration reduction. The operation can be performed thanks to a single lever that allows the control of multiple engines and transimssions.
    • Multiple Control Situations. It refers to the ability of the 9000 Micro Commander processor/actuator to support up to 5 control stations, which allows the use of an optional manual control unit, plus multiple mounted control heads
    • Built-in diagnostic display. It is a LED display unit that is equipped with the processor, which provides information for setting up, to check the status of the system or for diagnostic updates
    • Troll. Allows you to control or slip the clutch while maintaining a low engine speed and saving fuel.

    Mini Command

    The evolving standard, a modern design, ergonomic comfort. Thanks to the Mini Command control systems you can control, via a single lever, electronically operated diesel engines and marine transmissions.  

    They are designed for pleasure boats and small/medium commercial applications (up to 60 feet in length) equipped with electronically controlled/CAN Bus motors and 12/24Vdc solenoid inverters. 

    You just need to install a single processor to obtain the control of 2 motors/inverters, dual power supply and a maximum of 2 control stations with a choice of fixed lever group or portable remote control.

    Thanks to its single-unit design it will be very easy to place the processor even in smaller and more limited spaces, while maintaining two separate operating systems. 

    Setting it up will be a breeze. Through a LED display (also useful for viewing the self-diagnostic system) and some dedicated buttons, separately for the right engine section and the left one, you can configure the control system quickly and easily.

    Its flexibility, for those who have already had the experience of benefiting from ZF control systems, is a must. The Mini Command, in fact, can be combined with the same control heads offered for the MicroCommand, CruiseCommand and ClearCommand systems.

    It is standard equipped with:

     

    • Engine rpm synchronization with two levers
    • Single lever engine rpm synchronization
    • Contacts for engine starting interlock
    • Plug&play connections.

    Clear Command Series 9000

    The great flexibility is the main advantage of the Clear Command 9000 Series control systems, having a wide range of application possibilities and being able to manage, simply through a single control unit, simultaneously up to 3 propulsive users. 

    They are designed specifically for mixed-control motor, inverter and trolling valve control between:

    • Mechanical via traditional cables with flexible sheath type Morse (33C), Uflex (C8, MACH Zero), etc.
    • Electrical/electronic via 12 or 24vdc ON/OFF signals or signals modulated in voltage, current, frequency or working cycle (duty cycle or PWM pulse width modulation).

    A version for the automatic management of the ZF ATS two-speed transmission is also available to meet every need.

    For each motor/inverter you need to install and configure a Clear Command actuator, up to a maximum of 5 motors. There are also 5 control stations that can be installed, including the ZF portable remote controls.  

    Its configuration is very simple as it does not require the help of external tools. The control unit, very advanced, has a very advanced self-diagnosis system through which you can receive in real time the system signals through an alphanumeric led display.

    It is prepared as standard with:

    • Synchronism of the two-lever engine
    • Synchronism of single lever motor revolutions
    • Warning tone levers in neutral/minimum
    • Contacts for interlocking at the engine start
    • Interlocking contacts for low pressure oil inverter
    • Contacts for external alarm system
    • Plug&play links