What is DNV certification? DNV is an internationally recognised certification that sets standards to ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of ships and offshore installations. DNV certification confirms that a product has been tested to meet strict maritime requirements for environmental durability, vibration resistance, EMC performance and operational safety. For many vessels and offshore platforms, DNV is required to comply with rules and regulation standards.
What is IEC 60945 certification? IEC 60945 is an international standard that specifies performance, environmental, and electromagnetic compatibility requirements for equipment used in maritime navigation and radio-communication systems. Certification to IEC 60945 ensures that computing and networking hardware can withstand harsh maritime conditions such as temperature extremes, humidity, vibration, and salt mist exposure. It also ensures equipment does not cause or suffer from electromagnetic interference with critical systems like radar, GPS, and radio communications. IEC 60945 compliance is particularly important for bridge-mounted and mission-critical onboard equipment.
Are there devices that support both DNV and IEC 60945 certification? Yes. Many ruggedised marine computers, Ethernet switches, routers, and gateways are designed and tested to meet both DNV and IEC 60945 standards. These dual-certified solutions provide confidence that equipment can be deployed across bridge, engine room, control, and offshore environments while maintaining compliance and operational integrity.
Can standard industrial computers or switches be used onboard a vessel? While some industrial-grade devices may physically operate in marine environments, they are not typically tested against marine-specific risks such as salt spray corrosion, bridge-level EMC restrictions, or compliance requirements. For critical systems, including navigation, control, automation, and vessel communications, DNV or IEC 60945 certified hardware is strongly recommended to ensure reliability and regulatory compliance.
What should be considered when selecting marine-certified computing and networking equipment? Bridge Systems: Bridge environments require IEC 60945-compliant computers, displays and networking hardware to ensure reliable operation under vibration, temperature variation, humidity, and EMC-sensitive conditions. Certified switches and routers support secure, real-time data exchange between radar, ECDIS, GPS, and communication systems, helping maintain uninterrupted navigation and operational safety. Engine Room Applications: Engine rooms demand rugged, fanless computing platforms designed to withstand high temperatures, vibration, and electrical noise. Marine-grade Ethernet switches provide stable connectivity between PLCs, sensors, and control systems, supporting propulsion monitoring, fuel management, and condition-based maintenance without compromise. Automation & Control Networks: Vessel automation and SCADA systems rely on DNV-certified switches, routers, and embedded computers to ensure integration across propulsion, power and safety systems. Certified networking and computing infrastructure improves reliability, supports redundancy, and ensures compliance. Selecting certified, marine-ready computing and networking solutions reduces operational risk, supports regulatory compliance, and ensures dependable performance in demanding maritime environments.