Description
Product Introduction
When an engine-room alarm fails to reach the bridge or the duty engineer, the consequences can be immediate. The KONGSBERG DataChief C20 is a modular integrated automation system designed for alarm monitoring, data acquisition and process control on commercial and naval vessels. Introduced in 1998 and delivered until 2008, it remains widely installed on tankers, ferries, bulk carriers and special-purpose ships.
The system uses Distributed Processing Units linked by dual-redundant networks, Remote Operator Stations and Operator Control Panels. It meets IMO and classification-society requirements for periodically unmanned machinery spaces. Optional modules cover power management, watch calling, tank gauging and process control. OEM support is now limited; upgrade solutions to K-Chief 600 are available. Listed price is reference only—request a quote for current surplus market conditions.
Installation & Configuration Guide
Phase 1 — Pre-Installation (est. 10 min)
De-energize relevant cabinets and wait for residual discharge. Tools: insulated tools, multimeter, laptop with configuration software (where still supported). Export existing system configuration and tag lists. Photograph every DPU location, network cabling, operator-panel wiring and power distribution.
Phase 2 — Removal (est. 5–15 min depending on scope)
Label all field cables, network links and power feeds. Disconnect and remove the failed DPU, operator station or control panel. Cap open connectors and protect the remaining network. Inspect backplanes and terminations for corrosion.
Phase 3 — Installation (est. 10–20 min)
ESD protection first. Confirm the exact part number and revision match the original. Replicate the photographed wiring and network addresses exactly. Seat the module or panel, reconnect power and dual-redundant networks, and verify termination resistors.
Phase 4 — Power-On & Testing (est. 15–30 min)
Apply power. Observe status LEDs and network link indicators. Load configuration, verify alarm groups, sensor scaling and communication to remaining DPUs. Simulate key alarms and confirm presentation on operator stations. Run stable for >30 min and log the change.
Troubleshooting quick-reference:
- No network communication → check dual-redundant links and termination
- Missing alarms → verify DPU configuration and sensor wiring
- Operator station offline → power, LAN cable and software version
