In collaboration with our service partner Zen Marine Service, we successfully resolved a failure on the Kongsberg Norcontrol main engine telegraph system covering the Emergency, ECR and Bridge units of a 2002-built MR Tanker.

We performed comprehensive system checks. Our inspections included:

🛠 Verifying power supply, communication loop, and input/output signals between AutoChief A4 Engine Control System, DGU 8800 Digital Governor System, SSU-8810 Safety System, Speed Control Levers

🛠 Functionality tests of each unit and identifying non-working functions.
🛠 Adjustment of addressing switches and jumper settings per maker instructions on internal cards (Panel, CPU, and I/O Power cards)

📦 For deeper diagnostics, the engine telegraph units (ETUs) were transferred to our electronic workshop. After inspection:

2 out of 3 units were successfully repaired and reinstalled onboard

All tested functions of the telegraph units and speed control levers were confirmed to be operating properly.

For the remaining unit, genuine new and second-hand spares were sourced from the Turkish market and offered to the vessel’s technical manager.

🚨 Why Are Old Systems Critical?
💡 Manufacturers mostly no longer provide servicing for older systems
💡 Many of these systems are discontinued, and full replacement can be costly for shipowners and technical managers

✅ Recommendations for Legacy Systems
•⁠ ⁠Perform regular inspections of Telegraph Units
•⁠ ⁠Keep at least one spare unit or internal cards onboard (preferably emergency/local ETU) or spare internal cards (Panel, CPU, I/O)

ℹ Note: Although panel cards are location-specific, with correct jumper and address switch settings, spare unit/card can be adapted for use at any control station.

🔧 Need Support?

As Navinn Marine and Zen Marine Service, we offer:

•⁠ ⁠Norcontrol system troubleshooting & repairs
•⁠ ⁠Diagnostics and refurbishment of electronic cards
•⁠ ⁠Supply of genuine or tested second-hand spare parts