Digital Thruster Panel takes the Worry Out of Docking

Twin Disc has announced its latest product, the Digital Thruster Panel, designed to complement the company's EC300 Power Commander® electronic propulsion control and Express Joystick System® (EJS). This new panel promises to enhance the control and maneuverability of vessels, particularly in tight docking situations.

Built with polished stainless steel, the Digital Thruster Panel is engineered to withstand harsh marine environments, making it ideal for helms, flybridges, and docking stations. Its ergonomic toggles are designed for easy use, allowing boat owners to control their thrusters with precision. Visually, the panel aligns seamlessly with Twin Disc's full suite of vessel controls, featuring the company's signature arced base and modern styling. Available in both dual and single versions, it caters to a wide range of user needs.

One of the standout features of the Digital Thruster Panel is its reliability and speed. The panel’s fingertip control enables boat owners to effortlessly guide their vessels into or away from crowded docks. The proportional hydraulic speed control of bow and stern thrusters allows the more the toggle is moved, the greater the thrust achieved. This provides a high level of control for maneuvering in challenging conditions.

"The performance and response of our new Digital Thruster Panel to the slightest command is instantaneous," said Capt. Marty Mason, Twin Disc's Manager for Marketing & Product Development. "There's never any hesitation."

In addition to precise control, the Digital Thruster Panel includes hydraulic fluid warning lights. The unit continually monitors the thrusters' oil level and temperature, providing an audible alert in the event of critical variances. This feature ensures that users are immediately aware of any issues that could affect the thrusters' performance.

The panel also interfaces seamlessly with the EC300 control system, providing additional flexibility for owners of EJS-equipped boats. For vessels equipped with Twin Disc's optional display panel, thruster commands are displayed as easy-to-read bar graphs for quick visual reference.

For nearly a century, Twin Disc has been dedicated to making boating more enjoyable and efficient. The company manufactures a range of innovative products, including QuickShift® marine transmissions, joystick and electronic controls, Express Positioning, Arneson® Surface Drives, Rolla™ propellers, and other quality items designed to enhance the boating experience.

For more information, contact Twin Disc, Inc. at 1328 Racine St., Racine, WI 53403, USA, via email at [email protected], or visit their website at www.twindisc.com.

This article was originally published on Marine & Industrial Report newspaper Vol 38  No.1  Issue last February 29,2016.