Description
Product Parameters
- Model Number: HCX3 G2 (Generation 2)
- Part Number: 000122043
- Manufacturer: Rolls-Royce (Marine Division)
- Component Type: Forward Electronic Shaft (Fwd.el Shaft) / Control Interface Module
- System Application: Double Main Thruster Control System
- Input Voltage: 24V DC Dual Redundant Inputs
- Communication Protocol: CAN-open / Proprietary Rolls-Royce Ethernet
- Protection Class: IP22 (Standard Console Mount)
- Operating Temperature: -15°C to +55°C
- Hardware Revision: Generation 2 (G2) Enhanced Logic Board
- Interface: Multi-pin circular connectors for robust marine vibration resistance
The Rolls-Royce HCX3 G2 (000122043) is a sophisticated electronic shaft control module designed for high-precision synchronization in double main thruster configurations. As a “Generation 2” component, it acts as the primary logical link between the bridge lever commands and the underwater thruster units, ensuring that dual propulsion systems maintain perfectly matched RPM and directional orientation during complex docking or dynamic positioning maneuvers.
Differences from Similar Models
The HCX3 G2 000122043 represents a specific evolution in Rolls-Royce’s marine control architecture, distinguished by the following features:
- Generation 2 (G2) Processing: Compared to the original HCX series, the G2 hardware utilizes a significantly faster microprocessor, reducing “command-to-action” latency by nearly 30%, which is vital for large vessels in heavy seas.
- Redundant Bus Support: The 000122043 is specifically wired for “Double Main” setups, meaning it includes hardware-level mirroring for dual-channel communication that single-thruster HCX modules do not possess.
- Enhanced Diagnostics: Unlike the G1 versions, the G2 module features an expanded internal fault-logging memory, allowing technicians to retrieve high-resolution “black box” data following a steering or propulsion anomaly.
- Improved Signal Filtering: This revision includes updated surface-mount opto-isolators that provide better protection against electrical noise generated by modern Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) compared to legacy H-series controllers.
Product Operation Tips
- Synchronized Calibration: When replacing an HCX3 G2 module in a dual-thruster setup, both the Port and Starboard “el Shaft” modules must be re-calibrated simultaneously to ensure the physical lever positions match the digital output 1:1.
- Check Termination Resistors: Since this module often sits at the end of a long communication run from the engine room to the bridge, ensure the internal termination jumper is set correctly to prevent signal reflection on the data bus.
- Firmware Parity: Always verify that the firmware version on the 000122043 matches the version on the aft or auxiliary thruster controllers. Incompatible software versions can lead to “Sync Timeout” alarms during high-speed maneuvers.
- Connector Sealing: While the front is protected, the rear connectors are sensitive to humidity. Use a light application of marine-grade dielectric grease on the pins of the 000122043 to prevent micro-corrosion that can cause intermittent “Lever Fail” errors
