Waterproofing Cable Entry Points: Ethernet, Power, and SMA RF Connectors for BlueBoat Integration

Blue Robotics Vehicles BlueBoat
1

Hi everyone,

I’m integrating several devices onto my BlueBoat platform, including:

  • Jetson Orin NX
  • OAK-D stereo camera
  • Ouster OS1-32 LiDAR
  • ArduSimple simpleRTK3B compass module

I need to route the following through the hull:

  • 1× power cable
  • 1× Ethernet cable
  • 2× RF cables (SMA connectors for GPS antennas)

My main challenge is figuring out how to waterproof the cable entry points—where these cables pass through the hull/junction box.

I’m a complete newbie at waterproofing, so I’d love any advice. For the power cable, I assume a WetLink connector works well. But:

  • How do you waterproof Ethernet (RJ45) and SMA RF connections at the entry point?
  • Are there bulkhead connectors or pass-through glands that don’t require me to cut/re-terminate the cables?

If anyone has experience or product recommendations for waterproofing these kinds of entry points, I’d really appreciate it. Thanks so much!

2

Hi @andycyl -
Cutting the connectors off, passing the cable through an appropriately sized WetLink penetrator, and re-terminating is likely the best bet for a reliable seal. While bulkhead ethernet connector options are out there, in my experience they don’t remain leak tight for very long. The product page has extensive guides to help you select and use this solution.

When it comes to your RTK GPS, we’ve had success simply mounting the antennas under the deck, on the stern and bow side of the starboard/port hull - that makes routing the co-ax into the hull unnecessary! Otherwise, WetLink Penetrators, when used with coax cable, usually need to be drilled out to eliminate the internal step. By drilling the ID out to the OD of the coax cable, you can pass the cable through without having to remove the outer jacket, and re-terminate the connector. This does compromise the depth rating, but only at extreme pressures - your BlueBoat won’t be going below 40-100m!