Faqs

YES, Dockmate has several unique features:

• Dockmate uses DockLink, a proprietary state-of-the-art bidirectional (2-way) FHSS (Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum) communication protocol, with GFSK (FM) modulation on the 868MHz or 433MHz band, between the remote and receiver, thus ensuring superior range. The rolling code changes every 150ms – or more than 6x per second – over 6 different channels virtually eliminating any possible chance of interference.
• Fully proportional, 3-axis joystick on the TWIST and VECTOR remotes.
• Option for proportional throttle control (the more you push on the joystick, the more throttle is provided).
• Completely waterproof transmitters that float.
• 3-year warranty, with 30 day satisfaction or money back guarantee.
• Customisable software to precisely adjust maximum and minimum throttle for engines and thrusters, if so desired. Unlike competitive brands which are not modifiable and are “what you see is what you get.”
• SINGLE & TWIN remote models have a flush keypad which is well-protected against accidental pressing of the keys, yet the push buttons have different finishes, allowing you to discern and use the different functions without having to look at the remote
• SINGLE & TWIST remote models for single engine vessels.
• TWIST or VECTOR remote for Volvo Penta IPS. The TWIST and VECTOR’s joystick feels like an exact replica of the Volvo Penta IPS joystick offering proportional throttle control in every joystick direction.
• Dockmate Positioning System: Seamlessly integrating with a Dockmate remote system and available for vessels with proportional thrusters. Automatically hold vessel heading and precise position at the touch of a button.
• Dynamic Positioning: if the boat is equipped with Volvo Penta’s “Dynamic Positioning” or “Sky Hook”, then that function can be (de)activated through the VECTOR (or TWIST) remote.
• Redundant “fail-safe” technology with multiple relays.
• Dockmate’s modular design enables functions to be added at any time (e.g. if installing another thruster).
• Dockmate can be taken with you if you change boats, as the system can be modified to suit any vessel with electronic controls.
• SoftDocking is included for free with every Dockmate. SoftDocking enables you to reliably and repeatedly engage the engine(s) for a short time (i.e. 0.75s),  calibrated to suit your vessel and your driving style. This is a game changer on boats with big engines and gearboxes. If idle forward and reverse is already “too much” on your boat, you will love SoftDocking.

Dockmate has a factory warranty of 3 years and we also offer a 30 day satisfaction or your money back guarantee. If the remotes are accidentally dropped overboard, they will float and the warranty will not be voided!

We have Dockmate technicians operating in all major boating areas around Australia and New Zealand. In the unlikely event that your Dockmate ever needs to be serviced, it can be easily done here in Australia where we maintain a large inventory of parts. The Dockmate does not need to be sent overseas for service. 

Simply stated: NO!

Dockmate uses its proprietary DockLink communication protocol. DockLink is an infinitely superior, state of the art 2-way FHSS (Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum) communication with handshake, and GFSK (FM) modulation to provide superior range.

Dockmate operates in either the 868 MHz or the 433 MHz FM frequency band. Dockmate has 72 communication channels at its disposal in the 868 MHz band, and 64 communication channels in the 433 MHz band. FHSS means every Dockmate® uses a unique set of 6 channels (with a minimum 5 channel spread) in the entire band of 72 or 64 channels, and then hops from one frequency to another every 160 to 180ms (about 6x per second). This virtually eliminates any possible chance of interference.

The details above are subject to change, as DockLink™ is regularly improved to optimise the wireless communication and to enhance (and even add) functionality.

Dual band units use only one channel on 433 MHz and one channel on 868 MHz, transmitting only 1-way on AM modulation. The transmission alternates between the two single channels allowing for possible interference and dead spots when you walk around your boat.

The operating range of Dockmate with the standard antenna is approximately 50m or 165ft. There is no need to install an expensive range extender/RF repeater for vessels over 80ft.

The Dockmate has a range of approximately 150 ft. In the unlikely event that the Dockmate loses communication with the receiver, the remote transmitter will sound an alarm when a button is pressed. ALL functions will immediately default to the OFF or NEUTRAL setting.

NO, due to the type of RF communication we use, it virtually eliminates any possible interference from other Dockmate systems or any other wireless remote. See question: Is dual band better than single band?

Each Dockmate remote is linked to its own receiver, which means only your Dockmate remote can control your boat.

YES, the Dockmate TWIST remote offers optional PROPORTIONAL throttle control where the more you push on the joystick, the more throttle is provided.  This is our most popular remote option, giving users the ability to respond to changing wind or current conditions with ease.

Predetermined throttle can be offered with the SINGLE+ and TWIN+ remotes (push a button and the throttle jumps up to a predetermined RPM).

Dockmate has been sold worldwide since 2012. Dockmate has been available on the Australian and New Zealand market since 2016. Dockmate is fully licensed, certified and insured.

YES, we have a remote control specifically for single engine boats. You can use the SINGLE remote or the TWIST remote.

If your boat is equipped with electronic controls then it can be equipped with a Dockmate System. The Dockmate can connect to the engines digitally through CANbus technology or through analogue connection, depending on the existing systems on the vessel. If your boat has mechanical controls or hydraulic controls, Dockmate can still be installed with the installation of an electronic to mechanical interface system. A photo of your helm showing engine and thruster controls is the best way for us to confirm your systems and compatibility with Dockmate. For a customised quote, simply click here.