The IBEX 2026 electrical awards recognize different approaches to boat power. In its October 6 announcement, the show named ARCO’s Zeus Omega Alternator Control System and Egis Mobile Electric’s Modular Power Distribution Module as dual Electrical Systems winners. AquaAmp’s Smart DT Connector earned an honorable mention.
ARCO Zeus Omega: charging control
ARCO places the control module near the battery and an Alternator Drive Module at the alternator, joined by an AZ CAN communication cable. One controller can manage up to six drive modules, with support for 12V, 24V, 36V and 48V systems.
The installation detail worth checking is the control module’s IP20 rating. Each component needs a suitable mounting location; the modules should be considered separately when planning protection from water.
Egis Modular PDM: accessory circuit management
Egis’ manufacturer-listed 2801B time-delay version of the Modular PDM combines fused power distribution and ground-return circuits with always-on, ignition-switched and delayed-shutoff power options. Modules interlock and can connect through optional busbars, allowing the layout to expand.
Egis specifies sealed DT/AT connectors, IP67 protection and settings selected through switches under the cover. For an accessory installation, the useful planning question is which circuits should remain powered after the ignition is switched off.
AquaAmp Smart DT: 24V-to-12V conversion
AquaAmp builds a voltage converter into a DT-style connector, giving 12V accessories a way to work with a 24V harness. Its Smart DT accepts input up to 30V and supplies regulated 12V output at a maximum of 3A, or 36W.
The connector replaces a DT04-2P and mates with a DT06-2S. AquaAmp says the mating female connector is not included, so installers need to check the existing harness or parts list.
What this means for a boat upgrade
For a marine audio refit, the practical questions are where charging hardware will mount, how accessory circuits will switch off, and which devices need voltage conversion. Our IBEX 2026 marine audio preview covers the sound-system side.
AI-generated conceptual marine illustration for 12 Volt Outlet.