A simple remote switch:
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__12615__Multi_Remote_Receiver_operated_on_off_Switch_EU_warehouse_.htmlUnit uses one channel (momentary switch) on your TX and gives you 7 switchable circuits. Each press of the switch on your TX will cycle through the 7 outputs. There are 4 or 5 "patterns" the 7 circuits on or off. 500mah per circuit (3500mah total), that's around 25 LEDs per circuit. Should be more than enough.
First press: turn circuit 1 on (say: navigation lights)
Second press: turn circuit 2 on (say: deck lights)
Third press: turn circuit 3 on (at that time all three circuits are on)
And so on until all 7 circuits are on
Press: turn circuit 1 off (2-7 are still on)
Press: turn circuit 2 off
... and so on until all 7 circuits are off
It's definitely not the most flexible system especially on modern tugs with "complex" light setups. But it works great for simple requirements: navigation light + deck lights + search light. And it's only 10 bucks.
Others will probably suggest slightly more advanced devices. I'll probably build something around an arduino board later for my Odin. I'll go with one of those 1-to-7 remote switches in the mean time.
Some crazy Dutch guy (massive skills !) from the
OSV Society even had his custom LED controller simulate the flickering of fluorescent lamps powering up, just like the real lights on the OSV's deck. Nice !
When wiring all your lights, I strongly suggest you wire/group them by function:
- navigation lights
- deck lights
--- upper deck
--- lower deck
--- floodlight (loading/towing arear)
--- bridge (and maybe even control panels/screens with optical fiber)
- towing lights
- restricted maneuverability
- anchor lights
- whatever else is on an OSV
Even if you plan on only installing a simple switching system (say just two circuits: navigation lights, deck lights). You'll be able to change the switching unit later to get finer control.
PS: I'm sure you'll loooove all the wiring and soldering. LEDs + resistors + switchboards.