AquaAmp Smart DT Connector Receives IBEX 2026 Innovation Award Honorable Mention
Recognised for innovation in marine electrical systems, the AquaAmp Smart DT Connector has received an Honorable Mention in the highly competitive Electrical Systems category at the IBEX 2026 Innovation Awards.
Designed to simplify onboard electrical installations, the AquaAmp Smart DT Connector offers an innovative solution for powering 12V marine electronics from a standard 24V electrical system – without the need for a separate DC-DC converter box.
Smarter 24V to 12V Power Conversion
As more modern vessels adopt 24V electrical architectures, the need to accommodate 12V accessories and electronics can introduce additional wiring, components and installation complexity.
The AquaAmp Smart DT Connector addresses this challenge by integrating a high-efficiency DC-DC buck converter directly into a compact, marine-grade Deutsch DT-style connector.
Rather than installing a separate voltage converter, the Smart DT Connector delivers a regulated 12V output directly from a 24V supply. This makes it possible to retain an existing 24V wiring harness while easily accommodating 12V equipment, helping to reduce installation time, wiring requirements, weight and overall system complexity.
Particularly useful for boat builders and OEM installations, the connector is designed to fit through existing holes, conduits and tubing, making it straightforward to incorporate into new builds or existing electrical systems.
Designed for the Marine Environment
Despite its compact size, the Smart DT Connector is engineered specifically for demanding marine applications.
Key features include:
- Integrated DC-DC conversion: Converts up to 30V input into a regulated 12V output.
- Up to 3A output: Supports 12V devices up to 36W.
- IP67 waterproof protection: Fully potted electronics provide protection against water ingress.
- Compact Deutsch DT-style housing: Designed to replace a standard DT04-2P connector without increasing the connector’s cross-section.
- Simple installation: Supplied with solder-seal connectors and heat shrink for secure connections.
- Marine safety certifications: Includes ignition protection to ISO 8846 and SAE J1171, alongside CE, UKCA, FCC and RoHS compliance.
The connector is particularly well suited to AquaAmp’s range of wireless marine phone chargers, allowing them to be powered from a 24V electrical system, as well as other compatible 12V-only devices.
Recognised at IBEX 2026
The Smart DT Connector’s innovative approach has now received industry recognition at the IBEX 2026 Innovation Awards, where it was awarded an Honorable Mention in the Electrical Systems category.
Managed by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and judged by Boating Writers International (BWI), the awards recognise outstanding innovation and product development across the recreational marine industry.
Selected from 100 entries submitted by exhibiting marine companies, the 2026 awards included just three Honorable Mentions, making this recognition a notable achievement for AquaAmp.
The award highlights the growing importance of smarter, more integrated electrical solutions that help simplify installation and improve efficiency across modern marine systems.
Discover AquaAmp from IMP
As an exclusive UK distributor of AquaAmp, IMP offers a range of innovative marine charging and power solutions designed to enhance convenience and performance onboard.
The Smart DT Connector is a great example of practical innovation, bringing together voltage conversion and connectivity in one compact, easy-to-install solution.
Find out more about the AquaAmp Smart DT Connector and discover the full range of AquaAmp products through IMP.
