Comparing to hydraulic systems, electric motor driven windlasses and capstans provide easier installation and start up procedures. Electric windlasses can be powered by either direct current (DC) motors (12V or 24V) or by alternating current (AC) motors (210-440V, 50-60 Hz, 3 phases). DC motors are preferred on smaller boats where a generator is not available or generator is not rated for the windlass or capstan motor power.. Windlasses and capstans with DC motors are available up to 3.5 kW power. Windlasses and capstans with AC motors do not have a power limit if there is enough generator power on board. AC motors can be started direct on line (DOL) or by means of a frequency converter. DOL is a cheaper solution but loads high starting currents on the generator. With the help of fast improving technology, systems with frequency converters are getting more affordable and much user friendly. With a frequency converter it is very easy to have multiple speeds, soft start/stop and integrity to ship control systems. Please feel free to consult DATA for more information.