
The first propulsion systems with surface propellers were too complex to manage for a novice yachtsman. A technical and cultural barrier broken down by TOPSYSTEM with its surface transmission that combines the technical advantages of this type of propulsion with an ease of use and management able to create a new era in the field of high performance boats. Thanks to a fully automated control system, result of a partnership between TS Drive Srl, owner of the TOP SYSTEM SURFACE DRIVE brand, and XENTA. The integrated devices are able to regulate electronically and completely autonomously the surface drives with variable trim and direction. The patented electronic system “EASY SET®” is composed by a series of components that interact electronically with each other for a fully automated boat control.
A complete system has just been installed on board the fast open Rizzardi 48 IN that, together with the Topsystem TS-65 surface transmissions, includes the oleodynamic rudder managed by the “Helm by Wire” electronic module designed by XENTA. The module can be programmed in two versions: in the “Standard” version, the steering wheel is passive and the guide is controlled by a variable electromagnetic brake that allows the rotation force and the position of its end stops to be varied according to the speed and pace of the boat. In the “Tactile” version, the steering wheel is active, which means that it gives the captain tactile sensations, a real driving feeling in automotive style.
In addition, the XENTA Joystick for surface transmissions, another component integrated in the EasySet System, is revolutionary and represents an epochal step for the total management of the two transmissions. The Joystick can be selected in two operating modes: Docking and Cruise. In the “Docking” mode the propulsion devices are managed autonomously, translating the movements of the joystick to the movement of the boat allowing the captain to fully concentrate on the most suitable maneuver and leaving the system to define the action of the engines and the maneuvering propellers.
The system is controlled by a touch-screen monitor located on the dashboard and it can be customized electronically with various functions. Of course, the manual controls are always available to ensure maximum driving pleasure in the continuous research for maximum performance.


Having taken part in the 2018 Cannes Yachting Festival, XENTA is now bringing its yacht and superyacht steering and control products to METSTRADE, which takes place in Amsterdam between November 13 and 2018. Stand 12.023.




Surface drives have long featured aboard fast craft. As far as speed-loving adrenaline junkies are concerned, there really is no other kind of drive. These propulsion systems do deliver superior performance but are quite complex for inexperienced pleasure boaters to use. This technical and cultural stumbling block has been well and truly swept aside by TOPSYSTEM and its surface drives, which combine the technical advantages of this type of propulsion (reduced drag, more efficient use of power) with ease of use and control, thereby opening up a whole new era for the performance boat sector. All thanks to a completely automated control system that is the fruit of a partnership between TS Drive Srl – owner of the TOPSYSTEM SURFACE DRIVE brand – and XENTA. Onyx, a leading company in the naval electronics sector, also collaborated on the developing the software that controls the system.




