To begin this discussion, here's a single source that appears to be well positioned to take the entire industry by storm:
http://www.edd-inc.com/
Otherwise known as AIRPAX-ED&D.
They claim: The integration of all electronic systems into a common shell with the ability to distribute the information simultaneously to strategically located control / monitoring stations is becoming the standard rather than the exception...
But, frankly dear, this ain't all 'plug-n-play.'
In researching my ideas for a patent application, I am increasingly convinced that all sorts of wonderful technology exists, which, (if applied,) will completely revolutionize all the electronica aboard all vehicles. The problems stem from inefficient power management, via wiring that is both too complex and therefore too difficult to install and troubleshoot, vis-a-vie,-deadweight!
We know Why Edison, JP Morgan, et. al. had hi-jacked the work of Tesla, and you and I will probably pay the price until our dying days. Although I don't expect much personal compensation, I am confronting the entire frequency, voltage/amperage range, where I see a plethora of new seemingly unrelated, case-specific and often radical departures from our ancient analog past.
The bottom line? -(to be revealed after my patent filing!)
Suffice it to say, two wires aren't enough, neither is 'Cat 5.'
In the meantime, yacht builders are facing an entirely new frontier. And, as an owner, 'smart-wiring' means facing some very tough, and literally unanswerable questions. Ideally, each separate sub-system is to be wired directly, and often redundantly, so you will suffer no losses if the 'brain' or any networked 'controller-switcher' goes down. Just hit a breaker, and away you go.
Seen from the standpoint of the manufacturers and the builders, a lot of emphasis will suddenly rest on the backs of their yet to be recruited staff 'IT' support team, and the level of satisfaction their customers are likely to receive. Knowing today's schools, I remain 'bearish' in this department!