Charles Marine & Industrial Group's new StartNow is an automatic starter switch and battery combiner designed for boats ranging in size from 15 to 29 feet. The unit's microprocessor allows the main battery to drain without draining the reserve battery. When the unit's smart sensing device detects the main battery voltage dropping below cranking ability level, StartNow engages, drawing charging power from the secondary battery in order to start the engine — sort of an automatic parallel switch. Similar to the way a car engine is controlled by computers, StartNow recharges automatically from an alternator or battery charger. The microprocessor guarantees the battery will never overcharge and always be ready.
 
Encased in an ABS plastic sealed case (4 x 3 x 2.5 inches) with insulated rubber caps, it can be mounted close to the batteries and is extremely easy to install with a two-wire connection. The unit is waterproof, maintenance-free and designed to last for a boat's lifetime. The unit lists for $128.34, and an optional dashboard remote indicator is available. Use StartNow in conjunction with a small, secondary battery (purchased separately). From Charles Industries, 847-806-6300; www.charlesindustries.com.