Interphase Outlook Operation Manual

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O

PERATION

M

ANUAL

1

To Our Customer:

Thank you for choosing the Interphase Outlook Forward Scanning Sonar. Throughout the
development of this fine product, we have been primarily concerned with creating a unit that
offers the best possible value for your money. Selection of features, ease of use, superior
performance and outstanding reliability were the benchmarks upon which all important design
decisions were made. We feel proud of the Outlook Forward Scanning Sonar and your
satisfaction is very important to us. To this end, we welcome any comments or suggestions
that you might have in regard to this equipment.

It is very important that you complete and return the WARRANTY REGISTRATION
CARD within 15 days of purchase so that your unit may be protected under the warranty.

Sincerely,

INTERPHASE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

Interphase Outlook™ is a trademark of Interphase Technologies, Inc.

©2005 Interphase Technologies, Inc.

Publication # = OUTLOOK 2.2 - DOM
Interphase Part# = 25-1052-000

2

Table Of Contents

Important Notice 4
Principle of Operation 5
Display Unit Installation 6
Selecting the transducer Configuration for Your Boat______________________________________ 8
Transducer Installation 9
Basic Operation 16
Getting Started 17
Set-Up View 18
Demo Program 18
Units of Measure 19
Language Selection 19
Level Adjustment 19
FWD View (Full Screen Forward Scan) 20
Range Adjustment 20
Sensitivity Adjustment 20
Alarm Adjustment 20
Scanning Speed (Resolution) Adjustment 21
Down View 22
Range Adjustment 22
Sensitivity Adjustment 22
Bottom Hardness 23
Alarm Adjustment 23
Zoom & Bottom Track 23
Data View 25
Interpreting Your Outlook Display 26
Distance Forward 27
Noise and Sensitivity Adjustments 27
Transducer Sidelobe Effect 27
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) 29
Maintenance 30
Troubleshooting Guide 31
Interference Problems 32
Specifications 33
How To Obtain Service 34
Warranty 35

3

WARNING

Navigation based solely on one method or
one instrument should never be practiced.
While the Outlook can be quite useful in
showing underwater structure and changing
bottom conditions both below and in front
of your vessel, there are many situations
and conditions which can cause erroneous
or distorted readings.

In addition, there are many situations that
can cause “blind spots” in the Outlook’s
field of view including the presence of
temperature inversion layers (thermoclines),
water turbulence, and high concentrations
of suspended particles in the water.

While the Outlook can be considered as a
useful aid to navigation, it should never be
the only means of navigation.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Since the Outlook’s Forward Looking
technology is revolutionary, there is a
strong possibility that we will develop
many new and exciting features in the
future. We would like to make sure we can
send you information about these new
features and enhancements.

Please fill out and return the Warranty
Registration Card immediately. This is our
only method to keep in contact with you
and we may want to advise you of future
enhancements to your Outlook.

If future changes or improvements are
made, software upgrades will be available
for a nominal charge.

General Information

T

hank you for your selection of the Interphase Outlook

Forward Scanning Sonar. The Outlook’s ruggedly built,
compact design makes it ideal for installation on nearly any
boat. It will display water depth, bottom conditions and
submerged objects such as fish, or objects in your path, on its
high resolution display. The Outlook is available with either a
transom or thru-hull scanning sonar depth transducer.

The Outlook allows operation in your choice of nine
languages: English, French, Italian, Spanish, German, Danish,
Finnish, Swedish, or Greek. Power-off memory saves
language, depth range, gain and contrast settings, screen
advance speed and location in screen menu.

To ensure that you receive the maximum benefits available
from the outstanding features of the Interphase Outlook,
please carefully follow the steps outlined in this manual. An
instructive demonstration simulator has been designed into the
Outlook and we highly recommend that you spend some time
using the demo mode prior to actual use of the unit. We also
recommend that you read this entire manual before attempting
to either install or operate your Outlook.

Warranty Information

Interphase provides a limited warranty on the Outlook

Forward Scanning Sonar which is printed on the inside rear
cover of this manual. We recommended that you save all
packing materials so that if you should need to send in the unit
for repair, it can be fully protected. Should you experience a
problem with your Outlook, first refer to the Troubleshooting
section (Page 31) of this manual. Most common problems and
their solutions are described here. If problems persist, call
Interphase Product Support at [phone]. We will be
happy to try to assist you, and if required, we will give you
instructions on how to quickly get your set repaired.

The enclosed warranty registration card must be completed
and returned to Interphase within 15 days of purchase so that
your unit may be protected under the warranty. Failure to
return the warranty card may cause unnecessary delays in
processing your unit for warranty repair.

4

Principle of Operation

The Outlook Forward Scanning Sonar uses a proprietary
and patented phased array acoustic technology first developed
for marine use by Interphase Technologies. Known as
“phased array ultrasound technology”, its capabilities have
been proven in the military and medical industries for many
years. The amazing video images provided by medical
ultrasound equipment are familiar to most people and clearly
demonstrate the technology’s ability to show highly defined
images in a "real time" or "live action" mode. Interphase has
taken this same technology and modified it for use in the
marine market.

Most present day fish finders/ depth sounders all work on a
principle developed during W.W. II, called SONAR, where
acoustic pulses are used to detect the presence and range or
distance to an underwater object. During the 1950’s, several
devices which used sonar principles were developed and
marketed to fishing and boating enthusiasts to detect the
distance to the bottom (depth) and to indicate the presence of
any intervening submerged objects - such as fish.

An acoustic array is a group of piezoelectric ceramic elements
that are precisely sized and spaced. Each element will send
and receive acoustic pulses, as when used in more
conventional single element depth sounders. However, when
all elements in the array are sending or receiving acoustic
energy at the same time, the entire array behaves like a single
larger element with one important difference: the ability of the
array to concentrate its acoustic energy in different directions,
depending on the different “phasing” of the signals applied or
received by each element. Depending on the signal phasing of
the array, acoustic beams can be directed in an almost
unlimited number of directions. For example, using an 8
element phased array transducer, the Outlook is capable of
steering the acoustic beam in any of 60 different directions.
Conventional fixed-beam technology would require the use of
60 different elements to duplicate this capability. The
resulting transducer would be much too large and costly to be
of any practical use.

Since the acoustic beam in the phased array is steered
electronically, requiring no moving parts, it can be quickly and
reliably scanned and re-scanned over a large area. When
displayed, the changing information between subsequent scans
takes on an almost animated quality - for example, showing
movement of underwater targets such as fish or rapidly
changing bottom conditions.

Award Winning

Technology

For its pioneering work in
developing Phased Array
Scanning Sonar,
Interphase Technologies
won the prestigious

IMTEC INNOVATION
AWARD.

The Outlook’s Forward
Looking Scanning Sonar is
based on this same award-

5

When operating, the Outlook converts a small amount
of electrical current from your battery into ultrasonic
sound pulses, which are then fed to the phased array
transducer. These acoustic pulses travel out from the
transducer in a cone shaped pattern, called the cone
angle. When the sound pulse strikes an underwater
object, it is reflected back (echo return), received by the
transducer and converted back into small electrical
impulses. These impulses are amplified, then displayed
as an image on the LCD screen.

The strength of the echo, the depth of the object, and
the angle of the transducer’s beam all affect how the
image appears on the display. Other factors which
affect the image include boat speed relative to the
movement and position of the underwater target and the
number of objects reflecting pulses back to the

Outlook.

Please Note:

Learning to properly interpret scanning sonar takes both
patience and experience, but once mastered, the
Outlook can offer tremendous operational advantages
over conventional fixed-beam depth sounders. It is
also important to realize that while the Outlook shows
the bottom in both the forward and the conventional
downlooking mode, the presentations are really quite
different. The forward scan shows a view as the beam
“sweeps” across the bottom, while the conventional
downlooking view shows a history of repetitive
soundings packed tightly together.

Installation

Display Unit

The compact size of the Outlook display unit allows for
easy installation in almost any vessel. To get maximum
performance and life from your unit, the following
guidelines should be considered when selecting a
mounting location:

1) Select a location where the unit is protected from
excessive temperatures. Heat is one of the worst enemies
of electronic components, and will accelerate component
aging, thereby reducing the trouble-free life of your

Outlook.

2) Mount the display in a location where it will be

convenient to route the power cord and transducer cable.

Power connection

Connect the two-pin plug on the end of the power supply
cable to the power supply jack located at the rear of the
main display unit. Connect the red wire to the positive
terminal and the black wire to the negative terminal of
your boat’s 12 VDC battery.

To minimize electrical interference, carefully route the
power cable so that it does not run parallel or close to the
transducer cable, engine, refrigeration, bilge pump or any
other critical wiring.

IMPORTANT: The Outlook’s 12 VDC power leads
should go directly to the boat’s battery, distribution board,
or breaker panel. Instability of the display may result if
the unit has to share leads with other electrical systems
aboard your boat.

Wiring for Power and Transducer
Connectors

The correct pin-out wiring sequences for the power and
transducer connectors are shown at right. DO NOT
SHORTEN THE TRANSDUCER CABLE. If a
transducer cable longer than the 34’ length supplied with
your unit is needed, please contact your Interphase
dealer. A 30-foot scanning sonar transducer extension
cable is available. (P/N 04-0014-008)

DANGER: Removal of any connector, disassembly of
transducer, shortening of any cable or use of any cable
other than that supplied by Interphase will void your
warranty. NO EXCEPTIONS

6

Overhead

Shelf/Table

In-Dash Bracket Installation

Panel Flush Mount Installation

Optional In-Dash mounting bracket available.

Interphase part # 17-0054-008 required.

Transducer
(9-pin)

Accessory
(8-pin)

Cable Connectors

(view from front of female plug)

9 Pin Transducer:
1 White 1st element
2 Brown 2nd element
3 Orange 3rd element
4 Yellow 4th element
5 Green 5th element
6 Blue 6th element
7 Violet 7th element
8 Gray 8th element
9 Shield Ground/Return

8 Pin Accessory

1 N/C
2 N/C
3 N/C
4 N/C
5 N/C
6 N/C
7 N/C
8 N/C

2 Pin Power Connector
1 +12 vdc
2 - (Ground)

3 Pin Accessory
1 N/C
2 N/C
3 N/C

Red Wire Accessory

12 Volt Battery

(3-pin)

N/C = No Connection

12 VDC
Power Cable
(2-pin)

7

Selecting the Transducer
Configuration for your Boat

Keep in mind the primary rule for transducer operation.
This is: the transducer can function as long as it has an
unobstructed forward view and has smooth flowing
non-aerated water surrounding it.

The first line of inquiry should be about the boat.
Transom mounted transducers are intended for low
speed boats with external props. Boats with inboard
motors and boats that regularly exceed 40MPH cannot
use transom mounted transducers. Inboard motors
create aeration and excess turbulence that prevent the
transducers from operating properly. I/O motors where
the prop is aft of the transom do not create this
situation. Be careful that the driveshaft of the I/O does
not block the forward horizontal scan. Boats that exceed
40MPH run a risk of having the transom mounted
transduers torn free of the transom. The transom
mounted transducers are not designed to be used at
these speeds.

In addition, the transom mounted transducers are
mounted on kick-up brackets. This allows the brackets
to kick up at about 35-40MPH. This is intended to
allow the transducers to kick-up if they strike an
object, or to be pulled up when trailering a boat. Once
kicked up, the transducers must be manully reset in
order to function.

Thru-hull transducers are for boats that exceed 40MPH
and /or have inboard motors. Transducer placement
depends on boat size, speed, hull configuration and
sonar application. On displacement hulls, the
transducer is generally located 1/3 aft of where the bow
meets the water line. This is the farthest forward the
transducer should ever be mounted. It is important that
the transducer be below turbulent aerated water created
by the bow.

Special Thru-Hull Mounting Considerations

On sailboats with a fin keel, the transducer is most often
placed at the leading edge of the keel and sometimes
faired into the keel. As this location may be where the
sling rests when hauling the boat, the transducer may be
placed on either side of the hull with the foremost face
of the transducer even with the leading edge of the keel.

Alternatley, the transducer may be placed forward of the
keel ahead of the lifting strap location. This should not be
ahead of 1/3 aft of where the bow meets the waterline.

On planing hulls the transducer is typically placed near
the transom. This is to provide smooth flowing water at
the greastest speed. However, most planing hull boats
create transducer aeration when on plane regardless of
transducer location.

It should be noted that thru-hull transducers can effect
boat performance in two important ways. The first
concern is cavitation created by the transducer that causes
reduced engine performance by disrupting water flow
around the propeller. This is smoothed out by the hull in
some boats, but on planing hulls with the transducer near
the transom, the hull is not able to clear the cavitation.
The second concern is uneven drag on high-speed boats.
This may occur when the thru-hull transducer is mounted
far off of the centerline of the boat. At low speeds and on
large boats the effect is negligible. On smaller boats at
high speeds the drag can effect the steering. The effect
increases as the boat’s speed rises. Boats with trim tabs
can usually trim this out, but boats without trim tabs may
feel a pulling sensation toward the transducer side of the
boat.

A less intuative mounting location for the thru-hull
transducer on a planing hull is on the centerline just
forward of midship. The goal in this mounting is to place
the transducer so that it is out of the water at planing
speed. As most transducers are aerated at planing speeds,
this removes the transducer from the water flow
preventing cavitation and steering problems. Most
applications for forward scanning sonar occur when the
boat is at low non-planing speeds, including fishing and
navigating hazardous waters. Under these speed
conditions the transducer is in the water.

On trailered boats, be certain that the mounting is such
that the boat does not rest on the transducers. This could
result in damage to the transducer and/or boat hull.
Explore possible mounting locations while the boat is on
the trailer.

8

Transducer Installation

The Outlook comes standard with either a transom mount
or thru-hull style forward scanning transducer.

The Outlook’s transducer contains an 8 element ceramic
array in its front nose area. The array is positioned so that
it can scan an ultrasonic beam from straight ahead to
directly below the boat. The Outlook has an amazing
amount of capabilities, but it can not perform magic. It
can not see through objects such as your boat’s hull and
can not be installed internally. Therefore, it is important
to position the transducer so that it has as clear a view as
possible of the water directly below and ahead of your
boat, as indicated at right.

The scanning transducer must be positioned properly so
that it scans in the proper direction (i.e. from in front of
the boat to the bottom below). The sketch at right shows
the proper orientation for both the transom mount or the
thru-hull transducer. Note that on the transom mount
transducer, the blunt rounded side must point forward,
and on the thru-hull transducer, the more blunt area must
point forward.

General Considerations

DO NOT CUT OR SPLICE YOUR PHASED
ARRAY TRANSDUCER CABLE OR REMOVE THE
9-PIN CONNECTOR BECAUSE THE SYSTEM
PERFORMANCE MAY BE SERIOUSLY
DEGRADED. THIS ACTION WILL VOID YOUR
WARRANTY. NO EXCEPTIONS.

If you need a longer length cable than comes with the
transducer (30’), then purchase the optional 30’ extension
cable, Interphase Part # 04-0014-008. It is
recommended that only one extension cable be used as
additional extensions will decrease the effective power
and depth range.

In addition to the above, the following considerations
should be observed:

1) Choose a location where there is the least
amount of acoustic noise, air bubbles or turbulence
caused by the boat’s movement. The transducer should
not be located nearby or especially directly behind the
propeller.

Side & Front View
showing Outlook
Scanning directions.

Transom Mounted Transducer

Forward

Thru-Hull Transducer

Side View

Forward Direction

Top View

9

30’ Extension Cable

9-pin
Male

Interphase Part #

04-0014-008

9-pin
Female

Transom Mount Bracket in Released Position

Note: Will

not work at

speeds above

35 MPH

Suggested materials required for installation:

♦

capacity of 10mm (3/8”) or larger.

♦

transom hole to route cable and
connector

♦

♦

♦

♦

Variable speed electric drill with a chuck

Hole saw or spade bit 19 mm (7/8”) for

Chamfer bit or 6 mm (1/4”) drill bit

Drill bit No. 28 or 4 mm (9/64”)

Drill bit 3 mm (7/64”)

Marine bedding/sealing compound

2) Choose a location where the transducer can be
mounted so that it will be level to the water’s surface and
will not be tilted to either side. Otherwise the transducer
will not scan from the surface ahead to directly beneath
the boat.

3) The transducer must always remain submerged,
regardless of the speed of the boat and should not be
mounted where it could be damaged by underwater
obstacles or when loading on a trailer.

4) DO NOT locate the transducer in the extreme
bow of the boat where it will be subject to intense
turbulence as the boat pounds through the water.

5) DO NOT locate the transducer directly behind
any hull protrusion which will cause the water to be
turbulent when it reaches the transducer or which will
obstruct the transducer’s forward looking view. For
displacement-hull power and sail boats, the thru-hull
installation is usually required.

6) DO NOT force the cable by pulling on it. This
may cause damage to the internal transducer wiring.

DANGER: DO NOT allow any solvents, i.e. gasoline,
acetone, to come in contact with the transducer or head
unit as this may dissolve the plastic material.

Transom Transducer Kick-Up Bracket

The transom transducer is attached to the boat with a
heavy-duty stainless steel kick-up bracket to provide
protection against impact. When the transducer strikes an
object, or the water force exceeds the resistance of the
bracket, the transducer automatically kicks up and
becomes non-operational. The bracket does not
automatically reset at lower speeds. The transducer must
be manually returned to its operational position.

The transducer is designed to kick up at speeds between
35 and 40MPH (30-35 knots). We do not recommend
transom mount transducers on boats that regularly exceed
35MPH (30 knots). Boats that exceed 40MPH

(35knots) cannot use transom mounted transducers,
but must use thru-hull transducers.

Special Note: The kick-up feature is designed as a safety

consideration to prevent the transducer from being
removed from the boat due to impact or excessive speed.
The kick-up bracket is not designed for repeated kick-up

10

or to be pulled up manually during loading and unloading
from boat trailers. Tests have shown that the bracket can
kick-up as many as 30 times before there is a negative
effect on the bracket. Repeated kick-up will cause the
transducer to kick-up at progressively lower speeds.
Excessive kick-ups can cause the transducer bracket to fail.
Brackets that fail due to repeated kick-up are not covered
under warranty.

If the transducer must be kicked up for installation, boat
service or loading, the nylok nut on the end of the bracket
axle can be loosened. Tighten the nut to 50 inch pounds of
torque before operating the boat.

Kick-up Bracket Replacement Parts

If during installation parts are somehow lost are damaged,
they can be replaced as follows:

Part# 17-0088-008 - Spray Shield Kit - Includes: Spray
Shield, four Mounting Bolts and Nuts, Rubber Grommet
and four Large Mounting Screws.
Part# 17-0089-008 - Transom Transducer Hardware Kit ­Includes: Complete Bracket Axle Assembly and four Large
Mounting Screws.
Part# 17-0056-008 - Kick-Up Bracket Assembly - Includes:
Complete Bracket Axle Assembly, four Large Mounting
Screws and the Stainless Steel Mounting Bracket.

Bracket Axle Assembly

On some boats it will be neccessary to remove the Bracket
Axle during installation. See the diagram to the left and
instructions below for details on assembling the axle.

1. Place one stainless steel washer onto the axle against the
hex end.

2. Place one small stainless steel spacer against washer.

3. Slide two urethane spacers over the small steel spacer.

4. With the transducer bracket in place, align the long
stainless steel spacer with the mounting holes of the
mounting bracket and slide the axle in place through the
spacer.

5. Place one small stainless steel spacer against the
transducer bracket.

6. Slide two urethane spacers over the small steel spacer.

7. Place one stainless steel washer onto the axle against the
urethane spacer.

8. Place the nylok nut onto the threaded end of the axle and
tighten to 50 inch pounds. If you do not have a torque
wrench, tighten until the nut will not turn easily. The
stainless steel spacers should prevent over-tightening.

Nylok Nut

8

Bracket

Axle

5

7

6

4

2

1

3

11

Twin Outboards

Transom Mount Locations

Cable

Transducer

Cables

Bracket

Axle

Rear
View

Rubber

Grommet

Fasten Spray Shield with
4 screws & nylok
washers as shown

Side

View

Spray
Shield

Waterline

18 - 24"

Fasten Spray Shield

with 4 screws & nylok

washers as shown

Spray Shield

Waterline

Transducer must be

mounted vertically

Mounting
Bracket

Boat Hull

Transom Mounting Location

The main source of vessel acoustic noise is the propeller. It is
very important to position the transducer to minimize noise
pickup and provide as clear a view as possible of the water
ahead of the boat. Study the hull shape of the vessel carefully
to determine the best transducer mounting location. To
achieve optimal operation the transducer should be mounted in
a spot which:

* Minimizes acoustic noise reception.
* Minimizes the chance that aerated water
will flow across the transducer’s frontal
nose area.
* Optimizes the transducers view of the area
ahead and directly below the boat.

The transducer can be installed on either side of an outboard or
inboard/outboard engine, or between twin outboards. For
single engine installations, normally 18” to 24” outboard of the
propeller center line is acceptable and the down stroke side of
the propeller is preferred. Choose a location where water flow
is smoothest. For dual engine installation, just off the center
line is usually acceptable.

Because the transducer rotates back and upwards when the
bracket releases, it must be mounted in a location where there
is sufficient clearance and headroom to allow the full release.

Attaching the Transducer and Spray Shield to
the Bracket

Locate the Stainless Spray Shield inside the transducer’s
stainless mounting ears. Make sure spray shield is orientated
as shown in sketch on the left. Then, assemble the stainless
kick-up bracket to the transducers using the 4 screws, washers
and lock nuts provided. The bracket arms must be mounted
outside the stainless steel mounting ears of the transducer. Do
not fully tighten the lock nuts at this time.

Position the transducer so that it is perpendicular from side to
side and make sure the rounded shaped area is pointed towards
the front of the boat.

Mounting the Transducer to the Boa

After you have selected the optimum mounting location and
have assembled the mounting bracket to the transducer, mount
the bracket onto the hull as shown on the right.

Make sure to position the transducer so that it is level in the
fore and aft direction and so it will look straight down. Check
the location of your boat’s waterline and position the flat top
surface of the transducer so that it is parallel to the waterline as
shown at left.

t

12

Note: If the transducer is not mounted so that its fore and aft
direction is parallel to the surface, then the forward looking
display will be distorted and flat bottoms will appear to be
slanted upwards or downwards. After mounting the transducer
and actually using the Outlook on the water, you may need to
readjust the transducer’s mounting for optimum performance.

Thru-Hull Transducer Installation

The thru-hull transducer is the recommended choice for larger
boats with in-board engines. Thru-hull mounting is usually
required on larger power and sail craft in order to find a
mounting location free of forward looking hull obstructions.
The Outlook must have a clear view of the water ahead as it
can not magically see through obstructions such as the vessel’s
hull. Please read the following carefully before starting the
thru-hull installation.

Normally, thru-hull installations are performed by a
professional in a boat haul-out facility. We suggest you seek
professional assistance before attempting to mount this
transducer.

Selecting the Best Location

The best location to mount the thru-hull transducer will vary
with the type of boat. Try to find a location with the smallest
dead rise angle to make installation easiest.

a. On displacement hulls (sailboats, trawlers, etc.) locate the
transducer about 1/3 aft along the waterline. Generally this
provides the best compromise between obtaining aeration-free
water and minimizing propeller noise. The Outlook’s
transducer can not see through aerated water and water near
the bow and near the keel can be quite aerated. Aeration of the
transducer can be minimized by keeping the transducer
mounted away from the keel and by not mounting too far
forward.

b. On sailboats, the transducer should be mounted where the
acoustic beam will not be shaded by the keel. A spot forward
of a fin keel is usually best. Try to find an accessible spot with
a minimum dead rise angle.

c. On planing powerboat hulls, the transducer should be
mounted well aft and close to the keel to insure that the
transducer is in contact with the water at higher boat speeds.
On I/O’s, transducer mounting close to the
engine usually yields good results.

On inboards always mount the transducer
well ahead of the propeller(s). Turbulence
from props can seriously degrade perform­ ance.

(Thru-hull installation is recommended.)

Suggested Thru-Hull

Transducer Locations

Fin Keel

~ 1/3 L

L = Waterline Length

Displacement Hull

Planing Hull

13

MOLDED FAIRING BLOCK

If your installation requires a fairing block, you
may either have one made locally, or purchase
a molded plactic unit from Interphase or your
Interphase distributor.

For this transducer, the molded Fairing Block
Part Number is:

42-2004-000

Mount Transducer so it is Vertical

Waterlin

Keep parallel
to waterline !

Hull

Transducer

Hex Nut

Waterlin

Hull

Forward

Keep parallel
to waterline !

d. Mount the transducer on the side of the hull where the

propeller is moving downwards. The upward motion of
the propeller generates pressure waves and
pushes bubbles up against the hull.

DO NOT install a bronze transducer housing directly into
an aluminum or steel hull because electrolytic corrosion
will occur. Consult your boat-yard for information on
stainless or plastic sleeves.

IMPORTANT:

1) Make sure the water flow across the thru-hull
transducer is bubble and turbulence free at all speeds if
good performance is to be achieved.

2) Make sure the transducer has an unobstructed view of
the water ahead and below the boat.

3) On displacement-hull power boats, the transducer
should be mounted relatively close to the center line of
the hull.

4) Mount the transducer in a place which has reasonable
access from inside the vessel since the transducer’s
bronze nut will require tightening from inside the hull.

Because the Outlook scans a 12 degree beam from the
surface ahead to directly below the boat, it is important to
make sure that the transducer is installed so that it will
scan in a vertical direction and not off to either side. The
transducer must be mounted so that it’s bronze stem is as
perpendicular to the water line as possible. If necessary,
use a fairing block to properly position the transducer.

Use of a Thru-hull Fairing Bl

Nearly all vessels have some dead rise angle at the
transducer mounting location. If the thru-hull transducer
were mounted directly to the hull, the sound beam would
be tilted off the vertical at the same angle as the dead-rise.
Most thru-hull installations will require a fairing block to
insure the transducer is mounted properly.

A fairing block is typically made of teak or mahogany
wood or plastic and should be glued between the
transducer and hull (both inside and outside) to insure that
the transducer’s mounting shaft is perpendicular to the
water’s surface. Make the fairing block as smooth as
possible, and not bigger than the transducer’s face, to
minimize possible turbulence (see below).

After cutting the fairing block, trial fit the block to the
hull. It is very important that the flat top surface of the
transducer be parallel to the water. Because of the skill
required, we suggest that your professional boatyard
provide the fairing block.

ock

14

Installing the Thru-hull Transducer

1) Drill a 1/8” pilot hole from inside the hull to assure
access to tighten the housing nut and clearance for the
transducer cables. If there is any hull irregularity near the
mounting location, it may be desirable to drill from the
outside.

2) Use a 1-1/16” hole saw and drill the hole from the
outside of the hull. Sand or clean the area around the hole,
inside and outside to insure that the sealing compound will
adhere properly to the hull. Select a marine grade adhesive
sealant, such as 3M 5200, and use according to the
instructions.

3) Remove the bronze hex nut from the housing and cable.

4) Uncoil the transducer cable and thread it through the
hole into the inside of the hull. DANGER: DO NOT apply
tension to the transducer cables as this may sever internal
connections.

5) Apply a 1/8” thick layer of sealant on the upper flat
surface of the transducer, bronze alignment pin and fairing
block (if used).

6) From the outside of the hull, push the housing into the
1” hole. Twist the housing slightly to squeeze out excess
sealant. Carefully confirm that the transducer is aligned so
that the round front end is pointed directly toward the front
of the boat.

7) Install and tighten the bronze hex nut (allow for swelling
in wooden hulls).

8) Remove excess sealant from the outside to assure
smooth water flow over the transducer.

DANGER: Wood hulls and fairing blocks will expand
after the boat is put back into the water, so it is important
that the transducer be only hand-tightened until the wood
fully expands. Otherwise the wood fairing block may
crack.

DANGER: Be sure to check for leaks when the boat is
placed in the water. Allow at least 24 hours after
installation for any leak to appear.

DANGER: If the boat is kept in saltwater it is
recommended that the transducer be coated with an anti­fouling paint. USE ONLY WATER BASED ANTI-

FOULING PAINT. DO NOT USE KETONE BASED
PAINTS. Ketone based anti-fouling paint will attack the

plastic materials used in the transducer.

Wood or
Plastic
Fairing
Block (Add
sealing
compound
between
faring block
& hull).

Boat’s
Hull

Transducer

OPTIONAL SPEED/TEMPERATURE

TRANSDUCERS

INTERPHASE DESCRIPTION
PART #

T1-0200-021 Transom mount S/T
transducer

T1-0200-027 Thru-hull mount S/T
transducer

04-0009-008 30’ S/T Extension Cable
Both the transom and thru-hull S/T transducers

are separately installed. The transom mount S/T
transducer can be used with the thru-hull depth
only transducer if desired. The 30’ S/T
transducer cable and the depth only transducer
cable both plug directly into the back of the
display unit.

To order, call your local Interphase dealer, or
Interphase direct at (831)4 77-4944.

15

Interphase Outlook

Power On/Off

Softkeys

Backlight

Short-cut

In this manual you will find
instruction on how to change all
adjustable settings by using the
“soft keys”. However, any setting
adjustment can be done (when the
appropriate menu selection is made)
by turning the control knob.

Settings which can be adjusted by
using the control knob are:

Range
Alarm
Contrast
Sensitivity
Zoom

LCD screen contrast can be changed
any time while in the Main Menu
simply by turning the control knob.

Basic Operation

The Outlook has been designed to be as easy to learn and
operate as possible. The raised push-button keys provide a
tactile feel to each operation and the Outlook responds with an
audible beep each time a key is pressed. All keys necessary
for operation of the unit are on the front panel. The Outlook
uses a unique approach called “soft keys” along the bottom of
the display. These five keys are labeled by the LCD display
and are controlled by the unit’s software, thus the name “soft
keys”.

In addition, a large front panel rotating knob eliminates the
need for multiple button pushes while making gain, depth
range, display contrast and many other adjustments. The knob
provides easy and quick adjustments while giving the user a
familiar style of operation.

Power/Backlight Key

Press the "Power/Backlight" key located at the lower right of
the unit to turn the Outlook on. The unit will respond with an
audible beep when it turns on. Pressing this key again turns
the backlight on and off, each time accompanied by a beep.
To turn the Outlook off, press this key and hold it down for
several seconds until the unit goes off.

Simulator/Demo Mode

Your Outlook includes a built-in DEMO simulator program
which makes it easy to practice with the unit and to get a
feeling for its many features before actually using it in real
situations on the water. We highly recommend you run
through this section on operation of the Outlook with the
DEMO mode activated to first learn basic feature controls.
The DEMO mode can be started from the SETUP menu as
described in the following section.

Cone Angle & Area Covered to Side

The Outlook’s Cone Angle is approximately 12 degrees. The
Chart at right shows the approximate width of the cone at
different distances from the boat. Although 50% of the
acoustic radiation is concentrated within this cone, 50% is also
outside the cone which permits the Outlook to detect targets
typically up to twice the cone angle, (i.e. 24 degrees). This
means, for example, that at 500 feet the Outlook will typically
be able to see targets across a 210 foot width (105 feet each
side of center). See figure at far right.

16

Getting Started

Turning the Outlook On

To turn the Outlook on, press the Power/ Backlight Key
located on the lower right corner of the unit one time. The unit
should sound a beep and the display should be illuminated.
Press the left button until the Main Menu appears as shown
below.

The Main Menu

From the Main Menu you can see that the Outlook has four
basic display modes or Views. They include:

♦♦♦♦

FWD (Full Screen Forward View)

♦♦♦♦

DOWN (Full Screen Conventional Downlooking View)

♦♦♦♦

DATA (Split Screen View with Large Digit Detph on
left and Forward scanning display on right.)

♦♦♦♦

SETUP (Full Screen Set-Up View)

OUTLOOK’S MAIN MENU

Each of these views along with a sub-menu which will allow
you to change the range, sensitivity, etc. can be selected by
pressing the button below the desired menu selection. To
return to the Main Menu just press the left button labeled
MENU. When first turned on, the Outlook’s internal memory
automatically sets the starting view to the last one you used
before turning off the power.

Interphase Outlook

500

12 Degree
Cone
Angle

250

Distance
Forward

or Below

Boat

Control

Knob

105

52

Outlook
can
typically
see targets
within this
area.

Width of 12 Degree Acoustic Beam

17

Set-Up View

The Outlook includes a SET-UP View where the DEMO
program can be activated, the units of measure and language can
be selected and the display contrast can be adjusted. The
Contrast can be adjusted by turning the Control Knob
cockwise to darken, counter clockwise to lighten. The
Outlook's internal backup battery will remember all settings for
future use.

From the Main menu press the button below SET-UP to put
the display into the SET-UP View. The display should appear
similar to the picture at left.

Demo Program

We highly recommend you initially operate the Outlook in the
DEMO mode to familiarize yourself with the many advanced

features of the Outlook. When using the SET-UP view, press
and hold the soft key below DEMO until the unit beeps twice
and the word DEMO on the display changes to reverse video
as shown at left. This will activate the simulation program. The
unit will automatically cycle through a simulated demonstration
of its many features. At any time, you can press any key to gain
control of the DEMO program to make your own selections and
adjustments. If you do not press any button for about 45
seconds, the unit will automatically resume cycling through the
different demo features on its own.

The pictures shown in the DEMO mode are representations of
what you might see on your Outlook. In actual use the picture
you will get can vary significantly depending on depth, bottom
and water conditions, the speed of your boat and many other
factors (see Interpreting The Outlook’s Forward Display, page

26).
To exit the DEMO program either turn the Outlook off and

back on again, or press the “DEMO” soft key again.

Select Units of Measure

The Outlook starts with the last units of measure selected. By
pressing the button indicated on the display, you can use the
large front panel knob to choose between U.S., Nautical and
Metric units. Rotate the front panel knob to select (highlight)
the type of display units desired. Once selected, press any
button to save your selection and exit. The current choice is
displayed each time the “UNITS” soft key is pressed.

18

The choices and their settings are as follows:

Feature U.S. Nautical Metric

Depth/Range Feet Fathoms Meters
(Ft.) (Fa) (M)

Select Menu Language

The Outlook allows the selection of 9 operating languages;
English, French, Italian, Spanish, German, Danish, Finnish,
Swedish and Greek may be chosen. To select the operating
language, press the button labeled “LANG.”. A display
window as shown at right will pop up on the screen showing
the available languages and the one currently selected. Use the
large front panel knob to change (highlight) the language
selection. Once selected, press any key to save your selection
and exit.

Transducer Level Adjustment

The Outlook also includes an adjustment to compensate for
transducer installation problems, especially thru-hull
installations, where the transducer is not perfectly vertical to
the water’s surface. This problem can be caused by improper
installation, or by changes in the boats fore/aft weight.

When the boat is over a known level bottom, the forward
display should show a level line. If the bottom display is
slanted upward or downward (as in the pictures at right), Press
the button labeled “LEVEL” in the SET-UP View as shown at
right above. In the LEVEL menu, notice the number which
indicates the relative amount of correction in degrees. It is
possible to adjust +/- 15 degrees. Positive numbers will tend
to make the bottom slope upwards and negative numbers will
make the bottom slope downwards. After making the
adjustment, go to the forward display and verify the correction.
Once adjusted, the Outlook’s memory will retain the setting.

A known level
bottom, but
display slopes
upwards. Correct
by adjusting
LEVEL control
in direction of
negative
numbers.

A known level
bottom slopes
downwards on
display. Correct
by adjusting
LEVEL control
in direction of
positive numbers.

19

Forward Range

Forward View (Full Screen)

While in the Main Menu press the leftmost button labeled
"FWD" to view a full screen forward looking display. At the
top left of the screen the current depth beneath the boat is
shown in digital numbers.

Your display menus should appearas on the left. Notice that
both the downward depth and forward ranges are shown by the
digital numbers at the bottom left and the top right side of the
LCD screen. These numbers will change as different ranges
are selected, either automatically or manually.

Range Adjustment

Press the button labeled "RANGE" to bring up the Range
Adjustment soft key menu as shown at left. Press the button
labeled "AUTO" if you would like the Outlook’s internal
microprocessor to automatically select and adjust the range as
bottom conditions change. To manually adjust the range press
either the range button labeled "" or "", or rotate the large
knob. If you make a manual depth adjustment, the AUTO
range mode is turned off and will remain off until the button
labeled AUTO is again selected. Note: when in the AUTO
mode, the soft key labeled AUTO will be shown in reverse
video (white on black). To return to the main forward looking
menu, press the left soft key labeled "LAST".

Note: The Auto Mode will only work if the Outlook can
find the bottom. If the depth is greater than 400 feet or if
the water is full of bait or otherwise turbulent the Outlook
will not work in the Auto mode.

Sensitivity Adjustment

Press the soft key labeled "SENS." to bring up the choices
available for adjusting the Outlook's receiver sensitivity.
Press the button labeled "AUTO" so that the word AUTO is
shown in reverse video (white letters on a black background) if
you would like the Outlook to automatically adjust its
sensitivity for changing conditions. To manually adjust the

sensitivity, either press the softkey labeled “- Sens” or
“Sens.+” or rotate the front panel knob. Note that the softkey
shows a number which indicates the relative sensitivity being
used (+1 to +32). To exit the sensitivity menu and save your
adjustments simply press the soft key labeled “LAST” to
return to the main forward looking menu.

Alarm Adjustment

In the forward looking display or view, a shallow alarm may
be adjusted to sound an alarm for targets which are shallower
than the alarm setting.

To adjust or clear the alarm setting, press the soft key labeled
“ALARM” As either the up or down keys are pressed and

20

held down, or the large knob is rotated, a vertical bar on the
left side of the screen (just below the boat icon) will move to
show the area covered by the depth alarm. In addition, a
horizontal line will appear across the display. Whenever a
solidly displayed target appears at the same depth as that
covered by the alarm bar, the audible alarm sounds to warn
you of underwater targets or changing bottom conditions. This
alarm is a display alarm, targets must be visible on the display
in order to be detected by the alarm. For example, if the
Outlook’s forward range is only set to 100 feet, it will not see
targets at distances beyond 100 feet. (Note: the horizontal
line will disappear a few seconds after the alarm is adjusted)

The Shallow Alarm is often used to alert the user to shallowing
bottom conditions and the presence of underwater submerged
targets, and when activated, will sound a rapid beeping.

Press the "CLEAR" soft key to clear the alarm you previously
set.

Scanning Speed (Resolution)

In it’s normal scanning mode NORM, the Outlook will send
out 60 forward beams and will alternate between a forward
beam and the down-looking beam. In the FAST position, only
30 beams will be used and the Outlook will send 5 forward
scanning beams for every down-looking sample.

Use the FAST mode to get a faster picture update. The
resolution of the display decreases in this mode, but the picture
update is much faster than in the NORM mode.

Alarm Bar

21

Down View

The Outlook’s phased array transducer can be electronically
steered to look directly below the boat. In this mode the
Outlook LCD display will show a picture exactly like
conventional fixed beam down-looking fish finders. When in
this mode, the Outlook offers a full range of sophisticated
features which are found on advanced conventional depth
sounders such as split screen zoom, bottom lock, a shallow
depth alarm, and bottom hardness (white-line).

From the Main menu select the DOWN button to bring up the
menu showing the features and adjustments for this view. The
display should be similar to that at left.

Range Adjustment

Press the button labeled RANGE to bring up the Range
Adjustment soft key menu. Press the button labeled AUTO if
you would like the Outlook’s internal microprocessor to
automatically select and adjust the depth range as bottom
conditions change. To manually adjust the depth, press either
the range button labeled "" or "". If you make a manual
depth adjustment, the AUTO range mode is turned off and will
remain off until the button labeled AUTO is again selected.
Note: when in the AUTO mode, the soft key labeled "AUTO"
will be shown in reverse video (white on black). To return to
the main forward looking menu, press the soft key labeled
"LAST". (To return to the Main menu press the soft key
labeled "MENU")

Sensitivity Adjustment

Press the soft key labeled "SENS." (for sensitivity) to bring up
the choices available for adjusting the Outlook's receiver
sensitivity. Press the button labeled "AUTO" so that the word
AUTO is shown in reverse video (white letters on a black
background) if you would like the Outlook to automatically
adjust its sensitivity for changing conditions. To manually
adjust the sensitivity, press the button labeled “- Sens” or
“Sens.+” to increase or decrease the receiver gain. Note that
the soft key shows a number which indicates the relative
sensitivity being used (+1 to +32). When you choose to
manually adjust the sensitivity, the Outlook turns off the
AUTO sensitivity mode and it will remain off until the AUTO
soft key is again selected. Note: when AUTO mode is turned
on the word will be displayed in reverse video (white letters
on a black background). To exit the sensitivity menu and save
your adjustments simply press the soft key labeled “LAST” to
return to the main forward looking menu.

(Conventional down looking)

22

Hardness (White-Line)

The shaded area on this bottom display will give you an
indication of the bottom hardness. On a soft muddy or
sandy bottom the shaded area will be thinner and on a hard
rock bottom it will be thicker.

Alarm Adjustment

In the down looking display or view, a shallow alarm can
be set. To adjust or clear the alarm setting, press the soft
key labeled ALARM . As either the “” or “” keys are
pressed and held down, or the front panel knob is rotated,
a vertical bar on the right side of the screen (just below
the boat icon) shows the area covered by the depth alarm.
Whenever a solidly displayed target appears at the same
depth as that covered by the alarm bar, the audible alarm
sounds to warn you of underwater targets or changing
bottom conditions.

The S

hallow Alarm is often used to alert the user to

shallowing bottom conditions and the presence of
underwater targets and can be even be used to detect the
presence of fish beneath the boat.

Zoom & Bottom Track & Bottom Lock
(Split Screen displays)

When using the Down display (conventional down
looking view), the Outlook can also display a split screen
high resolution zoom of any 25% of the depth range, or
can show a split screen Bottom Track or Bottom Lock
display. The high resolution Zoom is very useful when
looking for extra detail on the bottom or in areas above the
bottom. Because the Outlook uses an Interphase unique
4X over-sampling technique, the zoom actually shows
more data than the non-zoomed picture. Fishermen have
long used the bottom locking features when fishing over a
rocky bottom or when fishing in rough surface conditions.
In the Bottom Track mode, a zoomed view of the bottom
is shown on the left side of the split screen display.
Regardless of changes in bottom depth, the left side tracks
it and keeps the zoomed bottom picture in view. In the
Bottom Lock mode, the bottom is forced to appear as a
straight horizontal line across the bottom of the left side of
the LCD while any targets close to the bottom are
displayed above the bottom line. Over rough bottoms or
in rough conditions, this feature is extremely useful to
eliminate rapidly changing bottom depths from the display
and to show only suspended targets close to the bottom.

23

Press the soft key labeled "ZOOM " to activate the split
screen high resolution zoom function. The left side of the
LCD screen now shows the zoomed area, while the right
side continues to show the conventional depth display.
Hold down the "ZOOM " soft key (or rotate the front
panel knob) and notice the vertical bar moving downward
in the center of the display which shows the depth area
that is being “zoomed”. By using the "ZOOM " and
"ZOOM " soft keys, you can zoom in on particular
depth areas. The Zoom feature expands any 25% section
of the current depth range on the left half of the screen, or
effectively magnifies the section selected by the zoom bar
by 400%.

If you move the zoom bar all the way to the bottom of the
display, the Bottom Track and the Bottom Lock features
can be activated.. When the Bottom Track feature is
activated, the Zoom Bar changes to a thin bar extending
from the top to the bottom of the display. Pressing the
“ZOOM ” button once more activates the Bottom
Lock feature. When in Bottom Lock, the Zoom Bar
changes to a thick vertical line extending from the top to
the bottom of this display. Move the zoom bar up to return
to the regular zoom operation and turn Bottom Lock off.
Moving the zoom bar all the way to the top of the display
turns the Zoom off and returns you to full screen bottom
history.

NOTE: To return to a full screen and exit the
split screen zoom or bottom track mode, you
must carefully move the zoom bar to the top of
the display until it disappears. This can
sometimes be confusing because the Advantage
remembers all settings and will remain in the
split screen zoom or bottom track mode until
you exit this mode as described above.

24

Data View

From the Main menu, press the soft key labeled DATA to
see a split screen display with large depth digits on the left
and a forward scanning view on the right. The large digital
digits show the digital depth directly beneath the boat

Notice that the menu in the DATA view is exactly the
same as in the FWD view. You can adjust the RANGE,
SENSITIVITY, set an ALARM, or select the NORM or
FAST scanning modes in the same way that you can in the
full screen FWD mode.

Please refer back to the FWD section (page 20) for a full
description of how to make these adjustments.

25

Strong Return from
Up-sloping Bottom

Weak Return From Far-Forward

Strong Return from Wall Far-Forward

Interpreting The Outlook’s
Forward Display

The Interphase Outlook provides a display which shows
acoustic echo returns from the underwater area beneath
and ahead of the vessel. The Phased Array Transducer
steers an acoustic beam over a 90 degree arc. As the
Outlook steers the beam to different positions, it
transmits a pulse of energy and then waits a defined
period of time (depending on the range selected) to
receive any return echoes. As the energy from this
acoustic beam strikes underwater objects or the bottom, a
small portion of the energy is reflected as an echo back to
the transducer. When the echo is received at the
transducer, it is converted into a small electrical signal
and processed for display on the Outlook’s LCD.

Since the Outlook knows the direction in which it sent
the transmit pulse and the time it took to receive the
return echo, it can determine the location of the object or
bottom that created the return echo. As the Outlook
sequentially steps the acoustic beam from the bottom to
the area ahead of the vessel, the LCD display shows a
continuously updated display of the return echoes in their
approximate position in relation to the vessel.

Because the LCD display is only showing the acoustic
echoes that are returned to the transducer, it can not show
forward bottom conditions that are hidden from its field
of view or are hidden due to obstructions in the acoustic
beam’s path through the water. In addition, smooth
bottom conditions far forward of the vessel are difficult to
see as very little of the acoustic energy is reflected back
as an echo. See the sketch at left.

Bottoms that are rough and rocky or are sloping upwards
will reflect more acoustic energy back to the transducer
and will show up better far-forward of the vessel than
bottoms that are very smooth or slope downward.
However, even though the bottom may be smooth and
does not show up far forward, large obstructions (sea
wall, large rocks, underwater shelves, etc.) will typically
send back strong echoes that can be seen far forward, as
the sketch at left indicates.

26

Distance Forward

Under typical conditions, the Outlook will show level or
shallowing bottom contours for a distance forward of between
4X to 6X the depth below the transducer. Obstructions in the
water, such as walls, mud banks, etc. may be seen at much
greater distances, subject to the depth below the transducer
and the 600 ft. maximum forward range.

Besides the bottom conditions, water conditions will also
affect the Outlook’s performance. For example, surface
chop, temperature inversion layers (thermoclines) and muddy
water may degrade performance.

Noise and Sensitivity Adjustments

The Outlook features an AUTO sensitivity feature where it
continuously adjusts the sensitivity to achieve the optimum
picture quality. The sensitivity can also be adjusted manually
to allow for a reduction in sensitivity to minimize the effect of
screen noise, or to increase the sensitivity to show weaker
targets.

In the forward scanning modes, the sensitivity setting is
especially important as too little sensitivity will cause a loss
of far forward bottom readings and too much sensitivity will
cause an increase in screen noise and a possible display of
unwanted transducer sidelobe readings.

Transducer Sidelobe Effect

The Outlook’s transducer, like all acoustic transducers, does
not form a perfect beam of acoustic energy. Some of the
acoustic energy is contained in an area called the sidelobes.
In conventional downlooking depthsounders, the sidelobes
create little problem except to distort the size of the actual
beam angle; however, in scanning sonars they can create
echoes that are not placed on the LCD screen in their proper
position (also known as false echoes).

As the Outlook sends off its acoustic beam in a specific
direction, it assumes that any return echoes are within the
main beam. However, if the sidelobe energy (which is not
within the main beam) strikes a large object (i.e. the bottom)
and creates a strong return echo, the Outlook has no way of
knowing that this “false” echo was not created by the main
beam and will go ahead and show it on the display as if it was
located within the main beam. The most typical display of the
sidelobe echoes appears as an arc at the same distance as the
bottom depth , and in the worst case, from the bottom below
to the surface ahead. After using the Outlook in different
situations, with different gain settings, you should become
proficient in identifying the bottom echoes caused by the
transducer’s sidelobes.

Display Depicting Forward Range

Approximately 5 X Current Depth

Display Depicting Forward

Range Approximately 6X

Depth

Transducer

Sidelobes

Main Beam

Sidelobe

Main Beam

False
Echoes

27

Sidelobe Echo Desired EchoTransmit Pulse

Receiver Output Signals

Receiver Input Signals

Receiver Gain Level

Receiver Gain (TVG)

“False” Bottom
Echoes Caused

by Sidelobe

Returns.

Desired Echo

To minimize the sidelobe effect, sensitivity should be
reduced.

However, in some situations, you may want to ignore the
sidelobe effect and increase the sensitivity to achieve a
better display of the bottom far-forward of the vessel.

TVG (Time Variable Gain)

As the acoustic signal travels through the water it is
attenuated in strength and also loses strength because the
signal is being spread over a larger and larger area. For
this reason, distant targets appear weaker than close
targets - even if both targets of identical size.

The Outlook’s receiver circuit includes a Time Variable
Gain (TVG) feature where the receiver’s gain is
controlled by the microprocessor and increases in value as
the depth or forward range increases. This feature tends
to compensate for the weakening of the signal at large
distances as the receiver’s gain will be increased as the
signal gets smaller. It is also helpful in minimizing
sidelobe problems as shown in the diagram at right.

In the sketch, a boat is shown with the main transducer
beam aimed far forward. However, the sidelobe beam is
also striking the shallow bottom directly beneath the boat.
Both the desired echo (the one from the far forward
beam) and the sidelobe echo will reach the receiver as
shown in the graph just beneath the boat. Note that the
transmit signal, the sidelobe echo and the desired echo
have been arbitrarily shown as the same size.

The diagram just below shows how the TVG on the
receiver changes with distance (or time). The farther the
target from the boat, the larger the receiver gain. Finally,
the bottom diagram shows the output of the receiver after
amplification with the TVG feature. Note that the TVG
has reduced the sidelobe echo compared to the desired
echo.

Sidelobe Echo

How Time Variable Gain Helps Reduce

Sidelobe Effects

28

FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS

How wide is the scanning beam?

The phased array scanning beam on all Interphase
scanning sonar operates with a 12 degree cone angle
beam. This means that the diameter of the beam at 100'
is about 15' wide. The transducer operates at
approximately 200 kHz. The beam has many unique
characteristics which allow increased resolution as well
as increased ranges.

How powerful (watts) are the Phased Array Sonar
units from Interphase?

Phased Array Sonar does not operate in the same way
that traditional marine sounders work. Interphase has
combined high-tech software with ultrasound technology
from the medical field and newly released military
ultrasound technology. Interphase's ultrasound
technology is now pending patent approvals. It operates
on approximately 420 watts (RMS tested at the
transducer or 3,200 watts peak to peak) but is channeled
through eight (8) separate elements and the signal is
phased via our software.

IMPORTANT NOTE: All sonar sounders, if more than
200 watts RMS, have a limited use in shallow water (less
than 10' from transducer to bottom). In most cases, the
need to see forward occurs when traveling from deeper
to shallower depths. Forward scanning is possible but
limited when the water is less than 10' deep. Some
clutter on the screen will occur in shallow environments.

What type of transducer is needed and what does it
look like?

The transducers for both Outlook are available in
transom or thru-hull configurations. If you are operating
an inboard, you must use the thru-hull. Remember that
you are measuring ahead from the transducer, therefore,
placing it as far forward as possible will provide you
with greater forward range.

The thru-hull transducers are slightly smaller than a
tennis ball and extremely hydrodynamic (they pass
through water in a streamlined fashion).

The transom transducers are mounted on a stainless steel
kick-up bracket in order to minimize the possibility of
damage if striking a floating object. The transom bracket
will 'kick-up' at speeds in excess of 30 knots. Therefore,
if you intend on using the forward scan at high speed,
you will need to consider a thru-hull transducer.

How far ahead will I be able to see?

In most cases, forward scanning with the Outlook is
approximately six (6) times farther ahead than the depth
of water. For example, if you are in 15' of water, you can
see about 90' ahead of the transducer. The range is
limited to 600' forward and 400' in depth.

Typically, if you are attempting to see great distances
ahead, only targets but not the bottom will appear
beyond 300 feet ahead, because a flat bottom with no
targets (rocks, wrecks, fish, etc.) will be stealth or
invisible to sonar pulses at great distances. A rocky
bottom or approaching hazard will normally show up
clearly on the display, even far ahead.

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Maintenance

The Outlook Forward Scanning Sonar has been designed to provide reliable, trouble-free performance
for years. Follow the maintenance tips below to ensure that your Outlook remains problem free.

1) Keep your Outlook clean and dry. Occasionally wipe unit off with a damp cloth, but be careful not to
scratch the lens covering the LCD screen. For stubborn dirt, use a mild soap and a damp cloth. NEVER
USE SOLVENTS SUCH AS PAINT THINNER, ACETONE, OR GASOLINE TO CLEAN YOUR

Outlook.

2) Occasionally clean the face of the depth transducer (sensing surface) and carefully remove any marine

growth. Use a mild detergent, or 220 grit sandpaper, or crocus cloth to remove stubborn growth.

3) If the in-line fuse is blown, replace it with a 2 amp fuse. NEVER REPLACE WITH A HIGHER
AMP RATING ! If the fuse continues to blow, check the polarity of your 12 VDC power source. If the
polarity is correct, check with the Technical Service Department at [phone].

4) In order to protect your transducer from water damage, paint it with one of the following brands:
Interlux-UltraCoat, Fiberglass Bottom Coat, Super Bottom Coat; Pettit-UniPoxy; Rule-Super KL, Gloss
Dura Poxy. DO NOT use a solvent based paint.

5) DO NOT allow any solvents, i.e. gasoline, acetone, to come in contact with the transducer or
head unit as these may dissolve the material.

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Troubleshooting Guide

If you are experiencing trouble with your Outlook, please refer to the following checklist:

PROBLEM SOLUTION

Unit will not turn on. Check fuse, battery voltage and power connections.
Also, check for continuity through the in-line fuse holder.

Unit beeps but no picture appears Check your connections to the battery. Check for
on the screen. corrosion on the battery terminals or on the wiring
connections on a fuse block or buss bar.

Unit blows fuses. Wiring is reversed or there is excessive current from the
battery. The red wire should be “+” (positive) and have
continuity with pin #1 on the female side of the power
supply lead.

Loses picture at speed. Adjust the transducer angle or placement. Make sure that
the transducer is installed in the area which has the least
amount of water turbulence.

LCD darkens in sunlight after Overexposed to sunlight - provide shading for display.
prolonged use.

Screen is full of noise, or has dots Reduce your gain setting and review the section on
running through it. interference.

Bottom slopes up/down Adjust the transducer angle.

Digital water depth not working. Increase your gain, and check that you are in the proper
depth range.

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Interference Problems

Interference can come from several sources. The most common of these are:

1) Other nearby depth sounders operating at the same frequency.

2) Radiated interference from the boat’s electrical system (alternator, distributor and spark plugs) or from nearby

equipment that radiates electrical noise.

3) Conducted interference usually occurs when the Outlook shares a 12VDC power lead with other noisy equipment
(i.e.; bilge pumps, motors, refrigeration systems, autopilots, etc.)

Interference caused by nearby depth sounders operating on or near the same frequency as the Outlook will typically
appear as “rabbit tracks” that march up and down the screen. Reducing the gain will help minimize this problem.

Radiated interference caused by the boat’s engine can usually be identified by observing the Outlook with both the
engine running and turned off. If the interference disappears when the engine is turned off, it is safe to assume that
the engine is the source of the interference.

This type of interference can usually be eliminated by using the same techniques used in the automotive industry to
eliminate interference to car radios, CB’s, etc. The following actions may be required:

1) Reduce the Gain setting to minimize interference.

2) Make sure your boat uses resistor type spark plugs and plug wiring.

3) Install a suppressor on the center lead of the distributor.

4) Install an alternator filter to smooth the alternator’s output signal.

Interference may also be caused by radiation from other nearby equipment and can be detected by turning off all other
equipment and observing the Outlook display as each suspected source is turned back on. This type of interference
can usually be eliminated by moving the Outlook away from the source and checking to ensure that the interfering
source is properly grounded.

Interference causing the display to be unstable, to pulsate or periodically change size is usually caused when another
piece of equipment shares the same 12 VDC power leads from the battery. This problem is especially severe when
equipment requiring large current surges (i.e.; autopilots, refrigerators, or bilge pumps) share the same power leads.
Minimize this type of interference by running the Outlook’s 12VDC power leads, or those of the interfering
equipment, directly to the battery.

Alternately, you may find it helpful to install a separate dedicated power supply battery that is used only to run your
electronic gear (e.g.; fishfinders, VHF radios, radar units, etc.). If your unit shuts off during low voltage situations,
such as when cranking your engine starter, you may want to install an isolator switch with an “A/B” type of battery
system. An “A/B” system allows you to run your electronic gear on one battery, while the starter and alternator are
hooked up to the other battery.

Your authorized marine electronics dealer is familiar with the methods of reducing electrical interference and is
qualified to assist you should a problem persist.

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Specifications

Display Type: 128 x 160 pixels; 20,480 total pixel Super Twist LCD

Depth Ranges: 18 overlapping depth ranges, 0 - 20 to 0 - 400 feet

Forward Ranges: 18 overlapping forward ranges, 0 - 30 to 0 - 600 feet

Transmit Frequency: 200 kHz
Zoom Ranges: Variable Zoom allows 25% of depth range to be displayed

across the entire screen.

Pulselength and
Sounding Rates: Automatically optimized for selected range.

Transmitter Power: Over 400 watts RMS (3,200 watts peak to peak)
Power Requirements: 10.5 to 16 VDC, less than 0.5 Amp.
Dimensions: 7.5”W x 5.5”H x 3.5”D

Standard Equipment: Display unit, 12 VDC power cable with in-line fuse, mounting

bracket with knobs, operation manual and depth transducer w/ 30’
cable.

Scanning only

Transom Transducer

Part # T1-I200-025

Scanning only

Thru-Hull Transducer

Part # T1-I200-026

12 VDC Power

Supply Cable

Part # 04-0001-008

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How to Obtain Service

If you feel your set is not operating properly, first refer to the sections of this manual on Troubleshooting and
Interference Problems. This information solves the most common problems. If problems persist, please call
Interphase Technical Service at [phone] or send your unit in with the information below filled out.

If you do need to return your set, send it to the following address:

Service Department

Interphase Technologies, Inc.
2880 Research Park Drive, Suite 140
Soquel, CA 95073

In addition, to speed your repair please fill out the following, tear this page out of the manual (or photocopy it), and
tape it to your unit for our technicians to review. For fastest warranty service, include a copy of your purchase receipt
to verify the purchase date.

RETURN TO:

(City) (State) (Zip)

(Your Name)

(Street Address - No P.O. Boxes Please)

Daytime Telephone: ( )
Evening Telephone: ( )

Model: Outlook Serial #:

Purchase Date / /

Type of transducer: Transom mount Thru-Hull Other

Please describe the problems you are having with the unit in as much detail as possible in the space below. Please use
another sheet of paper if necessary.

34

Interphase Technologies, Inc.

5 Year Limited Warranty

Any unit that fails during the first year of the warranty period will, at Interphase’
option, be repaired or replaced at no charge to the customer provided it is returned to
Interphase, freight prepaid with proof of date of purchase and a description of the
malfunction. Repair or replacement during the warranty period will not extend the
basic warranty period.

From the second through the fifth year, Interphase will, at its option, repair or
replace defective units for a fixed fee. This fee will be set at the beginning of each
year. More information about the fixed rate repair fee is available by calling
Interphase at [phone] or visit our website at:
www.interphase-tech.com.

This warranty does not apply to an Interphase product that has failed due to
improper installation, misuse, or accident, nor does it apply to products which have
been repaired or altered outside the Interphase factory.

Transducers, GPS antennas and Radar Antennas are subject to extreme conditions
beyond control of the manufacturer and Interphase. Due to these conditions, the
warranty on these components is limited to one year against defects in workmanship
or materials. The fixed fee for years two through five of the warranty does not apply
to these components. Any costs incurred with transducer or antenna replacement are
specifically excluded from this warranty other than the cost of the components
themselves.

This warranty does not include incidental or consequential damages and Interphase
disclaims any liability for any such damages. All implied warranties, if any, are
limited in duration to the above stated one year warranty period. Some states and
provinces do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential
damages, therefore, the above limitations may not apply to you.

The completion and return of the enclosed Warranty Registration Card is a
condition precedent to the warranty coverage. Owner must provide proof of
date of purchase in order for warranty to be valid.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights which may vary from state to state and
province to province. This warranty is limited only to the original purchaser of the
unit.

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