Lowrance LCX-112C, LCX-37C, LCX-38C HD, LCX-113C HD, LCX-28C HD User Manual

...

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www.lowrance.com

Pub. 988-0151-511

LCX-27C; LCX-28C HD LCX-37C; LCX-38C HD

LCX-112C; LCX-113C HD

Fish-finding Sonar & Mapping GPS

Operation Instructions

No part of this manual may be copied, reproduced, republished, transmitted or distributed for any purpose, without prior written consent of Lowrance Electronics. Any unauthorized commercial distribution of this manual is strictly prohibited.

Lowrance MapCreate™, FreedomMaps™, and NauticPaths™ are trademarks of LEI. Fishing Hot Spots Inc. Navionics 2000

is a registered trademark of Lowrance Electronics, Inc.

is a registered trademark of the National Marine Electronics

is a registered trademark of Navionics, Inc. NMEA

is a registered trademark of Fishing Hot Spots

Association.

Lowrance Electronics may find it necessary to change or end our policies, regulations and special offers at any time. We reserve the right to do so without notice. All features and specifications subject to change without notice. All screens in this manual are simulated. On the cover: LCX-113

C HD shown.

NMEA 2000

Certification Pending.

For free owner's manuals and other information,

visit our web site:

www.lowrance.com

Lowrance Electronics Inc.

12000 E. Skelly Dr.

Tulsa, OK USA 74128-2486

Printed in USA.

Table of Contents

Section 1: Read Me First! ........................................................ 1

How Your Sonar Works................................................................. 3

How Your GPS Works ................................................................... 4

Introduction to GPS and WAAS ................................................... 5

How to use this manual: typographical conventions .................. 7

Section 2: Installation & Accessories.................................... 9

Preparations .................................................................................. 9

Transducer Installation ................................................................ 9

Recommended Tools and supplies.......................................... 10

Single-frequency transom installations ............................. 10

Dual-frequency transom installations ............................... 10

Single-frequency trolling motor installations.................... 10

Shoot-through hull installations ........................................ 10

Selecting a Transducer Location ............................................ 10

Shoot-thru-hull vs. Transom Mounting ................................. 12

Transom Transducer Assembly and Mounting ..................... 13

Trolling Motor Bracket Installation (single-frequency only) 19

Transducer Orientation and Fish Arches .............................. 20

Shoot-thru-hull Preparation................................................... 21

Shoot-thru-hull Installation ................................................... 23

Speed/Temperature Sensors ................................................. 25

GPS Antenna/Receiver Module .................................................. 26

Power Connections ...................................................................... 27

Powering Your Display Unit....................................................... 28

Power Diagram A ........................................................................ 29

Power Diagram B ........................................................................ 30

Powering a NMEA 2000 Network Bus....................................... 30

NMEA 2000 Cable Connections ................................................. 31

NMEA 0183 Wiring (Data cable)................................................ 32

Expanding to a NMEA 2000 Network ....................................... 34

Adding a Network Node.......................................................... 38

Additional Network Information............................................ 38

Mounting the Unit: Bracket or In-Dash .................................... 39

MMC or SDC Memory Card Installation................................... 43

To remove an MMC or SD Card ............................................. 45

To add an MMC or SD Card ................................................... 45

Other Accessories ........................................................................ 45

MMC and MapCreate.............................................................. 45

Switch Boxes............................................................................ 46

Face Cover................................................................................ 46

Cleaning Towel ........................................................................ 46

Section 3: Basic Sonar Operation ....................................... 47

Keyboard ...................................................................................... 47

Power/lights on and off................................................................ 48

Main Menu................................................................................... 48

Pages ............................................................................................ 50

Satellite Status Page............................................................... 50

Navigation Page ...................................................................... 51

Map Page ................................................................................. 52

Sonar Page ............................................................................... 52

Sonar Quick Reference .......................................................... 55

Sonar Operations......................................................................... 56

Fish Symbols vs. Full Sonar Chart ........................................ 58

Other Free Training Aids ....................................................... 59

Section 4: Sonar Options & Other Features..................... 61

ASP™ (Advanced Signal Processing) ..................................... 61

Alarms.......................................................................................... 62

Depth Alarms........................................................................... 62

Zone Alarm............................................................................... 63

Fish Alarm ............................................................................... 64

Calibrate Speed ........................................................................... 64

Chart Speed ................................................................................. 65

Colorline™.................................................................................... 65

Customize Page Displays............................................................ 68

FlashGraf™.............................................................................. 69

Map With Sonar Split Screen ................................................. 69

Sonar with Custom Gauges .................................................... 70

Depth Cursor ............................................................................... 70

Depth Range - Automatic ........................................................... 71

Depth Range - Manual................................................................ 71

Depth Range - Upper and Lower Limits.................................... 72

FasTrack™ ................................................................................... 73

Fish I.D.™ (Fish Symbols & Depths) ......................................... 74

FishTrack™.................................................................................. 75

Frequency (Change Transducer Frequency) ............................. 76

Log Sonar Chart Data................................................................. 77

Overlay Data (add, remove, change).......................................... 78

Ping Speed & HyperScroll™ ....................................................... 82

Reset Options............................................................................... 83

Reset Water Distance.................................................................. 84

Set Keel Offset............................................................................. 84

Sensitivity & Auto Sensitivity.................................................... 85

Sonar Chart Mode ....................................................................... 87

Sonar Page & Sonar Chart Display Options ............................. 87

Full Sonar Chart ..................................................................... 88

Split Zoom Sonar Chart .......................................................... 88

Digital Data/Chart .................................................................. 89

Sonar Simulator .......................................................................... 89

Stop Chart.................................................................................... 91

Surface Clarity ............................................................................ 91

Upper and Lower Limits............................................................. 92

User Presets................................................................................. 92

Zoom & Zoom Bar........................................................................ 93

Zoom Pan ..................................................................................... 93

Section 5: Sonar Troubleshooting ....................................... 95

Section 6: Basic GPS Operations ......................................... 99

Keyboard ...................................................................................... 99

Power/lights on and off.............................................................. 100

Main Menu................................................................................. 100

Pages .......................................................................................... 102

Sonar Page ............................................................................. 102

Satellite Status Page............................................................. 102

Navigation Page .................................................................... 104

Map Page ............................................................................... 105

Map with Custom Gauges......................................................... 110

GPS Quick Reference ........................................................... 111

Find Your Current Position ...................................................... 112

Moving Around the Map: Zoom & Cursor Arrow Keys........... 112

Selecting Any Map Item with the Cursor................................ 113

Searching ................................................................................... 113

Set a Waypoint .......................................................................... 115

Create Waypoint at Current Position .............................. 115

Create Waypoint on Map .................................................. 116

Create Waypoint by Entering a Position ......................... 117

Navigate To a Waypoint ........................................................... 117

Set Man Overboard (MOB) Waypoint...................................... 118

Navigate Back to MOB Waypoint ............................................ 118

Navigate to Cursor Position on Map ........................................ 119

Navigate to a Point of Interest ................................................. 120

Creating and Saving a Trail ..................................................... 121

Displaying a Saved Trail .......................................................... 122

Navigating Trails ...................................................................... 123

Visual Trailing....................................................................... 123

Navigate a Trail (forward) .................................................... 124

Navigate a Back Trail (backtrack, or reverse) .................... 125

Transfer Custom Maps and GPS Data Files ........................... 126

Save GPS Data to Hard Drive .............................................. 128

Cancel Navigation ..................................................................... 128

iii

Section 7: Advanced GPS Operations ............................... 129

Find Distance From Current Position ..................................... 129

Find Distance from Point to Point ........................................... 129

Icons ........................................................................................... 129

Create Icon on Map ............................................................... 130

Create Icon at Current Position ........................................... 130

Delete an Icon ........................................................................ 130

Navigate to an Icon ............................................................... 131

Routes......................................................................................... 131

Create and Save a Route....................................................... 132

Delete a Route ....................................................................... 134

Edit a Route ........................................................................... 134

Navigate a Route ................................................................... 135

Navigate a Route in Reverse ................................................ 136

Trails .......................................................................................... 136

Delete a Trail ......................................................................... 136

Edit a Trail Name.................................................................. 136

Edit a Trail Color................................................................... 137

Edit a Trail Pattern............................................................... 137

Utilities ...................................................................................... 138

Alarm Clock ........................................................................... 138

Sun/Moon Rise & Set Calculator .......................................... 138

Trip Calculator ...................................................................... 138

Trip Down Timer ................................................................... 138

Trip Up Timer........................................................................ 138

Waypoints .................................................................................. 138

Delete a Waypoint ................................................................. 138

Edit a Waypoint (name, symbol, position) ........................... 138

Selecting a Waypoint............................................................. 139

Set a Waypoint by Average Position .................................... 139

Set a Waypoint by Projecting a Position.............................. 139

Section 8 System & GPS Setup Options ........................... 141

Alarms........................................................................................ 141

Auto Satellite Search ................................................................ 142

Check MMC Files and Storage Space ...................................... 143

Communications Port Configuration ....................................... 143

Configure NMEA 0183.............................................................. 144

Coordinate System Selection .................................................... 144

Map Fix ...................................................................................... 145

Customize Page Displays.......................................................... 147

GPS Simulator........................................................................... 148

Simulating Trail or Route Navigation ................................. 148

Hide GPS Features.................................................................... 149

Initialize GPS ............................................................................ 149

Map Auto Zoom ......................................................................... 149

Map Data ................................................................................... 150

Pop-up Map Info: ................................................................... 150

Map Boundaries: ................................................................... 151

Fill Water With White: ......................................................... 151

Trackline Extension: ............................................................. 151

Presentation Mode: ............................................................... 151

Safety Contour:...................................................................... 151

Map Overlays (Range Rings; Lat/Long Grid): ..................... 151

Map Datum Selection................................................................ 152

Map Detail Category Selection................................................. 153

Map Orientation ........................................................................ 153

NauticPath™ USA Marine Charts........................................... 154

Nautical Chart Notes ............................................................ 154

Port Information.................................................................... 155

Tidal Current Information.................................................... 156

Tide Information.................................................................... 158

Navionics® Charts ..................................................................... 159

To display a Navionics chart: ............................................... 160

Overlay Data (add, remove, change)........................................ 160

Popup Help ................................................................................ 166

Reset Options............................................................................. 166

Screen Contrast and Brightness .............................................. 167

Set Language ............................................................................. 168

Set Local Time ........................................................................... 168

Show WAAS Alarm ................................................................... 169

Software Version Information .................................................. 170

Sounds and Alarm Sound Styles .............................................. 170

Track Smoothing ....................................................................... 171

Trail Options.............................................................................. 171

Delete All Trails .................................................................... 172

Update Trail Options ............................................................ 172

Delete Trail ............................................................................ 173

New Trail ............................................................................... 173

Trail Visible/Invisible and Other Trail Options .................. 173

Units of Measure ....................................................................... 174

Section 9: Searching............................................................. 175

Find Addresses .......................................................................... 176

Find Any Item Selected by Map Cursor................................... 178

Find Interstate Highway Exits ................................................ 179

Find Map Places or Points of Interest (POI) ........................... 180

Find Streets or Intersections .................................................... 182

Find a Street .......................................................................... 182

Find an Intersection.............................................................. 183

Find Waypoints ......................................................................... 185

Section 10: NMEA 2000 Device Configuration............... 187

NMEA 2000 Menu..................................................................... 187

Bus Setup................................................................................... 187

Engine & Tank Configuration .................................................. 188

Tank Select ........................................................................ 189

Tank Size ........................................................................... 189

Set Configuration button .................................................. 189

Device Configuration Menu .................................................. 190

Device Information and Device Data ................................... 190

Fuel Management Menu........................................................... 191

Adding Fuel to Tank ............................................................. 191

Engine Operations................................................................. 192

NMEA 2000 Alarms .................................................................. 193

Waypoint Sharing ..................................................................... 194

Backlight Synchronization ....................................................... 194

Configuring EP Sensors............................................................ 194

EP-35 Temperature Configuration....................................... 194

Advanced Options menu ....................................................... 195

EP-10 Fuel Flow Configuration............................................ 196

Advanced Options menu ....................................................... 197

EP-15 Fluid Level Configuration ......................................... 198

Advanced Options menu ....................................................... 199

Suzuki Engine Interface Configuration ............................... 200

Advanced Options menu ....................................................... 201

Calibrating EP Sensors............................................................. 202

EP-10 Fuel Flow Calibration ................................................ 202

EP-15 Fluid Level Calibration.............................................. 204

Fuel Flow Calibration in a Suzuki Engine Interface .......... 207

Engine Trim Calibration....................................................... 208

Reset Trim Calibration ......................................................... 208

Bennett Trim Tabs Calibration ............................................ 208

To calibrate Trim Tabs:..................................................... 208

To Reset Calibration:......................................................... 209

Section 11: Supplemental Material Datums Used ......... 211

WARNING!

A CAREFUL NAVIGATOR NEVER RELIES ON ONLY ONE METHOD TO OBTAIN POSITION INFORMATION.

When showing navigation data to a position (waypoint), a GPS unit will show the shortest, most direct path to the waypoint. It provides navigation data to the waypoint regardless of obstructions. Therefore, the prudent navigator will not only take advantage of all available navigation tools when traveling to a waypoint, but will also visually check to make sure a clear, safe path to the waypoint is always available.

When a GPS unit is used in a vehicle, the vehicle operator is solely responsible for operating the vehicle in a safe manner. Vehicle operators must maintain full surveillance of all pertinent driving, boating or flying conditions at all times. An accident or collision resulting in damage to property, personal injury or death could occur if the operator of a GPS-equipped vehicle fails to pay full attention to travel conditions and vehicle operation while the vehicle is in motion.

CAUTION

WARNING!

vii

Notes

viii

Section 1:

Read Me First!

How this manual can get you out on the road, fast!

Welcome to the exciting world of digital sonar and GPS! We know you're anxious to begin navigating and finding fish, but we have a favor to ask. Before you grab the unit and begin installing it, please give us a moment or two to explain how our manual can help you get the best performance from your combination fish finder and GPS receiver.

First, we want to thank you for buying a Lowrance sonar/GPS unit. Whether you're a first time user or a professional fisherman, you'll discover that your unit is easy to use, yet capable of handling demanding navigation and sonar tasks. When you team your unit with our custom mapping software MapCreate™, you have an incredible combination. With a full recording capability and remarkable resolution, you won't find another GPS/sonar unit with this much power and this many features for this price!

Our goal for this book is to get you on the water. Like you, we'd rather spend more time boating or fishing and less time reading the manual!

So, we designed our book so you don't have to read the whole thing from front to back to find the information you want. At the start (or end) of each segment, we'll tell you what content is coming up next. If it's a concept you're already familiar with, we'll show you how and where to skip ahead for the next important topic. We've also made it easy to look up any tips you may need from time to time. Here's how:

The manual is in 11 sections. This first section is an introduction to the unit's sonar and GPS. It tells you the basics you need to know so you’ll easily be able to make the unit not only tell you where you are but also where to find fish.

Section 2 will help you install your unit, the transducer and the GPS antenna module. We'll also show you how to install the MultiMedia Card (MMC) and give you some information on available accessories.

Section 3 covers Basic Sonar Operation. It will show you how easy it is to run your sonar, right out of the box. This section features a one-page Sonar Quick Reference. (If you've already jumped ahead and figured out

how to install the unit yourself, and you just can't wait any longer, turn to the Quick Reference on page 55 and head for the water with your unit!)

After you've gained some experience with your sonar, you'll want to check out Section 4, which discusses advanced Sonar Options and Other Features.

When you come to a sonar menu command on the unit's screen, you can look it up in the manual by skimming over the table of contents, flipping through Section 3, or scanning through the sonar options in Section 4.

If you're having difficulty with your sonar, you can find an answer to the most common problems in Section 5, Sonar Troubleshooting.

The manual switches from sonar to navigation in Section 6, which introduces you to Basic GPS Operations. This section features a one- page GPS Quick Reference on page 111.

Section 6 contains short, easy-to-scan GPS lessons that follow one another in chronological order. They're all you'll need to know to find your way on the water quickly.

After you've learned the basics (or if you already have some GPS experience), you may want to try out some of the unit's many advanced navigation features. That brings us to Section 7, Advanced GPS Operations. This section contains the rest of the unit's GPS command functions, organized in alphabetical order.

When you come to a GPS menu command on the screen, you can look it up in the manual by skimming over the table of contents, flipping through Section 6, or scanning through the command portion of Section 7.

This unit is ready to use right out of the box, but you can fine tune and customize its operation with dozens of options. Since sonar is the unit's key feature, we put the main sonar options in Section 4. Some options, such as screen brightness settings, affect both sonar and GPS operations. We describe how to use those common options along with GPS options in Section 8, System Setup and GPS Setup Options. Section 8 is organized in alphabetical order.

In Section 9, we go into more detail on one of the unit's most remarkable GPS capabilities — Searching. We'll introduce a search example in the Basic GPS Operation section, but there are so many map items you can search for that we had to give this function its own section in the manual! For example, did you know your unit can look up business phone numbers, like a virtual Yellow Pages? We’ll show you how in Section 9.

Finally, in Section 10, we offer Supplemental Material, including a list of the GPS data, warranties and customer service information.

It's important to us (and our power users), but, if you don't care how many watts of power the unit has, or how many waypoints it can store, skip ahead to important information on how sonar works, on page 6 (Background on GPS begins on page 7).

NOTICE!

The storage and operation temperature range for your unit is from 20 degrees to +167 degrees Fahrenheit (-28 degrees to +75 degrees Celsius). Extended storage or operation in temperatures higher or

lower than specified will damage the liquid crystal display in your unit. This type of damage is not covered by the warranty. For more

information, contact the factory's Customer Service Department; phone numbers are listed on the last page of the manual.

How Your Sonar Works

Sonar has been around since the 1940s, so if you already know how it works, skip down to read about the relatively new technology of GPS. But, if you've never owned a sonar fish finder, this segment will tell you the underwater basics.

Sonar is an abbreviation for SO developed during World War II for tracking enemy submarines. (Lowrance developed the world's first transistorized sportfishing sonar in 1957.) A sonar consists of a transmitter, transducer, receiver and display. Here’s a simple explanation of how it finds the bottom and the fish.

The transmitter emits an electrical impulse, which the transducer converts into a sound wave and sends into the water. (Humans or fish can't hear the sound frequency.) The sound wave strikes an object (fish, structure or bottom) and bounces back to the transducer, which converts the sound back into an electrical signal.

und NAvigation and Ranging, a technology

The receiver amplifies this return signal, or echo, and sends it to the display, where an image of the object appears on the scrolling sonar chart. The sonar's microprocessor calculates the time lapse between the transmitted signal and echo return to determine the distance to the object. The whole process repeats itself several times each second.

Your sonar unit can record a log of the sonar signals that scroll across the screen and save them to the MMC memory card. (These recordings are also called sonar charts or sonar graphs.) You can replay this sonar log in the unit using the Sonar Simulator function, or play it back on a personal computer using our free Sonar Viewer. The viewer is available for download from the Lowrance web site, www.lowrance.com.

You can save several different sonar log files, erase them and record new ones, over and over again. The size of your sonar recordings are only limited by the free space available on your MMC.

How Your GPS Works

You'll navigate faster and easier if you understand how this unit scans the sky to tell you where you are on the earth — and, where you're going. (But if you already have a working understanding of GPS receivers and the GPS navigation system, skip on ahead to Section 2, Installation & Accessories on page 9. If you're new to GPS, read on, and you can later impress your friends with your newfound knowledge.)

First, think of your unit as a small but powerful computer. (But don't worry — we made the series easy to use, so you don't need to be a computer expert to find your way!) The unit includes a keypad and a screen with menus so you can tell it what to do. The screen also lets the unit show your location on a moving map, as well as point the way to your destination.

This gimbal-mounted unit uses an external antenna/receiver module, which makes the whole system work something like your car radio. However, instead of your favorite dance tunes, this receiver tunes in to a dozen GPS satellites circling the earth. (It will also listen in to the WAAS satellites in orbit, but more about that in the upcoming segment introducing you to GPS and WAAS.)

Your unit listens to signals from as many satellites as it can "see" above the horizon, eliminates the weakest signals, then computes its location in relation to those satellites. Once it figures its latitude and longitude, the unit plots that position on the moving map shown on the screen. The whole process takes place several times a second!

The performance doesn't stop there. Stored in the permanent memory of every unit is a basic background map of the entire world. We lock it in here at the factory — you can't change or erase this map.

The background map is suitable for many navigation chores, but for maximum accuracy and much more detail, you need our optional mapmaking software, MapCreate™. Some unit features — such as searching for businesses and addresses — won't work without a custom MapCreate map. There is so much detail in our background map (and even more in MapCreate) that we'll describe their contents and differences in Section 6, Basic GPS Operations, on page 99.

NOTE:

The LCX-28CHD, LCX-38 CHD and LCX-113CHD have NauticPath™ charts, Fishing Hot Spots preloaded onto a 30-Gigabyte hard drive. Therefore, if you own either the LCX-28CHD or the LCX-113CHD, you do not need to load any of those charts/maps into the unit. The unit can also use Navionics must be loaded into the unit via a Navionics card. MMC and SD cards still will be necessary to log sonar chart data and to store GPS data files.

Elite charts and all high detail custom maps

charts, but they

Another portion of the unit's onboard memory is devoted to recording GPS navigation information, which includes waypoints, event marker icons, trails and routes. This lets you look back the way you came. Think of this data storage like the hard drive memory in a computer or a tape in a cassette tape recorder. You can save several different GPS data files, erase 'em and record new ones, over and over again. Like any computer file, these GPS Data Files (file format *.usr) can be shared between other Lowrance GPS or sonar/GPS units and even personal computer.

Your unit has one more thing in common with a personal computer. Just as computers have a floppy disk drive for storing and exchanging files, this unit has a slot for an MMC (MultiMedia Card) or SD card (Secure Digital card) flash memory card. These solid-state memory devices are about the size of a postage stamp, but can hold data ranging from 8 MB to 1 GB in size (Compare that to a floppy disk's 1.44 MB capacity!). The unit uses all that MMC space for two key GPS purposes (You can also use the MMC to record sonar logs.).

First, you can backup your onboard GPS Data Files by copying them to the MMC. Since the MMC is removable (like a floppy disk or a cassette tape), you can store these GPS Data Files on a personal computer equipped with an MMC card reader (Or store them on a pocketful of MMCs, if you don't have a computer.). Our MapCreate mapping software can save, edit or create its own GPS Data Files, which can be copied to the MMC and then loaded from the MMC into the unit's memory.

The other key GPS use for MMCs is storage of special high-detail, custom maps, which you can produce on your computer with our MapCreate software. These MapCreate custom maps contain more detail than the basic background map. These Custom Map Files (file format *.lcm) can also be shared between other Lowrance GPS or sonar/GPS units and personal computers (For example, the exact same MMC, custom map files and GPS data files can be used interchangeably between your gimbal-mounted unit and the hand-held iFINDER

GPS receiver.).

The unit automatically reads Custom Map Files directly from the MMC or SD card. To use a custom map, all you need to do is slide an MMC containing a map into the unit.

Introduction to GPS and WAAS

Well, now you know the basics of how the unit does its work. You might be ready to jump ahead to Section 2, Installation & Accessories, on page 9, so you can mount your unit and plug in the power. Or you might want to see how our text formatting makes the manual tutorials easy to skim. If that's the case, move on to "How to Use This Manual" on page

7. But, if you want to understand the current state of satellite

navigation, look over this segment describing how GPS and its new companion WAAS work together to get you where you're going.

The United States Department of Defense launched Global Positioning System (GPS) on July 17, 1995. It was designed as a 24-hour-a-day, 365-days-a-year, all weather global navigation system for the armed forces of the U.S. and its allies. Civilian use was also available, but it was less accurate because the military scrambled the signal somewhat, using a process called Selective Availability (SA).

GPS proved so useful for civilian navigation that the federal government discontinued SA on May 2, 2000, after the military developed other methods to deny GPS service to enemy forces. Reliable accuracy for civilian users jumped from 100 meters (330 feet) under SA to the present level of 10 to 20 meters (about 30 to 60 feet.).

Twenty-four satellites orbit 10,900 nautical miles above the Earth, passing overhead twice daily. A series of ground stations (with precisely surveyed locations) controls the satellites and monitors their exact locations in the sky. Each satellite broadcasts a low-power signal that identifies the satellite and its position above the earth. Three of these satellites are spares, unused until needed. The rest virtually guarantee at least four satellites are in view nearly anywhere on Earth at all times.

A minimum of three satellites are required to determine a 2D fix.

The system requires signal reception from three satellites in order to determine a position. This is called a 2D fix. It takes four satellites to determine both position and elevation (your height above sea level — also called altitude). This is called a 3D fix.

Remember, the unit must have a clear view of the satellites in order to receive their signals. Unlike radio or television signals, GPS works at very high frequencies. Trees, buildings, an automobile roof, even your body can easily block these signals.

Like most GPS receivers, this unit doesn’t have a compass or any other navigation aid built inside. It relies solely on the signals from the satellites to calculate a position. Speed, direction of travel, and distance are all calculated from position information. Therefore, in order for the unit to determine direction of travel, you must be moving and the faster, the better. This is not to say that it won’t work at walking or trolling speeds — it will. There will simply be more "wandering" of the data shown on the display.

GPS is accurate enough for route navigation, but the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has special needs for aircraft traffic control that go beyond basic GPS. The FAA has a program to boost GPS performance even further with its Wide Area Augmentation System, or WAAS. This GPS add-on will include a time control element that will help airliners fly closer together while avoiding collisions. In addition to carefully spacing airplanes along travel corridors, WAAS will eventually make instrument landings and takeoffs more accurate as it replaces existing aviation navigation systems.

Non-aviators can use WAAS signals to make their GPS navigation even more accurate. Your unit receives both GPS and WAAS signals. WAAS, however, has some limits you should know about.

WAAS can boost the accuracy of land GPS navigation, but the system is designed for aircraft. The satellites are in a fixed orbit around the Equator, so they appear very low in the sky to someone on the ground in North America. Aircraft and vessels on open water can get consistently good WAAS reception, but terrain, foliage or even large man-made structures frequently block the WAAS signal from ground receivers.

You'll find that using your GPS receiver is both easy and amazingly accurate. It’s easily the most accurate method of electronic navigation available to the public today. But remember this receiver is only a tool. Always have another method of navigation available, such as a map or chart and a compass.

Also remember this unit will always show navigation information in the shortest line from your present position to a waypoint, regardless of terrain! It only calculates position; it can’t know what’s between you and your destination. It’s up to you to navigate safely around obstacles, no matter how you’re using this product.

How to use this manual: typographical conventions

Many instructions are listed as numbered steps. The keypad and arrow "keystrokes" appear as boldface type, so you can easily skim the instructions and pick out what menu command to use.

Arrow Keys

The arrow keys control the movement of dotted cross-hair lines on your mapping screen called the cursor. The arrow keys also control a horizontal line depth cursor on the sonar screen. The arrow keys also help you move around the menus so you can execute different commands. They are represented by symbols like these, which denote the down arrow, up arrow, left arrow and right arrow: ↓ ↑ ← →.

Keyboard

The other keys perform a variety of functions. When the text refers to a key to press, the key is shown in bold. For example, the "Enter/Icons" key is shown as

Menu Commands

A menu command or a menu option will appear in small capital letters, in a bold sans serif type like this: to select this command or option from a menu or take an action of some kind with the menu item. Text that you need to enter or file names you need to select are show in italic type, such as trail name.

Instructions = Menu Sequences

Most functions you perform with this unit are described as a sequence of key strokes and selecting menu commands. We've written them in a condensed manner for quick and easy reading.

For example, instructions for navigating a trail would look like this:

1. From the Map Page, press

2. Press ↓ to

3. You are asked to wait while it converts the trail into a route.

4. The wait message disappears and the unit begins showing navigation information along the trail. Now, begin moving and follow your unit's directions.

In clearer terms, Step 1 (above) means: "Start on the Map Page. Press the Menu key twice. Next, repeatedly press (or press and hold) the down arrow key to scroll down the menu and select (highlight) the My Trails menu command. Finally, press the Enter key."

Step 2: "Press the down arrow key repeatedly to scroll to the trail named Trail 1, and press Enter. Next, press the right arrow key and then the down arrow key to highlight the Navigate command, then press Enter."

ENT and the "Menu" key is shown as MENU.

ROUTE PLANNING. These indicate that you are

MENU|MENU|↓ to MY TRAILS|ENT.

Trail 1|ENT|→|↓ to NAVIGATE|ENT.

Section 2:

Installation & Accessories

Preparations

You can install the sonar and GPS systems in some other order if you prefer, but we recommend this installation sequence:

CAUTION:

You should read over this entire installation section before drilling any holes in your vehicle or vessel!

1. Determine the approximate location for the sonar/GPS unit, so you can plan how and where to route the cables for the antenna, transducer and power. This will help you make sure you have enough cable length for the desired configuration.

2. Determine the approximate location for the transducer and its cable route.

3. Determine the approximate location for the GPS antenna module and its cable route.

4. Determine the location of your battery or other power connection, along with the power cable route.

5. Install the transducer and route the transducer cable to the sonar/GPS unit.

6. Install the GPS antenna and route the antenna cable to the sonar/GPS unit.

7. Install the power cable and route it to the sonar/GPS unit.

8. Mount the sonar/GPS unit.

Transducer Installation

These instructions will help you install your Skimmer transom, on a trolling motor or inside a hull. These instructions cover both single- and dual-frequency Skimmer transducers. Please read all instructions before proceeding with any installation.

The smaller single-frequency Skimmers typically use a one-piece, stainless steel mounting bracket. The larger dual-frequency Skimmers typically use a two-piece, plastic mounting bracket. The trolling motor mount uses a one-piece plastic bracket with an adjustable strap.

These are all "kick-up" mounting brackets. They help prevent damage if the transducer strikes an object while the boat is moving. If the transducer does "kick-up," the bracket can easily be pushed back into place without tools.

transducer on a

Read these instructions carefully before attempting the installation. Determine which of the mounting positions is right for your boat. Use extreme care if mounting the transducer inside the hull; because, once the epoxy is applied and it is set into position, the transducer cannot be removed. Remember, the transducer installation is the most critical

part of a sonar installation.

Recommended Tools and supplies

If you prefer the option of routing the cable through the transom, you will need a 1" drill bit. A transom mount requires use of a high quality, marine grade above- or below-waterline caulking compound.

NOTE:

The following installation types also call for these recommended tools and required supplies (supplies are not included):

Single-frequency transom installations

Tools include: two adjustable wrenches, drill, #29 (0.136") drill bit, flathead screwdriver. Supplies: high quality, marine grade above- or belowwaterline sealant/adhesive compound.

Dual-frequency transom installations

Tools: two adjustable wrenches, drill, #20 (0.161") drill bit, flat-head screwdriver. Supplies: four, 1" long, #12 stainless steel slotted wood screws, high quality, marine grade above- or below-waterline sealant/adhesive compound.

Single-frequency trolling motor installations

Tools: two adjustable wrenches, flat-head screwdriver. Supplies: plastic cable ties.

Shoot-through hull installations

Tools: these will vary depending on your hull's composition. Consult your boat dealer or manufacturer. Other tools are a wooden craft stick or similar tool for stirring and applying epoxy, and a paper plate or piece of cardboard to mix the epoxy on. Supplies: rubbing alcohol, 100 grit sandpaper and specially formulated epoxy adhesive available from LEI (see ordering information on the inside back cover). A sandwich hull also requires polyester resin.

Selecting a Transducer Location

1. The location must be in the water at all times, at all operating speeds.

2. The transducer must be placed in a location that has a smooth flow of water at all times. If the transducer is not placed in a smooth flow of water, interference caused by bubbles and turbulence will show on the sonar's display in the form of random lines or dots whenever the boat is moving.

NOTE:

Some aluminum boats with strakes or ribs on the outside of the hull create large amounts of turbulence at high speed. These boats typically have large outboard motors capable of propelling the boat at speeds faster than 35 mph. Typically, a good transom location on aluminum boats is between the ribs closest to the engine.

3. The transducer should be installed with its face pointing straight down, if possible. For shoot-thru applications: Many popular fishing boat hulls have a flat keel pad that offers a good mounting surface. On vee hulls, try to place the transducer where the deadrise is 10° or less.

Deadrise less than 10°

Left, vee pad hull; right, vee hull. A pod style transducer is shown here,

Pad

but the principle is the same for Skimmers inside a hull.

Strakes

4. If the transducer is mounted on the transom, make sure it doesn't interfere with the trailer or hauling of the boat. Also, don't mount it closer than approximately one foot from the engine's lower unit. This will prevent cavitation (bubble) interference with propeller operation.

5. If possible, route the transducer cable away from other wiring on the boat. Electrical noise from engine wiring, bilge pumps and aerators can be displayed on the sonar's screen. Use caution when routing the transducer cable around these wires.

CAUTION: Clamp the transducer cable to transom near the transducer. This will help prevent the transducer from entering the boat if it is knocked off at high speed.

Good location

Poor angle

Good and poor transducer locations.

Poor location

Good location

How low should you go?

For most situations, you should install your Skimmer transducer so that its centerline is level with the bottom of the boat hull. This will usually give you the best combination of smooth water flow and protection from bangs and bumps.

Transducer centerline

Align transducer centerline with hull bottom.

Transom

Hull bottom

However, there are times when you may need to adjust the transducer slightly higher or lower. (The slots in the mounting brackets allow you to loosen the screws and slide the transducer up or down.) If you frequently lose bottom signal lock while running at high speed, the transducer may be coming out of the water as you cross-wave or wake. Move the transducer a little lower to help prevent this.

If you cruise or fish around lots of structure and cover, your transducer may be frequently kicking up from object strikes. If you wish, you may move the transducer a little higher for more protection.

There are two extremes you should avoid. Never let the edge of the mounting bracket extend below the bottom of the hull. Never let the bottom – the face – of the transducer rise above the bottom of the hull.

Shoot-thru-hull vs. Transom Mounting

In a shoot-thru-hull installation, the transducer is bonded to the inside of the hull with epoxy. The sonar "ping" signal actually passes through the hull and into the water. This differs from a bolt-thru-hull installation (often called simply "thru-hull"). In that case, a hole is cut in the hull and a specially designed transducer is mounted through the hull with a threaded shaft and nut. This puts the transducer in direct contact with the water.

Typically, shoot-thru-hull installations give excellent high-speed operation and good to excellent depth capability. There is no possibility of transducer damage from floating objects, as there is with a transommounted transducer. A transducer mounted inside the hull can't be knocked off when docking or loading on a trailer.

The shoot-thru-hull installation, however, does have its drawbacks. First, some loss of sensitivity does occur, even on the best hulls. This varies from hull to hull, even from different installations on the same hull. This is caused by differences in hull lay-up and construction.

Second, the transducer angle cannot be adjusted for the best fish arches on your sonar display (This is not an issue for flasher-style sonars.). Lack of angle adjustment can be particularly troublesome on hulls that sit with the bow high when at rest or at slow trolling speeds.

Third, a transducer CANNOT shoot through wood and metal hulls. Those hulls require either a transom mount or a thru-hull installation.

Fourth, if your Skimmer transducer has a built in temp sensor, it will only show the temperature of the bilge, not the water surface temp.

Follow the testing procedures listed in the shoot-thru-hull installation section at the end of this lesson to determine if you can satisfactorily shoot through the hull.

Transom Transducer Assembly and Mounting

The best way to install these transducers is to loosely assemble all of the parts first, place the transducer's bracket against the transom and see if you can move the transducer so that it's parallel with the ground.

The following instructions sometimes vary depending on the mounting bracket that came with your transducer. Single-frequency Skimmers come with a one-piece stainless steel bracket, while dual-frequency Skimmers come with a two-piece plastic mounting bracket. Use the set of instructions that fits your model.

1. Assembling the bracket. A. One-piece bracket: Press the two small plastic ratchets into the

sides of the metal bracket as shown in the following illustration. Notice there are letters molded into each ratchet. Place each ratchet into the bracket with the letter "A" aligned with the dot stamped into the metal bracket. This position sets the transducer's coarse angle adjustment for a 14° transom. Most outboard and stern-drive transoms have a 14° angle.

Dot

Align plastic ratchets in bracket.

B. Two-piece bracket: Locate the four plastic ratchets in the

transducer's hardware package. Press two ratchets into the sides of the plastic bracket and two on either side of the transducer as shown in the following illustrations. Notice there are letters molded into each ratchet.

Place the ratchets into the bracket with the letter "A" aligned with the alignment mark molded into the bracket. Place the ratchets onto the transducer with the letter "A" aligned with the 12 o'clock position on the transducer stem. These positions set the transducer's coarse angle adjustment for a 14° transom. Most outboard and stern-drive transoms have a 14° angle.

lignment letters

lignment

positions

Transduce

Transducer bracket

Insert and align ratchets.

Transduce

bracket

Transducer

Ratchet

Add ratchets to bracket and transducer.

2. Aligning the transducer on the transom. A. One-piece bracket: Slide the transducer between the two

ratchets. Temporarily slide the bolt though the transducer assembly and hold it against the transom. Looking at the transducer from the side, check to see if it will adjust so that its face is parallel to the ground. If it does, then the "A" position is correct for your hull.

If the transducer's face isn't parallel with the ground, remove the transducer and ratchets from the bracket. Place the ratchets into the holes in the bracket with the letter "B" aligned with the dot stamped in the bracket.

Reassemble the transducer and bracket and place them against the transom. Again, check to see if you can move the transducer so it's parallel with the ground. If you can, then go to step 3A. If it doesn't, repeat step 2A, but use a different alignment letter until you can place the transducer on the transom correctly.

Ratchets

Insert bolt and check transducer position on transom.

B. Two-piece bracket: Assemble the transducer and bracket as shown

in the following figure. Temporarily slide the bolt though the transducer assembly but don't tighten the nut at this time. Hold the assembled transducer and bracket against the transom. Looking at the transducer from the side, check to see if it will adjust so that its face is parallel to the ground. If it does, then the "A" positions are correct for your hull.

If the transducer's face isn't parallel with the ground, remove and disassemble the transducer and ratchets. Place the ratchets into the bracket holes with the letter "B" aligned with the bracket alignment mark. Place them on the transducer aligned with the 12 o'clock position on the transducer stem.

Reassemble the transducer and bracket and place them against the transom. Again, check to see if you can move the transducer so it's parallel with the ground. If you can, then go to step 3B. If it doesn't, repeat step 2B, but use a different alignment letter until you can place the transducer on the transom correctly.

Bolt

Flat washer

Lock washe

Nut

Flat washe

Assemble transducer and bracket.

3. Assembling the transducer. A. One-piece bracket: Once you determine the correct position for

the ratchets, assemble the transducer as shown in the following figure. Don't tighten the lock nut at this time.

Metal

Nut

Rubber washers

washer

Metal washer

Bolt

Assemble transducer and bracket.

B. Two-piece bracket: Once you determine the correct position for the ratchets, assemble the transducer as shown in the figure in step 2B. Don't tighten the lock nut at this time.

4. Drilling mounting holes.

Hold the transducer and bracket assembly against the transom. The transducer should be roughly parallel to the ground. The transducer's centerline should be in line with the bottom of the hull. Don't let the bracket extend below the hull!

Mark the center of each slot for the mounting screw pilot holes. You will drill one hole in the center of each slot.

Drill the holes. For the one-piece bracket, use the #29 bit (for the #10 screws). For the two-piece bracket, use the #20 bit (for the #12 screws).

Transom

Position transducer mount on transom and mark mounting holes.

Side view shown (left) and seen from above (right).

5. Attaching transducer to transom. A. One-piece bracket: Remove the transducer from the bracket and

re-assemble it with the cable passing through the bracket over the bolt as shown in the following figures.

For single-frequency Skimmer, route cable over bolt and through

bracket. Side view shown (left) and seen from above (right).

Both bracket types: Attach the transducer to the transom. Slide the transducer up or down until it's aligned properly with the bottom of the hull as shown in the preceding and following figures. Tighten the bracket's mounting screws, sealing them with the caulking compound.

Adjust the transducer so that it's parallel to the ground and tighten the nut until it touches the outer washer, then add 1/4 turn. Don't over tighten the lock nut! If you do, the transducer won't "kick-up" if it strikes an object in the water.

Bottom

hull

Flat-bottom hull Deep-"vee" hull

Align transducer centerline with hull bottom and attach transducer to

transom. Rear view of dual-frequency Skimmer shown.

6. Route the transducer cable through or over the transom to the sonar unit. Make sure to leave some slack in the cable at the transducer. If possible, route the transducer cable away from other wiring on the boat. Electrical noise from the engine's wiring, bilge pumps, VHF radio wires and cables, and the sonar can pick up aerators. Use caution when routing the transducer cable around these wires.

WARNING:

Clamp the transducer cable to the transom close to the transducer. This can prevent the transducer from entering the boat if it is knocked off at high speed.

If you need to drill a hole in the transom to pass the connector through, the required hole size be 1".

CAUTION:

If you drill a hole in the transom for the cable, make sure it is located above the waterline. After installation, be sure to seal the hole with the same marine grade above- or below-waterline sealant used for the mounting screws.

7. Make a test run to determine the results. If the bottom is lost at

high speed, or if noise appears on the display, try sliding the transducer bracket down. This puts the transducer deeper into the water, hopefully, below the turbulence causing the noise. Be careful not to install the transducer bracket below the bottom of the hull!

TROLLING MOTOR BRACKET INSTALLATION (single-frequency only)

1. Attach the optional TMB-S bracket to the transducer as shown in the following figure, using the hardware supplied with the transducer. (Note: The internal tooth washer is supplied with the TMB-S.)

TMB-S bracket

Bolt

Internal tooth washer

Nut

Flat washe

Attach motor mounting bracket to transducer.

2. Slide the adjustable strap supplied with the TMB-S through the slot in the transducer bracket and wrap it around the trolling motor. Position the transducer to aim straight down when the motor is in the water. Tighten the strap securely.

3. Route the transducer cable alongside the trolling motor shaft. Use plastic ties (not included) to attach the transducer cable to the trolling motor shaft. Make sure there is enough slack in the cable for the motor to turn freely. Route the cable to the sonar unit and the transducer is ready for use.

Transducer mounted on trolling motor, side view.

TRANSDUCER ORIENTATION AND FISH ARCHES

If you do not get good fish arches on your display, it could be because the transducer is not parallel with the ground when the boat is at rest in the water or at slow trolling speeds.

Partial fish arches

Transducer aimed

too far back

Transducer aimed

too far forward

Full fish arch

Proper transducer angle

Transducer angles and their effects on fish arches.

If the arch slopes up – but not back down – then the front of the transducer is too high and needs to be lowered. If only the back half of the arch is printed, then the nose of the transducer is angled too far down and needs to be raised.

NOTE:

Periodically wash the transducer's face with soap and water to remove any oil film. Oil and dirt on the face will reduce the sensitivity or may even prevent operation.

SHOOT-THRU-HULL PREPARATION

Hulls With Floatation Materials

The transducer installation inside a fiberglass hull must be in an area that does not have air bubbles in the resin or separated fiberglass layers. The sonar signal must pass through solid fiberglass. A successful transducer installation can be made on hulls with flotation materials (such as plywood, balsa wood or foam) between layers of fiberglass if the material is removed from the chosen area.

Fill with resin

Flotation material

Epoxy to hull first

Use epoxy to place the transducer in a solid portion of the hull.

Fill with resin

Inner hull

Outer hull

For example, some (but not all) manufacturers use a layer of fiberglass, then a core of balsa wood, finishing with an outer layer of fiberglass. Removing the inner layer of fiberglass and the balsa wood core exposes the outer layer of fiberglass. The transducer can then be epoxied directly to the outer layer of fiberglass. After the epoxy cures for 24 hours, fill the remaining space with polyester resin. When the job is finished, the hull is watertight and structurally sound. Remember, the sonar signal must pass through solid fiberglass. Any air bubbles in the fiberglass or the epoxy will reduce or eliminate the sonar signals.

WARNING:

Do not remove any material from your inner hull unless you know the hull's composition. Careless grinding or cutting on your hull can result in damage that could sink your boat. Contact your boat dealer or manufacturer to confirm your hull specifications.

Testing Determines Best Location

Ideally, the shoot-thru transducer should be installed as close to the transom as possible, close to the centerline. This will give you the best performance during high-speed maneuvers.

Transducer location

(high speed)

Transducer location

(trolling speed)

Shoot-thru-hull transducer locations for

high speed or trolling speed operation.

To choose the proper location for shoot-thru-hull mounting, follow these testing procedures: (You may need a helper to complete these steps.)

1. Anchor the boat in about 30 feet of water. Add a little water to the sump of the boat. Plug the transducer into the sonar unit, turn it on, then hold the transducer over the side of the boat in the water. Adjust the sensitivity and range controls until a second bottom echo is seen on the display. (You'll need to turn off Auto Sensitivity, Auto Depth Range and ASP™. Try a range setting that is two to three times the water depth. The harder (more rocky) the bottom, the easier it will be to get a second bottom signal.) Don't touch the controls once they've been set.

True bottom

Second bottom

Manual range setting

Example of a second bottom signal. Unit is in 30 feet of water, with

range set at 80 feet and sensitivity set at 87 percent.

2. Next, take the transducer out of the water and place it in the water in the sump of the boat, face down. (The transducer face is shown in the figure on the following page.) Notice how the signal strength decreases. The second bottom signal will probably disappear and the bottom signal intensity will likely decrease.

3. Now move the transducer around to find the best location with the strongest possible bottom signal. If you find a spot with an acceptable bottom signal, mark the location and move on to Step 4.

If you can't get an acceptable bottom signal, try turning up the sensitivity by three or five keystrokes and then move the transducer around once more. If you find a spot that works, mark it and move on to Step 4.

If you have to turn up sensitivity by more than five keystrokes to get a good signal, the transducer should be mounted on the outside of the hull. This is especially true if you have to turn sensitivity all the way up to get a decent bottom signal.

4. Most people can get good results by following steps 1 through 3, so this step is optional. If you want to make an extra effort to be absolutely sure that your selected location will work under all conditions, make a test run with the boat on plane and observe the bottom signal. You'll need to figure some way to prop the transducer into position while you make your test run. (A brick or two might be sufficient to hold it in place.)

5. When you're satisfied with a location, mark it and proceed with the installation.

Shoot-thru-hull Installation

If you are installing the transducer on a hull with floatation material sandwiched within the hull, refer to the text "Hulls with Flotation Materials" beginning on page 21.

1. Make sure the area is clean, dry and free of oil or grease, then sand both the inside surface of the hull and the face of the transducer with 100 grit sandpaper. The sanded hull area should be about 1-1/2 times the diameter of the transducer. The surface of the hull must be flat so the entire transducer face is in contact with the hull prior to bonding. After sanding, clean the hull and transducer with rubbing alcohol to remove any sanding debris.

Sand this surface (unit's face)

Orient the Skimmer with the nose facing the bow of the boat.

To bow

Spread epoxy here

Epoxy transducer to hull.

WARNING:

Use only the epoxy available from LEI. It has been formulated to work with these installation procedures. Other epoxy types may be too thin or may not cure to the right consistency for optimum transducer performance.

2. The epoxy consists of the epoxy itself and a hardener. Remove the two compounds from the package and place them on the paper plate.

Thoroughly stir the two compounds together until the mixture has a uniform color and consistency. Do not mix too fast or bubbles will form in the epoxy. After mixing, you have 20 minutes to complete the installation before the epoxy becomes unworkable.

Spread a thin layer of epoxy (about 1/16" or 1.5 mm thick) on the face of the transducer as shown in the previous figure. Make sure there are no air pockets in the epoxy layer! Then, apply the remaining epoxy to the sanded area on the hull.

3. Press the transducer into the epoxy, twisting and turning it to force any air bubbles out from under the transducer face. Stop pressing when you bottom out on the hull. When you're finished, the face of the transducer should be parallel with the hull, with a minimum amount of epoxy between the hull and transducer.

4. Apply a weight, such as a brick, to hold the transducer in place while the epoxy cures. Be careful not to bump the transducer while the epoxy is wet. Leave the weight in place for a minimum of three hours. Allow the epoxy to cure for 24 hours before moving the boat.

5. After the epoxy has cured, route the cable to the sonar unit and it's ready to use.

Speed/Temperature Sensors

Optional Speed Sensor Installation

If you wish to purchase an optional or additional speed sensor for your unit, visit our website, www.lowrance.com, or refer to the accessory ordering information inside the back cover of this manual. The following instructions describe how to install the speed sensor.

Recommended tools for this job include: drill, 7/8" drill bit, 1/8" drill bit for pilot holes, screwdriver. Required supplies for this job include: four #8 stainless steel wood screws (3/4" long), high quality, marine grade above- or below-waterline sealant.

First find a location on the boat's transom where the water flow is smoothest. Don't mount the sensor behind strakes or ribs. These will disturb the water flow to the speed sensor. Make sure the sensor will remain in the water when the boat is on plane. Also make sure the location doesn't interfere with the boat's trailer. Typically, the sensor is mounted about one foot to the side of the transom's centerline.

Once you've determined the proper location for the unit, place the sensor on the transom. The bottom of the bracket should be flush with the hull's bottom. Using the sensor as a template, mark the hull for the screws' pilot holes. Drill four 1/8" holes, one in each end of the slots.

Mount the sensor to the hull using #8 stainless steel wood screws (not included). Use a high quality, marine grade above- or below-waterline sealant to seal the screws. Make sure the sensor is flush with the bottom of the hull and tighten the screws.

Good location

Stern view showing good location for mounting sensor on transom.

Transom

Bottom of hull

Speed sensor mounting configuration:

side view (left) and rear view (right.)

Bottom of hull

If the base of the transom has a radius, fill the gap between the transom and the sensor with the sealant. This will help ensure a smooth water flow.

Route the sensor's cable through or over the transom to the sonar unit. If you need to drill a hole in the transom to pass the connector through, the required hole size is 7/8".

CAUTION:

The sensor is now ready for use. Connect the sensor to the sonar socket on the back of your unit and connect the transducer to the speed sensor's socket. If you have any questions concerning the installation of the sensor, please contact your local boat dealer.

GPS Antenna/Receiver Module

The LCX-27C, LCX-28C HD, LCX-37C, LCX-38 C HD, LCX-112C and LCX113C HD packages include the LGC-3000 GPS module. This device contains the unit's external antenna and receiver for GPS and WAAS signals. The antenna/receiver module comes with a 15-foot extension cable. This module can be mounted on a flat surface or pole, or an optional magnet is available for temporary mounting on any ferrous surface.

LGC-3000 Module, bottom view (left) and top view (right).

You need to select an antenna installation location that has a clear, unobstructed view of the sky. After the module is installed, connect it to the unit. The LGC-3000 can communicate with your GPS unit either directly (using the supplied extension cable) or through a NMEA 2000

network.

NOTE:

See the module’s instruction sheet, publication part number 9880154-651, for complete installation instructions.

In an automobile, you may achieve good results by simply placing the external antenna on the top of the dash, at the base of the windshield. A piece of the rubber non-skid shelf liner material available in recreational vehicle supply stores will help hold the antenna in place. This may not work well if you have a cab-over design pickup truck camper or motor home. If dashboard reception is poor, simply relocate the antenna module elsewhere on the vehicle for a clearer view of the sky.

Power Connections

Your unit comes with a power/data cable that splits into three branches, each with several exposed wires.

The thicker two-wire cable (red and black) is the power supply for your display unit. This cable has no label.

The branch with three wires (red, black and shield) is the power cable for a NMEA 2000 network. It is labeled "NMEA 2000 POWER."

The branch with 5 wires (blue, yellow, orange, green and shield) is a data cable, labeled "RS-232 COMM." It supports two serial communication ports. These allow your unit to exchange NMEA 2000 data with another device, such as an autopilot, DSC marine radio or computer.

To unit

Display unit power wires: red and black

NMEA 2000 power wires:

red, black and shield

Data cable wires: blue, yellow, orange, green

The Power/Data cable for this unit.

and shield

NOTE:

There are two basic power connection options, which are shown in the following two diagrams. Read the following instructions carefully to determine which power connection applies to your unit. Depending on your configuration, you may not use all of these wires.

Caution:

All of the wires in the power/data cable have bare ends for easier installation. The bare ends on any unused wires could cause an electrical short if left exposed. To prevent this, you should cover the individual wire ends – either by capping them with wire nuts, wrapping them with electrical tape or both. (You should cut off the bare wire before taping off the ends.)

Powering Your Display Unit

The display unit works from a 12-volt DC battery system. Attach the display power cable (with provided 3-amp fuse) to an accessory switch or power bus. If this results in electrical interference, connect direct to a battery but install an in-line switch on the cable.

Caution:

We strongly recommend that you shut off the power supply to the power cable when the unit is not in use, especially in saltwater environments. When the unit is turned off but still connected to a power supply, electrolysis can occur in the power cable plug. This may result in corrosion of the plug body along with the electrical contacts in the cable and the unit's power socket. Risk of electrolysis corrosion is even greater when the cable is unplugged from the unit, but still connected to a power source.

We recommend you connect the power cable to the auxiliary power switch included in most boat designs. If that results in electrical interference, or if such a switch is not available, we recommend connecting direct to the battery and installing an in-line switch. This will let you shut off power to the power cable when the unit is not in use. When you are not using the unit, you should always shut off power to the power cable, especially when the power cable is disconnected from the unit.

WARNING:

This product must be independently fused with the enclosed 3-amp fuse (or equivalent), even if you connect to a fused accessory or power bus.

If a malfunction happens inside the unit, extensive damage can occur if the enclosed fuse is not used. As with all electrical devices, this unit could be damaged to a point that it is irreparable and could even cause harm to the user when not properly fused.

Failure to use a 3-amp fuse will void your warranty.

If possible, keep the power cable away from other boat wiring, especially the engine's wires. This will provide the best isolation from electrical noise. If the cable is not long enough, splice #18 gauge wire onto it.

The display power cable has two wires, red and black. Red is the positive (+) lead, black is negative (–) or ground. Make sure to attach the in-line fuse holder to the red lead as close to the power source as possible.

For example, if you have to extend the power cable to the power bus or battery, attach one end of the fuse holder directly to the power bus or battery. This will protect both the unit and the power cable in the event of a short.

This unit has reverse polarity protection. No damage will occur if the power wires are reversed. However, the unit will not work until the wires are attached correctly.

Power Diagram A

Mandatory network power-off switch

Shield

3-amp fuse

Black

power source

To unit

NMEA 2000 Power Cable

Display Unit Power Cable

Recommended display unit power-off switch

Data Cable

Use this method if you are powering the display unit and a GPS

module or the display unit and a NMEA 2000 network.

3-amp fuse

Black

Red

12 volt DC

The network and any NMEA 2000 devices, including the GPS module, will not operate

unless the NMEA 2000 Power Cable is

connected to power. The NMEA 2000 power cable must be connected

to power even if your only NMEA 2000 device is the GPS module and it is connected to the display unit's Network socket. (However, never

connect multiple power sources to a NMEA 2000 network. If you have a network that is already powered, see diagram B.)

Power Diagram B

To unit

Display Unit Power Cable

All unused Data or NMEA 2000 power wires should be capped with wire nuts and electrical tape to prevent shorts.

Data Cable

Use this method if you are only powering your display unit and are not

powering a NMEA 2000 network or any NMEA 2000 accessory device,

NMEA 2000 Power Cable

Recommended power off switch

including a GPS module.

Black wire

Red wire with

3-amp fuse

12 volt DC

power source

The method in diagram B is also used when your display unit is connected to a NMEA 2000 network that is already connected to power (Never connect multiple power sources to a NMEA 2000 network.)

Powering a NMEA 2000 Network Bus

A NMEA 2000 bus must be connected to a power source to operate. NMEA 2000 devices, including GPS modules, draw their power from the network bus.

If you have a pre-existing NMEA 2000 network installation, it may already be connected to another power source. If you are not sure about a

network's power status, consult the boat manufacturer or dealer. If your NMEA 2000 bus is already powered, you can ignore the NMEA 2000 Power cable and use the method shown in Power Diagram B above. Never attach two power sources to a single NMEA 2000 bus.

If you do need to power your NMEA 2000 bus, attach the NMEA 2000 Power cable to an accessory switch as indicated in power diagram A on page 36. The NMEA 2000 Power cable's red wire should be attached (with provided 3-amp fuse) to the positive (+) terminal. The NMEA 2000 Power cable's black and shield wires should both be attached to the negative (–) terminal.

WARNING:

The NMEA 2000 network bus is always on and constantly drawing power. You must connect NMEA power to a switched power source so you can turn off the network when not in use. Failure to connect to and use a power switch will drain your boat battery, which could stop your boat's operation.

NMEA 2000 Cable Connections

NMEA 2000 is a new bus network specifically designed for boats. This is a young industry standard and, at the time of printing, some boats being built now have a NMEA 2000 bus installed. Over the next few years, however, NMEA 2000 will become much more common. To help you get the most out of this technology, your Lowrance unit is designed to work with a NMEA 2000 network.

Connecting to a NMEA 2000 Network

A network bus is an installed and operational network cable (backbone) running the length of your boat, already connected to a power supply and properly terminated. Such a bus provides network connection nodes at various locations around your boat.

The NMEA 2000 network is similar to the telephone wiring in a house. If you pick up a phone in your living room, you can hear someone talking into the phone in the bedroom.

Lowrance and LEI provide all the cables you will need to create a NMEA 2000 network. Lowrance provides T connectors and extension cables so you can add devices along the backbone wherever you want. Once you have a working network, every sensor added will come with its own T connector for easy expansion.

The simplest NMEA 2000 network is a GPS or sonar/GPS display unit with the LGC-3000, one double-T connector, two 120 ohm terminators and any extension cables needed to connect them.

Network port on display unit

Double T Connector

120-ohm terminator

Extension cable

LGC-3000

Extension cable

120-ohm terminator

LGC-3000 and display unit as an expandable NMEA 2000 network.

The diagram above has a double T connector with two 120-ohm terminators — one at each end of the connector. It is easy to expand this network by removing a terminator from one end of the double T connector, then inserting a new T connector or extension cable between the double T connector and terminator (See the NMEA 200 network general information document that came with your unit for more information).

NMEA 0183 Wiring (Data cable)

To exchange NMEA 0183 data, this unit has two NMEA 0183 version

2.0 communication ports. Serial Communications Port one (Com1) and

Serial Communications Port two (Com2) can be used to transmit or receive NMEA format GPS data.

The five wires for the Serial Communications Ports are combined with the Display Unit Power cable and NMEA 2000 Power cable to form the power/data cable (shown earlier). Com1 uses the yellow wire to transmit, the orange wire to receive and the shield wire for signal ground. Com2 uses the blue wire to transmit, the green wire to receive and the shield wire for signal ground.

ellow (Transmit)

Receive

Com-1

To unit

Com-2

To unit

Orange (Receive)

Shield (Ground)

Transmit

Ground

Com-1 wiring to exchange position information

with another device.

Blue (Transmit)

Green (Receive)

Shield (Ground)

Receive

Transmit

Ground

Com-2 wiring to exchange position information

To Other Device

Display unit,

rear view

Power/Data socket

Ethernet socket (for future use)

NMEA 0183

data cable

NMEA 2000 power cable

Display unit power cable

Double T connector

120-ohm terminator

Sona socket

Network socket

Optional speed sensor

terminator

Extension

cables

Transducer

GPS

antenna

module

LCX-112C and LCX-113C HD Cable connections.

Display unit

rear view

Power/Data socket

Optional

speed

sensor

Sonar socket

Network socket

terminator

Extension

cables

Double T connecto

Display unit power cable

120-ohm terminator

Ethernet socket (for future use)

NMEA 0183 Data Cable

NMEA 2000 Power Cable

Transducer

GPS

antenna

module

LCX-37C and LCX-38C HD Cable connections.

Ethernet socket (for future use)

Display unit, rear view

Sonar socket

NMEA 0183 Data Cable

NMEA 2000

Power Cable

Power/Data socket

120-ohm terminator

Display unit power cable

Double T connector

Network socket

Optional

speed

sensor

terminator

Extension

cables

Transduce

GPS

antenna

module

LCX-27C and LCX-28C HD Cable connections

Expanding to a NMEA 2000 Network

The NMEA 2000 network is similar to the telephone wiring in a house. If you pick up a phone in your living room, you can hear someone talking into the phone in the bedroom.

Network Nodes

A network bus is built of network nodes spread along a backbone. Network nodes are made by fitting T-shaped connectors into the backbone (using the sockets on the sides), and attaching any network device to the bottom of the "T."

Using our telephone example, the T connectors on the backbone are similar to telephone jacks spread throughout a house. To pick up a phone and be able to hear a conversation from another phone in the house, both phones must be connected to the main phone line. In similar fashion, only sensors and display units plugged into the NMEA network can share information.

The network backbone is like the phone wiring that runs throughout a home. It connects the network nodes, allowing them to communicate across the network. Connections found in the middle of the bus could have T connectors or backbone network cable plugged into one or both sides. Connections at the end of a network will have the backbone cable or a T connector plugged into one side and a terminator plugged into the other, as shown in the following figure.

T connector

Terminator at the very end of the bus

Backbone cable (to rest of bus)

Cable from sensor or display unit

NMEA 2000 network node located at the end of a NMEA 2000 bus.

NOTE:

If you have a double T Connector on your network that is not attached to a device, you must cap the unused connector with a NMEA 2000 cap. This will protect the pin connectors from corrosion. The NMEA 2000 cap looks like a terminator, but has "Cap" stamped into the connector housing.

Adding a Network Node

You can add a node to any existing connection, anywhere along the network backbone. This connection could be between a T connector and a terminator, between two T connectors, between a T connector and a backbone extension cable or between two extension cables. Wherever you want to add the new node, separate the sockets of the existing connection and install the T connector between them.

dd T-shaped connector to

Backbone cable

Existing network node

add new device to bus.

Re-attach terminator at end of bus.

LowranceNET device connects to new T connector.

Add a new device to a NMEA 2000 bus by attaching a T connector

between two T connectors, between a T connector and the end

terminator, or between two backbone extension cables.

If you want to add a node at the end of the backbone (network bus) remove the terminator from the last connector, like the figure above. Install the new T connector and attach the terminator to the side of the connector.

Additional Network Information

Further instructions on creating or expanding a network are illustrated in the NMEA 2000 network setup booklet, part number 988-0154-173, which came packed with manual.

NOTE:

You do not need a Bus Adapter Cable with this unit if you use an approved Devicenet NMEA 2000 connector. Approved Devicenet NMEA 2000 connectors work with Lowrance red connector display units and components, so no adapter cables are needed.

Mounting the Unit: Bracket or In-Dash

You can install the unit on top of a dash with the gimbal bracket. It can also be installed in the dash or mounted on a portable power supply.

If you use the supplied bracket, you may be interested in the optional R-A-M bracket to a swivel mount, which can be used on the dash or overhead mounting positions.

bracket mounting system. This converts the unit's gimbal

Optional R-A-M mounting system.

Bracket Installation

Mount the unit in any convenient location, provided there is clearance behind the unit when it's tilted for the best viewing angle. You should also

make sure there is enough room behind the unit to attach the power, transducer and GPS antenna/receiver module cables. (A drawing on the next page shows the dimensions of a gimbal-mounted unit.)

Holes in the bracket's base allow wood screw or through-bolt mounting. You may need to place a piece of plywood on the backside of thin fiberglass panels to reinforce the panel and secure the mounting hardware.

Cable hole

Screw mounting hole

Front

Install the gimbal bracket. Place the bracket so the arms slope toward the

front of your unit.

Once a location is determined, use the bracket as a template and mark the mounting holes and the hole for the cables. Drill a 1-inch (25.4 mm) hole in the dash for the power, transducer and antenna cables. Screw the bracket to the mounting surface.

Millimete

[Inch]

Front view (left) and side view (right) showing dimensions of the LCX-

27C and LCX-28C HD mounted on gimbal brackets.

Front view (left) and side view (right) showing dimensions of the LCX-

112C and LCX-113C HD mounted on gimbal brackets.

Front view (left) and side view (right) showing dimensions of the LCX-

37C and LCX-38C HD mounted on gimbal brackets.

To pass all connectors through the 1" hole, first pass the transducer connector up through the hole from under the dash, followed by the antenna connector and any accessory cables. Next, pass the power cable's bare-wire end down though the hole from the top.

If you wish, you can fill in the hole around the cables with a good marine caulking compound. No matter what type of installation you prefer, be sure to leave enough slack in the cables to allow tilting or swiveling the unit.

Attach the unit to the gimbal bracket using the supplied gimbal knobs and washers. Attach the cables and the unit is ready to use.

In-Dash Installation

You can mount the LCX-27C and LCX-28 C HD in the dash with an optional FM-3 In-Dash Adapter Kit. The kit includes mounting hardware and a template for cutting the hole.

In-dash mounting template for the LCX-27C and LCX-28C HD, showing

dimensions. NOTE: The figure above is not printed to scale.

MMC or SDC Memory Card Installation

Your unit uses MultiMedia Cards to store information, such as sonar logs, custom maps, waypoints, trails and other data. The unit can also use Secure Digital Cards (SD card) to store data. The unit can use up to two cards; a MMC and a SD card can be used at the same time. Throughout this manual, we will use the term MMC, but just remember your unit can use an MMC or SD card to store data.

NOTE:

The LCX-28CHD and LCX-113CHD have NauticPath charts, Hot Spots Elite charts and all high detail custom maps preloaded onto a 30-Gigabyte hard drive. Therefore, if you own either the LCX28CHD or the LCX-113CHD, you do not need to load any of those charts/maps into the unit. The unit can also use Navionics charts, but they must be loaded into the unit via a Navionics card. MMC and SD cards still will be necessary to log sonar chart data and to store GPS data files.

Both of these solid-state flash memory devices are about the size of a postage stamp. A SD card is slightly thicker than a MMC. MMCs are available in storage capacities of 8 MB, 16 MB, 32 MB and 64 MB. SD cards are available in capacities of 8 MB, 16 MB, 32 MB, 64 MB, 128 MB, 256 MB and 1 GB.

Additional MMC cards are available from LEI Extras; see ordering information inside the back cover of this manual. MMCs and SD cards are also available at many camera and consumer electronics stores.

The MMC drawer is located on the front of the LCX-27C and LCX-28C HD units. To install an MMC, twist the drawer retainer counterclockwise and pull.

The drawer will come out of the units. Place the MMC in the drawer face down (see following figures).

Insert cards face down

Drawer retainer

Memory card drawer on the LCX-27C and LCX-28CHD.

Slide the drawer back into the unit and twist the retainer clockwise. The MMC is now ready for use.

In the LCX-37C, LCX-38C HD, LCX-112C and LCX-113C HD, the two MMC slots are located in compartments on the front of the case. The water-proof compartment doors are located at the lower right corner. The following figure shows a close-up of one compartment with the door opened.

Thumb

screw

MMC groove for card removal

Insert card face up,

this way

Memory card compartment with a 16 MB MMC card installed.

To remove an MMC or SD Card

1. Open the card compartment door by unscrewing the thumb screw. The

screw should only be finger tight. If it was over-tightened, use a thumbnail, a coin or a screwdriver to open the door.

2. Use the ball of your finger or thumb and press down in the center of the

card, then drag the MMC from the slot. Or, use a thumbnail or fingernail to grab the groove in the bottom of the MMC and drag it out. See the figure above for the groove location.

To add an MMC or SD Card

1. Open the card compartment door.

2. Grasp the bottom of the MMC and push the top of the card into the

slot. Once the card is started, press down in the center of the card with the ball of your finger or thumb and push the card all the way to the left, until it is firmly seated in the slot.

3. Close the compartment door and fasten the thumbscrew finger tight.

Other Accessories

MMC and MapCreate

Other available accessories include MMC cards, MMC card readers and MapCreate™ custom mapping software for your computer. MMC card readers are available in USB versions.

MapCreate™ CD-ROM, left; MMC card reader for USB ports, right.

Switch Boxes

Two switch boxes are available for this unit. One transducer switch box switches two transducers to one sonar unit. The other transducer switch box switches two sonar units to one transducer.

If these accessories are not available from your dealer, see the accessory ordering information on the inside back cover of this manual. Visit our web site for a complete listing of all the available accessories for your unit.

Face Cover

Your unit comes with a white protective cover that snaps on and off the front of the unit. This cover is intended for use when your unit and the vehicle it's mounted in are idle.

WARNING:

When the unit is mounted in an unprotected area, such as an open boat cockpit, the protective face cover must be removed when the vehicle is moving at high speed. This includes towing a boat on a trailer at highway speeds. Otherwise, windblast can pop off the cover.

Now that you have your unit installed, move on to Sec. 3, Basic Sonar Operations. In Sec. 3, we'll present a series of step-by-step tutorials to

teach you the basics of your sonar operation.

NOTE:

When you first turn the unit on, the Map Page appears. If you'd rather start learning about GPS operation first, turn to Sec. 6, Basic GPS Operations. (Remember, you don't need to read this manual from cover-to-cover to get going. We designed it so you can skip around to the section you want to read.)

Cleaning Towel

A lint-free microfiber towel is included for cleaning the unit’s screen. The towel is highly effective in clearing away water spots, smudges and finger prints. Just wipe the screen with the dry towel — it's not necessary to moisten the towel with water. If the screen is badly soiled, you may use water or common window or lens cleaners. However, DO NOT use polishing compounds or any other abrasive product.

If you lose the towel or wear it out, you can replace it with a similar microfiber cloth. These are often available where shop towels or automobile cleaning towels are sold.

Caution:

Cleaning fabrics other than the microfiber towel type may scratch the screen. Polishing compounds or other abrasive cleaners will scratch the screen. Damage caused by incorrect cleaning is not covered by the warranty. You may wash the towel if it becomes soiled or loses its effectiveness, but do not use fabric softener. Fabric softener will ruin the towel’s cleaning capability.

Section 3:

Basic Sonar Operation

This section addresses the unit's most basic sonar operations. The instructions presented in Sec. 3 follow a chronological order. Sec. 4, Sonar Options & Other Features, will discuss other more advanced functions and utilities. Material in Sec. 4 is arranged in alphabetical order.

Before you turn on the unit, it's a good idea to learn about the different keys, the Main Menu, the four Page screens and how they all work together. BUT, if you just can't wait to get on the water, turn to the one-page Quick Reference on page 55.

Keyboard

MMC drawer

LCX-28CHD sonar/GPS unit, front view, showing sonar screen,

keyboard and access door for the MMC compartment.

1. PWR/LIGHT (Power & Light) – The PWR key turns the unit on and

off and activates the backlight.

2. PAGES – Pressing this and the ← → arrow keys switches the unit

between the four different page screens. (Satellite Status Page, Navigation

Page, Map Page and Sonar Page). Each page represents one of the unit's major operation modes.

3. MENU – Press this key to show the menus and submenus, which

allow you to select a command or adjust a feature. This also accesses search functions for streets, intersections, addresses and highway exits.

4. ARROW KEYS – These keys are used to navigate through the

menus, make menu selections, enter data and move the map and sonar chart cursors.

5. ENT/ICONS (Enter & Icons) – This key allows you to save data,

accept values or execute menu commands. It is also used to create event marker icons.

6. EXIT – The Exit key lets you return to the previous screen, clear

data and close menus.

7. WPT – (Waypoint) The Waypoint key is used to save and recall

waypoints, search for waypoints and access the waypoint list. It also launches the Point-of-Interest (POI) search menus and is involved in some navigation functions.

8. ZOUT – (Zoom Out) This key lets you zoom the screen out. On the

Sonar Page, this key returns you to a full sonar chart display, showing the entire water column from surface to bottom. On the Map Page, this lets you see a larger geographic area on the map. Less detail is seen as you zoom out.

9. ZIN – (Zoom In) This key lets you zoom the screen in. On the Sonar

Page, this key enlarges fish signals and bottom detail. On the Map Page, zooming in lets you see in more detail a smaller geographic area on the map.

Power/lights on and off

To turn on the unit, press PWR. As the unit powers up, the Map Page is displayed first. To switch to the Sonar Page, press

To turn on the backlight, press levels to select from. Repeatedly pressing

PWR again. The unit has three backlight

PWR will cycle through the

PAGES|→|EXIT.

backlight settings and turn off the backlight.

Turn off the unit by pressing and holding the

PWR key for 3 seconds.

Main Menu

The unit has a Main Menu, which contains some function commands and some setup option commands. The instructions in this section will deal only with sonar functions, the basic commands that make the unit

show sonar signals on your screen. This unit will work fine right out of the box with the factory default settings. But, if you want to learn about the various sonar options, see Sec. 4, Sonar Options & Other

Features (For general system setup and GPS options, see Sec. 8, System Setup and GPS Setup Options).

You can access the Main Menu from any of the four Page screens by pressing display, press

MENU|MENU. To clear the menu screen and return to the page

EXIT. (Remember, our text style for "MENU|MENU" means

"press the Menu key twice." See a full explanation of our instruction text formatting in Instructions = Menu Sequences.)

Main Menu.

The Main Menu commands and their functions are:

Screen command: changes the contrast or brightness of the display. Sounds command: enables or disables the sounds for key strokes and

alarms and sets the alarm style. Transparency command: allows you to change the thickness of the

dialog boxes so you can see through the dialog box.

Alarms command: turns GPS alarms on or off and changes alarm thresholds. Route Planning command: used to plan, view or navigate a route. My Trails command: shows, creates and deletes plot trails. Also used

to navigate or backtrack a trail. Cancel Navigation command: turns off the various navigation commands.

Used to stop navigating after you have reached your destination waypoint, Point of Interest or map cursor location; or after you reach the end of a route or trail.

Sonar Setup command: sets various sonar options. GPS Setup command: sets various GPS receiver options. System Setup command: sets general configuration options. NMEA 2000 command: allows you to be set up on the NMEA network. Sun/Moon Calculations command: finds the rising and setting time

of the sun and the moon.

Trip Calculator command: shows trip status and statistics. Timers command: controls the up timer, down timer and alarm clock. Browse MMC Files command: this allows you to view the installed

MMC card and the files it contains.

Pages

The unit has five Page displays that represent the five major operating modes. They are the Satellite Status Page, the Navigation Page, the Map Page, Sonar Page and Radar Page (For more information about the Radar, see the Radar Manual). You can access these pages by pressing the key, then using

→ or ← to select a Page (Pres EXIT to clear the Pages Menu.).

PAGES

Pages Menu, showing sonar display options.

Satellite Status Page

The Satellite Status Page provides detailed information on the status of the unit's satellite lock-on and position acquisition. To get to the Satellite Status Page, press the (Clear the Pages Menu by pressing

PAGES key, then use → or ← to select STATUS

EXIT). This page represents a GPS

function, so it is discussed in more detail in Sec. 6.

No matter what Page you are on, a flashing current position indicator/question mark symbol and flashing GPS data displays indicate that satellite lock has been lost and there is no position confirmed.

WARNING:

Do not begin navigating with this unit until the numbers have stopped flashing!

Satellite Status Page.

Navigation Page

This screen has a compass rose that not only shows your direction of travel, but also the direction to a recalled waypoint. To get to the Navigation Page, press

PAGES| → or ← to NAVIGATION|EXIT.

This page represents the GPS function, so it is discussed in more detail in Sec. 6.

The Navigation Page (left); navigation with sonar (right).

Map Page

The Map Page screens show your course and track from a "bird's-eye" view, on a moving map. By default, this unit shows the map with north always at the top of the screen. The arrow in the center of the screen is your present position. It points in the direction you're traveling.

Map Page, showing position on Oologah Lake, Oklahoma. The full map

option (left). Map with sonar option (right).

Map Page is the default screen that appears when you turn on the unit. To get to the Map Page from another page, press

MAP|EXIT.

PAGES| → or ← to

You can display a split screen showing both the Map and Sonar pages at the same time. This feature is discussed in Sec. 4, Sonar Options & Other Features.

The Map Page represents a GPS function, so it is discussed in more detail in Sec. 6.

Sonar Page

The Sonar Page displays the sonar chart. This is a "cross-section" view of the water column beneath the boat. The chart moves across the screen, displaying sonar signal echoes that represent fish, structure and the bottom.

To get to the Sonar Page, press the

SONAR (Clear the Pages Menu by pressing EXIT). The Pages Menu offers

PAGES key, then use → or ← to select

five chart display options under the Sonar Page category. To access them, press

PAGES|← or→ to SONAR|↓ to Option Name|EXIT.

The Sonar Page has its own menu, which is used for advanced functions and for setting various options (Sonar Options and other features are discussed in Sec. 4.). To Access the Sonar Page menu, from the Sonar Page

MENU.

press

Pages Menu, showing sonar chart display option commands (left).

Sonar display options: full sonar chart (left) and split zoom chart (right).

Sonar chart display options (from left) digital data and FlashGraf™.

Sonar chart display options: Sonar with Custom Gauges.

Sonar Page Menu. Most of these functions are discussed in Sec. 4.

Digital data overlay (depth & temperature)

Fish arches

Structure

Surface signal

Bottom signal

Sonar Page, showing full sonar chart mode.

Surface clutter

Depth scale

In FasTrack, fish arches show as horizontal bars.

Zoom bar

FasTrack

bar graph

You can customize how the Sonar Page displays its pictures and other data in many ways. Your unit also includes several special sonar features and options that can better help you interpret the underwater scene.

We'll discuss all of those features and options in Sec. 4, but to show you how easy the unit is to operate, the following page contains a simplified, 10-step quick reference that will cover most fish finding situations. The quick reference describes how your unit will operate with all the sonar features in their automatic modes, which are set at the factory.

Sonar Quick Reference

1. Mount the transducer, antenna and unit. Connect the unit to electric

power and the transducer (If GPS operation is desired, connect GPS antenna, too.). Make sure the MMC is in (See complete installation details beginning on page 9.).

2. Launch your boat.

3. To turn on the unit, press and release

4. Opening screen displays Map Page. Rotate through the four main

Page screens (Map Page, Satellite Status Page, Navigation Page, Sonar Page) by pressing

PAGES|← or → to select Page Name|EXIT. Switch

Pages to display Sonar Page.

5. If GPS data is desired, wait while unit locates satellites and calculates

current position. When the unit acquires position, a tone will sound and a position acquired message will appear.

6. With position acquired (if desired), head for your fishing grounds.

Your unit will automatically display digital depth and surface water temperature in the top left corner of the screen.

The auto settings will track the bottom, displaying it in the lower portion of the screen. The full sonar chart will scroll from right to left, showing you what's under the boat as you cruise across the water. You can change the display by:

Zooming in to enlarge the chart for more detail: press Zooming out to return to full chart mode: press

7. Watch the display for the appearance of fish arches. When you see

arches, you've found fish! Stop the boat and get your lure or bait into the water at the depth indicated on the sonar chart.

8. Gauge the fish depth by visually comparing the fish arches with the

depth scale on the right side of the screen, or get a more accurate measure with the Depth Cursor. Press Press ↓ to align the cursor line with the fish arch. The exact depth appears in a box at the right end of the cursor line. To clear the cursor,

EXIT.

press

9. If you are anchored or drifting at a very low speed, you are not

moving fast enough for a fish to return the telltale fish arch signal. As you drift over a fish, or as a fish swims through the transducer's signal cone, the fish echo will appear as a straight line suspended between the surface and the bottom.

PWR key.

ZIN.

ZOUT.

MENU|↓ to DEPTH CURSOR|ENT.

10. To turn off the unit, press and hold

PWR key for three seconds.

Sonar Operations

As you can see from the quick reference on the previous page, basic operation is easy, right out of the box. If you are a sonar novice, try operating the unit with the factory defaults until you get a feel for how it's working.

As you're learning the basics, there is one setting you might want to tinker with from time to time — Sensitivity.

Sensitivity controls the unit's ability to pick up echoes. If you want to see more detail, try increasing the sensitivity, a little at a time. There are situations when too much clutter appears on the screen. Decreasing the sensitivity can reduce the clutter and show the strongest fish echoes, if fish are present. As you change the sensitivity setting, you can see the difference on the chart as it scrolls.

Fig. 1 Fig. 2

Fig. 3 Fig. 4

These figures show results of different sensitivity levels on the same

location. Fig. 1: Sensitivity at 88 percent. Typical of full auto mode. Fig.

2: Sensitivity set at 75 percent. Fig. 3: Sensitivity set at 50 percent. Fig.

4: Sensitivity set at 100 percent.

You can change the sensitivity level whether you are in Auto Sensitivity mode or Manual Sensitivity mode. The adjustment method works the same in both modes, but gives you slightly different results.

Adjusting sensitivity in Auto Sensitivity Mode is similar to manually adjusting a car's speed with the accelerator pedal while cruise control is on. You can make the car to run faster, but when you let off the gas the cruise control automatically keeps you from running slower than the minimum speed setting. In this unit, auto mode will let you increase sensitivity to 100 percent, but the unit will limit your minimum setting. This prevents you from turning sensitivity down too low to allow automatic bottom tracking. When you change the setting with auto turned on, the unit will continue to track the bottom and make minor adjustments to the sensitivity level, with a bias toward the setting you selected.

Adjusting sensitivity in Manual Sensitivity Mode is similar to driving a car without cruise control — you have complete control of the car's speed. In this unit, manual mode allows you to set sensitivity at 100 percent (maximum) or zero percent (minimum). Depending on water conditions, the bottom signal may completely disappear from the screen when you reduce sensitivity to about 50 percent or less!

Try adjusting sensitivity in both auto and manual modes to see how they work.

To adjust sensitivity:

1. Press

MENU|ENT.

2. The Sensitivity Control Bar appears. Press

press

↑ to increase sensitivity. When it's set at the desired level, press

EXIT. (When you reach the maximum or minimum limit, a tone sounds.)

↓ to decrease sensitivity;

Sonar Menu with Sensitivity command selected (left). The Sensitivity

Control Bar (right).

NOTE:

If you want to change the sensitivity in Manual Mode, first turn off Auto Sensitivity. From the Sonar Page, press

SENSITIVITY|ENT|↑ to SENSITIVITY|ENT. Press ↓ or ↑ to pick a different

sensitivity setting. When it's set at the desired level, press

MENU|↓ to AUTO

EXIT.

Important Tip:

While you are experimenting and learning, it's possible to scramble the settings so that the sonar picture disappears from your screen. If that happens, remember that it's easy to switch back to full automatic operation by simply restoring the factory auto settings. Here's how:

To Restore Factory Settings:

1. Press

OPTIONS|ENT.

2. The unit asks if you want to reset all the options. Press ← to

YES|ENT. All options are reset and the unit reverts back to the Map

Page at the 4000-mile zoom range. (Any recorded sonar logs or GPS data will be unchanged.)

Fish Symbols vs. Full Sonar Chart

You may have noticed in the quick reference that we used fish arches in full sonar chart mode for our example, and not the popular Fish I.D.™ fish symbol feature. Here's why: Fish I.D. is an easier way for a sonar novice to recognize a fish signal return when he sees it. However, locating a fish via symbol has some limitations.

MENU|MENU|↓ to SYSTEM SETUP|ENT|↓ to RESET

Your sonar unit's microprocessor is remarkably powerful, but it can be fooled. Some of the echoes calculated to be fish could be tree limbs or turtles! To see what's under your boat in maximum detail

, we recommend

you turn off Fish I.D. and begin learning to interpret fish arches.

Fish I.D. is most handy when you're in another part of the boat or performing some task that prevents you from watching the sonar screen. Then, you can turn on Fish I.D. and the audible fish alarm. When a fish swims under your boat, you'll hear it!

Fish I.D. can also be useful when you want to screen out some of the sonar detail gathered by your unit. For example, a fisherman in San Francisco Bay saw clouds of clutter in the water but no fish arches. When he pulled downrigger up, it brought up several small jellyfish. The fisherman switched his Lowrance sonar to Fish I.D., which screened out the schools of jellyfish and clearly showed the game fish there as fish symbols.

Other Free Training Aids

The sonar options section discusses Fish I.D., fish alarms and other features in more detail. If you or a friend has Internet access, you can also learn more about interpreting what you see on your sonar screen. Visit our web site, www.lowrance.com. Be sure to check out the free Sonar Tutorial, which includes animated illustrations and more pictures of actual sonar returns, all described in detail. There's even a "printer friendly" version of the tutorial available on our web site…it makes a great supplement to this operation manual!

You can also download a free copy of our Sonar Viewer software. This PC-based software application plays back any sonar chart log recorded with a Lowrance sonar product. Features include:

• Adjustable range, zoom, sensitivity, Colorline®

, noise rejection,

surface clarity, etc. of the recorded file.

• Interpretation of sonar signals can be user defined.

• Operates like a Windows Multimedia Player with forward,

reverse, pause, fast forward, fast reverse, and scroll buttons.

• Adjustments update the entire record displayed

• Window can dynamically be sized on your monitor.

• Mouse cursor shows GPS position, depth and sounding number

anywhere on the visible record.

For the ultimate training aid, be sure to download the free emulator software for your unit. Aside from being just plain fun, this program can help you learn both basic and advanced operations without burning boat fuel! Lowrance is the first sonar manufacturer to provide this type of training tool for customers.

This PC application simulates the actual sonar/GPS unit on your computer. You can run it from your computer keyboard or use your mouse to press the virtual keys. Easy download and installation instructions are available on our web site.

A free training emulator is available for your unit on our web site.

The emulator works exactly like your real sonar/GPS unit. Using the Sonar Simulator and GPS Simulator features, it allows you to play back sonar logs, run GPS routes and trails, even create real waypoints you can use in the field! You can even take snapshots of the Sonar Chart and print them or e-mail them to friends.

Section 4:

Sonar Options & Other Features

Material in this section is arranged in alphabetical order.

ASP™ (Advanced Signal Processing)

The ASP™ feature is a noise rejection system built into the sonar unit that constantly evaluates the effects of boat speed, water conditions and interference. This automatic feature gives you the best display possible under most conditions.

The ASP feature is an effective tool in combating noise. In sonar terms, noise is any undesired signal. It is caused by electrical and mechanical sources such as bilge pumps, engine ignition systems and wiring, air bubbles passing over the face of the transducer, even vibration from the engine. In all cases, noise can produce unwanted marks on the display.

The ASP feature has four settings — Off, Low, Medium and High. If you have high noise levels, try using the "High" ASP setting. However, if you are having trouble with noise, we suggest that you take steps to find the interference source and fix it, rather than continually using the unit with the high ASP setting.

There are times when you may want to turn the ASP feature off. This allows you to view all incoming echoes before the ASP feature processes those echoes.

Sonar Menu with Sonar Features selected (left). The Sonar Features

menu (right), Noise Rejection selected with ASP at default low setting.

To change the ASP level:

1. From the Sonar Page, press

2. Press

3. Press ↓ or ↑ to select a setting, then press

4. To return to the previous page, press

→ then ↓ to NOISE REJECTION|ENT.

MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.

ENT.

EXIT|EXIT.

Alarms

This unit has three different types of sonar alarms. The first is the Fish Alarm. It sounds when the Fish I.D.™ feature determines an echo is a fish.

Another alarm is the Zone Alarm, which consists of a bar on the side of the screen. Any echo on the chart that appears inside this bar triggers the alarm.

The last alarm is the Depth Alarm, which has both a Shallow and a Deep setting. Only the bottom signal will trigger this alarm. This is useful as an anchor watch, a shallow water alert, or for navigation.

Depth Alarms

The depth alarms sound a tone when the bottom signal goes shallower than the shallow alarm's setting or deeper than the deep alarm's setting. For example, if you set the shallow alarm to 10 feet, the alarm will sound a tone if the bottom signal is less than 10 feet. It will continue to sound until the bottom goes deeper than 10 feet.

The deep alarm works just the opposite. It sounds a warning tone if the bottom depth goes deeper than the alarm's setting. Both depth alarms work only off the digital bottom depth signals. No other targets will trip these alarms. These alarms can be used at the same time or individually.

Main Menu and Alarms command (left). Sonar Alarms menu (right).

To adjust and turn on the shallow alarm:

2. Press

3. Press

→ to SHALLOW ALARM DEPTH|ENT.

↑ or ↓ to change the first number, then press → to move the

cursor to the next number and repeat until the depth is correct, then

ENT.

press

4. Press

← to SHALLOW ALARM ENABLED|ENT|EXIT|EXIT|EXIT.

To switch to a different depth setting, open the Sonar Alarms menu and repeat the instructions in step 3 above.

To adjust and turn on the deep alarm:

2. Press

↓ to DEEP ALARM ENABLED|→ to DEEP ALARM DEPTH|ENT.

3. Press ↑ or ↓ to change the first number, then press → to move the

cursor to the next number and repeat until the depth is correct, then press

ENT.

4. Press ← to

DEEP ALARM ENABLED|ENT|EXIT|EXIT|EXIT.

To switch to a different depth setting, open the Sonar Alarms menu and repeat the instructions in step 3 above.

Zone Alarm

The zone alarm is triggered when any echo passes inside the zone alarm bar, shown on the right side of the screen.

To adjust and turn on the zone alarm:

2. Press ↓ to

ZONE ALARM ENABLED|→ to ADJUST ZONE|ENT.

Sonar Alarms menu, with Adjust Zone command selected (left); Adjust

Zone Alarm selection box, with Upper Limit selected (right).

3. To set the upper boundary for the Zone Alarm, use ← or→ to select

UPPER, then press ↑ or ↓ to move the top of the bar to the desired depth.

4. To set the lower boundary for the Zone Alarm, use

LOWER, then press ↑ or ↓ to move the bottom of the bar to the desired

← or→ to select

depth.

5. Press

EXIT|← to ZONE ALARM ENABLED|ENT|EXIT. Now, any echo —

fish, bottom, structure — within the zone alarm's depth range will trigger the zone alarm.

To switch to a different depth setting, open the Sonar Alarms menu and repeat the instructions in steps 3 and 4 above.

Fish Alarm

You can use the Fish Alarm to make a distinctive audible alarm when the Fish I.D. feature (Fish I.D. must be turned on for the Fish Alarm to work) detects fish or other suspended objects. A different tone will sound for each fish symbol size shown on the display.

Sonar Alarms menu with Fish Alarm selected. When the checkbox is

blank, alarm is off.

To turn on the fish alarm:

2. Press

↓ to FISH ALARM|ENT|EXIT|EXIT|EXIT.

Calibrate Speed

You can calibrate the speed sensor to compensate for inaccuracies. Before you change the setting, first calculate the percentage that the speed is off.

A good way to gauge your speed sensor's performance is to compare its reading with the ground speed measured by your unit's GPS functions. When you make a run to compare the GPS ground speed to the speed sensor, perform your test in relatively current-free calm water, if possible. (Unless, of course, you are taking the current speed into consideration when making your calculation.)

For example, if you figure the sensor is reading 1 percent faster than actual speed, you will enter – 10 in the calibration window. If the sensor is reading 5 percent slower than true speed, you will enter + 5 in the window.

After you have a correct figure, here's how to enter it:

1. Press

2. Enter the number you calculated earlier: press ↑ or ↓ to change the

first character (+ or –), then press → to move the cursor to the next number and repeat until the percentage is correct, then press

EXIT.

Chart Speed

The chart speed is the rate echoes scroll across the screen. The default is maximum. We recommend you leave the setting there for virtually all fishing conditions.

You, however, might consider experimenting with chart speed when you are stationary or drifting very slowly. You may sometimes achieve better images as you slow the chart speed to match how fast you are moving across the bottom.

If you are at anchor, ice fishing or fishing from a dock, experiment with a chart speed around 50 percent. If you are drifting slowly, try a chart speed around 75 percent. When you are stationary and a fish swims through the sonar signal cone, the image appears on the screen as a long line instead of a fish arch. Reducing the chart speed may result in a shorter line that more closely resembles a regular fish return.

Sonar Page menu with Chart Speed command selected (left);.

The Chart Speed Control Bar (right).

If you do experiment with chart speed, remember to reset it to maximum when you resume trolling or moving across the water at higher speed. To change chart speed:

1. From the Sonar Page, press

MENU|↓ to CHART SPEED|ENT.

2. The Chart Speed Control Bar appears. Press ↓ to decrease chart

speed. Press ↑ to increase chart speed.

3. When it's set at the desired level, press

EXIT.

Colorline™

Colorline lets you distinguish between strong and weak echoes. It "paints" a brighter color on targets that return a stronger signal. This allows you to tell the difference between a hard and soft bottom. For example, a soft, muddy or weedy bottom returns a weaker signal, which is shown with a narrow, colored line (dark blue tinged with red or a little yellow.) Since fish are among the weakest echoes, they show up

mostly as blue arches. A hard bottom or other relatively hard target returns a strong signal displayed as a wide, brightly colored line (reddish yellow to bright yellow.)

If you have two signals of equal size, one with red to yellow color and the other without, then the target with brighter color (yellow) is the stronger signal. This helps distinguish weeds from trees on the bottom, or fish from structure.

Colorline is adjustable. Experiment with your unit to find the Colorline setting that's best for you.

Sonar Page menu with Colorline command selected (left);.

The Colorline control bar (right).

To adjust the Colorline level:

1. From the Sonar Page, press

MENU|↓ to COLORLINE|ENT.

2. The Colorline Control Bar appears. Press ↓ to decrease Colorline;

press ↑ to increase Colorline.

3. When it's set at the desired level, press

EXIT.

Fig. 1A

Fig. 1B

Fig. 2A

Fig. 3A

Hard

structure

Fish nea

structure

Colorline

Fig. 2B

Hard

bottom

Colorline

Fig. 3B

Muddy

bottom

Muddy

bottom

Hard

bottom

Colorline

The "A" figures to the left show locations with Colorline set at the

factory level of 70 percent. The "B" figures on the right show the same

locations with Colorline increased to 84 percent. In Figure 1B, no fish

are near the left structure, but the right structure shows fish holding

next to the structure.

Customize Page Displays

Every Page display option except Full Map (on the Map Page) has customizable Digital Data boxes to provide on-screen information.

The various data available from your unit are divided into categories in the Data Viewer menu. These categories include GPS Data, Navigation, Trip Calculator, Time, Sonar and Miscellaneous Data. You can select items from any of these categories for display in any data box. The category divisions are only there to help you sort through the information.

To change information displayed in a data box:

On the page with the digital data box you wish to change, press

MENU|↓ to CUSTOMIZE|ENT. A data box name will flash, indicating it is

selected. Press then press next to each category. A category with a "+" is expandable, meaning its contents are hidden.

ENT to modify the box or hit ↑ or ↓ to select another box,

ENT. You'll see a list of categories with "+" or "–" symbols

Data Viewer with the Sonar Data category expanded.

Selecting the category name and pressing ENT will show the category's contents, so you can choose items within it. An expanded category (one with a "–" next to its name) can be collapsed to hide its contents. Just select the category name and press

ENT.

Expand any categories that might contain data you want to display. Then press ↓ or ↑ to select a different data option. With the new option highlighted, press type, then press you are finished with the settings, press

ENT to switch the contents of the box to the new data

EXIT. You can now select another box to change. When

EXIT again and the box name

stops flashing.

NOTE:

A Page display can only show a limited number of data boxes.

FlashGraf™

The FlashGraf sonar page option represents the flasher style sonar combined with a scrolling chart. A circular dial shows all returning echoes at a high screen refresh rate. It uses the Colorline®

feature to show weaker targets as darker colors. The bottom depth is shown as a black bar across the outer circle.

You can adjust the size of the chart and the flasher windows by using the Resize Window command, found on page 109.

Surface clutter

Bottom signal

Fish signal,

approximately

FlashGraf page.

27 feet

Map With Sonar Split Screen

There is a page mode that splits the screen in half, with the map on the left and the sonar on the right. This screen option can be found on the Pages Menu under the Map Page category.

Map with Sonar split screen.

When this screen is activated, you need to specify which side of the Menu, is active. To toggle between the two windows, press

PAGES|PAGES. The

window with the blue title bar at the top of the screen is the active window. To switch back, just press

PAGES|PAGES again.

Sonar with Custom Gauges

This page mode allows you to view the sonar and whatever custom gauges you choose. To do this, press dialog box will appear. Press appear. Press then press

ENT to modify the box or hit ↑ or ↓ to select another box,

ENT. You'll see a list of categories with "+" or "–" symbols

ENT to add data. A data viewer box will

MENU|ENT. The Overlay Data

next to each category. A category with a "+" is expandable, meaning its contents are hidden.

Sonar with Custom Gauges.

Depth Cursor

The depth cursor consists of a horizontal line with a digital depth box on the right side. The numbers inside the box show the depth of the cursor.

Cursor line

Depth Cursor command selected (left). Depth cursor active (right); the

line indicates the large fish is 21.95 feet deep.

Depth box

You can move the cursor to any location on the screen, letting you pinpoint the depth of a target.

1. From the Sonar Page, press

MENU|↓ to DEPTH CURSOR|ENT.

2. The depth cursor appears. Press ↓ ↑ to move the cursor line.

3. To clear the depth cursor, press

EXIT.

Depth Range - Automatic

When turned on for the first time, the bottom signal is automatically placed in the lower half of the screen. This is called Auto Ranging and is part of the automatic function. You can change the range to a different depth, depending upon the bottom depth and the current range. To do this:

1. From the Sonar Page, press

MENU|↓ to DEPTH RANGE|ENT.

Sonar Page menu with Depth Range command selected (left); The

Depth Range Control Scale (right).

2. The Depth Range Control Scale appears. Press ↑ or ↓ to select a different depth range. A blue bar highlights the selected range. The shaded numbers cannot be selected.

3. When the new range is selected, press

EXIT to clear the menu.

Depth Range - Manual

You have complete control over the range when the unit is in the manual mode. There are 16 depth ranges, from 5 to 4,000 feet.

To switch to Manual Depth Range:

1. First, turn off automatic depth range. From the Sonar Page, press

MENU|↓ to AUTO DEPTH RANGE|ENT.

2. Press ↑ to

3. Press ↓ or ↑ to select a different depth range. A horizontal blue bar highlights the selected range.

4. When the new range is selected, press

NOTE:

The sonar's depth capability depends on the transducer installation, water and bottom conditions, and other factors.

DEPTH RANGE|ENT and the Depth Range Control Scale appears.

EXIT to clear the menu.

Depth Range - Upper and Lower Limits

Virtually any segment of the water column can be displayed by using the upper and lower limit feature. This lets you pick the shallow and deep range limits shown on the screen, provided there is at least 10 feet between the upper and lower limit you select. For example, a range from 12 feet to 34 feet could be used.

Changing the upper and lower limits gives you far greater control over the depth range. This feature lets you "zoom in" the display in almost unlimited combinations. Nearly any segment of the water column, from the surface to the bottom can be shown. This enlarges the sonar targets to best suit your fishing needs and water conditions.

Sonar Page Menu with Upper and Lower Limits command selected

(left); Sonar Chart Limits menu, with Upper Limit selected (right).

To change the upper and lower limits:

1. From the Sonar Page, press The Sonar Chart Limits menu appears, with Upper Limit selected.

2. To set the upper limit, press number, then press → to move the cursor to the next number and repeat until the depth is correct, then press

3. To set the lower limit, press ↓ to change the first number, then press → to move the cursor to the next number and repeat until the depth is correct, then press

MENU|↓ to UPPER AND LOWER LIMITS|ENT.

ENT. Press ↑ or ↓ to change the first

EXIT.

LOWER LIMIT|ENT. Press ↑ or ↓ to

EXIT|EXIT|EXIT.

Fish arches

Area "zoomed"

Normal display, in auto depth range mode, (left); Display "zoomed" with

Upper and Lower Limits focusing on the portion of the water column

from 25 feet to 45 feet deep (right). In the "zoomed" image on the right,

note the target definition, showing two fish holding just off the structure.

To turn off upper and lower limits:

From the Sonar Page, press

MENU|↓ to AUTO DEPTH RANGE|ENT|EXIT.

FasTrack™

This feature automatically converts all echoes to short horizontal lines on the display's far right side. The rest of the screen continues to operate normally. FasTrack gives you a rapid update of conditions directly under the boat. This makes it useful for ice fishing or fishing at anchor. When the boat is not moving, fish signals are long, drawn out lines on a normal chart display. FasTrack converts the graph to a vertical bar graph that, with practice, makes a useful addition to fishing at a stationary location.

Surface clutter

Structure

Fish arches

FasTrack, fish arches show as horizontal bars.

Colorline®

Bottom signal

Sonar Page showing FasTrack.

FasTrack bar graph

Fish I.D.™ (Fish Symbols & Depths)

The Fish I.D. feature identifies targets that meet certain conditions as fish. The microcomputer analyzes all echoes and eliminates surface clutter, thermoclines, and other undesirable signals. In most instances, remaining targets are fish. The Fish I.D. feature displays fish symbols on the screen in place of the actual fish echoes.

There are several fish symbol sizes. These are used to designate the relative size between targets. In other words, Fish I.D. displays a small fish symbol when it recognizes a target as a small fish, a medium fish symbol on a larger target and so on.

The sonar's microcomputer is sophisticated, but it can be fooled. It can't distinguish between fish and other suspended objects such as trotlines, turtles, submerged floats, air bubbles, etc. Individual tree limbs extending outward from a group of limbs are the hardest objects for the Fish I.D. feature to distinguish from fish.

You may see fish symbols on the screen when there actually are no fish. The reverse also is true.

Does that mean Fish I.D. is broken? No. The feature is interpreting sonar returns in a specific way to help take some of the work out of reading the screen. Remember: Fish I.D. is one of the many tools we provide so you can analyze your sonar returns for maximum fish finding information. This and other features can help you successfully "see" beneath the boat under varied water and fishing conditions. Practice with Fish I.D. mode on and off to become more familiar with it. The default for Fish I.D. is off.

Sonar Features highlighted (left); Fish I.D. Symbols selected (right).

To turn the Fish I.D. feature on:

1. From the Sonar Page, press

Press ↓ to FISH SYMBOLS|ENT|EXIT|EXIT.

MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.

To turn off Fish I.D., repeat the instructions in step 1.

Fig. 1 A

Fig. 1 B

Fish symbols appear

in surface clutter

Many fish

arches visible

Fig. 2 A

Fish arches

above structure

Fewer fish

symbols visible

Fig. 2 B

No fish shown

Figures 1A and 2A (left) show Sonar Page in normal chart mode. Figures

1B and 2B (right) show the same underwater scene with Fish I.D. turned

on. Note how arches are replaced with symbols.

FishTrack™

The FishTrack feature shows the depth of a fish symbol when it appears on the display. This lets you accurately gauge the depth of targets. This feature is available only when the Fish I.D. feature is on. The default setting for FishTrack is off.

To turn on FishTrack:

(Note: These instructions will turn on FishTrack and Fish I.D. at the same time.)

1. From the Sonar Page, press

Press ↓ to FISH DEPTHS|ENT|EXIT|EXIT.

To turn off FishTrack, repeat the instructions in step 1. Turning off FishTrack in this manner will not turn off Fish I.D. symbols.

MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.

Symbols with

FishTrack depths

Sonar Features menu with Fish I.D. Depths selected (left). When the

check box to the left is unchecked, the feature is off. Sonar Page

showing Fish I.D. symbols and FishTrack depths turned on (right).

Frequency (Change Transducer Frequency)

A dual-frequency transducer operates with both 200 kHz and 50 kHz. The 200 kHz frequency has a 12° cone angle and the 50 kHz frequency has a 35° cone angle.

The default frequency is 200 kHz, which is best for use in shallow water (about 300 feet or less). This frequency is the best choice for about 80 percent of the fresh and saltwater sport fishing applications. When you get into very deep saltwater (300 to 500 feet or deeper) the 50 kHz frequency is the best choice.

The 200 kHz transducer will give you better detail and definition, but less depth penetration. The 50 kHz transducer will give you greater depth penetration, but a little less detail and less definition (Remember, all sonar units typically read deeper in freshwater than in saltwater.).

There is a common exception to these rules of thumb. Some fishermen on freshwater lakes (or the ocean) using downriggers like to see them on the sonar. In many of those cases, you'll see a 50 kHz transducer frequency in use because the wider cone angle lets them watch the bait.

Sonar Features menu with a frequency of 200 kHz selected.

To change the frequency setting to 50 kHz:

1. From the Sonar Page, press

2. Press ↓ to

3. Press

50 KHZ|ENT.

EXIT|EXIT to clear the menu.

MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.

To change the frequency setting to 200 kHz:

1. From the Sonar Page, press

MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.

2. Press ↓ to 200 KHZ|ENT.

3. Press

EXIT|EXIT to clear the menu.

Log Sonar Chart Data

If you have an MMC installed in the unit, the sonar data shown on the screen can be saved to it. This can be played back at any time. (To play a recorded sonar chart log, see the entry in this section for Sonar Simulator.) If you have a personal computer and internet access, download our free Sonar Viewer and your unit’s emulator at our web site, www.lowrance.com. That will allow you to replay sonar logs on your personal computer.

The Sonar Page menu with the Log Sonar Chart Data command

selected (left). Sonar Chart Logging menu, with the Start Logging

command selected (right). The MMC has 11.7 MB of free space, which

will record the scrolling chart for 20 minutes and 44 seconds.

To record or log chart data:

1. Press

2. To record data using the default settings, press

MENU|↓ to LOG SONAR CHART DATA|ENT.

ENT. The menu clears

and the Sonar Page title bar shows the name of the file you are recording. Warning messages will appear as recording time begins to run out.

NOTE:

You can change any of the settings by using the cursor arrows to highlight different commands. Select change the name. Select

CHART QUALITY if you want to lower the file

FILE NAM E if you want to

quality and record for a longer period. After you've changed the settings, select

START LOGGING.

Overlay Data

On any page display except the Satellite Status and Navigation pages, you can "float" or overlay additional data on the screen with the Overlay Data command. The various data available from your unit are divided into categories in the Overlay Data menu. These categories include GPS Data, Navigation, Trip Calculator, Time, Sonar Data and Miscellaneous Data.

You can select items from any of these categories for display, in any combination. The category divisions are there only to help you sort through the information.

Overlay Data Shown window (left); Data viewer with the Sonar Data

category expanded (right).

To overlay information on your screen:

1. Press

MENU|↓ to OVERLAY DATA|ENT.

2. If you have overlay data on your display, you’ll see a list of that data on the overlay data shown menu. To add data, select

ENT. The data viewer shows information categories with "+" or "–"

press

(ENT TO ADD) and

symbols next to each category name. A category with a "+" next to it is expandable, meaning its contents are hidden.

Selecting the category name and pressing

ENT will show the category's

contents, so you can choose items within it. An expanded category (one with a "–" next to its name) can collapse to hide its contents. Just select the category and press

ENT.

3. Expand any categories that might contain data you want to display. Then press ↓ or ↑ to select a data option.

4. With the data option highlighted, press

ENT to check it (turn it on) or

uncheck it (turn it off). As you turn it on, the data will appear on top of the screen. Every Page display has a maximum number of items you can show using the Overlay Data command.

5. After the desired changes are made, press

EXIT|EXIT to return to the

page display.

To remove overlaid data:

1. While on the Page display that shows the item or items you want to remove, press

MENU|↓ to OVERLAY DATA|ENT.

2. You'll see a list of the overlay data currently displayed. Select the item you want to remove from your display and press

ENT|ENT to

remove the data. To remove another item, select the item and press

ENT|ENT.

3. When you have finished removing all the items you want from the screen, press

EXIT to return to the page display.

Overlay Data Shown, with water speed selected (left). Press ENT to

access REMOVE option (right). Press ENT again to remove item and

return to the Overlay Data Shown screen.

To move overlaid data:

You may find it useful to rearrange data floating in your display window.

1. Press

MENU|↓ to OVERLAY DATA|ENT.

2. You'll see a list of the overlay data currently displayed. Select the item you want to move and press

3. The data begins to flash on your screen. Use any combination of

←, ↑ and ↓ to move the data to a new location.

4. When satisfied, press

EXIT|EXIT.

ENT|→ to MOVE|ENT.

→,

NOTE:

The Customize command and the Overlay Data command use the same information categories. The difference between the two commands is the Customize command is only used to modify pages with digital data boxes, while Overlay Data changes information floating on the screen. See Customize Page Displays, on page 68 for information on customizing data boxes.

To change displayed data font size:

1. From the Map or Sonar page, press MENU|↓ to OVERLAY DATA|ENT.

2. Press ↓ or ↑ to select Data Type|press → or ← to Data Size|

EXIT.

The new size will display the selected data type (To change the font size of another data type repeat these steps, beginning with step two above).

3. To return to the previous page, press

EXIT.

The overlay data on this sonar display includes, Depth, Temperature,

Ground Speed and the Track the boat is following.

NOTE:

Some data types can be displayed in only one font size. If that is the case, the Data Size box will not be displayed for that data type.

Overlay Data Style

Do you like a digital readout or do you prefer an analog gauge look? With the Overlay Style feature you can mix and match your data to suit your viewing preferences.

To access overlaid data style menu:

1. Press

MENU|↓ to OVERLAY DATA|ENT.

2. This will bring up the Overlay Data Shown menu with a list of current overlay data. Highlight the data you want to change on the Overlay Data Shown menu and press

ENT, which will launch the data

information menu.

3. Use ↓ to select overlay style, choose analog, and press

4. Next, press display instead of digital numbers

→ to enter Analog Setup, which will place a gauge on the

ENT.

The Data Information menu (left) with Overlay style window

activated. Choose analog and the Analog Setup button appears (right).

Gauge Setup Menu.

There are four primary setup options in the analog menu: Themes, Tick Marks, Thresholds and Text. You can make gauges transparent from all setup menus except Text Setup.

To change the setup menu, arrow over, highlight one of the four setup options and press setup menu, then press

ENT repeatedly. For advanced information on Overlay Data Style, skip

ENT. Use ↑ ↓ to select the desired category on the

ENT. To return to the main sonar display, press

ahead to 163.

Ping Speed & HyperScroll™

Ping Speed controls the rate at which the transmitter and transducer broadcast sonar sound waves — pings — into the water. The unit has a default ping speed of 50 percent. At normal boating speeds, this automatically provides enough return echoes to refresh the screen and scroll the chart at maximum chart speed.

However, when you are running at high speeds, or just want the fastest possible screen update, you may want to use the HyperScroll™ feature. When you change the Ping Speed to any setting greater than 50 percent, the unit automatically enters HyperScroll mode.

These faster ping rates allow you to maintain a high-detail picture on the screen, and the screen refresh rate and chart scroll speed can keep pace with the boat as it moves quickly over the bottom terrain.

When using HyperScroll, you may also need to manually decrease the sensitivity for optimum performance. Depending on water depth and other conditions, HyperScroll may cause a second bottom echo to return to the transducer during the next ping cycle, or sounding. This can result

in a large amount of clutter appearing on the screen. If this occurs, just decrease the sensitivity to a level that eliminates the clutter. When you turn HyperScroll off, you can return to your original sensitivity level.

Sonar Menu with Ping Speed command selected (left).

The Ping Speed Control Bar (right) at default setting.

To change Ping Speed:

1. From the Sonar Page, press

MENU|↓ to PING SPEED|ENT.

2. The Ping Speed Control Bar appears. Press ↑ to increase ping speed; press ↓ to decrease ping speed. When it's set at the desired level, press

EXIT.

To turn off HyperScroll:

1. From the Sonar Page, press

MENU|↓ to PING SPEED|ENT.

2. The Ping Speed Control Bar appears. Press ↓ to decrease ping speed to 50 percent. When it's set at the desired level, press

EXIT.

When you boost ping speed and switch into HyperScroll, the width of the FasTrack bar graph display doubles at the right side of the screen. This allows you to see the virtually instantaneous sonar returns better, just as you would on a flasher sonar unit. For more information on FasTrack, see its entry in this section.

Reset Options

This command will reset all features, options and settings to their original factory defaults. This is useful when you have changed several settings and want to return the unit to basic automatic operation.

1. Press

2. Press ← to

3. All the menus are cleared and the unit reverts to the Map Page at the 4000-mile zoom range, just as if you had turned it on for the first time. All options have been returned to the factory settings.

YES|ENT.

System Setup menu with Reset Options command selected (left). The

Reset Options dialog box (right).

NOTE:

Reset Options does not erase any waypoints, routes, plot trails, or sonar logs.

Reset Water Distance

The sonar chart's Digital Data display option includes a window that shows distance traveled, called Water Distance ("W Distance"). This information is calculated from an optional water speed sensor, not the GPS. The Water Distance window can be reset to zero using the Reset Water Distance command.

Press The menus are cleared and water distance is reset to 0.00.

Set Keel Offset

This unit measures water depth from the face of the transducer. Since the transducer is installed below the water surface, the depth displayed by the digital depth, chart depth scale, chart cursor or fish symbols is not exact. If the transducer is 1 foot below the surface, and the screen shows the water depth as 30 feet, then the actual depth is 31 feet.

On sailboats or other large vessels with deep drafts, the distance between the transducer installation and the keel or lower engine unit can be several feet. In those cases, an inexact depth reading could result in grounding or striking underwater structure. The Keel Offset feature eliminates the need for the navigator to mentally calculate how much water is under his keel.

Keel Offset lets you calibrate the digital depth: chart depth scale, chart cursor depth and fish symbol depth displayed on the screen. To calibrate the depth indicators, first measure the distance from the face of the transducer to the lowest part of the boat. In this example, we will use 3.5 feet. This will enter as a negative 3.5 feet, which makes the depth indicators perform as if the transducer's lower in the water than it really is.

1. Press

MENU|MENU|↓ to SONAR SETUP|ENT.

2. Use ↓ to scroll down to

KEEL OFFSET, then press ENT. The Keel Offset

dialog box appears. Press ↓ to change the plus (+) sign to a minus (–) sign.

3. Press

4. Press to 5, then press

→ to the first number, then press ↑ to change the number to 3.

→ to the second number, then press ↑ to change that number

EXIT. The depth indicators now accurately show the

water depth beneath the keel.

NOTE:

If knowing the exact depth of water beneath the keel is less important, you can calibrate the depth indicators so that they show the actual water depth from surface to bottom. To do this, first measure the distance from the face of the transducer to the surface (the water line on the boat). In this example, we will use 1.5 feet. This will be entered as a positive 1.5 feet, which makes the depth indicators perform as if the transducer's higher in the water than it really is.

1. Press

2. Use ↓ to scroll down to

MENU|MENU|↓ to SONAR SETUP|ENT.

KEEL OFFSET, then press ENT. The Keel Offset

dialog box appears with a plus (+) sign at the front of the box.

3. Press

4. Press number to 5 and press

→ to the first number, then press ↑ to change the number to 1.

→ to the second number, then press ↑ to change the

EXIT. The depth indicator now accurately

shows the water depth from surface to bottom.

Sensitivity & Auto Sensitivity

Sensitivity controls the ability of the unit to pick up echoes. A low sensitivity level (from zero to 50 percent) excludes much of the bottom information, fish signals, and other target information.

High sensitivity levels let you see this detail, but it can also clutter the screen with many undesired signals. Typically, the best sensitivity level shows a solid bottom signal with some surface clutter.

Automatic Sensitivity

The default sensitivity mode is automatic. The unit bases the sensitivity level on water depth and conditions. When the unit is in the automatic mode, sensitivity automatically adjusts to keep a solid bottom signal displayed, plus a little more power. This gives it the capability to show fish and other detail.

Situations occur, however, when it becomes necessary to increase or decrease sensitivity. This typically happens when you wish to see more detail, so an increase in sensitivity is needed. Or when wave action and boat wakes create tiny air bubbles that clutter much of the water column. In that case, a decrease in sensitivity is necessary to reduce some of the clutter.

The control bar used to adjust sensitivity up or down is the same whether the unit is in the automatic or manual mode. In automatic, you can adjust sensitivity up to 100 percent but the unit will limit your minimum setting. In auto, the unit will continue to make small adjustments, allowing for the setting you selected.

In manual mode, you have complete control over sensitivity, with the ability to set it anywhere from zero to 100 percent. Once you select a level in manual, the unit will continue to use that exact sensitivity setting until you change it or revert to auto mode.

To adjust sensitivity in auto mode:

1. Press

MENU|ENT.

2. The Sensitivity Control Bar appears. Press ↓ to decrease sensitivity; press ↑ to increase sensitivity. When it's set at the desired level, press

EXIT. (When you reach the maximum or minimum limit, a tone sounds.)

Sonar Menu with Sensitivity command selected (left).

The Sensitivity Control Bar (right).

To adjust sensitivity in manual mode:

1. First, turn off Auto Sensitivity: from the Sonar Page. Press to

AUTO SENSITIVITY|ENT.

2. Press ↑ to

SENSITIVITY|ENT and the Sensitivity Control Bar appears.

MENU|↓

Press ↓ or ↑ to pick a different sensitivity setting. When it's set at the desired level, press

EXIT.

To turn Auto Sensitivity back on:

From the Sonar Page, press

MENU|↓ to AUTO SENSITIVITY|ENT|EXIT.

NOTE:

To return to the original factory setting for Auto Sensitivity, see the entry in this section on Reset Options. If sensitivity is in manual mode, the Reset Options command will switch back to Auto and reset the factory setting at the same time.

Tip:

For quicker sensitivity adjustments, try leaving the Sensitivity Control Bar on the screen as the chart scrolls. This is handy when there's a lot of clutter in the water and you are matching the sensitivity to rapidly changing water conditions.

Sonar Chart Mode

The default color scheme for the sonar chart is white background, but we offer other variations to suit your viewing preferences. The chart can be displayed in Grayscale, Reverse Grayscale, Blue Background, White Background, Nightview, IceView or Bottom Color Tracking.

To change the chart mode:

1. From the Sonar Page, press

. Press → ↓ to SONAR CHART MODE|ENT.

3. Press ↓ or ↑ to

4. Press

EXIT|EXIT to return to the Sonar Page.

Mode Name|ENT.

MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.

Sonar Page & Sonar Chart Display Options

The Pages Menu has four chart display options. To access them, press

PAGES|← or→ to SONAR|↓ to Option Name|EXIT.

Pages Menu, showing sonar chart display options.

Full Sonar Chart

This is the default mode used when the unit is turned on for the first time or when it's reset to the factory defaults.

The bottom signal scrolls across the screen from right to left. Depth scales on the right side of the screen aid in determining the depth of targets. The line at the top of the screen represents the surface. The bottom depth and surface temperature (if equipped with a temperature sensor or a transducer with a temp sensor built in) show at the top left corner of the screen.

The FasTrack™ display shows just to the right of the scale. This changes all echoes into short horizontal bars, replicating the flasher sonar. The zoom bar on the far right shows the area magnified when the zoom is in use (See the Zoom section on page 92 for more information.).

Full Sonar Chart. The Overlay Data (depth and water temperature)

are each set to a different text size.

Split Zoom Sonar Chart

A split chart shows the underwater world from the surface to the bottom on the right side of the screen. The left side shows an enlarged version of the right side. The zoom range shows at the bottom left corner of the screen.

Split Zoom Sonar Chart (left) shows the left window zoomed

to 2X. The image on the right shows the left window zoomed to 4X.

Digital Data/Chart

This mode shows the chart on the right side of the screen. The left side has four digital boxes containing, Depth, Track, Bearing and a Temperature Graph.

Digital Data/Chart.

Sonar Simulator

This unit has a built-in simulator that lets you run it as if you were on the water. All sonar features and functions are useable. When in simulator mode, you will see the chart file name in the Sonar Page title bar and a play symbol will flash on and off at the right end of the title bar. To use the simulator:

1. From the Sonar Page, press

SIMULATORS| ENT.

2. A tabbed menu will appear on screen. Press → to

SONAR SIMULATOR ON | ENT.

MENU|MENU|↓ to SYSTEM SETUP|ENT|↓ to

SONAR SIMULATOR |↓

Main Menu with System Setup command selected (left). Sonar

Simulator menu, with simulator turned on (right).

NOTE:

With Simulate Position checked, the simulator will also automatically run the GPS simulator (if GPS data was recorded with the sonar log).

3. To use the default sonar chart log stored in the unit, press ↓ to

CHART

begins scrolling across the screen, just as if you were on the water.

4. Turn off the Sonar Simulator by pressing

MENU|MENU|↓ to SYSTEM

"Play" Title bar with chart file name

symbol

flashing

The Sonar Page playing a recorded sonar chart in Simulator mode.

Tip:

The Sonar Simulator can use sonar charts recorded (logged) on a MMC card (To see how, read the entry in this section on Log Sonar Chart Data). To play back a sonar chart, make sure the MMC containing the chart is installed, then:

1. Press

2. Press ↓ to

3. Use ↓ or ↑ to select chart name|

While you're in the Sonar Simulator menu, don't forget to check Simulate Position if you want to run the sonar and GPS simulators simultaneously. As you review sonar logs, you can create waypoints to mark sites you want revisit.

While the simulator is running, you can switch from one chart log to another by opening the Sonar Simulator menu and using the instructions in step 2 to select a different chart.

CHART USED|ENT.

ENT|↑ to SONAR SIMULATOR ON|ENT|EXIT.

NOTE:

If you turn on your unit before attaching a transducer, it may enter a demo mode. The words "demo mode" flash on the bottom of the screen and a sonar chart plays much like the simulator. Unlike the simulator, the demo mode is for demonstration only, and will automatically stop as soon as you turn on the unit with a transducer attached. The simulator will continue to function normally.

Lowrance LCX-112C, LCX-37C, LCX-38C HD, LCX-113C HD, LCX-28C HD User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual