is a registered trademark of Lowrance Electronics, Inc.
MapCreate is a trademark of Lowrance Electronics, Inc.
Navionics
is a registered trademark of Navionics, Inc.
Points of Interest Data in this unit are by infoUSA,
copyright 2001-2004, All Rights Reserved. infoUSA is a
trademark of infoUSA, Inc.
eXitSource Database, copyright 2001-2004 Zenrin Co.
Ltd. Exit Authority and eXitSource are trademarks of
Zenrin Co. Ltd.
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:
LMS-335C DF shown.
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
Sec. 1: Read Me First! ...............................................................1
Capabilities and Specifications: LMS-330C and LMS-335C DF.. 3
How Lowrance Sonar Works ........................................................ 5
How Lowrance GPS Works .......................................................... 6
Introduction to GPS and WAAS................................................... 8
Free Training Aids Available ..................................................... 10
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.
WARNING!
CAUTION
WARNING!
vi
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 compact, color display, combination fish finder
and mapping 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 6, you have an incredible combination.
You won't find another combination GPS and 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 fast, with a minimum
of fuss. Like you, we'd rather spend more time boating or fishing and
less time reading the manual!
So, we designed our book so that you don't have to read the whole thing
from front to back for 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 organized into 10 sections. This first section is an introduction to the LMS-330C or LMS-335C DF, sonar and GPS. It tells you
the basics you need to know before you can make the unit look around
and tell you where you are, or look below the surface to find some fish.
Section 2 will help you install your unit, the transducer and the GPS
antenna module. We'll show you how to get the MultiMedia Card
(MMC) correctly installed inside the unit. We'll also tell you about some
of the available accessories.
Section 3 covers Basic Sonar Operation. It will show you how easy it is
to run your unit, right out of the box. This section features a one-page
Sonar Quick Reference. (If you've already jumped ahead and fig-
ured 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!)
1
After you've gained some experience with your sonar, you'll want to
check out Section 4, which discusses more advanced Sonar Options andOther 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, just 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 112.
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 Opera-tions. 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, just 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 it's 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, we had to give this function it's own section in the manual! For
example, did you know this unit can look up business phone numbers,
functioning as 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 datums used, warranties and customer service information.
2
Now, if you're into the fine details, glance over the next segment on
specifications to see just how much sonar and GPS power your unit contains. 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 the sonar works, on
page 5. (Background on GPS begins on page 6.)
Capabilities and Specifications: LMS-330C and LMS-335C DF
Transducers: .................... A dual-frequency Skimmer
transducer with
built-in temperature sensor is packed with the
LMS-335C DF. It has 35°/12° cone angles. A
single-frequency Skimmer transducer with
built-in temperature sensor is packed with the
LMS-330C. It has a 20° cone angle. Transducers operate at speeds up to 70 mph (61 kts).
(Actual capability depends on transducer
configuration and installation, bottom composition and water conditions. All sonar
units typically read deeper in fresh water
than in salt water.)
Contains: enhanced detail of continental U.S.
and Hawaii. Includes more than 60,000 nav
aids and 10,000 wrecks/obstructions in
coastal and Great Lakes waters. Metro areas, selected major streets/highways and interstate exit services details included.
Routes:............................. 100; up to 100 waypoints per route.
Plot Trails: ...................... 10 savable; up to 9,999 points per trail.
Zoom range:.................... 40 ranges; 0.02 to 4,000 miles.
NOTE:
The above memory capacities refer only to the unit's on-board
memory. The amount of GPS or sonar data you can record and save
for recall later is only limited by the number and capacity of MMC
cards you have.
NOTICE!
The storage and operation temperature range for your unit is from -4
degrees to +167 degrees Fahrenheit (-20 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.
How Lowrance 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 under water basics.
Sonar is an abbreviation for SOund NA
ogy 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. In simple terms, here's how it finds the bottom, or the fish:
The transmitter emits an electrical impulse, which the transducer converts into a sound wave and sends into the water. (The sound frequency
can't be heard by humans or fish.) The sound wave strikes an object
(fish, structure, bottom) and bounces back to the transducer, which
converts the sound back into an electrical signal.
vigation and Ranging, a technol-
5
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 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 or product emulator. The
viewer and emulator are available for download from the Lowrance web
site, www.lowrance.com.
You can save several different sonar log files, erase 'em and record new
ones, over and over again. The size of your sonar recordings is only
limited by the free space available on your MMC.
How Lowrance GPS Works
You'll navigate faster and easier if you understand how the 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 15. If you're new to GPS, read on, and you can
later impress your friends with your new-found knowledge.)
First, think of your unit as a small but powerful computer. (But don't
worry — we made the units in this 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. But
instead of your favorite dance tunes, this receiver tunes in to a couple of
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,
it plots that position on the moving map shown on the screen. The
whole process takes place several times a second!
6
The performance doesn't stop there. Stored in the permanent memory
of each GPS 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 6. 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.
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, or even personal
computers.
This unit has one more thing in common with a personal computer.
Just as computers have a floppy disk drive for storing and exchanging
files, the unit has a slot for an MMC (MultiMedia Card) or SD (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 more than 256 MB 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.
(The MMC is also used 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.
(NOTE: No matter where they come from, GPS Data Files must be
loaded from the MMC into memory before the unit can use them.)
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 much greater de-
7
tail 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 LMS-335C DF and the hand-held
iFINDER
GPS receiver.)
You make your own Custom Map Files with our MapCreate software,
but you don't have to. We also sell ready-to-use FreedomMaps. These
custom maps are pre-loaded on MMCs. (No computer work required!).
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
15, 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
12. 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 Global Positioning System (GPS) was launched July 17, 1995 by
the United States Department of Defense. It was designed as a 24hour-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 at first, 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 that at
least four satellites are in view nearly anywhere on Earth at all times.
8
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. These signals can be easily blocked by trees,
buildings, an automobile roof, even your body.
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 alone is plenty accurate for route navigation, but the U.S. Federal
Aviation Administration has special aircraft navigation needs that go
beyond basic GPS. So, the FAA has developed a program to boost GPS
performance with its Wide Area Augmentation System, or WAAS. The
FAA commissioned the system on July 11, 2003.
WAAS is designed to increase GPS accuracy to within 7.6 meters vertically
and horizontally, but it consistently delivers accuracies within 1-2 meters
horizontal and 2-3 meters vertical, according to the FAA. It does this by
broadcasting correction signals on GPS frequencies. Your unit automatically receives both GPS and WAAS signals.
9
However, there are some fringe areas of the U.S., including parts of
Alaska, that do not yet receive robust WAAS coverage. Continued WAAS
development is planned to extend WAAS coverage in the years to come.
WAAS boosts 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 can sometimes 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 general public today. Remember, however, that this
receiver is only a tool. Always have another method of navigation available, such as a map or chart and a compass.
Also remember that 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, for example. It’s up to you to safely navigate
around obstacles, no matter how you’re using this product.
Free Training Aids Available
Now that you know something about the technology that makes this
unit possible, you're ready to start learning how to use that technology!
This manual will guide you through the process of setting up and running your unit, but that's only one of many resources available.
If you or a friend has Internet access, visit our web site! Find us at
WWW.LOWRANCE.COM. The site is packed with additional information
on using our products. For instance, you can learn more about interpreting what you see on your sonar screen with our free Sonar Tutorial.
The tutorial 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 …it makes a great supplement to this operation manual.
Sonar Viewer
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:
•Color interpretation of sonar signals can be user defined.
10
•Operates like a Windows Multimedia Player with forward, re-
verse, pause, fast forward, fast reverse, and scroll buttons.
• Adjustments update the entire record displayed.
• Can print in full color.
• Window can dynamically be sized on your monitor.
• Mouse cursor shows GPS position, depth and sounding number
anywhere on the visible record.
Unit Emulator
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.
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.
11
And that's just some of the material available on our web site. To find
out all we have available, go to
WWW.LOWRANCE.COM and look around.
For now, though, we'll get back to how to use this particular unit. And,
first, how to use the manual.
How to use this manual: typographical conventions
Many instructions are listed as numbered steps. The keypad and arrow
"keystrokes" appear as boldface type. So, if you're in a real hurry (or
just need a reminder), you can skim the instructions and pick out what
menu command to use by finding the boldface command text. The following paragraphs explain how to interpret the text formatting for
those commands and other instructions:
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 help you
move around the menus so you can execute different commands. They
are represented by symbols like these, which denote the down arrow
key, the up arrow, the left arrow and the 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, sans serif type. For example, the
"Enter/Icons" key is shown as
ENT and the "Menu" key is shown as MENU.
Menu Commands
A menu command or a menu option will appear in small capital letters, in
a bold sans serif type like this:
ROUTE PLANNING. These indicate that you are
to select this command or option from a menu or take an action of some
kind with the menu item. Text that you may 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 the 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 Trail 1|
ENT|→ to NAVIGATE|ENT.
MENU|MENU|↓ to MY TRAILS|ENT.
12
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.
Translated into complete English, step 1 above would mean: "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 would mean: "Press the down arrow key repeatedly to scroll to
the trail named Trail 1, and press Enter. Next, press the right arrow
key to highlight the Navigate command, then press Enter."
13
Notes
14
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 to the bracket.
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.
15
transducer on a
Read these instructions carefully before attempting the installation.
Determine which of the mounting positions is right for your boat. Re-
member, the transducer installation is the most critical part of a
sonar installation.
NOTE:
The following installation types also call for these recommended
tools and required supplies that you must provide (supplies listed
here 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, 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
16
at speeds faster than 35 mph. Typically, a good transom location on
prevent the transducer from
location
Deadrise less than 10
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.
°
Left, vee pad hull; right, vee hull. A pod style transducer is shown
Pad
here, 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
entering the boat if it is
knocked off at high speed.
Good location
Poor location
Good
Poor angle
Good and poor transducer locations.
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
17
usually give you the best combination of smooth water flow and protec-
Transom
centerline
tion from bangs and bumps.
Transducer
Hull bottom
Align transducer centerline with 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 waves or wakes.
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.
However, the shoot-thru-hull installation 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.
18
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 CAN NOT 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.
19
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.
Alignment letters
Alignment
positions
Transducer
Transducer bracket
Transducer
Insert and align ratchets.
bracket
Transducer
Ratchet
Add ratchets to bracket and transducer.
Ratchet
2. Aligning the transducer on the transom.
A. One-piece bracket: Slide the transducer between the two ratch-
ets. 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.
20
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.
21
Flat washer
Bolt
Flat washer
Assemble transducer and bracket.
Lock washer
Nut
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
Assemble transducer and bracket.
washer
Metal washer
Bolt
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).
22
Transom
Transom
Position transducer mount on transom and mark mounting holes.
Side view shown at left and seen from above at 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 at left and seen from above at 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 sealant.
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'tover tighten the lock nut! If you do, the transducer won't "kick-up" if
it strikes an object in the water.
23
Flat-bottom hull
Bottom
of
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 aerators can be picked up by the sonar. 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. Don't allow the
transducer bracket to go below the bottom of the hull!
24
TROLLING MOTOR BRACKET INSTALLATION
Flat washer
(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
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.
25
Partial fish arches
Transducer aimed
too far back
Full fish arch
Proper transducer angle
Transducer angles and their effects on fish arches.
Transducer aimed
too far forward
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. See the following figure.
26
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.
Fill with polyester resin
Flotation material
Inner hull
Epoxy to hull first
Epoxy the transducer to a solid portion of the 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.
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.
27
To choose the proper location for shoot-thru-hull mounting, follow these
Second bottom
True bottom
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.
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.
28
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 26.
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.
Spread epoxy here
Sand this surface
Epoxy transducer to hull.
WARNING:
Use only the epoxy available from LEI. It has been for-
mulated 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.
29
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 thereare 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 Temperature Sensor
All the units in this series can display water temperature using the TS1BL temp sensor. This is an analog temp sensor that plugs directly into
the sonar socket on the back of your unit. However, the units in this
series come packed with a transducer with a temp sensor built-in.
The Sonar socket on your unit is designed to receive only one temperature sensor. Since your transducer contains a built-in temp sensor, attaching the TS-1BL to your unit's Sonar socket will override the temperature information provided by the transducer's temp sensor. Your
unit will only display the temperature provided by the TS-1BL.
Most users will prefer to use the temp sensor built into the transducer.
If you do wish to purchase an optional TS-1BL, see accessory ordering
information inside the back cover of this manual.
Optional Speed Sensor Installation
All the units in this series can display speed and distance traveled, but
only the LMS-335C DF comes packed with a speed sensor. If you wish
30
to purchase an optional additional sensor for your unit, 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. (Supplies are not included.)
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. 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
31
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:
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 screws.
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 (see drawing on page 41). If you have any questions concerning
the installation of the sensor, please contact your local boat dealer.
GPS Antenna/Receiver Module
This unit's package includes the LGC-2000 GPS module. This device contains the unit's external antenna and receiver for GPS and WAAS signals.
The antenna/receiver module comes with a 25-foot Y-adapter 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-2000 Module, bottom view (left) and top view (right).
Tools required for installation are: wire pliers, flat screwdriver, drill, 1"
(25 mm) drill bit and 3/16" (4.75 mm) drill bit.
The LGC-2000 requires 9 to 20 volts DC power. It draws power through
the unit or from the NMEA 2000 buss (instructions on powering a
NMEA 2000 buss appear later in this section).
The GPS module can be mounted on any flat surface, provided there is
access behind the mounting surface for the screws. The optional magnet allows the module to be easily used on cars or off-road vehicles. The
pole mount adapter lets you mount the antenna on a pole or swivel
mount that uses standard marine 1" - 14 threads.
32
GPS Module Installation
Surface Mount
The GPS module can be easily installed on any flat surface that is at
least 3-1/2" (90 mm) wide. Be sure that a clear, unobstructed view of
the sky is available at the selected location. GPS signals travel "line-ofsight" at very high frequencies, so nearly anything blocking the antenna can stop the unit from finding a satellite. Caution: Do not mount
in line with a radar antenna. Radar radiates high-energy signals that
can interfere with GPS signal reception.
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.
Once you’ve determined the mounting location, use the template on
page 34 to drill the screw holes. The screws supplied with this unit are
about 1-1/8" long (4mm x 30mm). Drill 3/16" (4.75 mm) holes for the
mounting screws.
If you need to route the cable through the mounting surface, drill a 1"
(25mm) hole for the cable's connector. There is a notch in the antenna
housing that allows the cable to pass through to the outside, if desired,
instead of routing it through the mounting surface.
After drilling the holes, pass the O-ring over the cable and press it into
the groove on the bottom of the antenna housing. Now attach the antenna to the mounting surface, using 4 mm screws and the supplied lock
washers. Route the cable and the GPS module installation is finished.
Magnet Mount
A magnet (available as an option) lets you temporarily mount the GPS
module on any ferrous metal surface, such as a car. To use the magnet,
simply peel the backing off the magnet's adhesive coating and press the
magnet to the bottom of the antenna housing. The module is ready for use.
Magnet
Under side view showing magnet.
33
Pole Mount
The GPS module attaches to the pole mount
adapter with the supplied 4 mm screws. You
can route the cable through the slot in the
side of the module and down the side of the
pole. Or, you can pass it down through the
pole mount adapter and run the cable inside
the pole. The 1"-14 threads on the pole
mount adapter accept a standard marine antenna mount.
Pole mount adapter
with module attached.
Drill size 3/16" (4.75 mm)
Drill four places.
Drill size 1" (25 mm )
(If needed.)
GPS module mounting template.
After the module is installed, connect it to the unit. The LGC-2000 can
communicate with your GPS unit either directly (using the supplied extension cable) or through a NMEA 2000 network.
34
Connecting Directly to the Unit
After the module is installed, attach it to the end of the Y-adapter extension cable as shown in the following diagram. To connect it to the
unit, insert the extension cable's splitter plug into the Network socket
on the back of the unit and your system is ready to use.
60-ohm
terminator
LGC-2000
To unit
Splitter plug
25' Y-adapter
extension cable
LGC-2000 direct connection to GPS unit.
NOTE:
The extension cable’s shorter branch will have a 60-ohm terminator attached to it. Do not remove this terminator. When you're not connecting to a NMEA 2000 buss, you must leave the terminator connected to this socket for your antenna/receiver to function correctly.
Connecting to a NMEA 2000 Network
The LGC-2000 can be connected to a NMEA 2000 buss, providing GPS
information to any Lowrance GPS units attached to the buss. Contact LEI
Extras (look inside back cover for accessory ordering information) for a
NMEA 2000 buss adapter cable if you would like to do this.
There are two ways to connect the antenna to a NMEA 2000 network
port. One method (shown in the following image) is to use the extension
cable's Y-adapter to connect both the antenna and the unit to the same
network port. To do this, simply remove the 60-ohm terminator shown in
the previous image and attach the NMEA 2000 buss adapter cable to the
shorter branch of the extension cable's Y-adapter. Connect the NMEA
2000 buss adapter cable's other end to an available network port.
LGC-2000
25' Y-adapter
extension cable
To NMEA 2000
network port
LGC-2000 and GPS unit connection to NMEA 2000 buss.
To unit
You can also attach the antenna to a remote port on the network, and
pass position information along the network. To do this, simply attach the
35
LGC-2000's connector to one end of the buss adapter cable and attach the
other to an available port on the NMEA 2000 buss, as shown in the following image. (You will have to use a similar adapter cable to connect the
GPS unit to the NMEA buss as described later in this section.)
To NMEA 2000
network port
LGC-2000
LGC-2000 remote connection to NMEA 2000 buss.
NOTE:
An existing operational NMEA 2000 buss will already have terminators in place and will already be powered. If you're connecting to such a
network, you won't need the terminators provided. Do not add terminators or power to a functional NMEA 2000 buss!
When the LGC-2000 is connected to the unit (directly or indirectly), it
will begin providing GPS signal information.
Power Connections
Your unit comes with a power/data cable that splits into three ends,
each with several exposed wires (shown in the following figure). The
end with 4 wires (blue, yellow, orange and shield) is a Data cable that
connects to a NMEA 0183 interface. The end with three wires (red,
black and shield) is a power cable that connects to a NMEA 2000 buss.
The thicker three-wire cable (red, black and white) is the Power Supply
for your unit (and optional external speaker connection for some units).
Power Supply wires:
red, black and white
To unit
NMEA 2000 Power wires:
red, black and shield
NMEA 0183 Data Cable
wires: blue, yellow,
The Power/Data cable for this unit.
orange and shield
Depending on your configuration, you may not use all of these wires.
(For example, many units cannot operate an optional external speaker,
so the white wire on the Power Supply cable isn't functional.) The following segments include instructions for installing all the wires that
you will use with this unit.
36
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 or wrapping them with electrical tape. (You should cut
off the bare wire before taping off the ends.)
Powering a NMEA 2000 Buss
(NMEA 2000 Power cable)
A NMEA 2000 buss must be connected to a power source to operate. If
you have a pre-existing NMEA 2000 installation, it may already be
connected to another power source. If your NMEA 2000 buss is already
powered, you can ignore the NMEA 2000 Power cable. Never attach
two power sources to a single NMEA 2000 buss.
If you do need to power your NMEA 2000 buss, attach the NMEA 2000
Power cable to your boat's battery just as indicated in the following
segment for connecting your unit's Power Supply cable. The NMEA
2000 Power cable's red wire should be attached (with provided 3-amp
fuse) to the boat battery's positive terminal, and the NMEA 2000 Power
cable's black and shield wires should both be attached to the battery's
negative terminal.
NOTE:
If the NMEA 2000 buss draws power directly from the boat's battery,
the LGC-2000 will remain on (drawing power) all the time. The LGC2000's current draw is very small and shouldn't decrease the boat's
storage battery life, but if this small draw is a concern, you can install a switch between the NMEA 2000 buss and the battery.
Powering Your Unit
(Power Supply cable – red and black wires)
The unit works from a 12-volt battery system. For the best results, attach the power cable directly to the battery. You can attach the power
cable to an accessory or power buss, however you may have problems
with electrical interference. Therefore, it's safer to go ahead and attach
the power cable directly to the battery.
CAUTION:
When using the unit in a saltwater environment, we strongly recommend that you shut off the power supply to the power cable when
the unit is not in use. 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.
37
In saltwater environments 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 inline 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.
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
power cable has two wires, red and black. Red is the positive lead, black
is negative or ground. There is also a white wire to power an optional
external speaker for some units. 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 battery or
power buss, attach one end of the fuse holder directly to the battery or
power buss. This will protect both the unit and the power cable in the
event of a short. It uses a 3-amp fuse.
White external speaker wire
To unit
To power a
NMEA 2000
buss, also
connect
NMEA 2000
Power cable
to the boat's
battery.
(not used by this unit)
Black wire
Optional power off
switch for saltwater installations
Red wire with
3 amp fuse
12 volt
battery
Data Cable
NMEA 2000 Power Cable
Power connections for the unit.
NOTE:
If you're powering a NMEA 2000 buss, you will attach both the
NMEA 2000 Power cable and the unit's Power Supply cable to the
boat's battery. To attach the NMEA 2000 Power cable, connect the
red wire to battery's + and black and shield wires to battery's –.
38
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 buss.
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 unrepairable and could even cause harm to the
user when not properly fused.
CAUTION:
Do not use this product without a 3-amp fuse wired into the power
cable! Failure to use a 3-amp fuse will void your warranty.
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.
An optional 8-foot, CA-4 external power cable with a cigarette lighter
adapter is available from Lowrance.
NMEA 2000 Cable Connections
NMEA 2000 is a new buss network specifically designed for boats. This is
a very young industry standard and, at the time of printing, few boats
being built now have a NMEA 2000 buss 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 as soon as it becomes available.
Connecting to a NMEA 2000 Network
Your unit can be connected to a NMEA 2000 buss, receiving sensor information from any Lowrance units attached to the buss. Contact LEI
Extras (look inside back cover for accessory ordering information) for a
NMEA 2000 buss adapter cable if you would like to do this. You can
connect both the unit and antenna module through the antenna's extension cable (as described earlier), or you can connect the unit directly
to a network port. To do so, simply attach the adapter cable's manual
locking collar connector to the Network port on the back of the sonar
unit and attach the other end to an available port on the NMEA 2000
buss, as shown in the following figure.
To NMEA 2000
network port
Lowrance unit direct connection to NMEA 2000 buss.
To sonar
unit's Network
socket
39
As soon as the unit is connected to the network, it will begin receiving
Yellow (Transmit)
shared information. Please note that the buss must be powered to operate. (For more on powering a NMEA 2000 buss, see the instructions
earlier in this section.)
NMEA 0183 Cable Connections
NMEA is a standard communications format for marine electronic
equipment. For example, an autopilot can connect to the NMEA interface on this unit and receive positioning information. The unit can exchange information with any device that transmits or receives NMEA
0183 data.
See the following diagram for general wiring connections. Read your
other product’s owner’s manual for more wiring information.
NMEA 0183 Wiring
(Data cable)
To exchange NMEA 0183 data, this unit has one NMEA 0183 version
2.0 communication port. Com port one (Com-1) can be used to receive
NMEA format GPS data. The com port can also transmit NMEA format
GPS data to another device.
The four wires for the com port are combined with the Power Supply
cable and NMEA 2000 Power cable to form the power/data cable (shown
earlier). Com-1 uses the yellow wire to transmit, the orange wire to receive and the shield wire for signal ground. Your unit does not use the
blue wire.
Com-1
To unit
Orange (Receive)
Shield (Ground)
NMEA Transmit
Ground
To Other
GPS Receiver
Com-1
To unit
Com-1 wiring to receive NMEA position information
from some other GPS receiver.
NMEA Receive
Shield (Ground)
Com-1 wiring to transmit NMEA position information
to another NMEA-compatible device.
Ground
40
To Other
Device
Unit,
rear view
Sonar socket
Power/Data socket
NMEA 0183
Data cable
(four wires)
NMEA 2000
Power cable
Power Supply
cable
Network socket
SP-BL optional
speed sensor
LGC-2000 25'
extension cable
60-ohm
terminator
Transducer
GPS
antenna
module
Cable connections shown.
Mounting the Unit: Bracket, In-Dash or Portable
You can install the unit on the top of a dash with the supplied 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
41
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 back side of thin fiberglass panels to reinforce the panel and secure the mounting hardware.
Front
Install the gimbal bracket. Orient the bracket so the arms slope toward
the front of your unit.
42
Drill a 1-inch (25.4 mm) hole in the dash for the power, transducer and
antenna cables. The best location for this hole is immediately under the
gimbal bracket location. This way, the bracket can be installed so that
it covers the hole, holds the cables in position and results in a neat installation. Some customers, however, prefer to mount the bracket to the
side of the cable hole — it's a matter of personal preference.
77.1
[3.03]
27.6
173.9
[6.85]
[1.09]
137.9
[5.43]
Millimeter
[Inch]
Front view (left) and side view (right) showing dimensions of LMS-
335C DF sonar/GPS unit when mounted on gimbal bracket.
157.9
[6.22]
56.9
[2.24]
After drilling the hole, pass the transducer connector up through the
hole from under the dash, followed by antenna connector. 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. (Some marine dealers stock cable hole covers
to conceal the opening.) No matter what type of installation you prefer,
be sure to leave enough slack in the cables to allow tilting or swiveling
the unit. If you choose to fill in the hole, be sure to position the cables
against the rear edge of the hole as you apply the fill material.
Before positioning the bracket, be sure to hold the cables against the
rear edge of the hole. Then, slide the bracket over the hole and butt the
rear of the bracket base firmly against the cables, thus pinning them in
place against the side of the hole. Finally, fasten the bracket to the
dash. Attach the unit to the gimbal bracket using the supplied gimbal
knobs and washers.
43
In-Dash Installation
ALWAYS VERIFY DIMENSIONS
You can mount the unit in the dash with an optional FM-5 In-Dash
Adapter Kit. The kit includes mounting hardware, a template for cutting the hole and an instruction sheet, part 988-0147-43.
146.5
[5.76]
Top
R 7.9
[0.31]
In-Dash
Template
Millimeters
[Inches]
113.5
[4.46]
In-dash mounting template for LMS-335C DF sonar/GPS unit, showing
dimensions. NOTE: The figure above is not printed to scale. A scaled
template (FM-5 In-Dash Adapter Kit instructions) is available for free
download from our web site, www.lowrance.com.
MMC or SD Card Memory Card Installation
Your unit uses a MultiMedia Card to store information, such as sonar
logs, custom maps, waypoints, trails and other GPS data. The unit can
also use Secure Digital Cards (SD card) to store data.
NOTE:
Throughout this manual, we will use the term MMC, but just remember that your unit can use an MMC or SD card to store data.
Both of these solid-state flash memory devices are about the size of a
postage stamp. An SD card is slightly thicker than an MMC. As this
manual went to press, MMCs were available in storage capacities of 8
MB, 16 MB, 32 MB, 64 MB and 128 MB. SD cards were available in
capacities of 8 MB, 16 MB, 32 MB, 64 MB, 128 MB, 256 MB and higher.
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.
44
The MMC slot is located in a compartment on the front of the case. The
compartment door is located at the lower right corner. The following
figure shows a close-up with the door opened.
Thumb
screw
Memory card compartment with a 16 MB MMC card installed.
Insert card face up,
this way
To remove an MMC
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. Just press a finger against the label of the MMC and drag it from the slot.
3. Close the compartment door and fasten the thumb screw finger tight.
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, use your fingernails to slide it the rest of
the way to the left, until it is firmly seated in the slot.
3. Close the compartment door and fasten the thumb screw finger tight.
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, wind blast can pop off the cover.
45
Other Accessories
Other accessories include MMC cards, MMC card readers and MapCreate™ 6 custom mapping software for your computer. MMC card readers
are available in USB and parallel port versions.
MapCreate™ 6 CD-ROM, left; MMC card reader for USB ports, right.
Switch Boxes
Two switch boxes are available for this unit. The SB-9BL transducer
switch box switches two transducers to one sonar unit. The SB-10BL
transducer switch box switches two sonar units to one transducer.
If any of 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.
Now that you have your unit installed, move on to Section 3, Basic So-nar Operations. There, we'll present a series of step-by-step tutorials to
teach you the basics of 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 over 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.)
46
Section 3: Basic Sonar Operation
2
This section addresses the unit's most basic sonar operations. The instructions presented in Sec. 3 follow a chronological order. Sec. 4, SonarOptions & Other Features, will discuss other more advanced functions
and utilities. Material in Sec. 4 is arranged in alphabetical order.
Before you turn on the sonar 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
4
8
3
5
MMC slot access door
LMS-335C DF sonar/GPS unit, front view, showing full sonar chart
screen display, keyboard and access door for the MMC slot.
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.
9
7
6
1
47
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, move the map and sonar chart cursors
and enter data.
5. ENT/ICONS (Enter & Icons) – This key allows you to save data, ac-
cept 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 or erase a menu.
7. WPT – (Waypoint) The Waypoint key is used to save and recall way-
points, 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 greater detail in 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
backlight settings and turn off the backlight.
Turn off the unit by pressing and holding the
PWR again. The unit has three backlight
PWR will cycle through the
PAGES|→|EXIT.
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 sonar unit will work fine right
out of the box with the factory default settings. But, if you want to
48
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 on page 12, "How to use this manual…."
Main Menu.
The Main Menu commands and their functions are:
Screen command: changes the contrast or brightness of the display
screen.
Sounds command: enables or disables the sounds for key strokes and
alarms and sets the alarm style.
Transparency command: adjust the level of transparency for menus.
Alarms command: turns sonar and 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.
49
GPS Setup command: sets various GPS receiver options.
System Setup command: sets general configuration options.
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
settings.
Browse MMC Files command: this allows you to view the installed
MMC card and the files it contains.
Pages
The unit has four Page displays that represent the four major operating
modes. They are the Satellite Status Page, the Navigation Page, the Map
Page and Sonar Page. They are accessed by pressing the
using → or ← to select a Page. (Clear the Pages Menu by pressing
PAGES key, then
EXIT.)
Pages Menu, showing some 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 much greater
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.
50
WARNING:
Do not begin navigating with this unit until the numbers
have stopped flashing!
Satellite Status Page showing satellite lock-on with a 3D position
acquired (latitude, longitude and altitude), including WAAS reception.
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 a GPS function, so it is discussed in much greater
detail in Sec. 6.
Navigation Page, recording a trail, traveling southwest.
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
51
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 Bull Shoals Lake, Arkansas. At left is
the full map option. At right, map with sonar option.
Map Page is also the default screen that appears when you turn on the
unit. To get to the Map Page from another page: Press
to
MAP|EXIT.
PAGES| → or ←
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 much
greater 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
lect
SONAR. (Clear the Pages Menu by pressing EXIT.) The Pages Menu
PAGES key, then use → or ← to se-
also offers five chart display options under the Sonar Page category. To
access them, press
PAGES|← or→ to SONAR|↓ to Option Name|EXIT.
The Sonar Page also has its own menu, which is used for some 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 press
MENU.
52
At left, Pages Menu, showing sonar chart display option commands.
At right, Sonar Page in full sonar chart display mode.
Sonar chart display options (from left) split zoom and digital data.
Sonar chart display options (from left) FlashGraf and flasher.
53
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 help you better interpret the underwater scene.
We'll discuss all of those features and options in Sec. 4, but to show you
how easy this 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.
54
Basic 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 15.)
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 sounds and a position acquired message appears.
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:
Zoom in to enlarge the chart for more detail: press
Zoom out to return to full chart mode: press
7. Watch the display for the appearance of fish symbols (or arches, if
Fish I.D. is turned off). When you see fish symbols or 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 symbols or
arches with the depth scale on the right side of the screen, or get a
more accurate measure with the Depth Cursor. Press
CURSOR|ENT. Press ↓ or ↑ 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, press
EXIT.
9. If you are drifting at a very low speed or anchored, you are not mov-
ing fast enough for a fish to return the tell-tale 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 when Fish I.D. is turned off.
10. To turn off the unit, press and hold
PWR key.
ZIN.
ZOUT.
MENU|↓ to DEPTH
PWR key for three seconds.
55
Sonar Operations
As you can see from the quick reference on the previous page, basic operation
is pretty 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, determined by Auto Sensitivity.
Typical of full auto mode. Fig. 2: Sensitivity set at 75 percent. Fig. 3: Sen-
sitivity set at 50 percent. Fig. 4: Sensitivity set at 100 percent.
56
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 it 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 tell 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 the 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 manual control of the
car's speed. In the 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 ↓ 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.)
At left, Sonar Menu with Sensitivity command selected. At right, the
Sensitivity Control Bar.
57
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 MENU|MENU|↓ to SYSTEM SETUP|ENT|↓ to RESET 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 fishy signal
return when he sees it. However, locating fish by symbol only has some
limitations.
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 that
lunker 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, in one case fisherman
in San Francisco Bay saw clouds of clutter in the water but no fish
arches. When a down rigger was pulled up, it brought up several small
jellyfish. The fisherman switched their sonar to Fish I.D., which
screened out the schools of jellyfish and clearly showed the game fish
there as fish symbols.
The sonar options section discusses Fish I.D., fish alarms and other
features in greater detail.
58
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 they are processed by the
ASP feature.
At left, Sonar Menu with Sonar Features selected. In the Sonar
Features menu, Noise Rejection is selected with ASP in the default low
setting (center, dual-frequency menu; at right, single-frequency menu).
To change the ASP level:
1. From the Sonar Page, press
2. Press ↓ to
NOISE REJECTION|ENT.
MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.
59
3. Press ↓ or ↑ to select a setting, then press
ENT.
4. To return to the previous page, press
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 that 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
this 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.
At left, Main Menu and Sonar Alarms command.
At right, the Sonar Alarms menu.
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To adjust and turn on the shallow alarm:
1. Press MENU|MENU|↓ to ALARMS|ENT|↓ to SONAR ALARMS|ENT.
2. Press → to
SHALLOW 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
5. To turn off the alarm, press
SONAR ALARMS|ENT|ENT|EXIT|EXIT|EXIT.
SHALLOW ALARM ENABLED|ENT|EXIT|EXIT|EXIT.
MENU|MENU|↓ to ALARMS|ENT|↓ to
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:
1. Press MENU|MENU|↓ to ALARMS|ENT|↓ to SONAR ALARMS|ENT.
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
5. To turn off the alarm, press
SONAR ALARMS|ENT|↓ to DEEP ALARM ENABLED|ENT|EXIT|EXIT|EXIT.
DEEP ALARM ENABLED|ENT|EXIT|EXIT|EXIT.
MENU|MENU|↓ to ALARMS|ENT|↓ to
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:
1. Press MENU|MENU|↓ to ALARMS|ENT|↓ to SONAR ALARMS|ENT.
2. Press ↓ to
ZONE ALARM ENABLED|→ to ADJUST ZONE|ENT.
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At left, Sonar Alarms menu, with Adjust Zone command selected.
At right, Adjust Zone Alarm selection box, with Upper selected.
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 ← or→ to select
LOWER, then press ↑ or ↓ to move the bottom of the bar to the desired depth.
5. Press
EXIT|← to ZONE ALARM ENABLED|ENT|EXIT|EXIT|EXIT. Now, any
echo — fish, bottom, structure — within the zone alarm's depth range
will trigger the zone alarm.
6. To turn off the alarm, press
SONAR ALARMS|ENT|↓ to ZONE ALARM ENABLED|ENT|EXIT|EXIT|EXIT.
MENU|MENU|↓ to ALARMS|ENT|↓ to
To switch to a different depth setting, open the Sonar Alarms menu and
repeat the instructions in steps 3 and 4 above.
Fish Alarm
Use the fish alarm for a distinctive audible alarm when fish or other
suspended objects are detected by the Fish I.D. feature (Fish I.D.
must be turned on for the Fish Alarm to work). A different tone sounds
for each fish symbol size shown on the display.
62
Sonar Alarms menu with Fish Alarm selected. The check box to the left
is blank, indicating the alarm is turned off.
To turn the fish alarm on:
1. Press MENU|MENU|↓ to ALARMS|ENT|↓ to SONAR ALARMS|ENT.
2. Press ↓ to
3. To turn off the alarm, press
SONAR ALARMS|ENT|↓ to FISH ALARM|ENT|EXIT|EXIT|EXIT.
FISH ALARM|ENT|EXIT|EXIT|EXIT.
MENU|MENU|↓ to ALARMS|ENT|↓ to
Calibrate Speed
The speed sensor can be calibrated to compensate for inaccuracies. Before you change the setting, first calculate the percentage that the
speed is off. You will enter this percentage in a moment.
For example, if you figure the sensor is reading 10 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.
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 GPS ground speed to speed sensor
speed, perform your test in relatively calm water free of current, if possible. (Unless, of course, you are taking the current speed into consideration when making your calculation.) After you have a correction figure, here's how to enter it:
1. Press
SPEED|ENT.
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
MENU|MENU|↓ to SONAR SETUP|ENT|↓ to CALIBRATE WATER
EXIT.
63
Chart Speed
The rate that echoes scroll across the screen is called the chart speed.
The default is maximum; we recommend that you leave the speed set
there for virtually all fishing conditions.
However, you might consider experimenting with chart speed when you
are stationary or drifting very slowly. You may sometimes achieve better images as you slow down 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.
At left, Sonar Page menu with Chart Speed command selected.
At right, Chart Speed Control Bar.
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.
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ColorLine
ColorLine lets you distinguish between strong and weak echoes. It
"paints" a brighter color on targets that are stronger than a preset
value. 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 which causes a wider 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.
At left, Sonar Page menu with ColorLine command selected.
At right, the ColorLine control bar.
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.
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Wider
ColorLine
Thin or no ColorLine
At left, little ColorLine indicates a soft bottom, probably sand or mud.
At right, the wider ColorLine indicates a harder, rocky bottom.
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 box
At left, Sonar Page menu with Depth Cursor command selected. At
right, sonar chart with the depth cursor active. The line indicates the
school of fish is 31.91 feet deep.
The cursor can be moved 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 lower the cursor line; press ↑ to
raise the cursor line.
3. To clear the depth cursor, press
EXIT.
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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. However, depending upon the bottom
depth and the current range, you can change the range to a different
depth. To do this:
1. From the Sonar Page, press
MENU|↓ to DEPTH RANGE|ENT.
At left, Sonar Page menu with Depth Range command selected. At
right, the Depth Range Control Scale.
2. The Depth Range Control Scale appears. Press ↑ or ↓ to select a dif-
ferent depth range. A blue bar highlights the selected range. Range
numbers in light blue 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 feet 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
DEPTH RANGE|ENT and the Depth Range Control Scale appears.
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
To turn Auto Depth Range on again:
EXIT to clear the menu.
From the Sonar Page, press MENU|↓ to AUTO DEPTH RANGE|ENT|EXIT.
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NOTE:
The sonar's depth capability depends on the transducer installation, water and bottom conditions, and other factors.
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 depth range limits that are 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.
At left, Sonar Page Menu with Upper and Lower Limits command se-
lected. At right, Sonar Chart Limits menu, with Upper Limit selected.
To change the upper and lower limits:
1. From the Sonar Page, press
MENU|↓ to UPPER AND LOWER LIMITS|ENT.
The Sonar Chart Limits menu appears, with Upper Limit selected.
2. To set the upper limit, press
ENT. 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
3. To set the lower limit, press ↓ to
EXIT.
LOWER LIMIT|ENT. 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
EXIT|EXIT|EXIT.
68
Fish arches
Area "zoomed"
Normal display, in auto depth range mode, left. At right, display
"zoomed" with Upper and Lower Limits focusing on the portion of the
water column from 20 feet to 40 feet deep. In the "zoomed" image, note
the target definition around the structure.
To turn off upper and lower limits:
Reactivate Auto Depth Range. From the Sonar Page, press
AUTO DEPTH RANGE|ENT|EXIT.
MENU|↓ to
FasTrack
This feature automatically converts all echoes to short horizontal lines
on the display's far right side. The graph on 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
when you're 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
Fish arches
Structure
Bottom signal
ColorLine
In FasTrack, fish
arches show as
horizontal bars.
Sonar Page showing FasTrack.
FasTrack
bar graph
69
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 signals that are undesirable. 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 thinks a target is 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 outwards from a group of limbs is the hardest object for the
Fish I.D. feature to distinguish from fish.
You may see fish symbols on the screen when actually, there are no
fish. The reverse is also true. The illustrations on the next page show
how Fish I.D. can actually miss fish that are present.
Does that mean Fish I.D. is broken? No — the feature is simply 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. So,
practice with the unit in both the Fish I.D. mode and without to become
more familiar with the feature. The default for Fish I.D. is off.
Sonar Features menu with Fish I.D. Symbols selected (at left, dual-
frequency menu; at right, single-frequency menu). When the check box
to the left is checked, the feature is on.
70
To turn the Fish I.D. feature on:
1. From the Sonar Page, press
2. Press ↓ to
FISH SYMBOLS|ENT|EXIT|EXIT.
MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.
To turn off Fish I.D., repeat these instructions.
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
2. Press ↓ to
FISH DEPTHS|ENT|EXIT|EXIT.
MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.
To turn off FishTrack, repeat the instructions in step 1. Turning off
FishTrack in this manner will not turn off Fish I.D. symbols.
Symbols with
FishTrack depths
Sonar Features menu with Fish I.D. Depths selected (at left, dual-
frequency menu; center, single-frequency menu). When the check box to
the left is checked, the feature is on. At right, Sonar Page showing Fish
I.D. symbols and FishTrack depths turned on.
Frequency (Change Transducer Frequency)
(LMS-335C DF only)
The LMS-335C DF 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.
71
Fig. 1A
Fig. 1B
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 salt water sport fishing applications. When you
get into very deep salt water, 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 fresh water than in salt water.)
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
FISH DEPTHS|→ to 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
2. Press ↓ to
3. Press
FISH SYMBOLS|→ to 200 KHZ|ENT.
EXIT|EXIT to clear the menu.
MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.
HyperScroll
See the entry on Ping Speed, which controls the HyperScroll feature.
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IceView Chart Mode
(Signal Interpretation)
IceView color mode was included in your unit because the addition of
an optional portable power pack lets your unit double as an ice fishing
flasher sonar. But this capability has warm-weather applications, too.
For example, some lakes contain acres of standing, drowned timber
which are magnets for crappie. When fishermen find a tree holding
crappie, they frequently tie up to the dead snag and go after the popular panfish with jigs and minnows. While stationary, the sonar chart
page will not show the classic arches that indicate the presence of fish.
In this situation, try selecting one of the flasher pages and set it to IceView color mode. (See Sonar Chart Mode later in this section for instructions on switching to this color scheme.)
This works best if you tie up with the transducer end of the boat
pointing where you want to fish, then drop your lure below the transducer to place it within the sonar signal cone. You'll be able to see your
bait on the flasher screen. At this point, you should probably adjust the
sensitivity. You can have one sensitivity setting for the chart pages and
a different setting for the flasher pages; the Sensitivity Control Bar
controls the page you launch it from.
Drop the lure five to 10 feet below the transducer, then adjust sensitivity up or down until the lure is barely visible as a black or blue signal
band on the screen. With that set, go ahead and fish at the desired
depth. When a fish approaches the bait, its signal will stand out from
the lure because it will be a moving signal that is wider and a brighter
color than your lure.
When you monitor your flasher screen for signs of fish, there are three
signal band characteristics to watch for: movement, color and thickness.
Signal band movement
In a stationary setting like ice fishing or at anchor over a brush pile,
the bottom, structure and cover will show on the flasher screen as stationary bands of color. Signals between the surface and the bottom that
come and go or move up and down (even slightly) will be fish that have
appeared inside the sonar signal cone.
Signal band color
The color of the signal bands correspond to both fish size and their position in the sonar signal cone. Black and blue signals tend to be smaller
fish, or fish that are at the outside edge of the sonar cone. These
smaller or more distant fish return weaker echoes.
73
Red signals are much larger fish, or fish that are in the center of the
sonar cone, almost directly below the transducer. They return the
strongest echoes.
Signals that are yellow and some other color result from mid-sized fish
that are in a transition zone between the center and outer edges of the
sonar cone. They represent medium-strong echoes.
As a fish moves through part of the signal cone, the signal may change
from black to blue to green or yellow then back again. The signals may
appear to move up slightly and then back down, even if the fish doesn't
actually change depth. This is caused by the relative distance from the
transducer to the fish as it passes by the transducer.
Signal band thickness
Simply put, smaller fish return smaller echoes that result in thinner
and fainter signal bands. A thin signal can also indicate a fish located
toward the outer edge of the signal cone. As fish size increases, the echoes grow stronger and the signal band grows wider. Signal width also
increases as a fish approaches the center of the sonar cone.
Log Sonar Chart Data
If you have an MMC installed in the unit, the sonar data shown on the
screen can be saved to the MMC. 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,
visit our web site, www.lowrance.com, and download the free Sonar
Viewer and the emulator for your unit. These programs will allow you
to replay sonar logs on your personal computer.
At left, the Sonar Page menu with the Log Sonar Chart Data command
selected. At right, Sonar Chart Logging menu, with the Start Logging
command selected. The menu says the MMC has 34.2 MB of free space,
which will record the scrolling chart for 44 minutes and 59 seconds.
74
To record or log chart data:
1. Press
MENU|↓ to LOG SONAR CHART DATA|ENT.
2. To record data using the default settings, press
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 FILE NAME if you want to
change the name. Select
CHART QUALITY if you want to lower the file
quality and record for a longer period of time. After you've changed
the settings, select
START LOGGING and press ENT.
Noise Rejection
See the entry on Advanced Signal Processing in this section.
Overlay Data
To change the digital data shown "floating" on top of the Sonar Page or
the Map Page:
First, press
To select data for display:
1. From the Map or Sonar page, press MENU|↓ to OVERLAY DATA|ENT.
2. Press ↓ or ↑ to select Data Type|
PAGES, use → or ← to select a Page Name, then press EXIT.
ENT.
Overlay Data command on the Sonar Menu, at left. Overlay Data
Shown selection menu, right. In this example, we scrolled down the
data list to highlight "Ground Speed."
75
When selected, the data type shifts to the top of the data list and a
check mark appears beside the data type. (If you wish, you may now
use ↓ or ↑ to select other Data Types for display.)
Data list showing "Ground Speed" selected to display on Sonar Page.
3. To return to the previous page, press EXIT|EXIT.
To turn off displayed data:
1. From the Map or Sonar page, press MENU|↓ to OVERLAY DATA|ENT.
2. Press ↓ or ↑ to select Data Type|
ENT. The selected data type disappears
from the top of the list and reverts to its previous, unchecked position. (If
you wish, you may now use ↓ or ↑ to select other Data Types to turn off.)
3. To return to the previous page, press
To change displayed data font size:
EXIT|EXIT.
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 selected data type will be displayed in the new size. (To change the
font size for another Data Type, press
ENT and repeat these steps, be-
ginning with step two above.)
3. To return to the previous page, press
EXIT.
Tip:
If you wish, you can change the displayed data font size when you
select a data type:
1. From the Map or Sonar page, press
DATA|ENT.
2. Press ↓ or ↑ to select Data Type|press → or ← to select Data
Size|
ENT.
76
MENU|↓ to OVERLAY
The data will be shown in the new font size. To return to the previ-
arrow
ous page, press
Steering
EXIT|EXIT.
At left, Map Page showing boat cruising Puget Sound, Washington,
with Overlay Data turned on. This example shows Depth, Ground
Speed and the Steering Arrow. Note that the Steering Arrow always
points directly to the destination you are navigating toward. In this
case, the boater is headed on a northwesterly course of 275º. Since the
helmsman is on course, the Steering Arrow is pointing straight ahead.
If the helmsman veered off course, the arrow would show which direc-
tion to steer to get back on course toward the destination. At right,
Sonar Page with Overlay Data turned on. This example shows Depth,
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.
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.
77
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.
At left, Sonar Menu with Ping Speed command selected.
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 speed. When it's set at the desired level, press
EXIT.
To adjust Sensitivity:
1. From the Sonar Page, 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.)
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 in width at the right side of the
78
screen. This allows you to better see the virtually instantaneous sonar
returns, just as you would on a flasher sonar unit. For more information on FasTrack, see its entry in this section.
Reset Options
This command is used to 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
MENU|MENU|↓ to SYSTEM SETUP|ENT|↓ to RESET OPTIONS|ENT.
YES|ENT.
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.
At left, System Setup menu with Reset Options command selected. At
right, the Reset Options dialog box, with "Yes" selected.
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 box that shows
distance traveled, called Water 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
TANCE
MENU|MENU|↓ to SONAR SETUP|ENT|↓ to RESET WATER DIS-
|ENT. The menus are cleared and the water distance is reset to 0.00.
79
Set Keel Offset
This unit measures water depth from the face of the transducer. Since
the transducer is installed below the water surface, the distance displayed by the digital depth, chart depth scale, chart cursor or fish symbols is not the exact water depth. 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 entered 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|↓ to SET KEEL OFFSET|ENT.
2. The Keel Offset dialog box appears. Press ↓ to change the plus (+)
sign to a minus (–) sign.
3. Press → to the first number, then press ↑ to change the number to 3
4. Press → to the second number, then press ↑ to change the number to
5, then press
EXIT. The depth indicators now accurately show the depth
of water 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 up 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
SET
|ENT.
MENU|MENU|↓ to SONAR SETUP|ENT|↓ to SET KEEL OFF-
2. The Keel Offset dialog box appears with a plus (+) sign at the
front of the box.
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3. Press → to the first number, then press ↑ to change the number to 1.
4. Press → to the second number, them press ↑ to change the number to 5, then press
EXIT. The depth indicators now accurately show
the water depth from surface to bottom.
Sensitivity & Auto Sensitivity
The sensitivity controls the ability of the unit to pick up echoes. Sensitivity can be adjusted, because water conditions vary greatly. 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 good solid bottom signal with Grayline and 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 is automatically adjusted to keep a solid bottom
signal displayed, plus a little more power. This gives it the capability to
show fish and other detail.
However, situations occur when it becomes necessary to increase or decrease the sensitivity. This typically happens when you wish to see
more detail, so an increase in sensitivity is indicated. Or, wave action
and boat wakes can create enough tiny air bubbles to clutter much of
the water column. In that case, a decrease in sensitivity is indicated 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.)
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At left, Sonar Menu with Sensitivity command selected. At right, the
Sensitivity Control Bar.
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. You can see the
changes on the screen as you press the up or down arrows. 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. You can select the chart to be displayed in grayscale, reverse grayscale, blue background, or Nightview, IceView, or bottom color tracking.
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To change the chart mode color scheme:
1. From the Sonar Page, press
2. Press ↓ to
SONAR COLOR MODE|ENT.
3. Press ↓ or ↑ to Mode Name|
4. Press
EXIT|EXIT to return to the Sonar Page.
MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.
ENT.
IceView was specially designed for flasher use while stationary. This
color mode has fewer, higher-contrast colors than the default mode.
This simplified color scheme makes it easier to "see" and interpret a
fish signal when it appears on the flasher screen. For more information
on interpreting IceView signals, see page 73.
Sonar Page & Sonar Chart Display Options
The Pages Menu offers five chart display options. To access them, press
PAGES|→ 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 a flasher sonar. The zoom bar on the far right shows the area that's zoomed when
the zoom is in use. (See the Zoom section for more information.)
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Full Sonar Chart. The Overlay Data (depth and water temperature)
are set to different text sizes.
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. Image at left shows the left window zoomed to
2X. Press ZIN and the left window zooms to 4X, shown at right.
Digital Data
This mode shows the chart on the right side of the screen. The left side
has five large digital data boxes or windows containing (by default):
Water Depth; Water Temperature; Water Speed (from an optional
speed sensor); Water Distance (distance traveled or log, it also requires
a speed sensor); and Voltage. The Depth box also shows settings for the
Shallow and Deep alarms.
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Digital Data.
Customizing the Digital Data Screen
The Digital Data screen can be customized to show digital data different from the defaults first shown. To customize this screen:
1. From the Sonar Page (in Digital Data mode), press
CUSTOMIZE|ENT.
MENU|↓ to
At left, the Sonar Page Menu showing the Customize command high-
lighted. At right, the label for the first customizable data box (Water
Temperature, or "W Temp") begins flashing to indicate it is selected.
2. The Water Temperature box title bar flashes, indicating the box contents can be changed. Press
ENT|↑ or ↓ to select data type|ENT|EXIT.
(The top Depth box cannot be customized.)
85
Options List for customizing Digital Data boxes. At left, the list first ap-
pears with Water Temperature selected. At right, Maximum Speed has
been picked to replace Water Temperature in the top digital data box.
Tip:
You can customize other digital data boxes before returning to the
Sonar Page. After changing the first box by selecting the Data Type
and pressing Enter, use the ↓ key to select another box to change.
When the selected box title bar flashes, press
data type|
then press
ENT. Repeat these steps until you're finished customizing,
EXIT to return to the Sonar Page.
FlashGraf
The FlashGraf sonar page option represents a flasher style sonar combined with a scrolling chart and a small map display. A circular dial
shows all returning echoes at a high screen refresh rate. It uses the
ColorLine feature to show weaker echoes in colors such as dark blue or
black. The strong echoes appear as yellows and reds. The bottom depth
is also shown as a black bar across the outer circle.
ENT|↑ or ↓ to select
86
Bottom signal
Surface clutter
Surface clutter
Fish signal,
approximately
32 feet
FlashGraf page.
Flasher
We've also included a full-screen flasher for those times you need to see
all the detail. Like FlashGraf, the Flasher page represents a flasher style
sonar, but without the additional data boxes and narrow scrolling chart.
See topic "Overlay
Data" earlier in this
section to add temp
Bottom signal
Fish signal,
approximately
13 feet
Flasher page.
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.
87
Map With Sonar split screen option. At far left, the full Map Page is
shown. The Pages Menu with the Map option list is shown in the
center. At right, the Map With Sonar split screen is shown.
When this screen is activated, you need to specify which side the Menu,
Zoom In and Zoom Out keys correspond to. To do this, press
PAGES|PAGES. The window with the black title bar at the top of the screen
is the active window. To switch back, just press
PAGES|PAGES again.
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. To use the
simulator:
1. From the Sonar Page, press
SONAR SIMULATOR|ENT|EXIT. Repeat these steps to turn it off.
MENU|MENU|↓ to SONAR SETUP|ENT|↓ to
At left, Main Menu with Sonar Setup command selected. Center, sub-
menu with Sonar Simulator command selected. At right, Sonar Simu-
lator menu, with simulator turned off (check box is unchecked).
88
NOTE:
With Simulate Position checked, the simulator will also automatically
run the GPS simulator (if GPS data was recorded with the sonar log).
2. To use the default sonar chart log stored in the unit, press
ENT|EXIT.
The recorded chart begins scrolling across the screen, just as if you
were on the water.
3. Turn off Sonar Simulator by pressing
SETUP|ENT|↓ to SONAR SIMULATOR|ENT|ENT|EXIT.
Title bar with chart file name
Sonar Page, playing a recorded sonar chart in Sonar Simulator mode.
MENU|MENU|↓ to SONAR
"Play"
symbol
flashing
Tip:
The Sonar Simulator can use sonar charts that you or a friend has
recorded (logged) on an MMC card. (To see how, read the entry in
this section on Log Sonar Chart Data.) To play back your own sonar
chart, make sure the MMC containing the chart is installed, then:
1. Press
2. Press ↓ to
3. Press ↓ or ↑ to select chart name|
ON|ENT|EXIT.
MENU|MENU|↓ to SONAR SETUP|ENT|↓ to SONAR SIMULATOR|ENT.
CHART USED|ENT.
ENT|↑ to SONAR SIMULATOR
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 to return to.
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.
89
Tip:
There's more than one way to play a recorded sonar chart. You can
also turn on the simulator from the MMC files list. Here's how:
1. Press
2. Press ↓ or ↑ to chart name|
MENU|MENU|↓ to BROWSE MMCFILES|ENT|ENT.
ENT|↓ to PLAY|ENT|EXIT.
NOTE:
For some great practice, try running the Sonar Simulator and the
GPS Simulator at the same time. This will really give you a feel for
how the unit will work in the field.
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.
Stop Chart
If you are running multiple units on a boat or using this unit in a car,
there are times when you may want to turn off the sonar. This command turns off the sonar and stops the chart from scrolling. Sonar restarts automatically each time you turn on your unit.
Press
MENU|↓ to STOP CHART|ENT|EXIT.
To turn on sonar and start the chart scrolling again, repeat the above step.
Sonar Menu with Stop Chart command selected. The box is unchecked,
indicating that the chart is scrolling across the screen.
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Surface Clarity
The markings extending downward from the zero line on the chart are
called "surface clutter." These markings are caused by wave action,
boat wakes, temperature inversion and more.
The surface clarity control reduces or eliminates surface clutter signals from the display. It does this by changing the sensitivity of the
receiver, decreasing it near the surface and gradually increasing it as
the depth increases.
There are three levels of surface clarity available: low, medium, or high.
It can also be turned off. The default level is off.
To adjust the Surface Clarity level:
1. From the Sonar Page, press
MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT|ENT.
Sonar Features menu with Surface Clarity selected (at left, dual-
frequency menu; at right, single-frequency menu).
2. Press ↓ or ↑ to select clarity level|EXIT|EXIT|EXIT.
Surface clutter
In the illustration at left, Surface Clarity is turned off.
The right view shows Surface Clarity set at High.
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Upper and Lower Limits
See the entry in this section for Depth Range - Upper and Lower Limits
Zoom & Zoom Bar
"Zooming" the display is a common, fast and easy method used to enlarge small detail, fish signals and the bottom with its associated structure. This unit lets you zoom the display quickly and easily by pressing
the Zoom In key,
ZIN.
Pressing
ZIN once doubles the size (2X) of all echoes on the screen.
Pressing it again quadruples the size of the echoes (4X). When turned
on, the zoom bar on the far right side of the screen shows which echoes
will be displayed on the screen when the
To turn on the zoom bar, press
to
ZOOM BAR|ENT|EXIT|EXIT. Repeat these steps to turn it off.
For example, pressing the
MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT. Press ↓
ZIN key once will enable a 2X zoom which
ZIN key is pressed.
will show all echoes that are between the top and bottom of the 2X
zoom bar. Pressing the key again will give a 4X zoom and only the echoes between the top and bottom of the 4X bar will show on the screen.
Press the Zoom Out key,
ZOUT, to return the display to the normal mode.
At left, Sonar Page, normal view. Center, same view zoomed to 2X.
Right, same view zoomed to 4X
Zoom Pan
Your unit has the handy ability to quickly zoom in on any portion of the
water column with just the touch of an arrow key. The Zoom Pan feature
lets you rapidly move the zoomed area up and down to different depths.
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