I have a lowrance hds gen 2 and if I move it to the console, and go with a smaller unit on the bow what is compatable? Was looking for something the size of the lowrance Elite 7 etc. Not to savvy on this nmea backbone stuff yet but trying to make it all work?

I have not done it but any unit that accepts nmea 2000 should work. I believe the hds has ethernet capability. That seems like an easier route. I have two elite 7 units. I might try to network them.

You got me thinking about it and now i want to try to build it. Academy has the starter kit for $49. I ordered a couple since the individual pieces are expensive. Send me a PM if you set it up since I will have some extra parts.

http://www.academy.com/shop/pdp/lowrance-simple-nmea-2000-network-starter-kit#repChildCatid=176063

I have a Gen2 7 touch on the console and a Gen2 5in. on the bow. All I needed was an ethernet cable to link them. Is that what you're asking?

I believe both the fish finders have to be at least Gen 2 to Link them together.

I have a gen 1 hds 7 on the bow and a gen 1 hds 10 at the console. I needed the NMEA to add a point 1. Works great on all units.

The Elite 7 will connect to the NEMA 2000 network. Just get a Nema starter kit and you'll be fine. All HDS & Elite 7 and 9 will connect to Nema 2000 system. If you was running just Hds system then yes the yellow cord be fine. Plus on the box of the elite 7 it will say nema 2000 . There's nothing to the nema system, run power to the power connector and just plug everything else in. Super easy. There also plenty of youtube vids out there to.

Gen 1 and Gen 2 are able to be link together. Had a HDS8 gen 2 and HDS 5 Gen 1 link together on my old boat.

Thanks to all