These threads will be used for information on each selected brand of SONAR. As of right now they will remain unlocked so that someone with questions can ask and hopefully receive the help they need. Please respect the idea behind these and keep the cross brand fighting out. If it becomes an issue the threads will be locked.


I would like to thank Doug Vahrenberg for the Humminbird info

Digital Sonar - An Explanation

Sonar by its very nature uses an "analog" sound wave that is transmitted
into the water by the fishfinder transmitter. These sound waves travel
into the water on a carrier frequency such as 200kHz. These sound waves
echo off the bottom, fish, and structure creating many varying sonar
echoes that return back to the receiver on the analog frequency. This
analog signal is then converted to digital within the fishfinder by
virtually all marine electronics companies - the differences lie in what
point within the sonar system the conversion takes place. Those promoting
"digital" sonar convert these analog signals to digital within a sonar
receiver itself. Humminbird converts analog signals using the analog to
digital capability of the on-board microprocessor. Therefore, Humminbird
offers digital technology, however the conversion from analog to digital
just occurs differently that what is being promoted by others. It is
interesting to note that Humminbird has been converting analog to digital
in this manner since 1989.

Infinite Variable Bandwidths

Further benefits of units marketed as "digital" sonar include technology
such as adaptive transmitters, and "virtually" infinite variable
bandwidths. It is important for the consumer to know that these benefits
are not limited to the methodology of the so called "digital" sonar
products. If fact these and other techniques are central to Humminbird's
Professional Grade Sonar. Humminbird transmitter design offers adaptive
technology that modulates power and pulse width based on conditions.

Additionally, our receiver offers variable bandwidth and wide 90db dynamic
range to hear both high and low intensity signals simultaneously. Another
key benefit touted by marketers of "digital" sonar is the use of filtering
algorithms in their design to remove unwanted noise and clutter. The use
of filtering techniques produces results counter to the desires of all
anglers, since these "intelligent" algorithms actually remove information
that is important to the angler - such as detail in structure and fish.
This is clearly evident when comparing on-water sonar images from the
"digital" products to the same structure when viewed by a Humminbird
product.
Dual Beam Plus Sonar:
200kHz @ 20 Degrees (1/3 of Depth Area of Coverage)
83kHz @ 60 Degrees (Equal Coverage Area of Depth)



See the additional fish with the benefit of added Coverage Area the 83 kHz
provides. It is recommended to run 200/83 Combined for finding fish. If
using for High Speed running for Depth 200 kHz narrow coverage area will
produce less turbulence in the image due to narrower coverage area.

Switchfire 2D Sonar - two sonar operating systems

Clear Mode: Is a precision sonar system that has some special
features. Time Variable Gain times the distance the sonar returns have
travelled and allow the unit to size fish no matter the depths so the same
physical size fish are displayed equally on the display. So a 5 Pound fish
will be represented the same size on the display at 10' as it is at 100'
as it is at 1000'. Clear Mode also filters out small particle returns like
aeration, algae, plankton, etc so it shows only fish and structure. Clear
Mode also has the ability to adjust the power of the unit and is the best
choice for shallow water applications as it balances the power to the
depth.





Max Mode: Is unfiltered data that can use returns from the sonar
side lobes thus increasing the data returned to the unit and easier for
jig tracking when vertical fishing. The unfiltered data also returns small
particle data like plankton, algae, air bubbles, etc. The sonar return are
displayed exactly as they are received so the fish returns diminish over
depth for the same physical size fish.





Both of the top Images are with factory default settings for both modes of
Switchfire 2D Sonar. Look at the detail that Humminbird 2D soanr can
produce without creating a blob of color of the bridge. This same image
will be shown in Down Imaging and Side Imaging to compare the detail.

Down Imaging from Side Imaging:
797c2, 798c, 898c, 981c, 987c, 997c, 998c, 1197c, 1198c

Humminbird offers Down Imaging to all Side Imaging owners and an industry
exclusive user selectable coverage area:

Wide is approximately 1.5 Times Depth
Medium is approximately same as depth
Narrow is approximately 1/3 of depth

Dual Frequency: 455 kHz or 800kHz

The signal returns are more box shaped versus cone shape of 2D sonar. It
is very narrow beam front to rear to produce high detail images. Look at
the ditches in this image that 2D sonars wide coverage area could not show
the details. This was captured with 200 kHz 2D sonar to try and capture
the detail but still had to large front to rear coverage to produce the
details that Down Imaging or Side Imaging does.



Down Imaging produces picture like images of down looking sonar and is a
great tool to transitional tool from 2D sonar to high frequency sonar.
Down Imaging helps to positively ID fish and structure. Can you find the
three trees with Crappie?







Dedicated Down Imaging:

Humminbird also offers dedicated Down Imaging with Switchfire 2D Only
units: 570 DI, 596c HD DI, 597ci HD DI, 788ci HD DI. These units feature a
transducer that has both Traditional 2D Sonar with Switchfire Sonar
processing system and Down Imaging.

455kHz (DI) is like Wide Beam 1.5 times the depth coverage area
800kHz (DI) is equal to depth coverage
200kHz (2D) is 1/3 of depth coverage

Side Imaging:

Humminbird introduced affordable, boat mounted side scan sonar in 2004 and
have been adding new features and improvements since then. Side Imaging
sonar has a unique features that give the user picture like images of
everything under the water's surface. Plus the user can tell exactly which
side of the transducer the data comes from. This huge coverage area,
positive structure and fish ID of high frequency sonar makes it the
ultimate tool for fish and structure finding.

Coverage Area is user defined by the amount of area they wish to scan up
to 240' foot to each side for a total of 480' of coverage in a single pass
and maximum depth of 150'.

455kHz is 180 Degrees of coverage area - 90 Degrees to each side
800kHz is 110 Degrees of coverage area - 55 Degrees to each side

These images show the shallow wide side coverage of Humminbird SI. See the
moss growing on the boat ramp? See my boat trailer on the boat ramp?
Showing proof that Humminbird SI has full coverage to the water's surface.







And Full Coverage under the transducer. First image is splitting the
willow trees on both sides... this was taken when the lake rose and
flooded the parking lot and you can see the willows in the picture before
the flood. The coverage can overlap when you get deeper as can be seen in
the last images as the bridge is being shown fully on both sides of the
screen so you have 180 degrees of coverage with 455kHz Side Imaging.











Will Side Imaging work in Shallow Water? Look at coverage area.

Will it work on the Trolling Motor?











360 Degree Turn...

What can Side Imaging Show you?



















---

GPS Receiver:

Humminbird offers the GR-50 50 Channel GPS Receiver as Standard Equipment.
It can track up to 50 Satellites at one time which allows it to hold onto
satellites longer and pick-up new satellites sooner to get a better fix of
your location. It also increased the accuracy of the receiver to 2.5
Meters, when hooked direct to the unit it offers 4 Times Per Second
Refresh Rate of the GPS Location.





---

Mapping Options:

Humminbird offers ContourXD maps on most models giving you 3,000 Lakes
coverage with contour lines or UniMap base outline of USA Coverage (no
Contours). Optional coverage is can be sourced from LakeMaster or
Navionics.

UniMap:



Navionics Premium:



Navionics Platinum Contour Lines:



Navionics Platinum 3D:



Lake Master:

Very well done!!!

Humminbird Side Imaging Enhance:

Humminbird has an Exclusive feature that is called SI Enhance that helps you locate and spot fish easier. Here are a two series of images that show the differences at all 4 levels and how SI Enhance can help the "Fish" jump out at you.

Find the Fish in the Creek?









Scattered Fish...









Motherlode of Fish:
SI Enhance OFF:



SI Enhance Low:

Humminbird 2011 New Features:

Here's some new example of the new feature that were released for 2011 with FREE Software Upgrade...

Contour Mode - Off



Contour Mode - On (You can understand this boat ramp better and where the sunken boat is located from the end of it on the right side)



Range Lines -OFF



Range Lines - On (Using Coverage Area you can adjust Range Lines to help judge distance to points of interest on the screen)



Side Imaging Navigation Mode changes the Boat Icon at the top to show how to navigate to get to GPS Navigation path you have selected to waypoint without having to watch GPS screen. Notice Boat Icon turns orange in this feature.

Here you need to make a hard left...



New Down Imaging Zoom feature lets you zoom in on details...

HUMMINBIRD VIDEO CLIPS

General Sources

Humminbird on YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/user/HumminbirdTV
Doug Vahrenberg's website - http://www.dougvahrenberg.com/Videos.html
You Tube (Account: Imonbass) - http://www.youtube.com/user/imonbass

Specific Topic Videos


How to Change Page Views and Set Favorite Presetshttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Je2KYuzn2Jw

Humminbird Display Cleaning Tips:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fe89SH8xmc

Software Updating Step-by-Step - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-TZtvcpzQRM

Software Updating with Humminbird PC by Robert Gecy - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nb37UQW2Emk

How to Update your unit by GDay - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jeRAXyq3KQ

Fish Arches in 2D Sonar Explanation http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94IRdadVmns

Sonar Recording added with SI and DI: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i26UqTKDZr0

How to make a Sonar Recording: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6syxV4juFk

Humminbird Waterproof and Floats: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FF2__9saXc


Kevin VanDam Instructional Videos:

Tip #1 Subtle Structure Changes - http://espn.go.com/video/clip?...=null
Tip #2 New Water - http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=4983207
Tip #3 Identifying Structure/Cover - http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=5001125
Tip #4 Fishing Manmade Structure - http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=5079441
Tip #5 Following Depth contours - http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=5125994
Tip #6 Finding Structure Around Marinas - http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=5146836
Tip #7 Finding Suspended Fish - http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=5186111
Tip #8 Fishing Docks - http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=5247582
Tip #9 Fishing Shoreline and Laydowns - http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=5277013
Tip #10 Fishing Weedbeds - http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=5396013


Miscellaneous Videos

Jason Halfen goes in-depth about Humminbird Product....Hour Long Video but lots of good information: http://www.jasonhalfenoutdoors....html

Dave Wolak on Using Electronics - http://vimeo.com/11840189

Humminbird Advanced Sonar Seminar

Part 1: Coverage Areas http://youtu.be/sq74UJaNMSs

Part 2: Switchfire 2D Settings http://youtu.be/RhVfy4QBMFM

Part 3: Down Imaging Settings http://youtu.be/mF6d8AjJETw

Part 4: Side Imaging Settings http://youtu.be/z-OKoglPkng

Part 5: Side Imaging Features http://youtu.be/wG76FvY8pWA

Part 6: How to Find the Fish http://youtu.be/ck087QvGIBs

Part 7: Trolling Motor Side Imaging http://youtu.be/9HQ-Eo01gb0

Part 8: GPS Basics http://youtu.be/nP6WJ0h2LeQ

Part 9: GPS Advanced http://youtu.be/4btE-Vm4fmw

Humminbird Contact and FAQ Information:

Customer Service Phone #: 1 800 633 1468

Hours of Operation: - Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 8 a.m. central time - 4:30 p.m. central time
Wednesday - 8:30 a.m. central time - 4:30 p.m. central time

E-mail: cservice@johnsonoutdoors.com

Website: http://www.humminbird.com


We would like to request that when you call or email customer service with questions specific to your unit that you are able to provide us with the below information in order to better assist you:

1) Unit Name
2) Unit Serial Number
3) Software Version (This video shows you how to find your software version http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S95bcXDSVb4)
4) Date of Purchase

You can also find answers to many commonly asked questions on our website.

Common FAQ:
http://www.humminbird.com/FAQ.aspx

You can find copies of manuals:
http://www.humminbird.com/supp....aspx

Register a new product:
http://www.humminbird.com/Supp....aspx

What the current software version is, and when it was released:
http://www.humminbird.com/FAQ.aspx?ContentId=2904


If you are having issues with your unit, to rule out any settings one of the first things we will also ask you to do is to Restore your Default settings on the unit.
This is very easy to do. Please see the video below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PhChWVs5wl4

---

Humminbird Quick Start Guide
http://store.humminbird.com/me...e.pdf

---

Humminbird Manufacturing is located in Eufuala, Alabama and Not only home to Manufacturing but Customer Service, Marketing Services and some of the engineering and product test facilities. Humminbird is owned by Johnson Outdoors http://www.johnsonoutdoors.com/



They even manufacture/build their own control boards











And From the Outside looking at 678 Humminbird Lane in Eufaula, Alabama:



And here's the hard working folks that make it all happen:

Why the Red/Green Color Pallet for SI???

The Strong return show up in red and make it quick and easy to spot hard bottom in soft bottom areas like a rock in the middle of the great lakes or mussle shell beds here are some examples of shell bed locator with Red/Green Color Pallet.

Oh My Gosh. Everything in one place. I know what I will be doing for the next few weeks....reviewing all of this valuable information so that when my 1198 gets here, I will have jump started my learning curve thanks to this thread. Thank you one and all.

Optional XM Nav Weather

Here are some examples of getting weather radar direct on your Humminbird. When an alert is issued it will display the alert on any screen notifying you of approaching hazardous weather in your location.

i need some info on trolling motor mounting.

I'm debating getting a 570di. I have a 24foot pontoon boat and having a finder on the back does me absolutely no good when I'm actually trying to find fish and is even worse when Im' in a cove or shallows due to the fact that everything I see is officially ancient history being 24feet behind the front of the boat.

Do you need a special transducer for trolling motor mounting or will the one that comes with your depth finder work?
Do you really just strap it to the motor?
how does it deal with the motor rotating?
is there a smarter way to mount a transducer to the front of a pontoon boat that could maybe enable me to leave the thing in the water and functional at full speed?

www.transducershieldandsaver.com builds a mount for the DI Transducer.

Neat Historical Facts about Humminbird:



Digital Sonar - An Explanation

Sonar by its very nature uses an "analog" sound wave that is transmitted into the water by the fishfinder transmitter. These sound waves travel into the water on a carrier frequency such as 200kHz. These sound waves echo off the bottom, fish, and structure creating many varying sonar echoes that return back to the receiver on the analog frequency. This analog signal is then converted to digital within the fishfinder by virtually all marine electronics companies - the differences lie in what point within the sonar system the conversion takes place. Those promoting "digital" sonar convert these analog signals to digital within a sonar receiver itself. Humminbird converts analog signals using the analog to digital capability of the on-board microprocessor. Therefore, Humminbird offers digital technology, however the conversion from analog to digital just occurs differently that what is being promoted by others. It is interesting to note that Humminbird has been converting analog to digital in this manner since 1989.

Infinite Variable Bandwidths

Further benefits of units marketed as "digital" sonar include technology such as adaptive transmitters, and "virtually" infinite variable bandwidths. It is important for the consumer to know that these benefits are not limited to the methodology of the so called "digital" sonar products. If fact these and other techniques are central to Humminbird's Professional Grade Sonar. Humminbird transmitter design offers adaptive technology that modulates power and pulse width based on conditions.

Additionally, our receiver offers variable bandwidth and wide 90db dynamic range to hear both high and low intensity signals simultaneously. Another key benefit touted by marketers of "digital" sonar is the use of filtering algorithms in their design to remove unwanted noise and clutter. The use of filtering techniques produces results counter to the desires of all anglers, since these "intelligent" algorithms actually remove information that is important to the angler - such as detail in structure and fish. This is clearly evident when comparing on-water sonar images from the "digital" products to the same structure when viewed by a Humminbird product.

Humminbird has been Digital...long before Digital was a cool buzz word...And Broad Range of Listening to Sonar Returns.

Screen and Display Comparison Data:

Square Inches of Sonar Data Display Area less Readouts:

798c = 12.234 Square Inches
898c = 16.031 Square Inches
998c = 21.312 Square Inches
1198c = 48.156 Square Inches

Display Size is usable area of the screen less readouts. Screen is the Display Size.



TMike's Physical Image Comparison Image:

i stumbled across this forum and i am blown away at the plethora of information provided in just this single log. i am in need of some information and advice that i cant seem to get a straight answer for. what is the difference between the new HD resolution and last years non-hd. (yes i know and understand it on tv's but on a 5" screen???) i am contemplating a 597 ci HD DI Combo vs. last years 798c SI Combo. ANY INSIGHT OR COMPARABLE SCREEN SHOTS APPRECIATED. THANKS

Doug will jump on here and confirm but what I have read is it's just in the name. Now the difference in the 597 and the 798 is side imaging which if I was debating between the two and the "HD" did actually make a difference in screen quality, it still wouldnt be enough to overtake the possibility of have SI.

HD Designation is to tell the public the 5" Screen is the Industries Highest Pixel COunt Display of 640 Horizintal and 640 Vertical Pixels. This is new on many of the 500 Series Models and has been the same on the 700 Series for several years. On the 700 Series HD unit it also signifies that the unit is Ethernet Capable Unit and 2011 Model.

i knew about the Ethernet but since i wont be multiplexing 2 units i'm not worried about it. my post was a bit off, 2 weeks ago i bought a new 597 at BPS for $650 because i couldnt drop 1k for the sidescan but thats what i really really wanted. over the past few days i have been talking to the techs at Humminbird, trying to tweak the 597 in and 2 days ago they tipped me off to looking around for last years 798 at a discounted price. so now i had that idea stuck in my head and because of that my 597 was not what i was happy with anymore. yesterday i found the 798 on humminbird's site for only $100 more than i paid for the 597. now i am trying to recover as much as i can for my 597. (anyone interested???)

I ORDERED 798 SI YESTER DAY AT LUNCH FROM HUMMINGBIRD WEB SITE $ 771 WITH SHIPPING, BY FAR THE CHEAPEST SI IVE SEEN. AS I READ THRU THE THREAD CORRECT ME IF IM WRONG IT WILL DO DOWN IMAGING ALSO

Yes it will do down imaging.

Only price I found on HB site for the 798 ci HD Si was $1049?? I didn't see one for $771? wish I would have. Just got mine from Digital oasis for $849, or are there 2 models?

Question: I noticed on my boat when installing the 798 transducer, my transom has a slight bow or angle from center to each outside corner. This slightly offsets my transducer from parallel with the back of the boat, I went ahead and mounted it at the angle rather than try some kind of shim, because I was worried about obstruction the SI.

Any problems with it this way? it is maybe 1-2 degrees off I would guess, but I believe the SI transmission will be unobstructed.

They are the 2010 798c (NON HD or NON Ethernet Models)these units where replaced by the 2011 Model 798ci HD.

Closeout Section at Humminbird:
http://store.humminbird.com/category/78409/Closeouts

thanks thats cool i didnt know it would do di

yes it was on close out and not hd

$749 771 with shipping

There are three 798 models.
The 798ci HD SI is the 2011 model year with an Ethernet connection.

The 798ci SI is the 2009-2010 model with internal GPS antenna.

The 798c SI is the 2009-2010 model with an external GPS antenna.

Ok, thanks. That makes more sense. Got the model I wanted then.

Tried her out some yesterday, man what a difference in the bright sun! Only thing that could be better is the larger screen, but I quickly figured out how to switch to different screens to see DI,SI ect tra by itself full screen. Like the DI/sonar screen the best so far.

The ratchets on the mount and transducer are set up to give you the proper tranducer angle for your transom angle. The instructions state how to use them.

I like the 2D/DI dual view of the 798 also. IMHO it is better than those views beside each other with the larger screen models.
Standing timber:

i got a interesting update. i was able to sell my 597 for a slight loss and ordered my 798 from the website. today it arrived and installed it just as i did my 597 (per instructions). i had 2 issues going on that i didnt have with my 597. (1st) when the unit is clicked into the mount if i put any pressure on the right side of the case on the back (as if i wanted to turn it to the left) it looses power. i can turn to the right no problem. checked cables 10 times for any cable pinch or strain.... none found. (2nd) the transducer cable pulls up thru the mount when unit is released and has to be pressed back in. --called and spoke to CS and explained everything, they are sending a new mount but i know that wont fix the power issue. just to confirm this, a friend stopped by with a older b/w humminbird and i plugged it right in... turned left, turned right, tilt up/down..... now problem. ugh!!!! i took a video to try to save time by having the techs have a true understanding of the problem. i would love to see them ship out a new unit and i can send mine back when the new one arrives so i am not without a unit.

this is the link to the video. i didn't make or post this to bash humminbird, they have been very helpful.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCXXrmS_he8

crazywelder72, your issue has a simple resolution and a new unit will not resolve it.
Remove the 798 from the mount and take the cable collector apart.
Bend the tab on the metal plate (that you should have installed and didn't or the metal tab is bent so it won't hold the plug in the collector) up slighty on the power cord slot so it will hold the power cord plug more firmly. Reassemble the cable collector.
Next bend the two power cord pins VERY SLIGHTLY (so little you cannot tell you did it). Snap the display back on the mount--problem solved.
The fit of the cord plugs in the unit receptacles is intentionally made to be a sloppy fit so the display can be removed easily.

If your unit came with the PC-11 power cord (with the choke) and you have that below the boat hull under the mount, the choke-to-plug distance is so short that all the movement you were doing will pull on the plug end if the hole you made is not big enough to allow the choke to be in the hole some.
If that is one of the issues, get a PC-10 power cord ( not recommended for a bow mount setup) and change the cord ( it doesn't have the choke.

That sloppy fit of the power cord plug is a common issue with all Humminbird models and the "adjustment" of the plug pins is the remedy.

thanks for the input and i understand everything you stated.

slightly bending the pins would work if it were the female receptacles were slightly "loose" and its hard to check this. if that were the issue any rotation or movement would cause this failure not just "left rotational pressure on the back of the unit".

the metal retainer clip is installed, and even if i tweak the metal clip on the power terminal that wouldn't prevent the transducer cable from popping up thru the mount and it shouldn't.

the filter/choke on the cbl isn't snagging on anything, towards the end of the video you can see i barley touch the unit and it dies. in order for the choke to play a factor the base and or cable would have to be pulled, not rotated.

When I had that same issue with just pushing the unit buttons, tilting the display or rotating the base, I was skeptable also. It still fixed the problem and has for many. The female part of the system IS a loose fit as I explained before and is intentional as explained to me by a Humminbird tech. I still think a better way should be employed for the plug pins to unit fit and told him so as well as adding it to the list of suggested improvements for all the units.

Send me your address and I'll send you the plastic part that the plugs go into-I have some extras. The plug certainly shouldn't come out thru that part. The bending the tab deal is to make a tight fit of the plugs in the plastic part. purdum43@aol.com

I SAW THAT THE HB HD 798CI SI GIVES A MORE DETAILED GPS MAP IS THIS SOMETHING THAT ONLY COMES ON THE HD OR IS THERE A UPDATE FOR THE HB 798C SI

thanks wayne i will try it on Friday. i will email you also.

Are your referring to the base map or some plug and play added map software?

i was talking about the base map, but my 798 just got delivered today and it had the navigation bundle on it. i just orderd the regular combo, i had to call to see why it was taking so long to ship, maybe they just felt sorry for me

happy early fathers day to me

Is this a 798ci HD (2011 Model) Make sure it is on a 2011 700 Series Mounting Base because they changed the base in 2011 for Ethernet functions.

just for the record ***WAYNE WAS RIGHT ABOUT SLIGHTLY BENDING THE PINS.*** THANK YOU

The 2011 798ci HD SI comes with the Contour XD base mapping. That is similar to the former NVB that was an additional $200 and available on earlier models. The NVB was the 2006 issue of Navionics Hotmaps Premium for all regions plus the Navionics Gold.
The older base map is the Uni-map and basically featureless.

I know this site is for equiptment info inwhich you all have done an excellent job. But I have a trouble shooting issue. If this is not the correct place to ask for help I understand and will post in general equipment. I have a 1198si mounted on a 22' Pathfinder with a pocket tunnel hull. The problem is a low speed (3-5 mph ) and sometimes when sitting completely still the depth reading will go crazy. Readings are speratic up to 500+ feet. Usuall it will clear up if I run at a faster speed for a little bit, but may return when I slow down. Any suggestions as to what may be causing the problem would be greatly appreciated?

Post a picture or two of your transducer installation and transom at the hull bottom level.

This thread is for all things Humminbird. It is so all information is in one place and hopefully the next person that is experiancing the same issues or has the same question can find his answer here rather than scrolling through a hundred pages.

How are your transducers mounted? Does it do it at certain depths? What are your sonar settings? Many different variables that can effect performance. Are you running the latest software? One thing you can do is restore defaults or cross test on another transducer that is working correctly?

quick question jumping back to the 798. i used it yesterday for the first time and when toggling thru the views i didn't see a DI view. i thought with the 798 i could see both DI and SI. just curious....

is it a brand new 798 or a older model? the older models didnt have DI on it from the factory. register your unit on the humminbird website and download the updates, then you will have DI

Glad we're off of that front page. All the pics take it forever to load.

holy moly... i just did the update and not only does it now show DI but i have a good 1/2 dozen more views. (now i wish i had a few more short cut buttons)

what is the depth when you should change the setting from salt shallow to salt deep?

one thing I always thought would be cool was if humminbird threw three buttons on the I-pilot remote and allowed you to change quick views from your i-pilot remote

i haven't had this too long but i think the 3 preset buttons would be improved if each button was capable of 2 settings. that would give fast selection to 6 views using 3 buttons. (button one-push once for view A, push again for view B)

someone could just jump to view 5 just by hitting button 3 once.

just a thought

Doug has a video where he explains how the 3 buttons can be used to make 9 presets. you do this by programing the three buttons then use the view and exit button to go forward one page and the exit button to go back one page. when you use these one button pushes the quick view actually makes it very easy to get to 9 screens. The video I posted below, after I watched it isnt actually the one I was looking for, but im sure doug will jump on here and explain it better.

here ya go, this should help get 9 quick views with only a couple buttons pushed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=Je2KYuzn2Jw

OK, so looking at a Bird 898si combo, due to what seems to be everyones more favarable reviews of that unit over Lowrance HDS8. But I have 2 Lowrances, 1 at bow and 1 at console I would keep as not enough $ to make a complete transition. How is the best way to use this mixed combo?

You can get 9 Presets in just 2 button clicks with the Favorites and VIEW or Exit Button. Here is how one user set his up:

-----

Here's what I've done (regarding the number of presets);

Button 1 = Split Screen DI / SI
From that view;
> Press Exit = Full Screen DI
> Press View = Split Screen 2D / DI

Button 2 = Full Screen SI
From that view;
> Press Exit = 3 Way Split DI over 2D / SI
> Press View = Full Screen 2D

Button 3 = Full Screen Navigation Map
From that view;
> Press Exit = Bird's Eye Navigation (this view is great for river buoy navigation)

This helps me get more screen/view shortcuts with extra "quick-cuts" by the press of one extra button.

You may have to hide or un-hide certain screens to get these exact combinations but I've found it to be quite helpful. Especially with the addition of DI. I just wanted quick access to more screens than there were buttons.

But that's 9 presets with 2 key strokes :glasses:

One way alot of people are doing is buy an extra transducer and set up second location then more the head unit back and forth that way they can utilize one head unit till they can upgrade both.

Others are using the SI at the console and then upgrade bow unit later as the funds become available.

Any questions let me know.

I'm here to help!

bassndad, if you are not familiar with the imaging technology, the console with transom transducer is the best way to learn. After you get the hang of it, you will want that technology at the bow whether you switch mount locations or get another unit.

What two lowrance units are they? Are they HDS or traditional sonar? if they are traditional 2D sonar then I would set the 898 at the console and use it there to find the piles, then use your lowrance to fish them. If you can spend an extra 200-300 then buy a second station and put that up at the bow and this will allow you to find the spots with your unit at the console then you can move it up front and use it to fish with and stay on where you need to be.

j, FYI the Lowrance HDS units are traditional 2D sonar with dual beam 83/200 kHz. They only become something else if the LSS-1 accessory is added for Structure Scan. Not everyone with HDS units has purchased the LSS-1 accessory.

At the bow I have a 520c at the console its a 27. Just running down the lake I understand that you do not use the si on the bird, just 2d down. correct?

where my unit does not have the internal gps antenna, if i install another mount up front and the trolling mtr transducer, how do i connect into the existing gps antenna? or is it not worth the hassle to connect it?

You can use the SYSLINK cable to use the single GPS antenna at two locations.
The only issue you will have is the GPS wayponts that are based on sonar returns will be off by the distance between the transducer and antenna. If exact accuracy is not an issue, that is the least expensive way to go rather than purchasing another GPS antenna.
I use that cable with the GPS antenna mounted at the bow. Just about all my waypoints are saved when at the bow while fishing.

additional note: with Side Imaging, it is not as critical as with regular sonar when trying to return to a waypoint of a feature even if it is 20'+ off.

i'm not sure what the cost of the trolling mtr transducer is or the proper one but i thought of another question.

is there a cable like the syslink cbl that would allow me to use my existing transom transducer all the way up at the bow instead of the trolling mtr transducer?

btw thanks again for everything,

You could use a Graph Switch between units and it would allow you to use one transdcuer between two units.

whats a graph switch? it would be between 2 locations with one unit.

Here is link to Humminbird Graph Switch: http://store.humminbird.com/products/425543/US3

wo... thats a pricey switch. so to do a second mount on my bow but use the existing transducer and gps antenna i am looking at aprox $145 (80 for switch, 30 for mount, 35 for syslink cbl) this sh-t ads up quickly

LOL...yes it does....may be cheaper just to buy another unit and ethernet them together...HAHA
I bought an 898 the other day and while it was a great deal i also bought a raptorcap, ram mount, screen protector, weather sense, and tansducer sheild and saver.....sll the accessories add up very fast

i think i'll wait till i catch my first fish before i go spending the mortgage money on any more stuff.

Yeah, then you can buy it,lol.

I personally don't use the 800kHz due to it's more limited coverage area versus the 455kHz; but I was playing around a little today and scanning the river bed and flipped to 800kHz and got some interesting images. Might have to start playing with it more as it offers a different view of the underwater world. Check out these images of the old river channel below one of my local lakes.

What do People Look Like?

Here is Humminbird Marketing Manager getting Side Imaging Picture Taken:





You can see the Scuba Flippers and even air bubbles coming out of his mouth.

Adjusting Scroll Speed Opens up the Details

Matching the Chart/Scroll Speed to the Boat Speed will keep the image returns in perspective as you would see under the water but one of the interesting tools is to adjust the Chart Speed to Open up the Details in the image like finding fish in the tree branches an increased scroll speed can open up the tree and make it easier to find fish amongst the network of tree branches. Look at these images below and watch how changing the scroll speed can be beneficial in helping find fish within the trees.

Chart Speed 3 - Matched to Boat Speed



Chart Speed 4 - Trees open up a little



Chart Speed 5 - Trees Open Even Wider and Fish are Becoming Easier to See



Chart Speed 6 - Tree Branches are open even wider and make it easier to separate the fish from the branches



This is a function and feature that Humminbird offers the user the ability to control chart/scroll speed to allow the user to gather the data they need to be successful. Understanding how it works will help you find and locate more fish. Changing Chart/Scroll Speed Faster will distort the images "real world perspective" but if you are looking for fish within structure it is a very useful tool to help you get the most out of your investment.

What setting was sharpness on?

In the above image I was not using any SI enhance Sharpness. But that is another tool that can help and used in conjunction with scroll speed tohelp locate fish.

Is is possible on down imaging or conventional 2d sonar to actually see my bait relative to fish location?

If you are jigging for example a spoon or jig directly below you then yes you should be able to watch your bait on the graph in relation to the fish. I'm not sure if di will show, I don't own one yet but I have caught many fish by trolling around, graphing fish and then dropping a bait to them. This is the best way to use a drop shot rig, graph them and catch them.

Switchfire 2D it works great vertical fishing seeing your bait. I recommend Switchfire MAX Mode and selecting 200/83 kHz combines sonar setting to see your bait easier.

Down Imaging has such a narrow beam width (front to rear) that it is very difficult to keep your bait in the beam...more luck than skill. That is why 2D Soanr is so important because it is the best choice for vertical fishing and why Humminbird offers 2D sonar with it's DI units.

Can I transsom mount my transducer for a 788ci HD DI Combo on a 96 Ranger 461 VS? Because of the variable setback on the VS models I don't see an area that is perpendicular to the water surface. Plus you have two steps to deal with. Really wanted to be able to take advantage of temperature.

You will need to mount where the hull meets the transom if you want ALL Speed Readings for Sonar. Anything above the bottom of the transom will not read on plane.

Thank you Doug. I found a picture on the Hummingbird website as to where they are mounting on the Rangers with variable setbacks. I will wait until it cools off and get busy.

i just got back in from being out in boston harbor and the charles river and recorded a lot of data for fun. the images while out on the water were sweet, got a real awesome shot of a bait ball and its shadow and a lot of structures. when i grab some screen shots i will post them.

I have a Huminbird 998SI I want to add a transducer in the hull so with the y cable so I can have depth reading while on plane. My question is the puck I have has temp built in and so does the SI transducer. I want the temp reading from the SI not the puck in the hull, how is this acomplished?

With the AS SIDB Y cable, the temp circuit comes from the SI transducer. There is no electrical path on the 2D transducer side of the cable for temp.

Thats what I needed to know, thanks Wayne..

I transom mount my transducer for a 788ci HD DI Combo on a 96 Ranger 461 VS. I mounted the transducer in the area above the drain plug and intakes for the live wells per Hummingbird website. Good returns at low speed but it looses bottom when on plane. What are my choices for all speed returns?

In case none of you know, the DI transducers can be used as a shoot-thru. You won't get water temp with the built-in temp sensor, but you can add the accessory TG-W temp sensor for that.
The XIH 9 DI T comes with the epoxy instead of the transom mount


There is a new shoot-thru version I heard about that has the remote temp sensor. Haven't seen it on the HB web site yet.

Has anyone dealt with the Hummingbird Factory Outlet recently? I am wanting to order the 998c SI combo but am a little nervous.
Took me 4 months to save up the money for this unit.

thanks

No haven't used them, but i did by 2 from Universalmania they were on sale.Fast shipping very smooth transaction.

Get a hold of David at Shut up and fish on this forum. http://texasfishingforum.com/forums/ubbthreads.php/topics/5767861/1/FOR_SALE_Humminbird_798_898_99
Good guy you can trust!

i bought from them my 798c a few weeks back. no problems... actually they were far beyond helpful to me.

Humminbird Factory Outlet is the name of an online store...It has no association to Humminbird, except they sell Humminbird products.

I bought a 798 ci SI last year and need to get a unit for the front of the boat. I'd like to link the units so they can share waypoints. A couple questions:

1. Will a 587 work? If not, what are my somewhat economic options that will allow me to still have a reasonably large screen?

2. What else am I going to need to buy, and how hard will it be to set up?

Thanks.

Only the 700,800,900 and 1100 Series have networking capabilities. With the 798ci InterLink will be your choice for networking.

The most economical models will be the 700 series Units and all you will need is the InterLink Accessory.

Thanks Doug. Then a 787c2 would work, correct?

Your videos are great by the way. Transforming the way my son and I fish.

You can InterLink the 798c with 787c2

NEW For 2012 From Humminbird:

* Radar
* Ethernet Networking via Hub of Multiple Units (more than 2 units) and future Ethernet Accessories
* NEMA 2000 Connection to Ethernet Network
* Expanded Down Imaging Units with 2D in the 300,800, 900, 1100 Series

More Information to come as released and photos...

HumminbirdTV YouTube Clip:
http://youtu.be/PhHfU-QpdEM

New 300 Series Down Imaging



1158c DI - 2011 ICAST Best of Show Winner - Electronics

HUMMINBIRD WAYPOINT MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE

Humminbird is starting to release the software for Waypoint Management. The 998c Software V5.70 has been released and more models are coming as they release the software. Keep a watch on your accounts for the updates.

Waypoint Management is under the Navigation Tab then Scroll Down to Waypoints, Tracks and Routes and open it...

This is Sample Image:

It is showing up for my 958c but it is saying not found when I try to download it. I noticed in the top left corner it says 0 bytes. What do I need to do.

Try again this week probably didn't get it loaded before end of week.

Thanks

Just got some news from Hummibird:

Got the official word on this: the waypoint management software was not included in the 5.700 software release. Someone must have gotten over-anxious and jumped the gun on this. Sorry folks but we will have to wait a while longer for the waypoint management software� If you are having problems tracking the bottom in shallow water when the trolling motor is running your should download and install the 5.700 software though.

Looks like we will have to wait just a little bit longer...I'm wanting to run this new feature but I would rather wait so it comes out right...been a huge project to get the right tool the first time. Sorry for the mis-information I recieved.

Here's a couple neat images I captured showing the Humminbird exceeding the specifications of 150' Max Depth...2D Sonar was in 200kHz only to show the most detail versus coverage area so that is why the bridge piling not showing.

Table Rock Bridge...Proves you get full coverage under the boat...only way you get the bridge on both sides is if the beams overlap in this case...So DI you get under boat coverage




Cool Image of the New 13 Highway Brdige Piling

Here's a neat image of Old Rock Quarry with 455kHz and 800 kHz scanned they were scanned in opposite directions ( so I flipped image) but good comparison of detail differences.

455 kHz



800 kHz

Awesome pics Doug!

If I am linking two units via interlink, do they both need gps receivers or can one just be gps capable and run from the receiver on the other?

More to the point, if I get a 778 for the front of the boat, will I also need to get a receiver for it?

You can share one receiver but all waypoints and the location on the unit will be referenced from the GPS Receiver location. You will need to understand the offset addition from the bow to the GPS receiver to get back on the structure.

But Yes you can!

I have a question on a 597ci di. I just installed one and when I registered it with Humminbird it said I could update to 3.2.2. I downloaded it and it added that management software on my home computer. Is 3.2.2. the program on my computer, or is it updates that I need to load into my 597 unit on the boat. Also which beam is better (455/800) for the down image pictures? Mine just look like 2d blue and white flat drawings and not anything like the 3d pictures that they show on the images above. (when going slow or drifting) Thanks.

The 800 will give crisper pics, the 455 will give more distance with less resolution (not as crisp). The images above were taken my a man who has a really great unit and the man knows how to get every pixel out of that sucker. In other words Doug is the freaking si/di king!

You have to look at the Down Imaging images they are different view than the Side Imaging. I would start a post with some screen captures of your images you are getting and I can take a look. The number one thing about creating great images is chart speed. Matching it to boat speed or a little slower will increase the details as they naturally look.

3.2.2 sounds liek the HumminbirdPC Download which is for waypoint managing for your home computer.

Is there a way to select which Antenna you want to use? meaning if I had a 898 and a 788CI both on the console. can I use the antenna from the 898 for both units even though the 788 is an internal system?