Humminbird Helix 7 SI, G2 vs G2N?

What's the real difference to the layman? Been trying to find a simple explanation between the two versions, but can't find it summed up. Is it worth the extra couple hundred dollars?

the "N" stands for network... which means it has Ethernet capabilities and can network with other Ethernet capable units... If you want to network with other units or add a 360 or I pilot link it is worth it and necessary. But if its a stand alone unit then the Helix 7 si g2 will be fine

Gotcha, thanks for clarifying that.

So it appears that this unit has the capability to run a "Y" cable, and use two transducers?

Is it possible to run one SI transducer (mounted to the jackplate), and another transom mounted for high speed readings?

If so, which transducer would be compatible for the transom mount location?


Thanks!

Yes you can do that with any Side Imaging model, DI models too.

A transom 83/200 kHz 2D transducer without temp is the XNT 9 20.

The current Y cable is the 9 M SIDB Y. There are two discontinued models what will work also.
AS SIDB Y and MSIDB Y.

Thank You!

Everything I read said so, just want confirmation, and to know I wasn't placing a bias on the information based on my hopes. LOL

Last question, I hope.

When mounting the SI ducer to the jackplate, will the transom of the boat impede the readings in any way? Mine is a mod-v hull, so there's no pad, or step of any kind. The transom is strait down all the way to the bottom.

The SI transducer has to "see" left and right. That is the only concern. It will be out of the water when on-plane if attached to the jackplate.

The proper attitude for the SI transducer is the face parallel to the water's surface when at idle speed scanning so the Imaging pulses are vertical so it can produce the sharpest images.

The 2D transducer has to be positioned so it slightly deflects water passing across it to get good depth readings at speed. Read the installation instructions.

The next thing is the SI transducer itself. It comes with the Compact SI transducer XNT 9 SI 180 T that is 4" long. You can get sharper images by upgrading to the HDSI transducer that is 6" long, has longer SI crystals that produce a thinner Imaging pulse and sharper images.
If you have not opened the mount package or used the transducer, you can exchange it for the HDSI through Humminbird Customer Service. It's about $85 including shipping price difference.
The HDSI transom transducer is XHS 9 HDSI 180 T.

Just wanted to make sure it wouldn't be trying to look forward any when mounted properly. My existing Ducer is in a pretty good spot on the transom (reads up to about 32mph which is a decent cruise speed for my boat), so I'd try and duplicate that as best I can when installing the 2d for this unit.

I will take your advice and swap the SI ducer when it arrives. Might as well do it once and be done, and save about $100 in the process.

With the options the Helix has, coupled with the technology and value, it looks like it's leaving the other candidates behind for me. Being able to easily run 2 transducers has solved a major concern.

Thanks for the help.

Will it get the temp from the SI transducer?

Yes