I have a Humminbird 997C SI and want to get a smaller unit to go up on the trolling motor. Would be nice to share waypoints and everything. Does anyone know if my 997 will work? Are there certain restrictions I need to keep in mind in regards to which smaller unit I purchase up front?

Also am assuming I need to purchase the the Humminbird AS-Interlink Interlink Network connection and cables?

Yes, that's what it was made for. Been thinking of getting one myself for my 997 and 768.

Make sure software in each unit is compatible too

My 997 quit working with my Interlink after the last software update. Humminbird wants you to buy their newer units that have networking connectivity.

I have the latest SW on my unit as just recently had my 997 serviced by Humminbird. So should I buy an older humminbird. How do I ensure the smaller unit I buy will be compatible as far as the software? Are there units that don't have the interlink capability I need to be aware of?

Yes I have a 997 hooked to a 788 but the interlink is screwed up because of a corrupt coordinates issue I cant seem to figure out. If I was going to do it again I think I would just get the Ethernet cable.

I run an 1197csi with an interlink to a 778c and it works great. I would go with an ethernet cable if I had to start over. Make sure that both units are compatible with the interlink or ethernet cable and go from there.

ethernet cable = faster communication between the two units.

Is the ethernet cable just a single cable that plugs into the appropriate ports between the units or is there a small box like for the interlink? This all new to me as to how it works.

Just a cable that works in conjunction with the 98/99 series.

I have a 997 and a 788 with a Interlink and have had no issues. I did go to a lot of trouble to manage my waypoints so they are organized by lake because I got so many waypoints my units started slowing down. So if I am going to put different waypoints in and change lakes, I always erase all data in my graphs and my interlink prior to loading the other lake waypoints.

Hope all that made since.

Ethernet

I have my 998 interlinked with a 997. The 997 I have 2010 model won't accept the Ethernet cable the 998 will. When you install the interlink use dielectric grease on the connections. The only problem I have had was the connections at the interlink getting loose in really rough water. I put some really small nylon ties on each cable. Problem solved

Good info. thanks

I linked a 997 to a 858 with a Interlink. Used 2 Ethernet cables. Had to update the 997. All the info is on Humminbirds website. Piece of cake

Ethernet cable is far superior. Faster. No connection issues. Colors the waypoints differently by which unit they are saved on. I had issues with the interlink. Mainly connection issues were one unit could not see the data. Zero issues with the Ethernet cable.

I have a 1197C at the console with Ethernet to a 958C on the trolling motor.