Ice Fishing HB997

I have been doing some research to solve a problem of my older GPS (Garmin Etrex Legend) not accepting SD map cards. I have found a cable that will allow different handhelds to communicate with my 997 which does display MAP data brilliantly. My other option is purchasing anothe puck which runs $100. This cable costs less than $25. See exerpt from HB Support page:

“GPS Trackplotting vs. Chartplotting

By using the handheld cables to connect the fishfinder to their handheld GPS unit the user can gain GPS trackplotting capability on the large display of their Matrix, 700 or 900 Series unit at a very low cost. The screens of handheld GPS units are small and often hard to view in extreme marine conditions. By using the handheld cables to transfer the GPS trackplotting data the user can view this information in an integrated form with their sonar information on a large sunlight viewable display.”

Anyone done this? I am not interested in using the unit for depth, only GPS with Mapping software. Planning to rig up another RAM mount in my pickup for the set-up.

Your talking about slaving the 997 to your handheld to get a larger more viewable display. I might do this if they had a nifty inexpensive carrying case for the 997 where my handheld could sit underneath. I’ve spent many hours squinting at my black and white H2O with the wind blowing in my face.
JP

Humminbird Handheld Cable

There is a support manual on the web that describes what cable is needed for what handheld, plenty of models listed.

Manual

The NMEA cable you are refering to will only give the NMEA information (coordinance) to your 997. You will still have to use the chip in your 997, any chip/map software you have in your hand held will not be visable to the 997.

I have been doing this with my 787 for several years. Basically it replaces the antenna. BTW the same NMEA cable is used to send NMEA data from one Humminbird to another Humminbird.