Helix networking extra cost

  • Whateverbites
    Posts: 138
    #1681060

    Humminbird says you can network two helix units to each other. what they don’t tell you is there is no network cable that fits, so you have to buy a network cable ($50) and an adapter for each end ($30 x 2) so it will run over $100 to run a network cable 10′

    Brian Klawitter
    Keymaster
    Minnesota/Wisconsin Mississippi River
    Posts: 59992
    #1681086

    Helix 7

    Humminbird Mapping:Optional
    Navionics+:Optional
    Navionics Platinum+:Not Supported
    Platinum Capable:Not Supported
    C-Map 4D:Not Supported
    360 Imaging:Not Supported
    i-Pilot Link:Not Supported
    HD Radar:Not Supported
    NMEA 2000:Not Supported
    5 Port Expansion Module:Not Supported
    WeatherSense:Not Supported
    Precision GPS:Included

    Heading Sensor GPS:Not Supported
    PC Connect:Optional
    External GPS Receiver:Not Supported
    AS Interlink:Not Supported
    AIS Compatability:Not Supported

    At least you can make it work.

    FishBlood&RiverMud
    Prescott
    Posts: 6687
    #1681102

    An ounce of preparation is worth a pound of cure.

    Example: I want to buy two depth finder and link together…. Maybe I should research how they link together, then buy…. Or, you can pretend that it is up to someone else to educate YOU!

    There’s lots of information on all products we purchase if YOU CHOOSE to read it.

    Hot Runr Guy
    West Chicago, IL
    Posts: 1933
    #1681108

    You don’t need to spend $100, the QDE adapters and network cables show up on ebay and fishing classifieds all the time. If you have time to wait, you can save a few $$$.

    HRG

    tbro16
    Inactive
    St Paul
    Posts: 1170
    #1681112

    An ounce of preparation is worth a pound of cure.

    Example: I want to buy two depth finder and link together…. Maybe I should research how they link together, then buy…. Or, you can pretend that it is up to someone else to educate YOU!

    There’s lots of information on all products we purchase if YOU CHOOSE to read it.

    Makes total sense, and while I cant disagree, keep in mind how much other research must be done to find a depth finder you like in the first place. It would be fair to assume that with all of the technology today it’d be very easy to link two units, especially when theyre the same units, together. Glad I read into this now because I wouldnt have had an idea after I bought a unit.

    I’ve just recently started looking to buy my first legit depth finder and my god. I’ve been researching for weeks and still feel as if I know nothing. Still have no idea what I am even looking for doah

    Brian Klawitter
    Keymaster
    Minnesota/Wisconsin Mississippi River
    Posts: 59992
    #1681144

    FBRM I thought ALL gps units came with a pig tail to tie into a marine radio.

    Nope, extra cable needed to be ordered.

    The upside is that I researched boat dealers much better then I researched the Helix and I’m well taken care of. Well taken care of.

    yay < I never use a dancing banana.

    Michael C. Winther
    Reedsburg, WI
    Posts: 1498
    #1681172

    Maybe I should research how they link together, then buy

    yes, it’s the customers job to do their research. and at the same time if you annoy your customers by making them feel tricked you end up losing them as return customers. the price-point gymnastics on these units is unfortunate, and it’s only speaking the truth to point out that it’s borderline deceptive to make the units appear less expensive than they really end up being.

    For example, to get a pretty basic Humminbird/MinnKota network similar to what’s shown in their ads with 2 combo units and an iPilot Link trolling motor you don’t just need those 3 items. you also need to purchase:
    – 2 ethernet cables (need 3, 1 included with TM): $120
    – 2 ethernet adapter dongles: $60
    – 1 ethernet hub: $270
    – 1 transom high-speed transducer: $120
    – 1 transducer cable splitter: $30
    total “unexpected” cost: $600

    Similarly, the Lowrance products are sold “a la carte” with even their SI technology being a separate add-on.

    http://www.technologicalangler.com/humminbird-training-workshops

    yes!
    i’d rate myself as “good” in terms of knowing how to use my units and i still got a ton from one of his classes. worth twice the price.

    69chevelle
    Posts: 7
    #1681270

    So I have the ipilot link. I’m considering the helix 9 si. It’s my understanding I have to run the si transducer on the transom and use a spliter with the ipilot. If true, how does the locator know which transducer to read considering there is no switch? I’m lost thanks

    katmando
    Ramsey,MN pool 2, St.croix river
    Posts: 691
    #1681293

    There’s a option on your helix in the settings menu to change transducers.

    FishBlood&RiverMud
    Prescott
    Posts: 6687
    #1681399

    I’ve just recently started looking to buy my first legit depth finder and my god. I’ve been researching for weeks and still feel as if I know nothing. Still have no idea what I am even looking for doah

    Ask and you shall receive.

    Maybe start a thread with what features you would like to have and I’m sure folks will help you select the required equipment.

    BP
    Hudson, WI
    Posts: 48
    #1682002

    I agree with some of the other replies….the Technological Angler has a lot of good info. I would also recommend doing the on-line live chat with Humminbird. My experience has been good with them. Maybe try to visit the Northwest Sports Show? Humminbird will have a big presence. Don’t depend on any of the local sporting good stores for knowledge. The last 3 I visited I discovered I knew more than they did about the Helix units.

    I may have a 10′ cable and 5 port box for sale. PM me if interested.

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