Networking helix units

I am going to update my boat electronics. My question is if I am going to run side imaging on one unit will I need both units to be si capable?

No just the one connected to the SI transducer, you will need a ethernet cable and adapters for both ends to connect to Helix units, if you want to share screens.

That’s what I thought, but I had a sales rep tell me all unit would need to be side imaging

Another question for networking.
Do I need or want the external gps puck? Will it increase the accuracy?

Tom schmitt wrote:

I am going to update my boat electronics. My question is if I am going to run side imaging on one unit will I need both units to be si capable?

The one that is not si must be a networking one though, must have a N at the end of the model number.

I bought my 1st (and last) real boat last summer. I have a Helix 9 Mega Side and Down on the console and a Helix 7 Mega Side only at the bow – with the transducer built in Minn Kota trolling motor. I didn’t get much time to play with them together.

I am looking a converting the Helix 7 to an ice fishing unit. But didn’t know if it was chirp of not. So I decided to call Humminbird. I made a list of questions for the ice conversion kit AND using/linking them on the boat.

Friday I spoke to a lady at Humminbird CS. She was great. She answered all my questions and more. I learned a lot. I took notes so I remember in the spring.

* I was told that my front Helix 7 (without Mega Down) could read the rear transducer with MDI (from/though the Helix 9).

I recommend making a list of questions and giving CS a call. I didn’t wait long to talk to someone (but I didn’t call on a Monday or at noon). I was a good experience.

Thanks all, I will have to call them on Monday.

The guidance offered here is spot on… both units need to be networkable (generally indicated by the “N” designation in the model). You can share side / down to other units that are not side / down units on their own via the ethernet connection (or hub if you have more than one unit / networked device).

I have the external puck with the heading sensor that I like, especially for slow speed navigation to a critical piece of structure / the “spot on the spot”. Because of the built in heading sensor the boat direction on the screen is always pointing the correct direction