Thread: Installation and Networking

They will communicate with each other via the Ethernet connections to the LSS. No need for the NMEA kit unless you want to use an external GPS with the units. The Gen 1 can't do the map sharing. No bracket is required for in dash mounting an HDS.

Appreciate the info! Thank you!

If you gonna use Xi5, you gotta have the pinpoint NMEA gateway kit and use NMEA 2000 network.

Be sure to follow the Gateway instructions on updating you XI5 software.....especially powering up and powering down your XI5 and Lowrance

Sorry but I missed the Xi5 part of your comment, so you do need the NMEA.

Just make sure that ALL of your Lowrance units are running the latest firmware updates. They are available directly from Lowrance as a download. You put them on an SD card, pop them in your unit, and then turn the unit on. It will automatically update. Some of the Gen 1 units have issues speaking with different modules unless you are running the proper firmware.

Here is what I would do. I use RAM mounts for all of my units. The smaller ones work fine for the HDS 7 and below. For the 8 and above, go with the big RAM mount. The two units at the helm both need to be connected to the LSS module via Ethernet cable. The LSS obviously has the transducer cable (for structure scan) connected (as well as power). Your stern transducer will be connected to ONE of your helm units. At the bow, your HDS 5 will need an Ethernet cable connected to the LSS module. If you are running a bow mount transducer, hook that to your HDS 5. MAKE SURE you connected the yellow wire from each power cord bundle (together). You should have one from the structure scan, one from each HDS 7, and one from the HDS 5 (total of four). The reason for this is so that you can control power. IE, your structure scan unit does NOT have a power off and on button so, unless you connect the yellow wires, when you turn the key (or if you hook directly to the battery) your structure scan will always be on. By connecting the yellow wires, when you power on ANY of your devices, it will power up your structure scan.

For the XI5: you will need the NMEA 2000 network cables. You will need two terminators, a power lead, at least one lead for a fish finder, one lead for the trolling motor, and a minimum of three "T" connectors. This is called "Bus" topology. You will also need wires to connect the T" connectors". IF you want to connect ALL the fish finders, you will need a total of 5 T connectors, and three fish finder leads. Start at the trolling motor, you need a terminator connected to the end of one "T". Then in the middle of the "T" you will connect your trolling motor lead. At the other end of the T you will have a piece of wire (depends on the length to your next device). Next you have your HDS 5. Hook in one T, then in the middle, install the Fish finder lead, at the other end of the T will be your wire lead to your next device. Continue in the chain. Somewhere in this you will need to connect a T with the lead for "power". Remember to finish with a terminator at the other end of the line.

Hope this muddies the water for your.