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Im looking at upgrading my console electronics to either a Humminbird 997C SI Combo NVB or the 797c2i SI Combo NVB. Ill be mounting on top of the console (2000 model Jag w/ the double shelf). I am looking for insight from those who have used these units. Specifically: 1. Is the 997 worth the extra $1k for a bigger screen? 2. If yes, does anyone have a pic of one mounted on the older consoles? At 11 inches, it is to large to fit w/out raising it up on a ram mount. 3. What additional hardware is needed to maximize the unit? 4. What is the best SI transducer mounting location? I recall a discussion about mounting it on the jack plate instead of the hull, anyone have any pics or advice on how best to accomplish the JP install? One final thought. I have $x amount to spend on this project. I can spend the entire $x on the 997cSI or I can split it up by getting the 797 and using the remainder to upgrade my bench seats to new bucket seats. So the dilemma is large screen OR small screen w/ new more comfortable seats. What to do, what to do? Ok folks, standing by for your input. Thanks and good fishing. Richard
I have a 797, a larger screen would be nice but I have learned to live with the smaller screen.You have the option of only looking one direction left or right, which you can position yourself 100 off the bank and just look to the bank side only. And to limit the scans width to 100 and you should be good. Check out the yahoo group side imaging lots of info there, and pictures of installs. Also the best price that I found for the HB is at http://www.jandhproducts.com you can get a 797 for $870. I have used them a couple of times with no problems. Everything that you need comes with it, a couple of add ons can be the weathersense which is a barometeric sensor. And also can buy a system link that will allow to share gps and waypoints between 2 units.Last edited by tae73 on May 12th, 2008, 2:32 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Thanks 73, thats some of the questions I had. BCB, this guy deserves a hat! But I believe that system link requires a HB to HB, not a HB to a Lorance which is my issue. Am I wrong? Also, if you like to use your sonar at speed, you must have an external and internal transducer. Again, am I wrong?
You are correct you are not able to connect HB to a lowrance or vise versa. On the same brands can be connected together. Some people have said that they do get speed readings off the SI transducer. But depending on where you mount it will determine that, most mount it on the jackplate thus it will not work. Becuase it will be out of the water, when on plane. You can mount the the second transducer either internal or externial but you have to add the transducer switch TS2-W to work. I would not recommend buying the NVB models, if you purchase the 997 since there are 2 card slots. The NVB is the 2006 maps which some are outdated, or useless in my case for the lake that I fish. The 797 has only one card slot, so if you purchase a map card and then want to take snap shots you will have to remove the map card then replace with a blank card.Last edited by tae73 on May 13th, 2008, 1:46 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Tough deal. I have 997s on my last 2 boats and I will have one on my next one. I like them but you have to be willing to put the time in to find new off shore stuff and fish it. If you are a bankbeater and have no desire to learn to get off the bank then I say save your money. I dont like the screen size of the 797 BUT if I could have new seats and a 797 it might be worth it. Tough call and no one can make that decision but you. Good luck…if you want to learn to fish deep and off the bank then the sidefinders are the coolest thing since bilge pumps Judd Lasiter
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