Snips,
Great thread.... like other users i wish id dialled into this knowledge base before upgrading as every install tech has a different view on whats best. So far my new install hasnt lived up to expectation.
I recently upgraded (1) my 1100 to an 1150, (2) my 'ducer to an Airmar R399 (wet box mounted), (3) my plotter from NN VX2 to NN3D, and (4) have TZ Explorer with PBG on the way.
Just had my first run out wide with the new gear (after professional install) and it really misfired. While i could get a numerical depth read bootm left the entire time, i stuggled to get any useful bottom read below 200m - at 400m could only get the odd flicker of colour on the bottom lock and nothing on the RHS LF screen (blank). While nothing beats a wet mount, i woud have expected a better result given the horsepower (and given the HF was crystal clear at 25knts).
Couple of questions:
1. Is the Airmar R399 compatible with the 1150? I had another tech post install tell me it wasnt. (note the 1150 is networked with NN3D)
2. Obviously sounds like 'ducer issue? But only on LF but understand this is to be exoected. Transducer located just forward of prop shaft in manufacturers recomended location.
3. When driving the 1150 from the 3D unit, the display on the 3D was far better quality than what i was getting on 1150 at same time (feeds back into question 1?).
4. Worst case, if i had to wet face a 'ducer (last resort), could i do just an LF 'ducer and keep the HF Running off the wet box (the HF worked fine to 200m at speed)? If so, what would you recommend as the optimal LF 'ducer for the 1150 for use in 300-600m of water bottom fishing.
5. are there any considerations i need to be mindful of in networking in the TZ should i be forced to install another 'ducer.
Sorry was too annoyed to think about taking screen shots 30nm from home. Next time.
Many thanks in advance.
Rick