Installing the thru-hull mount transducer

Furuno GP-1850DF Installing the thru-hull mount transducer, Transducer mounting location

Installing the thru-hull mount transducer

Transducer mounting location

This type of mounting provides the best performance of all, since the transducer protrudes from the hull and the effect of air bubbles and turbulence neat the hull skin is reduced. When the boat has a keel, the transducer should be at least 30 cm away from it. Typical through hull mountings are shown in the figure on the next page.

The performance of the video sounder is directly related to the mounting location of the transducer, especially for high-speed cruising. The installation should be planned in advance, keeping the standard cable length (8 m) and the following factors in mind:

•Air bubbles and turbulence caused by movement of the boat seriously degrade the sounding capability of the transducer. The transducer should, therefore, be located in a position where water flow is the smoothest. Noise from the propel- lers also adversely affects performance and the transducer should not be mounted nearby. The lifting strakes are notorious for creating acoustic noise, and these must be avoided by keeping the transducer inboard of them.

•The transducer must always remain submerged, even when the boat is rolling, pitching or up on a plane at high speed.

•A practical choice would be somewhere between 1/3 and 1/2 of the boat's length from the stern. For planing hulls, a practical location is generally rather far astern, so that the transducer is always in water regardless of the planing attitude.

Transducer outline drawings

120

				120

30		All dimensions	28
		in millimeters	28
		in millimeters
							Ship's
					68		Ship's
					68		bow
							bow

	68					87
520-5PSD (option)					520-5MSD (option)

Figure 1-11 Transducer outline drawings

1-8

GP-1850DF specifications

Furuno is renowned for its high-quality marine electronics, and the GP-1850DF and GP-1850F are no exceptions. These advanced GPS chart plotters are designed to meet the needs of both professional mariners and recreational boaters alike.

The GP-1850DF is equipped with a powerful 12-channel GPS that provides fast and accurate positioning information, while the GP-1850F features a sturdy built-in fish finder, making it ideal for anglers. Both units boast a brilliant color display that enhances visibility in various lighting conditions, ensuring that users can easily read information on the screen, even in direct sunlight.

One of the standout features of these models is their compatibility with a variety of chart formats, including C-MAP, and Furuno’s proprietary raster charts. This flexibility allows users to choose from a broad range of navigational charts, catering to specific regional needs and preferences. The intuitive interface of the GP-1850 series simplifies navigation, offering menu-driven commands and support for multiple languages.

Furuno has integrated advanced sonar technology in the GP-1850F model, including a high-resolution fish finder capable of detecting fish signatures with remarkable precision. The dual-frequency capabilities enable users to switch between higher frequencies for shallow water fishing and lower frequencies for deeper waters. This enriches the fishing experience while improving catch rates.

Moreover, both devices feature a built-in waypoint register, allowing users to store up to 1,000 waypoints, which can be essential for returning to promising fishing spots or navigating back to port. The navigation functions also include routes and track recording, empowering boaters to create custom paths and review their previous journeys.

The GP-1850 series also places a high emphasis on safety, incorporating features like man overboard (MOB) alarms and route alarms to enhance on-water safety. Additionally, they are designed to withstand the harsh marine environment, with waterproof housings that ensure durability during adverse weather conditions.

In conclusion, the Furuno GP-1850DF and GP-1850F models provide an exceptional combination of performance, reliability, and user-friendly features, making them a preferred choice for both fishermen and navigators. Their adaptability in various maritime situations, alongside advanced technologies, cements their reputation as essential tools for successful and safe voyages on the water.