ELECTRICAL NOISE

A major cause of sonar problems is electrical noise. This usually appears on the sonar’s display as random patterns of dots or lines. In severe cases, it can completely cover the screen with black dots, or cause the unit operate erratically, or not at all.

To eliminate or minimize the effects of electrical noise, first try to determine the cause. With the boat at rest in the water, the first thing you should do is turn all electrical equipment on the boat off. Make certain the engine is off, also. Turn the sonar unit on, then turn off ASP (Advanced Signal Processing). There should be a steady bottom signal on the display. Now turn on each piece of electrical equipment on the boat and view the effect on the sonar’s display.

For example, turn on the bilge pump and view the sonar display for noise. If no noise is present, turn the pump off, then turn on the VHF radio and transmit. Keep doing this until all electrical equipment has been turned on, their effect on the sonar display noted, then turned off.

If you find noise interference from an electrical instrument, trolling motor, pump, or radio, try to isolate the problem. You can usually reroute the sonar unit’s power cable and transducer cable away from the wiring that is causing the interference. VHF radio antenna cables radiate noise when transmitting, so be certain to keep the sonar’s wires away from it. You may need to route the sonar unit’s power cable directly to the battery to isolate it from other wiring on the boat.

If no noise displays on the sonar unit from electrical equipment, then make certain everything except the sonar unit is turned off, then start the engine. Increase the RPM with the gearshift in neutral. If noise appears on the display, the problem could be one of three things; spark plugs, alternator, or tachometer wiring. Try using resistor spark plugs, alternator filters, or routing the sonar unit’s power cable away from engine wiring. Again, routing the power cable directly to the battery helps eliminate noise problems. Make certain to use the in-line fuse supplied with the unit when wiring the power cable to the battery!

When no noise appears on the sonar unit after all of the above tests, then the noise source is probably cavitation. Many novices or persons with limited experience make hasty sonar installations which function perfectly in shallow water, or when the boat is at rest. In nearly all cases, the cause of the malfunction will be the location and/or angle of the transducer. The face of the transducer must be placed in a location that has a smooth flow of water at all boat speeds.

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Lowrance electronic X-48, X-38 manual Electrical Noise
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X-38, X-48 specifications

Lowrance has long been a trusted name in the world of fish finders and marine electronics, and the X-48 and X-38 models stand as prime examples of the brand's commitment to quality and innovation. These fish finders offer a range of features and technologies designed to enhance your fishing experience and improve your catch rate.

The Lowrance X-48 is equipped with a powerful 4000 watts peak-to-peak power output and 2400 watts RMS, providing exceptional depth capability and target separation. This model utilizes advanced sonar technology to deliver crisp and clear images of underwater structures, fish, and the bottom contour. The X-48 features a 5-inch monochrome display that provides high-resolution visuals, allowing anglers to identify fish and structures with ease.

One of the standout features of the X-48 is its ability to display detailed mapping data, which is essential for navigating unfamiliar waters. The built-in GPS and chart plotting capability allow users to create waypoints, track their movements, and return to productive fishing spots. This combination of sonar and navigation capabilities is invaluable for anglers who want to maximize their time on the water.

Similarly, the Lowrance X-38 offers an array of impressive features aimed at both novice and experienced fishermen. This model boasts a 3.5-inch monochrome display, which, despite its smaller size, provides users with excellent clarity and visibility. The X-38 employs a 2400 watts peak-to-peak power output, ensuring that even in deep water, fish can be detected with precision.

Both models utilize Lowrance's patented fish identification technology, which helps anglers quickly distinguish between species and understand fish behavior. This feature enhances the fishing experience, allowing users to make informed decisions about bait and tactics. Additionally, the X-38 and X-48 incorporate a user-friendly interface that facilitates easy operation, even for those who are new to fish finders.

Durability is another hallmark of Lowrance products. Both the X-48 and X-38 are designed to withstand harsh marine environments, ensuring that they function reliably season after season.

In conclusion, the Lowrance X-48 and X-38 models exemplify the cutting-edge technology and user-friendly design that the brand is known for. With their advanced sonar capabilities, detailed mapping features, and durable construction, these fish finders are essential tools for any angler looking to enhance their fishing adventures. Whether you are navigating familiar lakes or exploring new waters, the X-48 and X-38 provide the reliable performance needed to succeed.
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