Gps Help???

[Frisbie]

Hi all,

I just installed a new GPS/Sonar (Lowrance 337C DF) and the GPS will not function. I have 12 volts going into the unit (from battery) and the sonar portion works fine...but no GPS :confused:
Included with the unit was an IMEA 2000 network, which I by-pasted as the owner of the boat didn't want to use it. I just capped and taped the exposed wires and didn't run a power cable from the battery to it. Do I need to run power to this network to enable the GPS to function properly? Looks like I need to contact Lowrance

Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance...

[detra]

I just installed a garmin in my boat. Only one power wire goes in. This may be a stupid question but does it have an external antennae and is it connected. Also most units have a simulation mode, does the gps simulation mode worK?

[canalyaker]

The NMEA cable must be terminated for the direct connection to the antenna to work. There should have been a terminator included.

[Frisbie]

Thanks for the replys...

Yes, the antenna is connected. I'm at work, so I don't know if the simulator works, but thats one thing I didn't check.

Yes, a terminator is included. But I didn't run a power cable to the NMEA network; Nor did I connect the data cables necessary for the NMEA to function. My thought here was not using it-don't connect it! Maybe thats my problem????

[canalyaker]

The online manual at the Lowrance website for that unit indicates that the terminator should be used.

[fishingdan]

For the Lowrance/Eagle units, the head unit and the GPS antenna require power. Have you connected the power to the GPS antenna?

[Frisbie]

The GPS now works fine --127-3- . Thanks to everyone for all your replys.

The problem was I didn't run power to the NMEA (which also supplies power for the antenna). I have a very satisfied owner of a beautiful aquasport with new GPS and Sonar. He also purchased a 2004 map chip and I am very impressed with unit.

Thanks again...

[fishingdan]

Congrats.

What map chip did you buy? I am thinking of buying the new Lowrance NauticPath map. I saw a demo and it seemed awesome and smoother to operate than the Navionics map.

[Frisbie]

fishingdan,

I don't remember which chip he purchased. I will get back to you later on today with an answer.

Frisbie

[Frisbie]

Hey fishingdan...

He purchased a Navionics Premium from G&R Marine in Windsor CT (a Proline Dealer) for ~$200. I am very impressed with the quality and ease of use. I cannot comment on the NauticPath Map as I have not tried or seen that chip-set in use.
He fishes the great lakes (Ontario), RI and CT shore, Cape and the islands (Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket) and this chips covers this whole area.

Good luck with your purchase. I would try both chip-sets and see which one you works best for your needs.

Frisbie

[fishingdan]

Thanks. Lowrance said that they have now started shipping the NauticPath chips. I will take a closer look at them side by side before I buy. Lowrance may need a little time under their belt before they are ready to develop and support these maps.

Dan