Overview
This article provides guidance on selecting the GPS source on HELIX, SOLIX, and APEX units. It also explains how to use a Minn Kota trolling motor as the GPS and/or heading source for your Humminbird system.
An external GPS or heading sensor is recommended for chartplotters and fishfinders when you need more accurate boat orientation, especially for features like Spot-Lock, heading lines, or precision trolling. It's also useful when the internal GPS signal is obstructed (e.g., console-mounted units), when multiple displays need shared GPS data, or when operating at high speeds where faster refresh rates improve tracking. External sensors help ensure reliable navigation, mapping, and performance in demanding conditions.
TOPICS COVERED: When to Use an External GPS or Heading Sensor | Selecting Minn Kota i-Pilot Link or Advanced GPS Trolling Motor as GPS Heading Source
When to Use an External GPS or Heading Sensor
Precise Boat Orientation for Features Like Spot-Lock or Heading Lines
- Internal GPS may show your location but not your direction when stationary.
- An external heading sensor (like Minn Kota's Heading Sensor or Humminbird's AS GPS HS) provides accurate boat orientation, which is crucial for:
- Advanced GPS and i-Pilot Navigation
- TargetLock Functions
- Waypoint navigation
- Casting direction indicators
Mounting Location Limits Internal GPS Performance
- If your chartplotter is mounted inside a cabin, under a console, or surrounded by electronics, GPS signal can be degraded.
- An external GPS antenna mounted on the deck or roof ensures better satellite visibility and faster signal acquisition.
- This is especially important for APEX and XPLORE models.
- In-dash mounting for these units requires the use of an external GPS/Heading source.
Multiple Units Needing Shared GPS Data
- If you have multiple displays (e.g., bow and console), an external GPS sensor can provide a centralized and consistent GPS feed to all units via NMEA 2000 or Ethernet.
Advanced Chartplotting and Mapping
- For self-mapping features like AutoChart Live, an external GPS can ensure better positional accuracy and smoother data collection.
Selecting Minn Kota i-Pilot Link or Advanced GPS Trolling Motor as GPS Heading Source
JUMP TO: APEX, XPLORE and SOLIX G3 (Software Version 5.060 and Newer) | APEX and SOLIX (Software Version 4.210 and Older) | HELIX | Additional Resources
Note: Humminbird Fishfinders are only able to network with Compatible Minn Kota Trolling Motors.
Minn Kota Heading Source Information
- When using a Minn Kota motor as the heading source, the motor must be deployed to function as intended.
- For Minn Kota i-Pilot Link (2017 or newer) or Advanced GPS trolling motors equipped with an external heading sensor, the heading data is provided by the paired heading sensor.
- With Minn Kota Quest trolling motors, heading information is communicated directly from the controller head of the motor.
- For Minn Kota Legacy (non-Bluetooth) trolling motors, a GPS receiver is required to enable navigation features on your Humminbird fishfinder.
APEX, XPLORE and SOLIX G3 (Software Version 5.060 and Newer)
- Press the HOME key.
- Select Settings.
- Select Data Sources.
- Select a Data Category, and select the data type under that category.
- Select Auto-Configure. Tap the on/off button, or press the ENTER key, to turn it off.
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Select the GPS and/or Heading source from the list.
APEX and SOLIX (Software Version 4.210 and Older)
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Press Home.
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Select Settings.
- Select Network.
- Select Data Sources.
- Select Auto-Configure. Tap the on/off button, or press the ENTER key, to turn it off.
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You can then select Heading and GPS Sources.
HELIX
Note: On HELIX units, heading selection is automatic. The system will prioritize a connected NMEA 0183 heading sensor as the primary source. If no NMEA 0183 heading is available and a Minn Kota motor is networked, the HELIX will automatically use the motor’s heading data.
However, GPS source selection is manual if you're not using the HELIX’s internal GPS or a connected NMEA 0183 GPS sensor. Please follow the steps below to select an alternative GPS source.
- Push the Menu button twice.
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Arrow over to Network (HELIX G3N and Older)
- Scroll down to Network Source Setup.
- Select GPS Tab.
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The list of GPS sources will show below.
How to Share Data and Choose Network Sources on HELIX
