MEGA Side Imaging transducers require compatible adapter and extension cables to ensure optimal MEGA Imaging performance. This article explains which cables to use, common symptoms of using incorrect cables, and networking considerations for MEGA-equipped Humminbird fish finders.
Jump To
- 2D Y-Cables
- Left-Right Y-Cables
- Extension Cables
- Using the Correct Cables
- MEGA Networking Considerations
2D Y-Cables
2D Y-Cables allow a MEGA Side Imaging transducer to work with a separate in-hull or shoot thru hull 2D transducer. This setup provides improved high-speed depth readings while maintaining MEGA Side Imaging performance at trolling speeds.
Recommended 2D Y-Cables
HELIX Models
- 9 M SIDB Y - 720101-1
APEX, XPLORE, and SOLIX Models
- 14 M ID SIDB Y - 720111-1
What Happens if the Wrong Dual Beam Y-Cable Is Used?
Old HELIX New HELIX
When older non-MEGA Y-cables are used, you may experience:
- No Down Imaging readings
- Reduced MEGA Imaging clarity
- Degraded overall imaging performance
Caution: Using older Side Imaging Y-cables can prevent your system from delivering the full benefits of MEGA Imaging.
Left-Right Y-Cables
Left-Right Y-Cables allow you to connect separate transducers for the port and starboard sides of your boat.
This setup can be beneficial when:
- A jack plate blocks one side of the transducer
- A trolling motor interferes with sonar coverage
- Other equipment obstructs the left or right Side Imaging beam
Recommended Left-Right Y-Cables
HELIX Models
- 9 M SILR Y - 720102-1
APEX, XPLORE, and SOLIX Models
- 14 M ID SILR Y - 720112-1
What Happens if the Wrong Left-Right Y-Cable Is Used?
Potential symptoms include:
- HELIX: No Down Imaging readings
- HELIX, APEX, XPLORE, and SOLIX: Reduced MEGA Imaging clarity
Caution: For best imaging results, always use the MEGA-specific Left-Right Y-Cable for your model family.
Extension Cables
Use the following extension cables when additional transducer cable length is required.
HELIX Extension Cables
These MEGA-compatible cables include additional shielding and cable twists designed to help reduce sonar interference.
A Series, X Series and APEX, XPLORE, SOLIX, ONIX, and MEGA 360 Extension Cables
| Cable | Part Number | Length |
|---|---|---|
| EC M3 14W10 | 720106-1 | 10 ft |
| EC M3 14W30 | 720106-2 | 30 ft |
10-Foot Extension
- EC M3 14W10 - 720106-1
30-Foot Extension
- EC M3 14W30 - 720106-2
Using the Correct Cables
All MEGA-specific adapter and extension cables are backward compatible with older Humminbird transducers.
Tip: If you are upgrading to a MEGA Side Imaging model, verify that your existing splitter and extension cables are MEGA-compatible to ensure the best sonar performance.
MEGA Networking Considerations
Important Information
MEGA Imaging is a hardware technology, not a software feature.
A software update cannot add MEGA Imaging to a unit that was not originally equipped with MEGA Imaging hardware.
At least one MEGA-equipped fish finder must be present on the network to share and display MEGA Imaging data.
HELIX MEGA SI G2N and HELIX G2N
- Units can network together.
- Any HELIX G2N unit on the network can view MEGA Imaging data.
- Both units do not need to be MEGA-equipped.
HELIX MEGA SI G2N and First-Generation HELIX (G1)
- Units can network together.
- G1 units require software version 1.350 or newer.
- G1 units can view 455 kHz and 800 kHz imaging, but not MEGA Imaging.
- AutoChart Live vegetation and bottom hardness features are supported.
SOLIX SI and SOLIX
- Non-Side Imaging SOLIX units can view MEGA Imaging from a networked SI model.
SOLIX SI and ONIX
- Units can network together.
- ONIX requires software version 3.000 or newer.
- ONIX can display MEGA Imaging from a networked SOLIX SI unit.
SOLIX or ONIX with Networking HELIX Models
The following data can be shared across compatible networked units:
- Waypoints
- i-Pilot Link
- Humminbird 360
- Humminbird CHIRP Radar
- NMEA 2000 data
