Ethernet Networking Basics:
What is Ethernet networking and what information does it share?
Ethernet networking refers to the ability of an Ethernet-compatible Humminbird fish finder, such as HELIX G4N, SOLIX, or APEX model, to connect and share information like waypoints, tracks, and transducer information with other compatible Humminbird fish finders. In addition, these models can connect to optional Ethernet accessories like Minn Kota trolling motors with Advanced GPS Navigation or Humminbird CHIRP radar.
Creating an Ethernet network will share information and control of optional Minn Kota trolling motors featuring Advanced GPS Navigation or i-Pilot Link, between Humminbird fish finders, making it easy to access the information and boat control features you want from anywhere in the boat. With an Ethernet-networked boat, anglers can enjoy a more efficient, and convenient fishing experience. Ethernet networking capable models include HELIX 7 G4N, all HELIX 8, 9, 10, 12, and 15 models, all APEX, XPLORE and SOLIX models, as well as many Humminbird legacy models.
We provide a list of Humminbird units that network and additional information here.
What are the capabilities of a Humminbird Ethernet Network?
An individual Ethernet switch allows connection of up to five Ethernet capable products. One Ethernet network can contain up to three AS ETH 5PXG switches or five AS ETH 5PGL switches daisy chained together (restrictions and compatibility requirements apply).
- When using the AS ETH 5PGL, the network can contain up to 20 total networking products, including up to five Humminbird fish finders. Not all Legacy products are compatible, please see compatibility notes here.
-
When using the AS ETH 5PXG, the network is limited to a total of four Humminbird fish finders. Up to three sonar modules(SM1000, SM2000 and/or SM3000) can be connected simultaneously.
It is important to note our first Ethernet Switch, the AS ETH 5PS, is not compatible with HELIX, SOLIX or APEX models.
Multiple Ethernet accessories can be connected as long as there are no duplicate accessories attached to the same network. To clarify, You cannot have more than one source for 360 Imaging (MEGA or non-MEGA), MEGA Live Imaging, TargetLock, CHIRP Radar, or i-Pilot Link in a single network.
You cannot loop nor multi-path with these Ethernet switches.
What’s the best way to create an Ethernet network allowing for the most functionality?
When networking Humminbird fish finders, it is recommended to network fish finders of the same series type (HELIX to HELIX, SOLIX to SOLIX, APEX to APEX, or APEX to SOLIX), as these network configurations provide the greatest amount of functionality and benefits to an angler or captain.
XPLORE will network with APEX and SOLIX G3 only (software update may be required).
View this Ethernet Networking Basics chart for more details on what data is shared between units.
