One-Boat Network Basics

What is the One-Boat Network?

The One-Boat Network™, an integrated platform that connects Humminbird® fish finders, Minn Kota® trolling motors, Cannon® downriggers, and a wide range of Ethernet accessories. This network allows compatible devices to share data and control functions across the boat, creating a seamless and efficient fishing experience.

JUMP TO: What Can Be Shared on the One-Boat Network? | Network Configuration Guidelines | MEGA Live Imaging: Special Considerations | Network Design Restrictions | Best Practices | Additional Resources

Compatible Humminbird models—such as APEX, XPLORE, SOLIX, and HELIX G4N —can connect and share:

  • Waypoints
  • Tracks
  • Transducer (Sonar) data
  • Mapping*
  • Control of Ethernet-enabled accessories

*Map sharing is a feature only available on APEX, XPLORE, SOLIX or ONIX models. 


What Can Be Shared on the One-Boat Network?

Humminbird Ethernet networks support:

  • Data Sharing: Waypoints, sonar views, mapping, routes, and transducer sources
  • Accessory Control:
    • Minn Kota® trolling motors with Advanced GPS Navigation or i-Pilot® Link™
    • Cannon® Optimum™ downriggers
  • Accessory Integration: CHIRP radar, MEGA Live Imaging, MEGA Live 2, TargetLock™, and sonar modules

More information on One-Boat Network combinations and what data is shared can be found in this article: Network Sharing: Humminbird to Humminbird


Network Configuration Guidelines

  • Switch Limits:
    • Up to 3 AS ETH 5PXG switches per network
    • Up to 5 AS ETH 5PGL switches per network
  • Device Limits:
    • 6 Humminbird fish finders max (with AS ETH 5PGL)
    • 4 Humminbird fish finders max (with AS ETH 5PXG)
    • 20 total devices per network (with AS ETH 5PGL)
  • Sonar Modules: Up to 3 sonar modules (SM1000, SM2000, SM3000) can be connected simultaneously (Not compatible with the AS ETH 5PGL switch)
  • No Duplicate Accessories: Only one of each accessory type (e.g., MEGA 360, MEGA Live, CHIRP Radar, i-Pilot Link, TargetLock) can exist on a single network

⚠️ Note: The original AS ETH 5PS switch is not compatible with APEX, XPLORE, SOLIX, or HELIX models.

More on the AS ETH 5PGL Switch can be found here: AS ETH 5PGL Compatibility


MEGA Live Imaging: Special Considerations

MEGA Live 2 is a unique accessory with specific networking behavior:

  • Multiple MEGA Live 2 units can be connected to the network
  • However, a single Humminbird unit can only subscribe to one MEGA Live 2 at a time
  • APEXXPLORE, and SOLIX G3 models can simultaneously subscribe to one MEGA Live and one MEGA Live 2. (Software Version 5.060 or later is required)
  • HELIX, SOLIX G1, and SOLIX G2 models can only subscribe to one MEGA Live. These series are not compatible with MEGA Live 2

Network Design Restrictions

  • No loops or multipaths are allowed in Ethernet switch configurations
  • Always use proper termination and avoid redundant paths

Best Practices for Maximum Networking Functionality

To ensure optimal performance and compatibility, follow these networking guidelines for your units:

Same-Series Networking (Recommended)

For best results, network units within the same series and type:

  • HELIX ↔ HELIX
  • SOLIX ↔ SOLIX
  • APEX ↔ APEX
  • XPLORE ↔ XPLORE

Cross-Series Compatibility

The following cross-series combinations are supported:

  • APEX ↔ SOLIX
  • APEX ↔ XPLORE ↔ SOLIX G3

⚠️ Important: When networking APEX, XPLORE, and SOLIX series units together, all units must be running the same software version to ensure full functionality and compatibility.

More information on One-Boat Network combinations and what data is shared can be found in this article: Network Sharing: Humminbird to Humminbird


📘 Additional Resources

 

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