The Humminbird MEGA 360 Imaging system offers anglers a powerful way to visualize underwater terrain with sharp, 360-degree sonar clarity. To make the most of this technology, it's important to understand which fish finders and trolling motors it works with, the available mounting configurations, and key considerations for installation. This article provides essential information and resources to help users integrate MEGA 360 into their setup effectively.
JUMP TO:
- Compatibility
- Mounting Options and Installation
- Power Cable Installation
- Using Other Transducers with MEGA 360
Compatibility
The MEGA 360 transducer is compatible with the following Humminbird models:
- All XPLORE models
- All APEX models
- All SOLIX G2 and G3 models
- HELIX 15 MEGA SI+ GPS G4N, HELIX 15 MEGA DI+ GPS G4N*
- HELIX 12 MEGA SI+ GPS G4N, HELIX 12 MEGA SI+ GPS G3N, HELIX 12 MEGA DI+ GPS G4N, HELIX 12 MEGA DI+ GPS G3N*
- HELIX 10 MEGA SI+ GPS G4N, HELIX 10 MEGA SI+ GPS G3N, HELIX 10 MEGA DI+ GPS G4N, HELIX 10 MEGA DI+ GPS G3N*
- HELIX 9 MEGA SI+ GPS G4N, HELIX 9 MEGA SI+ GPS G3N, HELIX 9 MEGA DI+ GPS G4N, HELIX 9 MEGA DI+ GPS G3N*
- HELIX 8 CHIRP MEGA SI+ GPS G4N, HELIX 8 MEGA SI+ GPS G3N*
We strongly recommend you always keep your Humminbird unit up to date on its current software.
*Compatible HELIX models must use the included HELIX Adapter (AD HELIX M360) or the Minn Kota MKR-MI-1 Adapter cable.
Mounting Options and Installation
Minn Kota Trolling Motor
|
⚠️ Not compatible with 60" or longer shafts. |
*To install an existing MEGA 360 on an Ultrex QUEST, use the updated MEGA 360 Mounting Plate or MEGA 360 Hardware Kit.
Note: When using the MKA-50 Bow-Mount Stabilizer, it must be mounted on the opposite side of the MEGA 360 transducer.
MEGA Live TargetLock
|
Ultrex motors made in 2024 or earlier may need a replacement Lift Assist Cylinder to accommodate the extra weight. IMPORTANT! Always install your motor's stabilizer or "bounce bar" to prevent damage to your equipment when stowed. |
Ice Fishing
|
|
MEGA 360 Universal
|
|
Power Cable Installation
The MEGA 360 Imaging system is powered by a dedicated power cable (included with new units). This cable connects to a 12-volt power source and is available for replacement if needed.
Power Connection Guidelines
-
Fuse Requirement:
When connecting directly to a battery, install a 1 AMP slow-blow fuse in-line with the power cable to protect the system. -
Kill Switch Recommendation:
For added control and safety, we recommend installing a manual kill switch to easily power off the MEGA 360 when not in use. - Secure the cables with cable ties along the route as needed for a clean assembly.
Positive, Negative and Drain Wire Instructions
Proper wiring is essential for optimal performance:
-
Positive (Red) Wire:
Connects to the positive (+) terminal on the battery or fuse panel. -
Drain/Shield and Negative (Black) Wires:
Connect both the drain/shield wire and the negative wire from the MEGA 360 power cable to a ground terminal or boat chassis ground point.-
Direct Battery Connection:
If wiring directly to the battery:- Connect the negative wire to the negative terminal.
- Ensure the drain wire is also connected to the negative terminal.
- Confirm that the battery itself is properly grounded to the boat chassis.
-
Direct Battery Connection:
Identifying the Drain Wire
- The drain wire is the non-tinned (bare copper) wire within the power cable.
- If the drain wire is not immediately visible:
- Strip approximately 2 inches of the outer cable jacket to expose it.
Please refer to the installation guides below for any other questions.
MEGA 360 Power Cable: MEGA 360 PC (item no. 720118-1)
Using Other Transducers with MEGA 360
Can I connect other transducers at the same time as the MEGA 360?
Yes. HW, HW/MEGA DI+, HW/MEGA DI+/MEGA SI+ imaging transducers can be connected in conjunction with the MEGA 360. A transducer splitter cable is needed to do this. Use a 9 M360 2DDI Y (HELIX - part no. 720107-1) or a 14 M360 2DDI Y (APEX, XPLORE, and SOLIX - part no. 720108-1) accessory cable.
The Minn Kota Built-In MEGA DI+ or Dual Spectrum CHIRP can also be connected at the same time as a MEGA 360. When installing, you will always use the 14 M360 2DDI Y. HELIX models require the HELIX MEGA 360 Adapter Cable, included with the MEGA 360, to adapt the Y cable to fit the HELIX unit.
HELIX models only: Set your Connected Transducer setting to an option reflecting both the MEGA 360 and the other transducer.
- MEGA 360 - Used when MEGA 360 is the only transducer connected.
- HW : MEGA 360 - Used when connecting MEGA 360 and a 2D HW transducer (Ex: XTM 9 HW T, XI 9 1521, or Minn Kota Built-in DSC)
- HW : MDI+ : MEGA 360 - Used when connecting MEGA 360 and a MEGA Imaging+ transducer not built into the trolling motor. (Ex: XM 9 HW MDI T or XM 9 HW MSI T)
- Built-in HW : MDI+ : MEGA 360 - Used when connecting MEGA 360 and the Minn Kota Built-in MEGA DI+ transducer.
- Built-in HW : MSI+ : MEGA 360 - Used when connecting MEGA 360 and the Minn Kota Built-in MEGA SI+ transducer.
Example diagram available here.
If a MEGA SI+ transducer is connected with one of these y-cables, the Humminbird will not be able to get Side Imaging (SI) data from the MEGA SI+ transducer – only HW and MEGA DI+ will be available. However, the user can get MEGA SI data from the MEGA 360.
US2 Minn Kota transducers and Humminbird transducers that are 83/200 or 50/200 cannot be connected at the same time via Y cable with a MEGA 360.
Airmar High-Wide transducers can be connected at the same time as a MEGA 360, but Low, Medium, High, and 50/200 kHz Airmar transducers cannot be connected at the same time.
