Live data with Humminbid EthernetIf you have a Humminbird SI unit with ethernet port, you can connect a PC to it to get sidescan data live. The unit transmits the same sidescan data that goes into a .dat/.son log file on the Ethernet bus.
Important: DrDepth does NOT store live data to file, it simply draws the data. If you want to record data, log data on your unit.
To use Humminbird Ethernet you need:
- An Ethernet port on your computer.
- A cable for Ethernet.
- Make sure you have updated the firmware in the unit to enable the Ethernet port (firmware 5.41 or newer).
The Ethernet cable:
The round ethernet connector (called 'M12/8') Humminbird uses is also used in 'industrial' Ethernet applications so it is possible to get ready made cables from electronics suppliers. However, it is easy to make your own cable. If you have a 798HD unit get a Humminbird Ethernet adapter cable or accessory bus cable. If you have a unit with the round connector, get Humminbird Ethernet cable. Cut off one end, strip the wires and connect a standard RJ45 plug this way:
All numbers refer to the RJ45 (i.e. you will only use 1,2,3,6 on the RJ45). You do not need to connect the shield wire.
You can either press a RJ45 plug directly to the cable if you got the tools for it, or simply cut off a standard Ethernet cable and connect bare wires. If you do the later, make sure not to untwist the wires more than necessary, they are twisted for a reason.
Firewall:Either turn your (Windows) firewall off, or make sure DrDepth can access ethernet data:
- Control Panel/Windows Firewall/Exceptions.
- Use the 'Add program' button to allow DrDepth get through.
Settings in DrDepth: - Tools/Settings/NMEA/COM. Check 'Humminbird' in the 'Ethernet' pane.
- If you want to use a different GPS than the Humminbird check 'Use NMEA GPS'.
- If you want to use the Humminbird GPS and do not need NMEA for a heading sensor, check 'No NMEA' - you will then get both position and sonar data from Ethernet.
- Scan/Settings. Check 'Read Humminbird data on Ethernet'.
With your instrument running and all cables plugged in, connect in DrDepth with Tools/Connect (or shortcut 'F3'). Everything should now work! When sidescan data is received and drawn, the
Show Scan Mosaic menu item and toolbar button will be enabled - click to view your side scan data.