Topic: Can I add a dedicated DI transducer to my 999ci Hd Si?

[BrokeLoser]

Would that improve the DI depth potential and image quality...And would it be the XNT 9 Di T ducer that I would need?
Can two transducers plug in to back of the 999 or would I need a splitter of some kind?
Or should I just add a 959ci Hd Di
 
Sorry for all my questions...I haven't even received my 999 yet and I'm thinking about this...haha

[Bob B]

Some have done various kinds of experiments to improve DI on the SI units.....but it gets complicated......You cannot just connect a DI transducer to a SI unit.

I would consider the 959....If you get it, you can share transducers and you can see the DI from the 959 on the SI unit, and you can see the SI from the 999 on the 959.

[mako9man2]

I had the same question and rnvinc helped me configure a dedicated DI transducer with my HB999.  It involves using the XMT 9 WIDE DI 20T transducer + TS3 switch.  With this setup you just flip the TS3 switch whenever you want dedicated DI vs the standard SI/DI signal.  Your 2D Sonar continues to work either way.  Coupling a HB959 would also work with the advantage of giving you more screen views since you now have two large screens.  Of course the HB959 option costs more.

The XMT 9 DI 20T + TS3 works fine and is simple to install.  I ended up removing it because I have fairly limited transom space on my small boat.  I still have the components(like new) if you want to try this option send me a PM and I'll make you a deal.

[Humminbird_Greg]

Sounds like a good deal in the makings here so I will only add two points:
That would be a 959ci HD DI model they are talking about, not just a 959ci HD (2D only sonar) model.
Not sure what the thread title is but others have used an angled HDSi transducer for even better Di sonar, but this way is more complicated and more expensive.

[rnvinc]

A couple of additional points before you order a DI xducer for use on your HB SI unit ...

*The XTM 9 WIDE DI 20 T is a trollng motor style puck (with the 83kHz/200kHz Dual Beam 2d) ... Custom mounting may be necessary dependent on your chosen mounting area ...

*The XNT 9 DI T is a transom mount housing ... But the 200kHz/455kHz 2d will not be as effective in the  HB SI units transmitting at 83kHz/200kHz for the 2d sonar ...

Either xducer will work on the HB SI unit ... But the XTM 9 WIDE DI 20 T will be more functionally effective - with the disadvantage of possible mounting challenges ...

Also ... The HB TS3 switch is not necessary ... But is convenient for switching between the HB SI unit's normal functions and the experimental DI xducer setup ... 

Rickie

[BrokeLoser]

Wow, you guys really know your stuff. I think I might just spring for the 959Ci Hd Di. As mentioned, I could use the extra viewing area anyway. Is it pretty easy to link the two units together? What other cables, etc will I need to do it? Will this be a pretty user-friendly method?
Thanks again guys

[Humminbird_Greg]

Yep, easy to link and easy to set up.  You will need:
Two AS-EC-QDE Ethernet Adapter Cables (one for the 999ci HD Si and one for the 959ci HD DI)

One AS-EC-XXE Ethernet Connection Cable.  The XX in the part name is replaced with the cable length.  They come in 2, 10, 15, 20 and 30-foot lengths.  So a 20-foot cable would be an AS-EC-20E, while a 15-foot one would be an AS-EC-15E.  This will connect to each AS-EC-QDE cable and goes between the units.  So be sure to measure/figure in any added distance between the units if the cable has to run up and over/around things on your boat.

[BrokeLoser]

Perfect...thanks Greg. I'll get that stuff on order