Topic: Transducer Angle

[onetbone]

This has probably been asked before, but I am trying to get the correct angle (front to back) on my SI ducer.  It's mounted in the step place in the jackplate area so it's protected and has full 180 view side to side.  Should the ducer be tilted from the back to front to get the proper angle since a bass boat sits down in the back more than front (to make it so-called level with the bottom of the lake floor)?  I know to get it right the trial and error deal, but I fish by myself and loading and unloading to get the correct angle is a pain.  Any advice would be appreciated.

[sonar2000]

yes angle is everything.  depending on trolling speed or planeing speed.  there are all kind of posts on this.  Take a few minutes and browse the forum in general discussion and also check the gallery pictures.  there is a search tab at the main menu at the top right.  As with the internet you can use or try several search arguments to find all the posts.  Most are in the General disccussion folder.
this has been quite a topic lately. 
chuck

[Humminbird_Greg]

Unfortunately you may have load and unload the boat several times to get the running angle correct.  Best way to check if it is just right is to make a pass by something that is vertical in the water like a pole, tree or even something as big as a bridge piling.  If it is level than you should see whatever it is running straight out and horizontal to the top of the display.  If it shows at a diagonal angle than the angle should be adjusted.

[onetbone]

Ok, that makes sense a pole in the water would be a good place to start I guess.

Thank you

[sonar2000]

tbone, if you are just getting started with SI run the unit in record mode and then send us the recording.  we can help you look at the recording and the "pole"  if you need help with that.  chuck

[onetbone]

Ok, I'll get this done this weekend and send in some snapshots.

Thanks for everything.

[sonar2000]

snapshots will be fine.  I would like a recording if possible.  you can send to my e-mail via www.transferbigfiles.com.  there are 7 records you will want to send.  1) a .dat file ,  then a b000 .idx &.son, b001 .idx & son  and b002.idx & son.   the dat and the idx files will be small. The .son files will be a larger.  If is a problem I understand. chuck

[onetbone]

Did another test run today after new software download and changing the TD angle.  I think I have it!  TD angle is angled up slightly for my boat.  It's hung on the right center side in the jackplate area.  I angled it up slightly as a bassboat at slow speeds seems to lower in the back so you want a slight upward angle to make it earth level.  I got great pictures.  I am really surprised how much better view I got with the new software.  Can't wait to get out again, it's as much fun exploring as fishing.

[Jolly Roger]

Another way to get the right angle: Getting good fish arches in 2D!

Greg wrote how to adjust the transducer to get good fish arches here:
http://forums.sideimagingsoft.com/index.php?topic=245.msg823#msg823

Regards / Harry