Testing Depth Sounder

[Andy]

Repies to another post by a few of you that seem to be knowledgeable prompt me to ask my question. Does anyone know if it is possible to test a Standard Horizon depth sounder with thru-hull transducer probably original in a 1978 boat that I bought and am getting ready for launching?

 

[patrick]

It will probably not work

My best advice is to install the proper transducer. If you know the transducer manufacturer, you can contact them and ask about the frequency. If it is close, you might try it but you risk damage to the new sounder. There is the added problem of connecting it and the connectors are all different. The manufacturer of your new sounder will have the connector and they MAY sell you a new one. Then you will need the connection information from them.If you have or can get the proper connector, you will then need to wire it properly. The transducer manufacturer MAY have the wiring information but more likely won't have it and if they do, they PROBABLY won't give it to a mere mortal like you. Sorry to be discouraging but the original transducer is designed for the original technology. Manufacturers want you to use their transducer and take pains to make this idea impossible. Kind of like some computers and software. Add up the time you will spend, the pitfalls you will likely encounter, and the fact that you will probably void the warranty and I think that you will agree. Best to replace the old one with the new one.

 

[Capt J]

If

Your transducer is the one for your depth finder as I think you are saying it will read through air as well as water. You have to have enough separation from the transducer head to get the reading, usually about three feet. It is best tested on a hard surface like blacktop or concrete. The reading will not be as accurateas through water but it will read.

 

[Andy o]

Thank you

Thank you Capt J for just the answer I needed. I apologize to Patrick for not being clearer. I gave details on the sounder and transponder, in case the details might be helpful -- but the sounder and transducer do go together. What I will now do is to rig a plywood panel so as to reflect pulses right back to the transducer -- and see if I get a reading. If I can get no reading, out goes the whole thing, and in goes a new unit (most likely not a thru-hull).

 

[Andy]

Once again

I want to apologize for my ambiguity. I meant(1) "test a (sounder with transducer)" not(2) "(test a sounder) with a transducer".