Connecting HDS Units

[Big dreams]

Been trying to figure out what exactly is needed to link two HDS units so I can share GPS functions between the two units.  Besides the ethernet cables, what else is needed? Thanks

[t-bone]

You can link units via NMEA 2000 (red/black connector) or Ethernet (yellow cable), or both. With HDS units, the only reason you need NMEA 2000 is to run optional NMEA devices (external antenna, temp sensor, SonicHub, etc.) Otherwise, you can just Ethernet link, and share sonar (network sonar), run and share StructureScan, and hook up Sirius radio/weather. Ethernet also provides "complete" wpt sharing between units (new wpts, deleting and editing wpts, etc.). With NMEA 2000 wpt sharing, it is new wpts only, and only if both units are on.

[Big dreams]

Thanks t-bone!  Just to clarify, I do not need the NMEA 2000 for sharing waypoints.  The only thing I need to do is link them using the Yellow Lowrance Ethernet cable?  Nothing in between, just a straight shot from unit to unit?  If this is correct, I see the price for a 15' cable is about $45, does this sound right?

Thanks a million

[t-bone]

The information I provided came from a Lowrance resource so I'd just give them a call but that is my understanding. I use the NMEA cords - I have an external antenna and the structurescan all shared between two HDS-5's

[bigjc]

The information I provided came from a Lowrance resource so I'd just give them a call but that is my understanding. I use the NMEA cords - I have an external antenna and the structurescan all shared between two HDS-5's

T-bone, so have you been with someone using Humminbirds?  how would you compare HBs with your HDS?  I am really having trouble deciding!!