When it comes to getting the best images on your fishfinder, it’s not just about having the latest model or the most advanced transducer. The quality of your images can be significantly impacted by the power supply to your fishfinder. Ensuring you have clean power from an isolated circuit and maintaining a consistent battery supply voltage within the fishfinder’s recommended range are key factors in optimizing performance.
The Importance of Clean Power
Fishfinders are sensitive electronic devices that rely on a steady flow of electricity to function properly. Any interference or "noise" in the power supply can degrade the quality of the images displayed. This noise can come from a variety of sources on your boat, such as other electronics, pumps, or even the engine.
To ensure clean power, it’s crucial to run your fishfinder on an isolated circuit. This means the power supply to your fishfinder is separate from other electronics on your boat, reducing the potential for interference. By isolating the fishfinder’s power source, you minimize the risk of electrical noise that can cause distorted or unclear images on your screen.
Maintaining Consistent Voltage
Voltage consistency is another critical factor in achieving optimal fishfinder performance. Fishfinders are designed to operate within a specific voltage range, typically noted in the manufacturer’s specifications. Operating outside of this range can cause the unit to underperform or even shut down.
As your battery drains, the voltage it supplies can drop, especially under heavy load or over extended periods. When the voltage dips below the fishfinder’s operating range, the quality of the sonar images can degrade, with weaker returns and less detail. To combat this, it’s important to maintain a battery supply voltage within the fishfinder’s recommended range.
One effective way to do this is by using a dedicated lithium battery, which provides a more stable voltage output compared to traditional lead-acid batteries. Lithium batteries also tend to maintain higher voltages over longer periods, which is beneficial for extended fishing trips. For those who want to maximize image quality, upgrading to a 16-volt system can provide even better performance, as many modern fishfinders can handle the higher voltage and deliver sharper images.
Installation Tips for Optimal Power Supply
- Use Marine-Grade Wiring: When setting up your isolated circuit, ensure you use marine-grade wiring that’s appropriately rated for your fishfinder’s power requirements. This reduces the risk of voltage drops and corrosion.
- Install a Fuse: To protect your fishfinder, always install an inline fuse between the battery and the unit. This protects against power surges and short circuits.
- Minimize Connections: Every connection point is a potential source of resistance and voltage drop. Keep your wiring runs as short as possible and minimize the number of connections between the battery and your fishfinder.
Conclusion
Getting the best images on your fishfinder is about more than just the unit itself—it’s about providing it with the cleanest, most consistent power possible. By running your fishfinder on an isolated circuit and ensuring your battery voltage stays within the recommended range, you can significantly improve the clarity and detail of the images you see on screen. Whether you’re using a 12V or 16V system, these steps will help you make the most of your fishfinder’s capabilities and ultimately, catch more fish.
Looking for tips on how to set up your fishfinder and its settings? Check out our fishfinder course.