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Table of Contents Section 1: Read Me First! ......................................................... 1 Capabilities and Specifications: X-510c & X-515cDF ................. 2 How Sonar Works.......................................................................... 3 How to use this manual: typographical conventions .................. 4 Section 2: Installation & Accessories.................................... 7 Preparations ..................................................................................
Fish Symbols vs. Full Sonar Chart ........................................ 46 Other Free Training Aids ....................................................... 47 Section 4: Sonar Options & Other Features...................... 49 ASP™ (Advanced Signal Processing) ..................................... 49 Alarms.......................................................................................... 50 Depth Alarms .......................................................................... 50 Zone Alarm ......
Radar............................................................................................ 81 Sonar Simulator .......................................................................... 81 Stop Chart.................................................................................... 82 Surface Clarity ............................................................................ 82 Transducer Type (X-515cDF only) ............................................. 83 Transparency..............................
Instance.............................................................................. 102 Restore Defaults ................................................................ 102 To restore default settings: ............................................... 102 Suzuki Engine Interface Configuration............................... 103 Advanced Options menu ....................................................... 104 Instance..............................................................................
Section 1: Read Me First! How this manual can get you out on the water, fast! Welcome to the exciting world of digital sonar! We know you're anxious to begin finding fish, but we have a favor to ask. Before you grab your unit and begin installing it, please give us a moment or two to explain how our manual can help you get the best performance from your compact, wide-screen, fish finder. First, we want to thank you for buying a Lowrance sonar.
If you're having difficulty with your sonar, you can find an answer to the most common problems in Section 5, Sonar Troubleshooting. Finally, in Section 6, we offer Supplemental Material, including a list of warranty and customer service information. Now, if you're into the fine details, glance over the next segment on specifications to see just how much sonar power your unit contains.
Transmitter:....................X-515cDF: 4,000 watts peak-to-peak/500 watts RMS. X-510c: 2,400 watts peak-to-peak/300 watts RMS. Sonar sounding depth capability:............X-515cCDF: 2,500 feet (762 meters). X-510c: 800 feet (244 meters). Actual capability depends on transducer configuration and installation, bottom composition and water conditions. All sonar units typically read deeper in fresh water than in salt water. Depth display: ................Continuous display. Audible alarms: ..............
The transmitter emits an electrical impulse, which the transducer converts into a sound wave and sends into the water. (The sound frequency can't be heard by humans or fish.) The sound wave strikes an object (fish, structure, bottom) and bounces back to the transducer, which converts the sound back into an electrical signal. The receiver amplifies this return signal, or echo, and sends it to the display, where an image of the object appears on the scrolling sonar chart.
For example, instructions for turning on the Fish ID™ feature would look like this: 1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT. 2. Press → to FISH SYMBOLS|ENT|EXIT|EXIT. Translated into complete English, step 1 above would mean: "Start on the Sonar Page. Press the Menu key then repeatedly press (or press and hold) the down arrow key to scroll down the menu and select (highlight) the Sonar Features menu command. Then press the Enter key.
Notes 6
Section 2: Installation & Accessories Preparations You can install the sonar system in some other order if you prefer, but we recommend this installation sequence: Caution: You should read over this entire installation section before drilling any holes in your vessel! 1. Determine the approximate location for the sonar unit, so you can plan how and where to route the cables for the transducer and power. This will help you make sure you have enough cable length for the desired configuration. 2.
NOTE: The following installation types also call for these recommended tools and required supplies that you must provide (supplies listed here are not included): Single-frequency transom installations Tools include: two adjustable wrenches, drill, #29 (0.136") drill bit, flathead screwdriver. Supplies: high quality, marine grade above- or belowwaterline sealant/adhesive compound. Dual-frequency transom installations Tools: two adjustable wrenches, drill, #20 (0.161") drill bit, flat-head screwdriver.
boat hulls have a flat keel pad that offers a good mounting surface. On vee hulls, try to place the transducer where the deadrise is 10° or less. Deadrise less than 10° Strakes Pad Left, vee pad hull; right, vee hull. A pod style transducer is shown here, but the principle is the same for Skimmers inside a hull. 4. If the transducer is mounted on the transom, make sure it doesn't interfere with the trailer or hauling of the boat.
Transducer centerline Transom Hull bottom Align transducer centerline with hull bottom. However, there are times when you may need to adjust the transducer slightly higher or lower. (The slots in the mounting brackets allow you to loosen the screws and slide the transducer up or down.) If you frequently lose bottom signal lock while running at high speed, the transducer may be coming out of the water as you cross waves or wakes. Move the transducer a little lower to help prevent this.
sonars.) Lack of angle adjustment can be particularly troublesome on hulls that sit with the bow high when at rest or at slow trolling speeds. Third, a transducer CAN NOT shoot through wood and metal hulls. Those hulls require either a transom mount or a thru-hull installation. Fourth, if your Skimmer transducer has a built in temp sensor, it will only show the temperature of the bilge, not the water surface temp.
alignment mark molded into the bracket. Place the ratchets onto the transducer with the letter "A" aligned with the 12 o'clock position on the transducer stem. These positions set the transducer's coarse angle adjustment for a 14° transom. Most outboard and stern-drive transoms have a 14° angle. Alignment letters Alignment positions Transducer Transducer bracket Insert and align ratchets. Transducer Transducer bracket Ratchet Ratchet Add ratchets to bracket and transducer. 2.
Place the ratchets into the holes in the bracket with the letter "B" aligned with the dot stamped in the bracket. Reassemble the transducer and bracket and place them against the transom. Again, check to see if you can move the transducer so it's parallel with the ground. If you can, then go to step 3A. If it doesn't, repeat step 2A, but use a different alignment letter until you can place the transducer on the transom correctly. Ratchets Insert bolt and check transducer position on transom. B.
Lock washer Bolt Nut Flat washer Flat washer Assemble transducer and bracket. 3. Assembling the transducer. A. One-piece bracket: Once you determine the correct position for the ratchets, assemble the transducer as shown in the following figure. Don't tighten the lock nut at this time. Metal washer Nut Rubber washers Metal washer Bolt Assemble transducer and bracket. B.
Transom Transom Position transducer mount on transom and mark mounting holes. Side view shown, left, and seen from above at right. 5. Attaching transducer to transom. A. One-piece bracket: Remove the transducer from the bracket and re-assemble it with the cable passing through the bracket over the bolt as shown in the following figures. For single-frequency Skimmer, route cable over bolt and through bracket. Side view shown, left, and seen from above at right.
Bottom of hull Flat-bottom hull Deep-"vee" hull Align transducer centerline with hull bottom and attach transducer to transom. Rear view of dual-frequency Skimmer shown. 6. Route the transducer cable through or over the transom to the sonar unit. Make sure to leave some slack in the cable at the transducer. If possible, route the transducer cable away from other wiring on the boat.
Trolling Motor Bracket Installation (single-frequency only) 1. Attach the optional TMB-S bracket to the transducer as shown in the following figure, using the hardware supplied with the transducer. (Note: The internal tooth washer is supplied with the TMB-S.) Internal tooth washer Bolt TMB-S bracket Nut Flat washer Attach motor mounting bracket to transducer. 2. Slide the adjustable strap supplied with the TMB-S through the slot in the transducer bracket and wrap it around the trolling motor.
Partial fish arches Transducer aimed too far back Transducer aimed too far forward Full fish arch Proper transducer angle Transducer angles and their effects on fish arches. If the arch slopes up – but not back down – then the front of the transducer is too high and needs to be lowered. If only the back half of the arch is printed, then the nose of the transducer is angled too far down and needs to be raised. NOTE: Periodically wash the transducer's face with soap and water to remove any oil film.
WARNING: Do not remove any material from your inner hull unless you know the hull's composition. Careless grinding or cutting on your hull can result in damage that could sink your boat. Contact your boat dealer or manufacturer to confirm your hull specifications. Fill with Fill with resin Inner hull Flotation material Epoxy to hull first Outer hull Epoxy the transducer to a solid portion of the hull.
To choose the proper location for shoot-thru-hull mounting, follow these testing procedures: (You may need a helper to complete these steps.) 1. Anchor the boat in about 30 feet of water. Add a little water to the sump of the boat. Plug the transducer into the sonar unit, turn it on, then hold the transducer over the side of the boat in the water. Adjust the sensitivity and range controls until a second bottom echo is seen on the display. (You'll need to turn off Auto Sensitivity, Auto Depth Range and ASP™.
sure that your selected location will work under all conditions, make a test run with the boat on plane and observe the bottom signal. You'll need to figure some way to prop the transducer into position while you make your test run. (A brick or two might be sufficient to hold it in place.) 5. When you're satisfied with a location, mark it and proceed with the installation.
2. The epoxy consists of the epoxy itself and a hardener. Remove the two compounds from the package and place them on the paper plate. Thoroughly stir the two compounds together until the mixture has a uniform color and consistency. Do not mix too fast or bubbles will form in the epoxy. After mixing, you have 20 minutes to complete the installation before the epoxy becomes unworkable. Spread a thin layer of epoxy (about 1/16" or 1.5 mm thick) on the face of the transducer as shown in the previous figure.
the transom. The bottom of the bracket should be flush with the hull's bottom. Using the sensor as a template, mark the hull for the screws' pilot holes. Drill four 1/8" holes, one in each end of the slots. Mount the sensor to the hull using #8 stainless steel wood screws (not included). Use a high quality, marine grade above- or below-waterline sealant to seal the screws. Make sure the sensor is flush with the bottom of the hull and tighten the screws.
Sonar unit (rear view) Ethernet (future enhancement) Sonar socket SP-BL optional speed sensor Power/Data socket Network socket Display unit power cable NMEA 2000 Power cable Data Cable Transducer Sonar unit cable connections. Power Connections Your unit comes with a power/data cable that splits into three branches, each with several exposed wires. The thicker three-wire cable (white, red and black) is the power supply for your display unit. This cable has no label.
The thinner branch with three wires (red, black and shield) is the power cable for a NMEA 2000 network. It is labeled "NMEA 2000 POWER." The branch with four wires (blue, yellow, orange, and shield) is a data cable, labeled "RS-232 COMM." It supports a serial communication port. This allows your unit to exchange NMEA 0183 data with another device, such as an autopilot, DSC marine radio or computer.
vironments. When the unit is turned off but still connected to a power supply, electrolysis can occur in the power cable plug. This may result in corrosion of the plug body along with the electrical contacts in the cable and the unit's power socket. Risk of electrolysis corrosion is even greater when the cable is unplugged from the unit, but still connected to a power source. We recommend you connect the power cable to the auxiliary power switch included in most boat designs.
Power Diagram A Mandatory network power-off switch To unit 3-amp fuse NMEA 2000 Power Cable Shield Display Unit Power Cable 3-amp fuse Recommended display unit power-off switch Black Red Black White (unused) Data Cable 12 volt DC power source Use this method if you are powering the display unit and or the display unit and a NMEA 2000 network. (Fuses may be different from those shown.). The network and any NMEA 2000 devices will not operate unless the NMEA 2000 Power Cable is connected to power.
Power Diagram B To unit Display Unit Power Cable All unused Data or NMEA 2000 power wires should be capped with wire nuts and electrical tape to prevent shorts. Data Cable White wire (unused) Red wire with 3-amp fuse Black wire Recommended power off switch 12 volt DC power source NMEA 2000 Power Cable Use this method if you are only powering your display unit and are not powering a NMEA 2000 network or any NMEA 2000 accessory device. (Fuse may be different from that shown.
when not in use. Failure to connect to and use a power switch will drain your boat battery, which could stop your boat's operation. Connecting to a NMEA 2000 Network Your unit can be connected to a NMEA 2000 bus, receiving sensor information from units and devices attached to the network. Contact LEI Extras (look inside back cover for accessory ordering information) for NMEA 2000 accessories.
power and transducer cables. (A drawing on the next page shows the dimensions of a gimbal-mounted sonar unit.) Holes in the bracket's base allow wood screw or through-bolt mounting. You may need to place a piece of plywood on the back side of thin fiberglass panels to reinforce the panel and secure the mounting hardware. Front Install the gimbal bracket. Orient the bracket so the arms slope toward the front of your unit. Drill a 1-inch (25.4 mm) hole in the dash for the power and transducer cables.
72.9 [2.87] 173.9 [6.85] 23.4 [0.92] 137.9 [5.43] 157.9 [6.22] Millimeter [Inch] 56.9 [2.24] Front view (left) and side view (right) showing dimensions of the sonar unit when mounted on gimbal bracket. After drilling the hole, pass the transducer connector up through the hole from under the dash. Pass the power cable's bare-wire end down though the hole from the top. If you wish, you can fill in the hole around the cables with a good marine caulking compound.
146.5 [5.76] Top R 7.9 [0.31] In-Dash Template 113.5 [4.46] Millimeters [Inches] ALWAYS VERIFY DIMENSIONS In-dash mounting template for the sonar unit, showing dimensions. NOTE: The figure above is not printed to scale. A scaled template (FM5 In-Dash Adapter Kit instructions) is available for free download from our web site, www.lowrance.com. Portable Installation Like many Lowrance products, the unit is capable of portable operation by using an optional portable power pack.
PPP-15 Portable Power Pack with transducer installed. Shown with the X67C IceMachine™ . Other Accessories Cleaning Towel A lint-free microfiber towel is included for cleaning the unit’s screen. The towel is highly effective in clearing away water spots, smudges and finger prints. Just wipe the screen with the dry towel — it's not necessary to moisten the towel with water. If the screen is badly soiled, you may use water or common window or lens cleaners.
WARNING: When the unit is mounted in an unprotected area, such as an open boat cockpit, the protective face cover must be removed when the vehicle is moving at high speed. This includes towing a boat on a trailer at highway speeds. Otherwise, wind blast can pop off the cover.
Section 3: Basic Sonar Operation This section addresses the unit's most basic sonar operations. The instructions presented here in Sec. 3 follow a chronological order. Sec. 4, Sonar Options & Other Features, will discuss options and other more advanced functions and utilities. The material in Sec. 4 is arranged in alphabetical order. Before you turn on the unit, it's a good idea to learn about the different keys, the Main Menu, the Sonar Menu, the five Page options and how they all work together.
4. ARROW KEYS – These keys are used to navigate through the menus, make menu selections, move the sonar chart cursor and enter data. 5. ENT (Enter) – This key allows you to accept values or execute menu commands. 6. EXIT – The Exit key lets you return to the previous screen, clear data or erase a menu. 7. ALARM – The Alarm key is a quick shortcut to the sonar alarms menu. It allows you to choose which alarms to use and when. 8. ZOUT – (Zoom Out) – This key lets you zoom the screen out.
Main Menu. Main Menu Commands There are four "basic" Main Menu commands that you'll really want to read more about. They are: • Screen: changes the contrast or brightness of the display screen. Use this command to adjust how the screen looks under various lighting conditions. • Sounds: enables or disables the sounds for key strokes and alarms, controls the volume and sets the alarm style.
• Calibrate Water Speed: adjusts how a speed sensor measures water speed. • Reset Water Distance: resets water distance log to zero. • Sonar Simulator: turns the simulator feature on and off. • Transducer Type (dual-frequency units only): sets the type of transducer plugged into the unit. • Reset Options: returns all options and auto functions to their original factory settings. It's a great safety net while you're learning and experimenting with various settings.
• Colorline command: separates fish and structure near the bottom from the actual bottom, and defines bottom composition and hardness. • Depth Range command: manually sets the depth range shown on the sonar chart. • Auto Depth Range command: automatically sets the depth range shown on the sonar chart to always keep the bottom in view. • Upper and Lower Limits command: sets the upper and lower depth limits of the sonar chart. Lets you zoom in on a specific portion of the water column.
Sonar Page Display options (left). Radar Page (right). Remember: the Split Frequency Sonar Chart will not be listed on the X-510c menu since it does not have a dual frequency transducer. The Full Sonar Chart is the main display option. This is a "crosssection" view of the water column beneath the boat. The chart moves across the screen, displaying sonar signal echoes that represent fish, structure and the bottom.
Split zoom page (left) with split frequency page (X-515 only) (right). Digital Data page display (left) with the Flasher page (right). Sonar with Custom Gauge page (left). Radar page display (right). You can customize how the Sonar Page pictures and other data are displayed in many ways.
Section 4, but to show you how easy the sonar unit is to operate, the following page contains a simplified, 10-step quick reference that will cover most fish finding situations. The quick reference describes how your unit will operate with all the sonar features in their automatic modes, which are set at the factory.
Basic Sonar Quick Reference 1. Depress the PWR key to turn on the unit. 2. Head for your fishing grounds. Your unit automatically displays digital depth and surface water temperature in the corner of the screen. The auto settings will track the bottom, displaying it in the lower portion of the screen. The full sonar chart will scroll from right to left, showing you what's under the boat as you cruise across the water. 3.
Sonar Operations As you can see from the quick reference on the previous page, basic operation is pretty easy, right out of the box. If you are a sonar novice, try operating the unit with the factory defaults until you get a feel for how it's working. As you're learning the basics, there is one setting you might want to tinker with from time to time — Sensitivity. Sensitivity controls the unit's ability to pick up echoes. If you want to see more detail, try increasing the sensitivity, a little at a time.
You can change the sensitivity level whether you are in Auto Sensitivity mode or Manual Sensitivity mode. The adjustment method works the same in both modes, but it gives you slightly different results. Adjusting sensitivity in Auto Sensitivity Mode is similar to manually adjusting a car's speed with the accelerator pedal while cruise control is on. You can tell the car to run faster, but when you let off the gas the cruise control automatically keeps you from running slower than the minimum speed setting.
NOTE: If you want to change the sensitivity in Manual Mode, first turn off Auto Sensitivity: from the Sonar Page, press MENU|↓ to AUTO SENSITIVITY|ENT|↑ to SENSITIVITY|ENT. Press ↓ or ↑ to pick a different sensitivity setting. When it's set at the desired level, press EXIT. Important Tip: While you are experimenting and learning, it's possible to scramble the settings so that the sonar picture disappears from your screen.
Other Free Training Aids The sonar options section discusses Fish I.D., fish alarms and other features in greater detail. If you or a friend has Internet access, you can also learn more about interpreting what you see on your sonar screen. Visit our web site, WWW.LOWRANCE.COM. Be sure to check out the free Sonar Tutorial, which includes animated illustrations and more pictures of actual sonar returns, all described in detail.
Free training emulator is available for your unit on our web site.
Section 4: Sonar Options & Other Features ASP™ (Advanced Signal Processing) The ASP™ feature is a noise rejection system built into the sonar unit that constantly evaluates the effects of boat speed, water conditions and interference. This automatic feature gives you the best display possible under most conditions. The ASP feature is an effective tool in combating noise. In sonar terms, noise is any undesired signal.
3. Press ↓ or ↑ to select a setting, then press ENT. 4. To return to the previous page, press EXIT|EXIT. Alarms This unit has three different types of sonar alarms. The first is the Fish Alarm. It sounds when the Fish I.D.™ feature determines that an echo is a fish. Another alarm is the Zone Alarm, which consists of a bar on the side of the screen. Any echo on the chart that appears inside this bar triggers this alarm. The last alarm is the Depth Alarm, which has both a Shallow and a Deep setting.
3. Press ↑ or ↓ to change the first number, then press → to move the cursor to the next number and repeat until the depth is correct, then press ENT. 4. Press ← to SHALLOW ALARM ENABLED|ENT|EXIT. 5. To turn off the alarm, press ALARM|ENT|EXIT. To switch to a different depth setting, open the Sonar Alarms menu and repeat the instructions in step 3 above. To adjust and turn on the deep alarm 1. .
Sonar Alarms menu (left) with Adjust Zone command selected. Adjust Zone Alarm selection box (right) with Upper selected. 3. To set the upper boundary for the Zone Alarm, use ← or→ to select UPPER, then press ↑ or ↓ to move the top of the bar to the desired depth. 4. To set the lower boundary for the Zone Alarm, use ← or→ to select LOWER, then press ↑ or ↓ to move the bottom of the bar to the desired depth. 5. Press EXIT|← to ZONE ALARM ENABLED|ENT|EXIT.
Sonar Alarms menu with Fish Alarm selected. The check box to the left is blank, indicating the alarm is turned off. To turn the fish alarm on 1. Press the ALARM key on the front of the unit or press MENU|MENU and use ↑ or ↓ to select Sonar Alarms, then press ENT. 2. Press ↓ to FISH ALARM|ENT|EXIT. 3. To turn off the alarm, Press the ALARM key on the front of the unit or press MENU|MENU and use ↑ or ↓ to select Sonar Alarms, then press ENT. Press ↓ to FISH ALARM|ENT|EXIT.
Sonar Page menu with Chart Speed command selected (left). Chart Speed Control Bar (right). Chart Speed The rate that echoes scroll across the screen is called the chart speed. The default is maximum; we recommend that you leave the speed set there for virtually all fishing conditions. However, you might consider experimenting with chart speed when you are stationary or drifting very slowly.
Sonar Page menu with ColorLine command selected (left). The ColorLine control bar (right). Colorline lets you distinguish between strong and weak echoes. It "paints" a brighter color on targets that are stronger than a preset value. This allows you to tell the difference between a hard and soft bottom. For example, a soft, muddy or weedy bottom returns a weaker signal which is shown with a narrow, colored line (dark blue tinged with red or a little yellow.
Contrast See the entry in this section for Screen Contrast and Brightness. Depth Cursor The depth cursor consists of a horizontal line with a digital depth box on the right side. The numbers inside the box show the depth of the cursor. Cursor line Depth box Sonar Page menu with Depth Cursor selected (left). Sonar chart with the depth cursor active (right). The cursor is 34.64 feet deep. The cursor can be moved to any location on the screen, letting you pinpoint the depth of a target. 1.
Sonar Page menu with Depth Range command selected (left). The Depth Range Control Scale (right). 1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|↓ to DEPTH RANGE|ENT. 2. The Depth Range Control Scale appears. Press ↑ or ↓ to select a different depth range. A blue bar highlights the selected range. Lightly shaded numbers can not be selected. 3. When the new range is selected, press EXIT to clear the menu. Depth Range - Manual You have complete control over the range when the unit is in the manual mode.
low depth limits that are shown on the screen, provided there is at least 10 feet between the upper and lower limits you select. For example, a range from 12 feet to 34 feet could be used. Changing the upper and lower limits gives you far greater control over the depth range. This feature lets you "zoom in" the display with almost unlimited combinations. Nearly any segment of the water column, from the surface to the bottom can be shown.
Fish arches Area "zoomed" Normal display, in auto depth range mode (left). Display "zoomed" with Upper and Lower Limits focusing on the portion of the water column from 20 feet to 40 feet deep (right). In the "zoomed" image, note the target definition at lower left, showing a fish holding just above the structure. Top right, two game fish are attacking a school of bait fish. To turn off upper and lower limits 1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|↓ to AUTO DEPTH RANGE|ENT|EXIT.
Fish I.D.™ (Fish Symbols & Depths) The Fish I.D. feature identifies targets that meet certain conditions as fish. The microcomputer analyses all echoes and eliminates surface clutter, thermoclines, and other signals that are undesirable. In most instances, remaining targets are fish. The Fish I.D. feature displays fish symbols on the screen in place of the actual fish echoes. There are several fish symbol sizes. These are used to designate the relative size between targets. In other words, Fish I.D.
Fig. 1A Fig. 1B Many fish arches visible Fewer fish symbols visible Fig. 2A Fig. 2B Fish arches above structure No fish shown FasTrack graph confirms fish Figures 1A and 2A (left) show Sonar Page in normal chart mode. Figures 1B and 2B (right) show the same underwater scene with Fish I.D. turned on. Note how arches are replaced with symbols. To turn the Fish I.D. feature on 1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT. 2. Press → to FISH SYMBOLS|ENT|EXIT|EXIT. To turn off Fish I.D.
NOTE These instructions will turn on FishTrack and Fish I.D. at the same time. To turn off FishTrack, repeat the instructions in step 2. Turning off FishTrack in this manner will not turn off Fish I.D. symbols. Symbols with FishTrack depths Sonar Features menu with Fish I.D. Depths selected (left). Sonar Page showing Fish I.D. symbols and FishTrack depths turned on (right).
Sonar Features menu with a frequency of 200 kHz selected. To change the frequency setting to 50 kHz 1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT. 2. Press →|then press ↓ to 50 KHZ|ENT. 3. Press EXIT|EXIT to clear the menu. To change the frequency setting to 200 kHz 1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT. 2. Press →|then press ↓ to 200 KHZ|ENT. 3. Press EXIT|EXIT to clear the menu. HyperScroll™ See the entry on Ping Speed, which controls the HyperScroll feature.
Overlay Data command on the Sonar Menu (left). Overlay Data Shown selection menu (right). 3. The Data Viewer page will appear with three data categories: Time, Sonar Data and Sensor Data. 4. Highlight the desired data category and press ENT, which will expand the list, revealing several subcategories with checkboxes next to them. 5. Select the desired subcategory and press ENT, which will place a checkmark in the checkbox, showing the selected data is set for display.
Local Time highlighted on Overlay Data Shown menu (left). The size of Local Time data has been changed to Large (right). 3. To change the font size for another Data Type, repeat the steps above. To return to the sonar display, press EXIT. Sonar chart with Overlay Data turned on. This example shows Depth, Water Temperature and the Water Speed of the boat. Ping Speed & HyperScroll™ Ping Speed controls the rate at which the transmitter and transducer broadcast sonar sound waves — pings — into the water.
These faster ping rates allow you to maintain a high-detail picture on the screen, and the screen refresh rate and chart scroll speed can keep pace with the boat as it moves quickly over the bottom terrain. When using HyperScroll, you may also need to manually decrease the sensitivity for optimum performance. Depending on water depth and other conditions, HyperScroll may cause a second bottom echo to return to the transducer during the next ping cycle, or sounding.
When you boost ping speed and switch into HyperScroll, the width of the FasTrack bar graph display doubles in width at the right side of the screen. This allows you to better see the virtually instantaneous sonar returns, just as you would on a flasher sonar unit. For more information on FasTrack, see its entry in this section. Pop-up Help Help is available for virtually all of the menu labels on this unit.
Main Menu with Reset Options command selected (left). The Reset Options dialog box, with "Yes" selected (right). Reset Water Distance The sonar chart's Digital Data display option includes a window that shows distance traveled, called Water Distance ("W Distance"). This information is calculated from an optional water speed sensor. The Water Distance window can be reset to zero using the Reset Water Distance command. Press MENU|MENU|↓ to RESET WATER DISTANCE|ENT.
Screen Command (left). Screen Menu with Contrast bar selected (right). To adjust the display's brightness: Press ↓ to BRIGHTNESS. Press → or ← to move the bar. The left end of the scale is minimum contrast; the right end is maximum contrast. To adjust the screen's display mode: Press ↓ to DISPLAY MODE|ENT|press ↑ or ↓ to select mode|EXIT. Display Mode menu. Sensitivity & Auto Sensitivity The sensitivity controls the ability of the unit to pick up echoes.
Typically, the best sensitivity level shows a good solid bottom signal with some surface clutter. Automatic Sensitivity The default sensitivity mode is automatic. The unit bases the sensitivity level on water depth and conditions. When the unit is in the automatic mode, sensitivity is automatically adjusted to keep a solid bottom signal displayed, plus a little more power. This gives it the capability to show fish and other detail.
Sonar Menu with Sensitivity command selected (left). The Sensitivity Control Bar (right). To adjust sensitivity in manual mode 1. First, turn off Auto Sensitivity: from the Sonar Page, press MENU|↓ to AUTO SENSITIVITY|ENT. 2. Press ↑ to SENSITIVITY|ENT and the Sensitivity Control Bar appears. Press ↓ or ↑ to pick a different sensitivity setting. When it's set at the desired level, press EXIT. Repeat these steps to turn on Auto Sensitivity.
lower engine unit can be several feet. In those cases, an inexact depth reading could result in grounding or striking underwater structure. The Keel Offset feature eliminates the need for the navigator to mentally calculate how much water is under his keel. Keel Offset lets you calibrate the digital depth: chart depth scale, chart cursor depth and fish symbol depth displayed on the screen.
Set Language selected on main menu (left). Language menu (right). To select a different language: 1. Press MENU|MENU|↓ to SET LANGUAGE|ENT. 2. Use ↓ or ↑ to select a different language and press ENT|EXIT. All menus now appear in the language you selected. Software Version Information From time to time, Lowrance updates the operating system software in some of its products. These software upgrades are usually offered to customers as free downloads from our web site, www.lowrance.com.
3. Press ↓ or ↑ to Mode Name|ENT. 4. Press EXIT|EXIT to return to the Sonar Page. Sonar Chart Display Options The Pages Menu offers five chart display options for dual-frequency models and four options for single-frequency models. To access them, press PAGES|↓ to Option Name|EXIT. Pages Menu showing sonar chart display options. Split Frequency Sonar chart page is only available in the X-515cDF.
Full Sonar Chart. Overlay Data (depth and water temperature) is set to a small text size. Split Zoom Sonar Chart A split chart shows the underwater world from the surface to the bottom on the right side of the screen. The left side shows an enlarged version of the right side. The zoom range shows at the bottom left corner of the screen. Split Zoom Sonar Chart image (left) shows the left window zoomed to 2X. The second image (right) shows the left window zoomed to 4X.
Split Frequency Sonar Chart page, with 50 kHz view on the left, 200 kHz view on the right. To adjust sensitivity in auto mode 1. Press MENU|ENT. 2. The unit asks which you wish to adjust. Press ← or→ to select the one you want | ENT. 3. The Sensitivity Control Bar appears. Press ↓ to decrease sensitivity; press ↑ to increase sensitivity. When it's set at the desired level, press EXIT. (When you reach the maximum or minimum limit, a tone sounds.
Digital Data/Chart Customizing the Digital Data/Chart Screen The Digital Data/Chart can be customized to show digital data in the order of your preference. To rearrange the data on this screen: 1. From the Digital Data Page, press MENU|↓ to CUSTOMIZE|ENT. Customize command selected from the Sonar Page menu (left). Selected W Speed box flashes black (right). 2. Use ↑ ↓ to select the digital data box you want to customize.
Data View menu (left). Sonar Data expanded with Water Temp Highlighted (center). Digital Data page (right) with Water Temp displayed. 3. Highlight the desired data category and press ENT, which will open its data menu. 4. Highlight the data for display and press ENT which will place a checkmark in its checkbox. Press EXIT. 5. The digital data box will display the data you selected. Repeat Step 2 to customize another data box or press EXIT to return to normal operation.
Sonar with Custom Gauges The Sonar with Custom Gauges page has a split screen with sonar on the right side, digital gauge information on the left side. The two windows can be resized to make one side bigger than the other or may be set up to split the screen evenly. Sonar with Custom Gauges selected on the Pages menu (left). To change custom gauge information, access overlay data on the Custom Gauges menu (center). Overlay Data shown menu (right). To customize digital gauge display: 1.
2. Highlight the Data Type you want to resize, then use ← → to switch the data setting to one of the following four options: Off, Small, Medium, Large and Enormous. Local Time is set to medium size (left). The size of Local Time data has been changed to Enormous (right). 3. To change the size of another Data Type, repeat the steps above. To return to the Sonar with Custom Gauges display, press EXIT. To resize Sonar and Custom Gauge windows: 1.
Radar When you access the Radar Page, the screen will switch to the radar display. Information on radar installation and radar operation are included in two documents that come packed with Lowrance radar units: Radar and RIM 100 Radar Interface Module Installation Instructions and Radar Operation Instruction Manual. Refer to these documents for information on your radar unit. NOTE: Before using your radar, make sure you have checked the Enable Radar Port checkbox on the main menu. To enable Radar Port: 1.
To use the simulator: 1. From a Sonar Page, press MENU|MENU|↓ to SONAR SIMULATOR|ENT. 2. Turn off the Sonar Simulator by pressing MENU|MENU|↓ to SONAR SIMULATOR|ENT|EXIT. NOTE: If you turn on your unit before attaching a transducer, it may enter a demo mode. The words "demo mode" flash on the bottom of the screen and a sonar chart plays much like the simulator.
There are three levels of surface clarity available: low, medium, or high. It can also be turned off. The default level is off. To adjust the Surface Clarity level 1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|↓ to SONAR FEATURES|ENT. 2. Press ↓ to SURFACE CLARITY|ENT. 3. Press ↓ or ↑ to select clarity level|EXIT|EXIT|EXIT. Sonar Features menu with Sonar Features selected (left). Surface Clarity highlighted on Sonar Features menu (right).
To change your transducer type: 1. Press MENU|MENU|↓ to TRANSDUCER TYPE|ENT. 2. Select the appropriate transducer type and press ENT|EXIT|EXIT. Main Menu with Transducer Type selected (left). Transducer Type menu with three options (right). Transparency Use the transparency menu to adjust the transparency of menu windows. A high transparency allows you to continue monitoring the screen's display while adjusting feature settings, though the text of the menus may fade until it is unreadable.
To adjust Transparency: 1. Press MENU|MENU|↓ to TRANSPARENCY|ENT. The TRANSPARENCY slider bar appears. 2. Press ↑ ↓ to adjust the level of transparency. Press EXIT. Units of Measure This menu sets the speed and distance (statute or nautical miles, meters), depth (feet, fathoms, or meters) and temperature (degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius). To change the units: To set Speed/Distance: 1. Press MENU|MENU, highlight UNITS OF MEASURE and press ENT. 2. Speed/Distance will be highlighted. Press ENT. 3.
4. Press EXIT repeatedly to return to the sonar display. To set Depth units: 1. Press MENU|MENU, highlight UNITS OF MEASURE and press ENT. 2. Highlight DEPTH and press ENT. 3. Use ↑ ↓ to select one of the following options: Feet, Fathoms or Meters. Press ENT. 4. Press EXIT repeatedly to return to the sonar display. To set Volume units: 1. Press MENU|MENU, highlight UNITS OF MEASURE and press ENT. 2. Highlight VOLUME and press ENT. 3. Use ↑ ↓ to select one of the following options: Gallons or Liters.
The first image (left) is a full sonar chart zoomed 2X. The second image (right) is the same view zoomed 4X. Zoom Pan Your unit has the handy ability to quickly zoom in on any portion of the water column with just the touch of an arrow key. The Zoom Pan feature lets you rapidly move the zoomed area up and down to different depths. By "pointing" your zoom at different portions of the chart as it scrolls, you can get a good, close-up look at structure or cover below you.
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Section 5: NMEA 2000 Menu NMEA 2000 Menu The NMEA 2000 menu on your display unit's main menu allows you to configure, calibrate and monitor devices on your NMEA 2000 network. It provides access to the Bus Setup, Fuel Management and NMEA 2000 Alarms. You also can turn on/off Waypoint Sharing and Backlight Synchronization from the NMEA 2000 menu. Bus Setup highlighted on the NMEA 2000 menu. Bus Configuration menu (left). NMEA Diagnostics page (center).
The NMEA Diagnostics page displays information about the performance of the network bus, keeping you updated on bus status, mode, errors and bus traffic. The Ethernet Diagnostics page keeps you updated on the performance of an Ethernet connection (if applicable) supplying information ranging from IP Address to upload and download rates (bytes per second). To refresh either Diagnostics page, highlight the PING ALL DEVICES button at the bottom of the page and press ENT.
When choosing an engine-tank configuration you will use the Tank Select menu, Tank Size dialog box and Set configuration button, all detailed below. Tank Select The Tank Select menu allows you to choose from up to three tanks (Port, Center and Starboard), depending on the Engine-tank configuration that has been selected. This allows you to set up each tank individually. Tank Size The Tank Size menu allows you to input the size of a selected tank in gallons.
6. Select the tank you want to set up and press ENT. Press → to highlight the Tank Size dialog box and press ENT. 7. Use ↓ ↑, ← → to input the capacity (gallons) of the tank you chose from the Tank Select menu and press ENT. 8. Repeat Steps 5-7 for each remaining tank. 9. When all tanks have been configured, press the SET CONFIGURATION button.
data window will include tank size and the amount of fuel left in the tank. The Device Data for an EP-10 Fuel Flow includes Fuel Rate (amount of fuel burned per hour), Fuel Used, Trip Fuel Used and Seasonal Fuel Used. NOTE: If, as in the graphic above, you do not have a Suzuki Engine Interface, EP-15 Fluid Level or EP-10 Fuel Flow on the network, the Engine & Configuration menu, Tank Select menu, Tank Size dialog and Set Configuration button will not be displayed on the Bus Configuration menu.
Add Fuel After entering the amount of fuel added to a tank in the Fuel Added dialog, the Add Fuel command finalizes the entry of the data. Like the Fuel Added dialog, the Add Fuel command will only be used when an amount of fuel is added that does not fill up the tank. Fill Tank You will use the Fill Tank command when calibrating a fuel flow and when filling up the tank without calibration.
To Reset Calibration: Choosing the Reset Calibration command will switch fuel flow calibration settings back to factory defaults. 1. Press MENU|MENU, select NMEA 2000 and press ENT. 2. Highlight FUEL MANAGEMENT and press ENT. The Fuel Management menu will appear. 3. Highlight to ENGINE SELECT and press ENT. Select the desired engine — the engine attached to the desired fuel flow — and press ENT. 4. Highlight RESET CALIBRATION and press ENT.
To view the Alarm Status window, highlight the Alarm Status tab and press ENT. To set NMEA 2000 Alarm: 1. Press MENU|MENU, select NMEA 2000 and press ENT. 2. Highlight NMEA 2000 ALARMS and press ENT. 3. Highlight FLUID LEVEL DEVICE and press ENT. Use ↑ ↓ to select the device you want to set an alarm for and press ENT. 4. Highlight the ENABLED box next to the desired alarm (Full Alarm or Empty Alarm) and press ENT to turn on the alarm. 5.
Configuring EP Sensors All configurable devices are configured through their Device Configuration menus, which may be accessed through the network devices list on the Bus Configuration menu. EP-35 Temperature Configuration To input Device Name: 1. Press MENU|MENU, use ↑ ↓ to select NMEA 2000 and press ENT. The NMEA 2000 menu will appear with five options: Bus Setup, Fuel Management, NMEA 2000 Alarms, Waypoint Sharing and Backlight Synchronization. 2.
Instance The Instance command is intended for use only by experienced NMEA 2000 network technicians. Instance allows network technicians to resolve certain electronic probe conflicts. This is most likely to occur if the network includes LMF-200 or LMF-400 digital gauges, which support the display of fewer electronic probes than sonar unit. If you want to use your unit in a network including one of these digital gauges, you may need to consult customer service.
3. Select the fuel flow you want to rename and press ENT. The Device Configuration menu will appear with the Device Name dialog box highlighted. 4. Press ENTER and use ↑ ↓, ← → to input the desired name for the fuel flow. Press ENT. Press EXIT repeatedly to get back to the main display. To select a Location: 1. Press MENU| MENU, use ↑ ↓ to select NMEA 2000 and press ENT.
If, for example, you execute the Restore Defaults command from your Port Fuel Flow Advanced Options menu, only the settings for the Port Fuel Flow will be reset to factory defaults. Other fuel flows on the network will not be affected. To restore default settings: 1. Press MENU| MENU, use ↑ ↓ to select NMEA 2000 and press ENT. The NMEA 2000 menu will appear with five options: Bus Setup, Fuel Management, NMEA 2000 Alarms, Waypoint Sharing and Backlight Synchronization. 2.
3. Select the desired fluid level and press ENT. The Device Configuration menu will appear. 4. Highlight TANK INSTANCE and press ENT, which will open the Tank Instance menu with the following options: Tank 1, Tank 2, Tank 3 and Unknown. 5. Select the desired Tank Instance (location) and press ENT. The following confirmation message will appear: Are you sure you wish to change this device's configuration? 6. Highlight YES and press ENT. Press EXIT repeatedly to get back to the main display.
Advanced Options menu The Fuel Flow sensor Advanced Options menu contains two categories: Instance and Restore Defaults. Instance The Instance command is intended for use only by experienced NMEA 2000 network technicians. Instance allows network technicians to resolve certain electronic probe conflicts. This is most likely to occur if the network includes LMF-200 or LMF-400 digital gauges, which support the display of fewer electronic probes than your sonar unit.
Suzuki Engine Interface Configuration To input Device Name: 1. Press MENU| MENU, use ↑ ↓ to select NMEA 2000 and press ENT. The NMEA 2000 menu will appear with five options: Bus Setup, Fuel Management, NMEA 2000 Alarms, Waypoint Sharing and Backlight Synchronization. 2. Highlight BUS SETUP and press ENT, which will open the Bus Configuration menu. A list of network devices will be at the top of the page. 3. Use ↑ ↓ to select the engine interface you want to rename and press ENT.
5. Select your engine type and press ENT. The following message will appear: Are you sure you wish to change this device's configuration? 6. Highlight YES and press ENT. Press EXIT repeatedly to get back to the main display. Advanced Options menu The Engine Interface Advanced Options menu contains three categories: Instance, Restore Defaults and Reset Trim Calibration. Instance The Instance command is intended for use only by experienced NMEA 2000 network technicians.
NOTE: The Suzuki Engine Interface Device Configuration menu contains two Engine Trim calibration commands, which will be addressed in the next segment of this section, Calibrating EP Sensors. Calibrating EP Sensors The factory calibration settings for the EP-10 Fuel Flow, EP-15 Fluid Level and Suzuki Engine Interface should be adequate for the majority of applications, so calibration will not be necessary in most cases.
To calibrate an EP-10 Fuel Flow: 10. If calibration is necessary, press MENU|MENU, select NMEA 2000 and press ENT. 11. Highlight FUEL MANAGEMENT and press ENT. 12. Select TANK LOCATION and press ENT to choose the location of the tank connected to selected fuel flow. Press ENT. 13. Highlight FILL TANK and press ENT. The following message will appear: Are you sure you wish to Fill Tank? Select YES and press ENT. 14.
3. Select the EP-15 Fluid Level and press ENT. 4. Press ↓ to select CALIBRATE and press ENT. The Device Calibration menu will appear. Instructions on Calibration will be listed at the top of the menu. 5. Highlight NUM PTS, press ENT and select 2. Press ENT. 6. Select FLUID LEVEL, press ENT, then select EMPTY LEVEL and press ENT. 7. Make sure the fuel tank is empty, highlight CALIBRATE and press ENT. The following message will appear: Empty Level Calibration Completed. Press ENT. 8.
4. Press ↓ to select CALIBRATE and press ENT. The Device Calibration menu will appear. 5. Highlight NUM PTS, press ENT and select 3. Press ENT. 6. Make sure your tank is empty, then highlight FLUID LEVEL and press ENT. Select EMPTY LEVEL and press ENT. 7. Select CALIBRATE and press ENT. The following message will appear: Empty Level Calibration Completed. Press ENTER. 8. Add half a tank of fuel, highlight FLUID LEVEL and press ENT. Select HALF LEVEL and press ENT. 9. Select CALIBRATE and press ENT.
1. Press MENU| MENU, use ↓ ↑ to select NMEA 2000 and press ENT. 2. Highlight BUS SETUP and press ENT, which will open the Bus Configuration menu. A list of network devices will be at the top of the page. 3. Select the desired EP-15 Fluid Level and press ENT. 4. Press ↓ to select CALIBRATE and press ENT. The Device Calibration menu will appear. 5. Highlight NUM PTS, press ENT and select 5. Press ENT. 6. Make sure your tank is empty, then highlight FLUID LEVEL and press ENT. Select EMPTY LEVEL and press ENT.
1. After selecting Fuel Used as overlay data, fill up your tank and press MENU|MENU. 2. Select NMEA 2000 and press ENT. 3. Highlight FUEL MANAGEMENT and press ENT. Select TANK LOCATION and press ENT. 4. Use ↑ ↓ to select the location (Port, Center or Starboard) of the engine interface you want to calibrate and press ENT. 5. Highlight FILL TANK and press ENT. The following confirmation message will appear: Are you sure you wish to Fill Tank? 6. Select YES and press ENTER.
3. Highlight CALIBRATE TRIM and press ENT. The Device Calibration window will appear with a list of Calibration Instructions. 4. Highlight START CALIBRATION and press ENT. The following message will appear: Please fully raise the Engine Trim. 5. After engine trim has been fully raised, press ENT. The following message will appear: Please fully lower the Engine trim. 6. After engine trim has been fully lowered, press ENT. A Calibration Completed message will appear. Press ENT. 7.
Reset Calibration highlighted (left). Reset Calibration confirmation window (right). To Reset Calibration: 1. Press MENU|MENU, select NMEA 2000 and press ENT. 2. Highlight FUEL MANAGEMENT and press ENT. 3. Highlight ENGINE SELECT and press ENT. The Engine Select menu will appear with up to four options: All Engines, Port, Center and Starboard. Selecting All Engines will reset calibration for all engines back to factory defaults. 4.
Section 6: Sonar Troubleshooting If your unit is not working, or if you need technical help, please use the following troubleshooting section before contacting the factory customer service department. It may save you the trouble of returning your unit for repair. For contact information, refer to the last page, just inside the back cover of this manual. Unit won't turn on 1. Check the power cable's connection at the unit. Also check the wiring. 2. Make sure the power cable is wired properly.
2. Electrical noise from the boat's motor can interfere with the sonar. This causes the sonar to automatically increase its discrimination or noise rejection feature. This can cause the unit to eliminate weaker signals such as fish or even structure from the display. 3. The water may be deeper than the sonar's ability to find the bottom. If the sonar can't find the bottom signal while it's in the automatic mode, the digital sonar display will flash continuously.
NOISE A major cause of sonar problems is electrical noise. This usually appears on the sonar's display as random patterns of dots or lines. In severe cases, it can completely cover the screen with black dots, or cause the unit to operate erratically, or not at all. To eliminate or minimize the effects of electrical noise, first try to determine the cause. With the boat at rest in the water, the first thing you should do is turn all electrical equipment on the boat off. Make sure the engine is also off.
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LOWRANCE ELECTRONICS FULL ONE-YEAR WARRANTY "We," "our," or "us" refers to LOWRANCE ELECTRONICS, INC., the manufacturer of this product. "You" or "your" refers to the first person who purchases this product as a consumer item for personal, family or household use. We warrant this product against defects or malfunctions in materials and workmanship, and against failure to conform to this product's written specifications, all for one (1) year from the date of original purchase by you.
How to Obtain Service… …in the USA: We back your investment in quality products with quick, expert service and genuine Lowrance parts. If you're in the United States and you have technical, return or repair questions, please contact the Factory Customer Service Department. Before any product can be returned, you must call customer service to determine if a return is necessary. Many times, customer service can resolve your problem over the phone without sending your product to the factory.
Accessory Ordering Information for all countries To order Lowrance accessories such as power cables or MMC cards, please contact: 1) Your local marine dealer, sporting goods or consumer electronics store. Most quality dealers that handle marine electronic equipment or other consumer electronics should be able to assist you with these items. To locate a Lowrance dealer near you, visit our web site, www.lowrance.com and click on Support and then click Dealer Locator.
Visit our web site: Lowrance Pub. 988-0151-451 Printed in USA 120406 © Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved Lowrance Electronics, Inc.
