Sonar troubleshooting

Problems with the sonar and their possible causes and solutions are described here.

Possible causes

Possible solutions

Incorrect display software version

Display software may be incompatible with your connected transducer. Check the Raymarine website and ensure that the display is running the latest available software.

Transducer not connected

Connect compatible transducer / Ensure that the transducer cable connector is fully inserted and locked in position and reboot the display.

Wrong transducer selected

Transducer selection is performed as part of the initial start up wizard, if an incorrect transducer was selected then the ‘No transducer connected’ message is displayed each time a new instance of the Fishfinder app is opened. to view the Fishfinder image, press the Menu button and select the fishfinder channel you want to view.

To prevent further ‘No transducer connected’ warnings perform a factory reset and ensure the correct transducer is selected from the bottom of the Boat details page of the startup wizard.

Damaged display connector

Check that the transducer connector pins on the back of the display are not bent or broken / missing. If damage is detected replace the display or send it to an authorized service agent for repair.

Damaged transducer or cable

  1. Check that the transducer cable connector is free from damage, is correctly orientated and fully inserted into the display and that the connector is locked in position. If damage is detected, replace the transducer.

  2. Check the condition of the transducer and cabling for signs of damage. If damage is detected, replace the transducer.

Wrong transducer fitted

Check product and transducer documentation and ensure that the transducer is compatible with your system. Replace with a compatible transducer, if necessary.

Figure 1. No transducer connected message displayed

Possible causes

Possible solutions

Sonar ping disabled

Enable sonar ping from the shortcuts page by pressing the Power button and enabling Sonar ping.

Transducer location

Check that the transducer has been installed in accordance with the instructions provided with the transducer.

The transducer must be installed where it is , always submerged, is parallel to the waterline and in an area free from turbulence and aeration.

Damaged display connector

Check that the transducer connector pins on the back of the display are not bent or broken / missing. If damage is detected replace the display or send it to an authorized service agent for repair.

Damaged transducer or cable

  1. Check that the transducer cable connector is free from damage, is correctly orientated and fully inserted into the display and that the connector is locked in position. If damage is detected, replace the transducer.

  2. Check the condition of the transducer and cabling for signs of damage. If damage is detected, replace the transducer.

Fouled transducer

Check transducer condition, ensuring it is free from debris/fouling. If necessary, clean or replace your transducer.

After cleaning or replacement coat the transducer using a water-based anti-fouling paint.

Wrong transducer fitted

Check product and transducer documentation and ensure that the transducer is compatible with your system.

Proximity of high power cables

If the transducer cable runs too close to engine and other high power cables the transducer signal may be interrupted causing loss of transducer connection and or electrical noise to appear onscreen. These issues may be more prevalent at higher engine revs.

Move transducer cable as far away from high power cables as possible.

Figure 2. Scrolling image is not being displayed or is intermittent

Poor and problematic images can be caused by the same issues as when no depth reading or bottom lock is possible. In addition to the solutions listed under ‘No depth reading / lost bottom lock’ try the following:

Possible causes

Possible solutions

Vessel stationary

Fish arches are not displayed if the vessel is stationary; fish will appear on the display as straight lines.

Cursor mode is active

The scrolling screen is paused in cursor mode, press the Back button to resume scrolling.

Sensitivity settings may be inappropriate for present conditions.

Check and adjust sensitivity settings or perform a Sonar reset.

Turbulence around the transducer at higher speeds may affect transducer performance

Slow vessel speed and recheck.

Interference from another transducer

  1. Turn off the transducer causing the interference.

  2. Reposition the transducers so they are farther apart.

Figure 3. Poor / problematic image