Rerouting depth sounder cable...

[Go Aweigh2452]

In order to get my Raymarine DSM250 (Digital Sounder Module with HDFI (High Definition Fish Imaging) Technology) off the dash (tired of looking at it there), I have attempted unsuccessfully to locate a connection in the cable between the depth sounder and the DSM250 so I can disconnect and recable below the dash panel... I have never had to cut a depth sounder cable before on previous installations. I basically have given up finding it and instead am thinking of cutting the cable and reconnecting under the dash... or... The other option is to "pull" the cable in the hope of pulling apart the cable connection somewhere under the deck.

Anyone know if there is a problem cutting the sounder cable? Is there shielding under the insulation of the cable? Will I interrupt the signal coming from the sounder to the DSM? So many questions to what should be a simple solution...

Maybe I'll just continue to wax the boat... ;{

[Fred P]

I have been told not to cut DS cables. Some of them come cut to length. I would ask someone that is really in the know about this one.

Fred P.............

[Papa Charlie]

Doug,
Was just over on the Raymarine website to see what I could find. It seems as though the transducer attaches to the display via a connector on the base of the unit. Not seeing your unit it hard to determine if I am looking at this correctly. Maybe if you were to take a picture of your unit where the wires connect it might be helpful. Should be a connector that unscrews.

[SomeSailor]

DON'T cut a depth sounder cable. They are calibrated to length and you'll cause yourself problems with noise at any connections you make. I've heard of people de-soldering the connector and having good luck, but even that has to be done carefully. The signal gain on these things are quite low and wouldn't tolerate much noise I'd imagine.

[Go Aweigh2452]

OK, found the ppw on the transducer and the DSM250. You are correct, I should not cut the transducer cable... The DSM250 has an HSB connection, transducer connection and 12/24v power. I read in both the DSM and the tranducer manual not to cut the wire. I must have some kind of quick disconnection on the transducer cable since the hole the cable comes out on my dash is WAY to small for the cable end on the DSM to get through that hole... and the other end is the transducer on the stern...

So, I'm still stuck with the darn DSM on the dash until I can find an alternative or bite the bullet and install a through hull transducer near the helm... then I can start from scratch on the install...

[Papa Charlie]

Doug,
If the plug can be removed from the unit it may have either pins or cups inside. There is a tool that will allow the pins or cups to be removed from the connector without damaging them as long as the connector isn't fused to the cable wire itself. Unfortunately, the tool for it is in my tool box in storage in CA. But they are not expensive. Should be able to pick one up at an electronic parts supply store.
Actually, I would call there service center and ask them. There may be a simple solution to this and we are just making it hard.

[Go Aweigh2452]

Thanks Pat... I'll check it out... good info...