HDS Software upgrade

[Tom7227]

I have a HDS5 that I bought about 2-3 years ago. I just got an e-mail from Lowrance that gives info about a software upgrade for all the units. It mentioned that one of the major benefits is that I would be able to have 3 split screens instead of just 2. Honestly I barely know what to do with 2 and I have no clue what advantage a third would give me.

Could one of the tech types advise if the new stuff should be installed? My level of usage probably doesn't use 25% of what the rig can do but I pretty much stay on one lake and see no need to complicate this as if I were headed to the moon.

Thanks for your time.

Tom

[Chode2235]

basically, go to their HSOforum and download the file. Unzip it, and put the files on an SD card, and then insert that card into your HDS and fire it up. It takes about 2 mins to install the software.

There are several other advantages including better sonar processing, and reduced trolling motor interference. I would update it for sure.

[PerchJerker]

I agree, the 4.0 update is one that you definately want to do. The 3-way screen split in the HDS-5 and HDS-7 is only for the StructureScan screens. And there are a few other features that only apply to the HDS-8 and HDS-10. But ...... there are other improvements affecting speed, sonar processing, map processing, etc. that you should take advantage of ---- even if as you say you are using less than 25% of the capabilities.

I updated my units a few days ago, very quick and easy process.

The one thing I noticed is that after the update, you need to go back into the sonar installation menu and reselect the transducer model that you're using.

[FM_Mike]

The one thing I noticed is that after the update, you need to go back into the sonar installation menu and reselect the transducer model that you're using.

I had to do the same.

Mike

[Shorelunch]

Can you remind me where we find the transducer info for regular use - and universal sonar (Terrova)?

[PerchJerker]

Can you remind me where we find the transducer info for regular use - and universal sonar (Terrova)?

Press the menu button twice, go to the sonar option, go to the installation option. For the Terrova you want to use the generic 83/200 or the generic 200 transducer setting.

[Shorelunch]

Thanks. Can you remind me where to find which transducer I have for my transom?

[PerchJerker]

Thanks. Can you remind me where to find which transducer I have for my transom?

There should be a silver tag on the transducer cable, about 1-2 feet from where it connects to your electronics, and the tag will say what transducer it is. If it's the standard 83/200 skimmer transducer that came with your HDS the model is HST-WSBL.