Humminbird

Humminbird fish finders come with a very wide range of connections. Some models are simple and straightforward to NMEA network.  But there are some models where either NMEA is not available, or is no longer supported depending on the vintage of the fish finder.

Current Models

The APEX series is completely NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 compatible.

The SOLIX series is NMEA 2000 compatible.  It does not have any NMEA 0183 connections.

The EXPLORE series is NMEA 2000 compatible.  There are not any NMEA 0183 connections.

If you have a HELIX, you first need to check if there is an N in the model.  Similar to, for example, Helix SI GPS G4N.  The “N” indicates “Networking” capability.  If your Helix doesn’t have an N suffix in its model, it will not support networking, or NMEA.

HELIX G4N models have NMEA connections.  You need the proprietary Humminbird G4N cable that converts a square connection into a round one.  We stock these cables, and they are reasonably priced.

The ICE and PiranahMAX do not have NMEA connections.

Older Models

Previous generation HELIX G3Ns were not difficult to connect to NMEA 2000, but there was an proprietary Humminbird adapter cable that included a bulky black box that was both expensive.  However, this cable has been discontinued by Humminbird.  So, the only way to obtain one of these cables now is buying them used.

Own an older HELIX G2N?  These can sometimes (but not in all cases) be connected to NMEA 2000.  The first step is to check if your model has an NMEA port.  If you do, the next requirement is an expensive (and discontinued) Humminbird cable to connect to an NMEA 2000 network.  But we have helped customers who found these either used, or in the dusty rarely sold bins of local fishing stores.

We don’t recommend this approach unless you have exactly the right G2N, and a lot of patience.  A new fish finder is generally a better approach.