Random number depth sounder

[rollo_cd26]

It worked until recently, but then I don't know how these things actually do work. My DataMarine S-200DL is now a random number generator. Last summer I compared the reading to a "weight and line" sounding at 50 feet and it was dead on. I have tried a number of remedies including cleaning the hull position of the transponder, and unplugging/plugging the data cable. Nothing seems to work, the LCD display jumps all over the place displaying absurd depth changes while stationary or underway. The lake I'm on is deep, but has shallow spots and the 4' and 8' depth alarm settings are useless. I think the transponder is mounted under the fresh water holding tank (Mirabile is a CD-26D). Anyone seen this problem? Is this a "take it out and send it is to the shop" sort of issue?

[Jim Walsh]

Datamarine ceased production in 2001. It might be time to remove and replace.

[David Morton]

might try fiddling with the gain. I don't know why, but under certain conditions I have trouble resolving the bottom with anything under 95% gain on my Garmin, but it does stabilize the blinking numbers and the echo pattern is more distinct.

David

[M. R. Bober]

I had a similar problem with one their units a few years ago. Check the cable/connector on the back of the display unit. I had put a rear cover on the display and it stressed the connection.

Mitchell Bober
Sunny Lancaster, (Where things almost last forever.) VA

[Keith]

My old Data marine (I think the same model as yours) did the same thing last summer. I tried verifying the connector, ground, adjusting the gain up and down, everything I could think of. some days it seemed to work fine then others it was random as you mentioned. It seemed to be worse when the engine was running which is why I went after the ground. I replaced it this year with a Garmin sensor (intelesensor I think) talking to the Garmin GPS through a NEMA 2000 network I also added a Garmin GSW wind sensor through the NEMA 2000 network. They are both working flawlessly.

In retrospect the Data marine sounder work for the better part of 35 years I think. Not a bad record.

Keith

[rusty]

Before you give up on the Datamarine unit, you may want to talk to the folks at DMI. I don't know if I'm allowed to post their link here, but you can find them at DMI.com. They repair Datamarine units (if they're repairable), and they can tell you what the likely problem is. They also have the old plastic Datamarine covers. If you were going to make a switch, I think they have compatible units that will save you the trouble of switching transponders. Just a thought.

Rusty

CD 28 "Windigo"

[Cathy Monaghan]

Are there alot of fish in the lake? How about grass? Any growing on the bottom of the boat?

If you need your Datamarine instruments repaired, send them to DMI Marine, Inc. in Middleboro, MA: http://www.dmimarine.com/