Compatible with a wide range of Standard Horizon chart plotters, the upgraded FF525 black box fish finder is packed with sophisticated electronics to turn your plotter into a highly accurate echo sounder.
The more compact FF525 replaces the earlier FF520, and features improved waterproofing and shock resistance along with a higher power output for deep-water penetration.
The rugged module, which weighs no more than 1kg, can be installed almost anywhere by the owner without the need for professional help. A single cable connects the module to the plotter, with another cable to the transducer. There are a wide range of transducers to choose from, all designed for different hull shapes and applications, which are sold separately. However, some clever software in the module called Transducer ID allows the plotter to interrogate the transducer fitted, and then optimise itself for the best results.
Once automatically tuned for beam width and operating power, the fish finder gives a colourful, representational display of the water and seabed beneath the boat, and makes full use of Standard Horizon’s exceptional transreflective screen technology. The images are crisp and sharp, and viewable even in direct sunlight. Surface clutter can be reduced or eliminated altogether with a built-in sensitivity time control, and the dual frequency of 50/200 kHz allows the fish finder to work at peak performance in both very shallow or very deep water.
Fish are represented either as icons, or as a coloured echo, and those swimming close to the bottom can be indentified with the use of a white line, which makes them stand out against the seabed. For confirmation, the split-screen plotter can zoom in by up to four times.
The module can also trigger depth alarms, or alarms to signal the presence of fish, and when operating at 200 kHz, the FF525 has a range of up to 350m. For much deeper water, the 50 kHz frequency can give an impressive 1,200m of penetration, making this unit ideal for casual anglers or professional fisherman alike. It is also a vital safety aid for coastal navigation.
The improved FF525 is totally compatible with the latest Standard Horizon GPS chart plotters, such as the CP180, CP180i, CP300, CP300i and CP500. It is also compatible with other models including the CP155C, CP175C and CP1000C. Some earlier models may require a simple software upgrade to gain optimum use of the fish finder.
Each FF525 module carries a 3-year waterproofing warranty, and the recommended retail price is: £189.95 including VAT, with transducers starting from £139.95 including VAT.