Eagle Electronics Fish Finder 480DF User Manual

Pub. 988-0143-711  
FishMark480 and  
SeaFinder480DF  
Fish-finding & Depth Sounding Sonars  
Installation and Operation  
Instructions  
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Table of Contents  
Sec. 1: Read Me First! ...............................................................1  
Capabilities and Specifications .................................................... 2  
How Sonar Works ......................................................................... 4  
How to Use this Manual: Typographical Conventions................ 4  
Sec. 2: Installation & Accessories ..........................................7  
Preparations.................................................................................. 7  
Transducer Installation................................................................ 7  
Recommended Tools and Supplies............................................... 8  
Selecting a Transducer Location.................................................. 8  
How Low Should You Go?....................................................... 10  
Shoot-Thru-Hull vs. Transom Mounting ............................... 10  
Transom Transducer Assembly and Mounting......................... 11  
Trolling Motor Bracket Installation (Single-Frequency only).. 17  
Transducer Orientation and Fish Arches.................................. 18  
Shoot-Thru-Hull Preparation and Installation......................... 19  
Speed/Temperature Sensors....................................................... 21  
Power Connections...................................................................... 24  
Mounting the Unit: Bracket, in-Dash or Portable .................... 26  
Face Cover................................................................................... 30  
Sec. 3: Basic Sonar Operation ..............................................31  
Keyboard ..................................................................................... 31  
Power/Lights (Turn Unit On and Off) ....................................... 32  
Menus.......................................................................................... 33  
Main Menu .............................................................................. 33  
Sonar Menu............................................................................. 35  
Pages ........................................................................................... 36  
Basic Sonar Quick Reference...............................................39  
Sonar Operations........................................................................ 40  
Fish Symbols vs. Full Sonar Chart........................................ 43  
Other Free Training Aids ....................................................... 43  
Sec. 4: Sonar Options & Other Features ............................45  
ASP(Advanced Signal Processing)......................................... 45  
Alarms ......................................................................................... 46  
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Depth Alarms.......................................................................... 46  
Zone Alarm.............................................................................. 47  
Fish Alarm............................................................................... 48  
Brightness ................................................................................... 48  
Calibrate Speed........................................................................... 49  
Chart Speed................................................................................. 49  
Contrast....................................................................................... 50  
Depth Cursor............................................................................... 50  
Depth Range - Automatic........................................................... 51  
Depth Range - Manual ............................................................... 51  
FasTrack.................................................................................. 52  
Fish I.D.(Fish Symbols & Depths)......................................... 52  
FishTrack................................................................................. 55  
FishReveal............................................................................... 55  
Frequency (Change Transducer Frequency) ............................. 57  
Grayline..................................................................................... 58  
HyperScroll.............................................................................. 60  
Noise Rejection............................................................................ 60  
Overlay Data............................................................................... 60  
Ping Speed & HyperScroll....................................................... 62  
Pop-Up Help................................................................................ 64  
Reset Options.............................................................................. 64  
Reset Water Distance ................................................................. 65  
Screen Contrast and Brightness................................................ 65  
Sensitivity & Auto Sensitivity.................................................... 65  
To Turn Auto Sensitivity Back on:......................................... 67  
Set Keel Offset ............................................................................ 67  
Set Language .............................................................................. 69  
Software Version Information.................................................... 69  
Sonar Color Mode........................................................................ 69  
Sonar Chart Display Options..................................................... 70  
Full Sonar Chart..................................................................... 70  
Split Zoom Sonar Chart.......................................................... 71  
Split Frequency Sonar Chart (Seafinder 480df only)............ 71  
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Digital Data/Chart.................................................................. 72  
Customizing the Digital Data/Chart Screen...................... 73  
Sonar Simulator.......................................................................... 74  
Stop Chart................................................................................... 74  
Surface Clarity............................................................................ 75  
Units of Measure......................................................................... 76  
Zoom & Zoom Bar ....................................................................... 76  
Zoom Pan..................................................................................... 77  
Sec. 5: Troubleshooting..........................................................79  
Sec. 6: Supplemental Material..............................................83  
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Notes  
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Section 1: Read Me First!  
How this manual can get you out on the water, fast!  
Welcome to the exciting world of digital sonar! We know you're anxious  
to begin finding fish, but we have a favor to ask. Before you grab your  
unit and begin installing it, please give us a moment or two to explain  
how our manual can help you get the best performance from your  
compact, wide-screen, fish finder.  
First, we want to thank you for buying anEagle sonar. Whether you're  
a first time user or a professional fisherman, you'll discover that your  
unit is easy to use, yet capable of handling demanding sonar tasks. You  
won't find another sonar unit with this much power and this many  
features for this price!  
Our goal for this book is to get you on the water fast, with a minimum  
of fuss. Like you, we'd rather spend more time boating or fishing and  
less time reading the manual!  
So, we designed our book so that you don't have to read the whole thing  
from front to back for the information you want. At the start (or end) of  
each segment, we'll tell you what content is coming up next. If it's a  
concept you're already familiar with, we'll show you how and where to  
skip ahead for the next important topic. We've also made it easy to look  
up any tips you may need from time to time. Here's how:  
The manual is organized into 6 sections. This first section is an  
introduction to the sonar unit. It tells you the basics you need to know  
before you can make the unit look below the surface to find some fish.  
Section 2 will help you install your unit and the transducer. We'll also  
tell you about some of the available accessories.  
Section 3 covers Basic Sonar Operation. It will show you how easy it is  
to run your sonar, right out of the box. This section features a one-page  
Sonar Quick Reference. (If you've already jumped ahead and  
figured out how to install the unit yourself, and you just can't  
wait any longer, turn to the Quick Reference on page 39 and  
head for the water with your sonar unit!)  
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After you've gained some experience with your sonar, you'll want to  
check out Section 4, which discusses more advanced Sonar Options and  
Other Features.  
When you come to a sonar menu command on the unit's screen, you can  
look it up in the manual by skimming over the table of contents, just  
flipping through Section 3 or scanning through the sonar options in  
Section 4.  
If you're having difficulty with your sonar, you can find an answer to  
the most common problems in Section 5, Sonar Troubleshooting.  
Finally, in Section 6, we offer Supplemental Material, including a list of  
warranty and customer service information.  
Now, if you're into the fine details, glance over the next segment on  
specifications to see just how much sonar power your unit contains. It's  
important to us (and our power users), but, if you don't care how many  
watts of power the unit has, skip ahead to important information on how  
sonar works, on page 4.  
Capabilities and Specifications: FishMark480,  
SeaFinder480DF  
General  
Display:............................ 5.0" (12.7 cm) diagonal high contrast Film  
SuperTwist; programmable to viewing  
preference.  
Resolution:...................... 480 pixel x 480 pixel resolution; 230,400 total  
pixels.  
Backlighting:.................. Incandescent backlit screen with multiple  
lighting levels; backlit keypad.  
Input power:................... 10 to 15 volts DC.  
Case size:......................... 5.4" H x 6.9" W x 3.4" D (13.8 x 17.6 x 8.6  
cm); sealed and waterproof; suitable for  
saltwater use.  
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Back-up memory:.......... Built-in memory stores sonar records for  
decades.  
Languages:...................... 10; menu languages selectable by user.  
Sonar  
Frequency:...................... 50/200 kHz for SeaFinder 480DF; 200 kHz  
for FishMark 480.  
Transducers: .................. A dual-frequency Skimmertransducer with  
built-in temperature sensor is packed with  
the SeaFinder 480DF. It has 35°/12° cone  
angles. A single-frequency Skimmer  
transducer with built-in temperature sensor  
is packed with the FishMark 480. It has a  
20° cone angle. Transducers operate at  
speeds up to 70 mph (61 kts)  
Watts: ............................... 1,500 watts peak-to-peak/188 watt RMS.  
Sonar sounding  
depth capability: ........... SeaFinder 480DF: 1,500 feet (450 meters).  
FishMark 480: 800 feet (244 meters).  
Actual capability depends on transducer  
configuration and installation, bottom  
composition and water conditions. All sonar  
units typically read deeper in fresh water  
than in salt water.  
Depth display:................ Continuous display .  
Audible alarms: ............. Deep/shallow/fish/zone.  
Automatic ranging:....... Yes, with instant screen updates.  
Auto bottom track:........ Yes.  
Zoom bottom track: ...... Yes.  
Split-screen zoom:......... Yes.  
Surface water temp:..... Yes.  
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Speed/distance log:....... Optional (requires optional speed sensor).  
NOTICE!  
The storage temperature range for your unit is from -4 degrees to +167  
degrees Fahrenheit (-20 degrees to +75 degrees Celsius). Extended  
storage in temperatures higher or lower than specified will damage the  
liquid crystal display in your unit. This type of damage is not covered by  
the warranty. For more information, contact the factory's Customer  
Service Department; phone numbers are listed on the last page.  
How Sonar Works  
Sonar has been around since the 1940s, so if you already know how it  
works, skip ahead to the next segment on the typographical conventions  
used in this manual. But, if you've never owned a sonar fish finder, this  
segment will tell you the under water basics.  
Sonar is an abbreviation for SOund NAvigation and Ranging, a  
technology developed during World War II for tracking enemy  
submarines. A sonar consists of a transmitter, transducer, receiver and  
display. In simple terms, here's how it finds the bottom, or the fish:  
The transmitter emits an electrical impulse, which the transducer  
converts into a sound wave and sends into the water. (The sound  
frequency can't be heard by humans or fish.) The sound wave strikes an  
object (fish, structure, bottom) and bounces back to the transducer,  
which converts the sound back into an electrical signal.  
The receiver amplifies this return signal, or echo, and sends it to the  
display, where an image of the object appears on the scrolling sonar  
chart. The sonar's microprocessor calculates the time lapse between the  
transmitted signal and echo return to determine the distance to the  
object. The whole process repeats itself several times each second.  
How to use this manual: typographical conventions  
Many instructions are listed as numbered steps. The keypad and arrow  
"keystrokes" appear as boldface type. So, if you're in a real hurry (or  
just need a reminder), you can skim the instructions and pick out what  
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menu command to use by finding the boldface command text. The  
following paragraphs explain how to interpret the text formatting for  
those commands and other instructions:  
Arrow Keys  
The arrow keys control a horizontal line depth cursor on the sonar  
screen. The arrow keys also help you move around the menus so you  
can execute different commands. They are represented by symbols like  
these, which denote the down arrow key, the up arrow, the left arrow  
and the right arrow: ↓ ↑ ← →.  
Keyboard  
The other keys perform a variety of functions. When the text refers to a  
key to press, the key is shown in bold, sans serif type. For example, the  
"Enter/Icons" key is shown as ENT and the "Menu" key is shown as MENU.  
Menu Commands  
A menu command or a menu option will appear in small capital letters,  
in a bold sans serif type like this: DEPTH CURSOR. These indicate that you  
are to select this command or option from a menu or take an action of  
some kind with the menu item. Text that you may need to enter or file  
names you need to select are show in italic type, such as data type.  
Instructions = Menu Sequences  
Most functions you perform with the sonar unit are described as a  
sequence of key strokes and selecting menu commands. We've written  
them in a condensed manner for quick and easy reading.  
For example, instructions for turning on the Fish IDfeature would  
look like this:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.  
2. Press or → ↓ to FISH ID SYMBOLS|ENT|EXIT|EXIT.  
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Translated into complete English, step 1 above would mean: "Start on  
the Sonar Page. Press the Menu key then repeatedly press (or press and  
hold) the down arrow key to scroll down the menu and select (highlight)  
the Sonar Features menu command. Then press the Enter key."  
Step 2 would mean: "Press the right arrow key (for dual-frequency  
units) or press the right arrow key followed by the down arrow key (for  
single-frequency units) to select (highlight) the Fish ID symbols  
command. Next, press the Enter key, then press the Exit key twice."  
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Section 2:  
Installation & Accessories  
Preparations  
You can install the sonar system in some other order if you prefer, but  
we recommend this installation sequence:  
Caution:  
You should read over this entire installation section before  
drilling any holes in your vessel!  
1. Determine the approximate location for the sonar unit, so you can  
plan how and where to route the cables for the transducer and power.  
This will help you make sure you have enough cable length for the  
desired configuration.  
2. Determine the approximate location for the transducer and its cable  
route.  
3. Determine the location of your battery or other power connection,  
along with the power cable route.  
4. Install the transducer and route the transducer cable to the sonar  
unit.  
5. Install the power cable and route it to the sonar unit.  
6. Mount the sonar unit.  
Transducer Installation  
These instructions will help you install your Skimmertransducer on a  
transom, on a trolling motor or inside a hull. These instructions cover  
both single- and dual-frequency Skimmer transducers. Please read all  
instructions before proceeding with any installation.  
The smaller single-frequency Skimmers typically use a one-piece,  
stainless steel mounting bracket. The larger dual-frequency Skimmers  
typically use a two-piece, plastic mounting bracket. The trolling motor  
mount uses a one-piece plastic bracket with an adjustable strap.  
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These are all "kick-up" mounting brackets. They help prevent damage if  
the transducer strikes an object while the boat is moving. If the  
transducer does "kick-up," the bracket can easily be pushed back into  
place without tools.  
Read these instructions carefully before attempting the installation.  
Determine which of the mounting positions is right for your boat. Use  
extreme care if mounting the transducer inside the hull, because once it  
is epoxied into position, the transducer usually cannot be removed.  
Remember, the transducer installation is the most critical part  
of a sonar installation.  
Recommended Tools and supplies  
If you prefer the option of routing the cable through the transom, you  
will need a 5/8" drill bit. A transom mount requires use of a high  
quality, marine grade above- or below-waterline caulking compound.  
The following installation types also call for these recommended tools  
and required supplies (supplies are not included):  
Single-frequency transom installations  
Tools include: two adjustable wrenches, drill, #29 (0.136") drill bit, flat-  
head screwdriver. Supplies: none.  
Dual-frequency transom installations  
Tools: two adjustable wrenches, drill, #20 (0.161") drill bit, flat-head  
screwdriver. Supplies: four, 1" long, #12 stainless steel slotted wood  
screws.  
Single-frequency trolling motor installations  
Tools: two adjustable wrenches, flat-head screwdriver. Supplies: plastic  
cable ties.  
Shoot-through hull installations  
Tools: these will vary depending on your hull's composition. Consult your  
boat dealer or manufacturer. Supplies: 100 grit sandpaper, good quality  
epoxy adhesive.  
Selecting a Transducer Location  
1. The transducer must be placed in a location that has a smooth flow of  
water at all times. If the transducer is to be mounted inside the hull,  
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then the chosen location must be in the water at all times. If the  
transducer is not placed in a smooth flow of water, interference  
caused by bubbles and turbulence will show on the sonar's display in  
the form of random lines or dots whenever the boat is moving.  
NOTE:  
Some aluminum boats with strakes or ribs on the outside of the  
hull create large amounts of turbulence at high speed. These boats  
typically have large outboard motors capable of propelling the boat  
at speeds faster than 35 mph. Typically, a good location on  
aluminum boats is between the ribs closest to the engine.  
2. The transducer should be installed with its face pointing straight  
down, if possible.  
3. If the transducer is mounted on the transom, make sure it doesn't  
interfere with the trailer or hauling of the boat. Also, don't mount it  
closer than approximately one foot from the engine's lower unit. This  
will prevent cavitation (bubble) interference with propeller operation.  
4. If possible, route the transducer cable away from other wiring on the  
boat. Electrical noise from engine wiring, bilge pumps and aerators  
can be displayed on the sonar's screen. Use caution when routing the  
transducer cable around these wires.  
CAUTION: Clamp the  
transducer cable to transom  
near the transducer. This will  
help prevent the transducer  
from entering the boat if it is  
knocked off at high speed.  
Good location  
Poor location  
Good location  
Good  
location  
Poor angle  
Good and poor transducer locations.  
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How low should you go?  
For most situations, you should install your Skimmer transducer so  
that its centerline is level with the bottom of the boat hull. This will  
usually give you the best combination of smooth water flow and  
protection from bangs and bumps.  
Transom  
Transducer  
centerline  
Hull bottom  
Align transducer centerline with hull bottom.  
However, there are times when you may need to adjust the transducer  
slightly higher or lower. (The slots in the mounting brackets allow you  
to loosen the screws and slide the transducer up or down.) If you  
frequently lose bottom signal lock while running at high speed, the  
transducer may be coming out of the water as you cross waves or  
wakes. Move the transducer a little lower to help prevent this.  
If you cruise or fish around lots of structure and cover, your transducer  
may be frequently kicking up from object strikes. If you wish, you may  
move the transducer a little higher for more protection.  
There are two extremes you should avoid. Never let the edge of the  
mounting bracket extend below the bottom of the hull. Never let the  
bottom – the face – of the transducer rise above the bottom of the hull.  
Shoot-thru-hull vs. Transom Mounting  
Typically, shoot-thru-hull installations give excellent high speed  
operation and good to excellent depth capability. There is no possibility  
of damage from floating objects. It can't be knocked off when docking or  
loading on the trailer.  
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However, the shoot-thru-hull installation does have its drawbacks.  
First, some loss of sensitivity does occur, even on the best hulls. This  
varies from hull to hull, even from different installations on the same  
hull. This is caused by differences in hull lay-up and construction.  
Second, the transducer angle cannot be adjusted for the best fish  
arches. This can be a problem on some hulls that sit with the bow high  
when at rest or at slow trolling speeds. Follow the procedure listed in  
the shoot-thru-hull installation section at the end of this lesson to  
determine if you can satisfactorily shoot through the hull.  
TRANSOM TRANSDUCER ASSEMBLY AND MOUNTING  
The best way to install these transducers is to loosely assemble all of  
the parts first, place the transducer's bracket against the transom and  
see if you can move the transducer so that it's parallel with the ground.  
The following instructions sometimes vary depending on the mounting  
bracket that came with your transducer. Single-frequency Skimmers  
come with a one-piece stainless steel bracket, while dual-frequency  
Skimmers come with a two-piece plastic mounting bracket. Use the set  
of instructions that fits your model.  
1. Assembling the bracket.  
A. One-piece bracket: Press the two small plastic ratchets into the  
sides of the metal bracket as shown in the following illustration. Notice  
there are letters molded into each ratchet. Place each ratchet into the  
bracket with the letter "A" aligned with the dot stamped into the metal  
bracket. This position sets the transducer's coarse angle adjustment for a  
14° transom. Most outboard and stern-drive transoms have a 14° angle.  
Dot  
Align plastic ratchets in bracket.  
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B. Two-piece bracket: Locate the four plastic ratchets in the  
transducer's hardware package. Press two ratchets into the sides of the  
plastic bracket and two on either side of the transducer as shown in the  
following illustrations. Notice there are letters molded into each ratchet.  
Place the ratchets into the bracket with the letter "A" aligned with the  
alignment mark molded into the bracket. Place the ratchets onto the  
transducer with the letter "A" aligned with the 12 o'clock position on  
the transducer stem. These positions set the transducer's coarse angle  
adjustment for a 14° transom. Most outboard and stern-drive transoms  
have a 14° angle.  
Alignment letters  
Alignment  
positions  
Transducer  
Transducer  
bracket  
Insert and align ratchets.  
Transducer  
Transducer bracket  
Ratchet  
Ratchet  
Add ratchets to bracket and transducer.  
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2. Aligning the transducer on the transom.  
A. One-piece bracket: Slide the transducer between the two  
ratchets. Temporarily slide the bolt though the transducer assembly  
and hold it against the transom. Looking at the transducer from the  
side, check to see if it will adjust so that its face is parallel to the  
ground. If it does, then the "A" position is correct for your hull.  
If the transducer's face isn't parallel with the ground, remove the  
transducer and ratchets from the bracket. Place the ratchets into the  
holes in the bracket with the letter "B" aligned with the dot stamped  
in the bracket.  
Reassemble the transducer and bracket and place them against the  
transom. Again, check to see if you can move the transducer so it's  
parallel with the ground. If you can, then go to step 3A. If it doesn't,  
repeat step 2A, but use a different alignment letter until you can  
place the transducer on the transom correctly.  
Ratchets  
Insert bolt and check transducer position on transom.  
B. Two-piece bracket: Assemble the transducer and bracket as shown  
in the following figure. Temporarily slide the bolt though the transducer  
assembly but don't tighten the nut at this time. Hold the assembled  
transducer and bracket against the transom. Looking at the transducer  
from the side, check to see if it will adjust so that its face is parallel to  
the ground. If it does, then the "A" positions are correct for your hull.  
If the transducer's face isn't parallel with the ground, remove and  
disassemble the transducer and ratchets. Place the ratchets into the  
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bracket holes with the letter "B" aligned with the bracket alignment  
mark. Place them on the transducer aligned with the 12 o'clock  
position on the transducer stem.  
Reassemble the transducer and bracket and place them against the  
transom. Again, check to see if you can move the transducer so it's  
parallel with the ground. If you can, then go to step 3B. If it doesn't,  
repeat step 2B, but use a different alignment letter until you can  
place the transducer on the transom correctly.  
Lock washer  
Bolt  
Nut  
Flat washer  
Flat washer  
Assemble transducer and bracket.  
3. Assembling the transducer.  
A. One-piece bracket: Once you determine the correct position for  
the ratchets, assemble the transducer as shown in the following  
figure. Don't tighten the lock nut at this time.  
Metal  
washer  
Nut  
Rubber  
washers  
Metal washer  
Bolt  
Assemble transducer and bracket.  
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B. Two-piece bracket: Once you determine the correct position for  
the ratchets, assemble the transducer as shown in the figure in step  
2B. Don't tighten the lock nut at this time.  
4. Drilling mounting holes.  
Hold the transducer and bracket assembly against the transom. The  
transducer should be roughly parallel to the ground. The  
transducer's centerline should be in line with the bottom of the hull.  
Don't let the bracket extend below the hull!  
Mark the center of each slot for the mounting screw pilot holes. You  
will drill one hole in the center of each slot.  
Drill the holes. For the one-piece bracket, use the #29 bit (for the #10  
screws). For the two-piece bracket, use the #20 bit (for the #12 screws).  
Transom  
Transom  
Position transducer mount on transom and mark mounting holes.  
Side view shown at left and seen from above at right.  
5. Attaching transducer to transom.  
A. One-piece bracket: Remove the transducer from the bracket and  
re-assemble it with the cable passing through the bracket over the  
bolt as shown in the following figures.  
For single-frequency Skimmer, route cable over bolt and through  
bracket. Side view shown at left and seen from above at right.  
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Both bracket types: Attach the transducer to the transom. Slide the  
transducer up or down until it's aligned properly with the bottom of  
the hull as shown in the preceding and following figures. Tighten the  
bracket's mounting screws, sealing them with the caulking compound.  
Adjust the transducer so that it's parallel to the ground and tighten  
the nut until it touches the outer washer, then add 1/4 turn. Don't  
over tighten the lock nut! If you do, the transducer won't "kick-up" if  
it strikes an object in the water.  
Bottom  
of  
hull  
Flat-bottom hull  
Deep-"vee" hull  
Align transducer centerline with hull bottom and attach transducer to  
transom. Rear view of dual-frequency Skimmer shown.  
6. Route the transducer cable through or over the transom to the sonar  
unit. Make sure to leave some slack in the cable at the transducer. If  
possible, route the transducer cable away from other wiring on the  
boat. Electrical noise from the engine's wiring, bilge pumps, VHF radio  
wires and cables, and aerators can be picked up by the sonar. Use  
caution when routing the transducer cable around these wires.  
WARNING:  
Clamp the transducer cable to the transom close to the  
transducer. This can prevent the transducer from  
entering the boat if it is knocked off at high speed.  
If you need to drill a hole in the transom to pass the connector through,  
the required hole size will be 5/8".  
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Caution:  
If you drill a hole in the transom for the cable, make sure it is  
located above the waterline. After installation, be sure to seal the  
hole with the same marine grade above- or below-waterline  
sealant used for the mounting screws.  
7. Make a test run to determine the results. If the bottom is lost at  
high speed, or if noise appears on the display, try sliding the  
transducer bracket down. This puts the transducer deeper into the  
water, hopefully below the turbulence causing the noise. Don't allow  
the transducer bracket to go below the bottom of the hull!  
TROLLING MOTOR BRACKET INSTALLATION  
(single-frequency only)  
1. Attach the optional TMB-S bracket to the transducer as shown in the  
following figure, using the hardware supplied with the transducer.  
(Note: The internal tooth washer is supplied with the TMB-S.)  
Internal tooth washer  
Nut  
TMB-S bracket  
Bolt  
Flat washer  
Attach motor mounting bracket to transducer.  
2. Slide the adjustable strap supplied with the TMB-S through the slot  
in the transducer bracket and wrap it around the trolling motor.  
Position the transducer to aim straight down when the motor is in  
the water. Tighten the strap securely.  
3. Route the transducer cable alongside the trolling motor shaft. Use  
plastic ties (not included) to attach the transducer cable to the  
trolling motor shaft. Make sure there is enough slack in the cable for  
the motor to turn freely. Route the cable to the sonar unit and the  
transducer is ready for use.  
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Transducer mounted on trolling motor, side view.  
TRANSDUCER ORIENTATION AND FISH ARCHES  
If you do not get good fish arches on your display, it could be because  
the transducer is not parallel with the ground when the boat is at rest  
in the water or at slow trolling speeds.  
Partial fish arches  
Transducer aimed  
Transducer aimed  
too far forward  
too far back  
Full fish arch  
Proper transducer angle  
Transducer angles and their effects on fish arches.  
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If the arch slopes up – but not back down – then the front of the  
transducer is too high and needs to be lowered. If only the back half of  
the arch is printed, then the nose of the transducer is angled too far  
down and needs to be raised.  
NOTE:  
Periodically wash the transducer's face with soap and water to  
remove any oil film. Oil and dirt on the face will reduce the  
sensitivity or may even prevent operation.  
SHOOT-THRU-HULL PREPARATION  
The transducer installation inside a fiberglass hull must be in an area  
that does not have air bubbles in the resin or separated fiberglass  
layers. The sonar signal must pass through solid fiberglass. A  
successful transducer installation can be made on hulls with flotation  
materials (such as plywood, balsa wood or foam) between layers of  
fiberglass if the material is removed from the chosen area.  
Fill with polyester resin  
Inner hull  
Flotation material  
Epoxy to hull first  
Outer hull  
Epoxy the transducer to a solid portion of the hull.  
For example, some (but not all) manufacturers use a layer of fiberglass,  
then a core of balsa wood, finishing with an outer layer of fiberglass.  
Removing the inner layer of fiberglass and the balsa wood core exposes  
the outer layer of fiberglass. The transducer can then be epoxied  
directly to the outer layer of fiberglass. After the epoxy cures, the hull  
is watertight and structurally sound. Remember, the sonar signal must  
pass through solid fiberglass. Any air bubbles in the fiberglass or the  
epoxy will reduce or eliminate the sonar signals.  
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WARNING:  
Do not remove any material from your inner hull unless  
you know the hull's composition. Careless grinding or  
cutting on your hull can result in damage that could  
sink your boat. Contact your boat dealer or  
manufacturer to confirm your hull specifications.  
To choose the proper location for thru-hull mounting, anchor the boat in  
60 feet of water. Add a little water to the sump of the boat. Plug the  
transducer into the sonar unit, turn it on, then hold the transducer over  
the side of the boat. Adjust the sensitivity and range controls until a  
second bottom echo is seen on the display. (You will need to turn off both  
automatic and ASP.) Don't touch the controls once they've been set.  
Next, take the transducer out of the water and place it in the water in  
the sump of the boat. Observe the sonar signal to see if there is a  
noticeable decrease in sensitivity. The second bottom signal may  
disappear and the bottom signal may decrease in intensity.  
Move the transducer around to find the best location. If the sensitivity  
control must be increased greatly to compensate, then the transducer  
should be mounted on the outside of the hull. If not, then mark the  
location that shot through the hull the best and follow the instructions  
on the following pages for a shoot-thru-hull mounting.  
Transducer location  
(high speed)  
Transducer location  
(trolling speed)  
Shoot-thru-hull transducer locations for  
high speed or trolling speed operation.  
Shoot-thru-hull Installation  
1. Make sure the area is clean, dry and free of oil or grease, then sand  
both the inside surface of the hull and the face of the transducer with  
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100 grit sandpaper. The surface of the hull must be flat so the entire  
transducer face is in contact with the hull prior to bonding.  
Spread epoxy here  
Sand this surface  
Epoxy transducer to hull.  
2. Follow the instructions on the epoxy package and mix it thoroughly.  
Do not mix it too fast, because it will cause bubbles to form in the  
epoxy. Apply a small amount on the face of the transducer as shown  
above, then spread a small amount onto the sanded area on the hull.  
Place the transducer into the epoxy, twisting and turning it to force  
any air bubbles out from under the transducer face. The face of the  
transducer should be parallel with the hull, with a minimum amount  
of epoxy between the hull and transducer. After the epoxy dries,  
route the cable to the sonar unit.  
Speed/Temperature Sensors  
This unit can accept as many as two temperature sensors, which can be  
used to monitor the temperature of surface water, a live well or some  
other location. These units can also accept an optional speed sensor for  
showing speed and distance traveled. However, you can only use one  
accessory at a time. If you would like to use a speed sensor and a second  
temperature sensor at the same time, you will need a combination device.  
NOTE:  
This unit is packed with a transducer containing a built-in temp sensor.  
The SeaFinder package also includes a speed sensor. If you have a  
FishMark 480 and want a speed sensor or additional temp sensor, see  
the Accessory Ordering Information in the back of this manual.  
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If a second temp sensor is used, it must be the model TS-2U. This  
model has a fixed electronic "address" which designates it as the second  
of two temp sensors. Dual temperatures are only displayed on the Full  
Chart page. The Large Digital page will only display the primary  
temperature sensor. See the following wiring diagram for temperature  
and speed sensor combinations.  
Sonar unit  
rear view  
T2-U temp sensor  
Power/trans-  
ducer cable  
Temp sensor built  
into transducer.  
Sonar unit with secondary external temperature sensor.  
Sonar unit  
rear view  
SP-U speed sensor  
or combo speed/  
temp sensor.  
Temp sensor built  
into transducer.  
Power/trans-  
ducer cable.  
Sonar unit with external speed sensor or combo speed/temp sensor.  
The primary temperature sensor is built into the transducer.  
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Optional Speed Sensor Installation  
All the units in this series can display speed and distance traveled, but  
only the SeaFinder 480DF comes packed with a speed sensor. If you  
wish to purchase an optional additional sensor for your unit, refer to  
the accessory ordering information inside the back cover of this  
manual. The following instructions describe how to install the speed  
sensor.  
Recommended tools for this job include: drill, 5/8" drill bit, 1/8" drill bit for  
pilot holes, screwdriver. Required supplies for this job include: four #8  
stainless steel wood screws (3/4" long), high quality, marine grade above-  
or below-waterline caulking compound.  
First find a location on the boat's transom where the water flow is  
smoothest. Don't mount the sensor behind strakes or ribs. These will  
disturb the water flow to the speed sensor. Make sure the sensor will  
remain in the water when the boat is on plane. Also make sure the location  
doesn't interfere with the boat's trailer. Typically, the sensor is mounted  
about one foot to the side of the transom's centerline.  
Once you've determined the proper location for the unit, place the  
sensor on the transom. The bottom of the bracket should be flush with  
the hull's bottom. Using the sensor as a template, mark the hull for the  
screws' pilot holes. Drill four 1/8" holes, one in each end of the slots.  
Mount the sensor to the hull using #8 stainless steel wood screws (not  
included). Use a high quality, marine grade above- or below-waterline  
caulking compound to seal the screws. Make sure the sensor is flush  
with the bottom of the hull and tighten the screws.  
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Good location  
Stern view showing good location for mounting sensor on transom.  
If the base of the transom has a radius, fill the gap between the  
transom and the sensor with the caulking compound. This will help  
ensure a smooth water flow.  
Transom  
Bottom of hull  
Bottom of hull  
Speed sensor mounting configuration:  
side view (left) and rear view (right.)  
Route the sensor's cable through or over the transom to the sonar unit.  
If you need to drill a hole in the transom to pass the connector through,  
the required hole size is 5/8".  
Caution:  
If you drill a hole in the transom for the cable, make sure it is  
located above the waterline. After installation, be sure to seal the  
hole with the same marine grade above- or below-waterline  
sealant used for the screws.  
The sensor is now ready for use. Connect the sensor to the accessory  
socket on the back of your unit. If you have any questions concerning  
the installation of the sensor, please contact your local boat dealer.  
Power Connections  
The unit works from a 12-volt battery system. For the best results,  
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attach the power cable directly to the battery. You can attach the power  
cable to an accessory or power buss, however you may have problems  
with electrical interference. Therefore, it's safer to go ahead and attach  
the power cable directly to the battery.  
CAUTION:  
When using the unit in a saltwater environment, we strongly  
recommend that you shut off the power supply to the power cable  
when the unit is not in use. When the unit is turned off but still  
connected to a power supply, electrolysis can occur in the power  
cable plug. This may result in corrosion of the plug body along with  
the electrical contacts in the cable and the unit's power socket.  
In saltwater environments we recommend you connect the power  
cable to the auxiliary power switch included in most boat designs.  
If that results in electrical interference, or if such a switch is not  
available, we recommend connecting direct to the battery and  
installing an inline switch. This will let you shut off power to the  
power cable when the unit is not in use. When you are not using  
the unit, you should always shut off power to the power cable,  
especially when the power cable is disconnected from the unit.  
If possible, keep the power cable away from other boat wiring,  
especially the engine's wires. This will provide the best isolation from  
electrical noise. If the cable is not long enough, splice #18 gauge wire  
onto it. The power cable has two wires, red and black. Red is the  
positive lead, black is negative or ground. Make sure to attach the in-  
line fuse holder to the red lead as close to the power source as possible.  
For example, if you have to extend the power cable to the battery or  
power buss, attach one end of the fuse holder directly to the battery or  
power buss. This will protect both the unit and the power cable in the  
event of a short. It uses a 3-amp fuse.  
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Optional power off switch for  
saltwater installations  
To unit  
Black wire  
Red wire with  
12 volt  
battery  
3 amp fuse  
Power connections for the sonar unit.  
CAUTION:  
Do not use this product without a 3-amp fuse wired into the power  
cable! Failure to use a 3-amp fuse will void your warranty.  
This unit has reverse polarity protection. No damage will occur if the  
power wires are reversed. However, the unit will not work until the  
wires are attached correctly.  
An optional 8-foot, CA-4 external power cable with a cigarette lighter  
adapter is available from Eagle.  
Sonar unit  
rear view  
Power/trans-  
Accessory socket  
ducer socket  
Power cable  
Accessory  
cable  
Transducer  
cable  
Sonar unit cable connections.  
Mounting the Unit: Bracket, In-Dash or Portable  
You can install the sonar unit on the top of a dash with the supplied  
gimbal bracket. It can also be installed in the dash or mounted on a  
portable power supply.  
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If you use the supplied bracket, you may be interested in the optional  
R-A-Mbracket mounting system. This converts the unit's gimbal  
bracket to a swivel mount, which can be used on the dash or overhead  
mounting positions. Installation instructions are supplied with the  
R-A-M mounting kits.  
Bracket Installation  
Mount the unit in any convenient location, provided there is clearance  
behind the unit when it's tilted for the best viewing angle. You should  
also make sure there is enough room behind the unit to attach the  
power and transducer cables. (A drawing on the next page shows the  
dimensions of a gimbal-mounted sonar unit.)  
Holes in the bracket's base allow wood screw or through-bolt mounting.  
You may need to place a piece of plywood on the back side of thin  
fiberglass panels to reinforce the panel and secure the mounting  
hardware.  
Front  
Install the gimbal bracket. Orient the bracket so the arms slope toward  
the front of your unit.  
Drill a 1-inch (25.4 mm) hole in the dash for the power and transducer  
cables. The best location for this hole is immediately under the gimbal  
bracket location. This way, the bracket can be installed so that it covers  
the hole, holds the cables in position and results in a neat installation.  
Some customers, however, prefer to mount the bracket to the side of the  
cable hole — it's a matter of personal preference.  
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After drilling the hole, pass the transducer connector up through the  
hole from under the dash. Pass the power cable's bare-wire end down  
though the hole from the top.  
If you wish, you can fill in the hole around the cables with a good  
marine caulking compound. (Some marine dealers stock cable hole  
covers to conceal the opening.) No matter what type of installation you  
prefer, be sure to leave enough slack in the cables to allow tilting or  
swiveling the unit. If you choose to fill in the hole, be sure to position  
the cables against the rear edge of the hole as you apply the fill  
material.  
72.9  
[2.87]  
173.9  
[6.85]  
23.4  
[0.92]  
137.9  
[5.43]  
157.9  
[6.22]  
56.9  
[2.24]  
Millimeter  
[Inch]  
Front view (left) and side view (right) showing dimensions of the  
sonar unit when mounted on gimbal bracket.  
Before positioning the bracket, be sure to hold the cables against the  
rear edge of the hole. Then, slide the bracket over the hole and butt the  
rear of the bracket base firmly against the cables, thus pinning them in  
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place against the side of the hole. Finally, fasten the bracket to the  
dash. Attach the unit to the gimbal bracket using the supplied gimbal  
knobs and washers.  
In-Dash Installation  
You can mount the unit in the dash with an optional FM-5 In-Dash  
Adapter Kit. The kit includes mounting hardware, a template for  
cutting the hole and an instruction sheet, part 988-0147-43.  
146.5  
[5.76]  
Top  
R 7.9  
[0.31]  
In-Dash  
Template  
113.5  
[4.46]  
Millimeters  
[Inches]  
ALWAYS VERIFY DIMENSIONS  
In-dash mounting template for the sonar unit, showing  
dimensions. NOTE: The figure above is not printed to scale. A scaled  
template (FM-5 In-Dash Adapter Kit instructions) is available for free  
Portable Installation  
Like many Eagle products, this sonar unit is capable of portable  
operation by using the optional PPP-13 portable power pack. The power  
pack and an optional portable transducer expand the uses for your  
sonar unit. The PPP-13 makes it easy to use the unit on your boat or  
take it to the dock, on a float tube, on an ice fishing trip or use it as a  
second sonar in a friend's boat.  
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The PPP-13 Portable Power Pack can be used with eight "D" cell  
alkaline batteries or an optional sealed, rechargeable battery. For set-  
up directions, refer to the pack's instruction sheet, part 988-0147-601.  
"D" cell battery  
Install batteries in power pack battery adapter.  
Face Cover  
Your unit comes with a white protective cover that snaps on and off the  
front of the unit. This cover is intended for use when your unit and the  
vehicle it's mounted in are idle.  
WARNING:  
When the unit is mounted in an unprotected area, such  
as an open boat cockpit, the protective face cover must  
be removed when the vehicle is moving at high speed.  
This includes towing a boat on a trailer at highway  
speeds. Otherwise, wind blast can pop off the cover.  
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Section 3: Basic Sonar Operation  
This section addresses the unit's most basic sonar operations. The  
instructions presented here in Sec. 3 follow a chronological order. Sec.  
4, Sonar Options & Other Features, will discuss options and other more  
advanced functions and utilities. The material in Sec. 4 is arranged in  
alphabetical order.  
Before you turn on the unit, it's a good idea to learn about the different  
keys, the Main Menu, the Sonar Menu, the four Page options and how  
they all work together. BUT, if you just can't wait to get on the water,  
turn to the one-page Quick Reference on page 39.  
Keyboard  
4
8
9
7
2
3
5
6
1
Sonar unit, front view, with keyboard. SeaFinder 480DF shown.  
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1. PWR/LIGHT (Power & Light) – The PWR key turns the unit on and  
off and activates the backlight.  
2. PAGES – Pressing this and the ↑ ↓ arrow keys switches the unit  
between the four different page options. (Full Sonar Chart, Split Zoom  
Sonar Chart, Split Frequency Sonar Chart and Digital Data.)  
3. MENU – Press this key to show the menus and submenus, which  
allow you to select a command or adjust a feature.  
4. ARROW KEYS – These keys are used to navigate through the  
menus, make menu selections, move the sonar chart cursor and enter  
data.  
5. ENT (Enter) – This key allows you to accept values or execute menu  
commands.  
6. EXIT – The Exit key lets you return to the previous screen, clear  
data or erase a menu.  
7. ALARM – The Alarm key is a quick shortcut to the sonar alarms  
menu. It allows you to choose which alarms to use and when.  
8. ZOUT – (Zoom Out) – This key lets you zoom the screen out. This  
key returns you to a full sonar chart display, showing the entire water  
column from surface to bottom.  
9. ZIN – (Zoom In) – This key lets you zoom the screen in. It enlarges  
fish signals, bottom detail and other sonar returns.  
Power/lights on and off  
To turn on the unit, press PWR.  
To change the backlight, press PWR again. This unit has two backlight  
levels to select from. Repeatedly pressing PWR will cycle through the  
backlight settings, turn off the backlight, then turn it back on again.  
Turn off the unit by pressing and holding the PWR key for about 3 seconds.  
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Menus  
Your sonar unit will work fine right out of the box with the factory  
default settings. You only need to learn a few basic functions to  
enhance your viewing. We'll discuss them briefly here, then talk about  
them and all the other commands in more detail in the next section,  
which begins on page 45.  
Your unit has three primary menus that control its operation.  
They are the Main Menu, the Sonar Menu and the Pages Menu.  
Main Menu  
The Main Menu contains some basic function commands and some  
setup option commands. You access the Main Menu by pressing  
MENU|MENU. You run a command by using the or to highlight the  
command and then pressing ENT. To clear the Main Menu screen and  
return to the Page display, press EXIT. (Remember, our text style for  
"MENU|MENU" means "press the Menu key twice." See a full  
explanation of our instruction text formatting on page 4, Instructions =  
Menu Sequences.)  
Main Menu.  
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Main Menu Commands  
There are four "basic" Main Menu commands that you'll really want to  
read more about. They are:  
Screen command: changes the contrast or brightness of the display  
screen. Use this command to adjust how the screen looks under various  
lighting conditions.  
Sounds command: enables or disables the sounds for key strokes and  
alarms, controls the volume and sets the alarm style. If you don't like to  
hear a beep each time you press a key, you can turn this off, or select  
tunes or sound effects instead. The sounds are especially useful when  
used with the Fish I.D.fish symbol feature and fish alarm feature.  
Sonar Alarms command: turns alarms on or off and changes alarm  
thresholds. The fish alarm, used with Fish I.D., is the most popular  
use. It tells you when the sonar sees a fish. You can also set deep or  
shallow depth alarms and zone alarms.  
Popup Help command: turns the pop-up help boxes on or off. When  
you select a menu command, these information boxes appear to tell you  
what the command does or how to use the command. The default  
setting is on, which is really handy while you're learning.  
The remaining Main Menu commands are for more advanced functions,  
mostly setting various sonar options. (They're all detailed in Sec. 4.)  
Units of Measure command: selects the units of measure used for  
showing speed/distance, depth and temperature.  
Set Keel Offset command: calibrates the unit to show depth under  
the keel or actual depth from the surface.  
Calibrate Water Speed command: adjusts how a speed sensor  
measures water speed.  
Reset Water Distance command: resets water distance log to zero.  
Sonar Simulator command: turns the simulator feature on and off.  
Useful for learning how to operate the unit and all its functions.  
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Reset Options command: returns all options and auto functions to  
their original factory settings. It's a great safety net while you're  
learning and experimenting with various settings.  
Set Language command: your unit has menus in 10 different  
languages. This command switches from one language to another.  
Software Information command: tells you which version of the  
operating software is loaded in your unit.  
Sonar Menu  
The Sonar Menu contains commands for the major sonar features and  
options. You access the Sonar Menu by pressing the MENU key one  
time. You run a command by using the or to highlight the command  
and then pressing ENT. To clear the menu screen and return to the  
Page display, press EXIT.  
Sonar Page Menu. Most of these functions are discussed in Sec. 4.  
Sonar Menu Commands  
The Sonar Menu contains commands for the major sonar features and  
options. Most of them are only described in detail in Sec. 4, but  
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Sensitivity and Auto Sensitivity are important basic functions that are  
discussed both here and in Sec. 4. The other Sonar Menu commands  
include:  
Graylinecommand: separates fish and structure near the bottom  
from the actual bottom, and defines bottom composition/hardness.  
Depth Range command: manually sets the depth range shown on  
the sonar chart.  
Auto Depth Range command: automatically sets the depth range  
shown on the sonar chart to always keep the bottom in view.  
Stop Chart command: stops the sonar chart from scrolling. Used  
when you want to "freeze" the image for closer study.  
Chart Speed command: sets the scrolling speed of the sonar chart.  
Depth Cursor command: displays a cursor line on the sonar chart  
which allows you to accurately measure the depth of a sonar target.  
Overlay Data command: chooses what types of information (such as  
water temperature) to show overlaid on the sonar chart screen.  
Sonar Features command: launches the Sonar Features menu  
which controls many functions and options, including frequency  
selection, screen color mode, auto depth and sensitivity, surface clarity,  
noise rejection, Fish I.D.symbols, the zoom bar and zone bar.  
Ping Speed command: sets the rate at which sonar pings are made.  
Pages  
The Pages Menu controls the four major display options. They are the  
Full Sonar Chart, Split Zoom Sonar Chart, Split Frequency Sonar  
Chart and Digital Data.  
You access the Pages Menu by pressing the PAGES key. You select a  
display option by using or to highlight the option and then pressing  
ENT. (You can clear the Pages Menu by pressing EXIT.)  
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Pages Menu showing some Sonar display options  
(at left, dual-frequency menu; at right, single-frequency menu).  
The Full Sonar Chart is the main display option. This is a "cross-  
section" view of the water column beneath the boat. The chart moves  
across the screen, displaying sonar signal echoes that represent fish,  
structure and the bottom.  
Surface signal  
Digital data  
overlay  
Surface clutter  
(depth &  
temperature)  
Depth scale  
In FasTrack, fish  
arches show as  
horizontal bars.  
Fish arches  
Zoom bar  
Structure  
Bottom signal  
FasTrack  
bar graph  
Sonar Page, showing full sonar chart mode.  
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Sonar chart display options (from left) split zoom (all models)  
and split frequency (SeaFinder 320DF only).  
Digital data sonar chart display option.  
You can customize how the Sonar Page pictures and other data are  
displayed in many ways. We'll discuss all of those features and options in  
Section 4, but to show you how easy the sonar unit is to operate, see the  
following 10-step quick reference that will cover most fish finding situations.  
The quick reference describes how your unit will operate with all the sonar  
features in their automatic modes, which are set at the factory.  
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Basic Sonar Quick Reference  
1. Mount the transducer and unit. Connect the unit to electric power  
and the transducer.  
2. Launch your boat.  
3. To turn on the unit, press and release PWR key.  
4. Head for your fishing grounds. Your unit automatically displays  
digital depth and surface water temperature in the corner of the screen.  
The auto settings will track the bottom, displaying it in the lower  
portion of the screen. The full sonar chart will scroll from right to left,  
showing you what's under the boat as you cruise across the water.  
5. As you're watching the sonar returns, you can change the display by:  
Zoom in to enlarge the chart for more detail: press ZIN.  
Zoom out to return to full chart mode: press ZOUT.  
6. If necessary, adjust sensitivity to improve chart readability. Press  
MENU|ENT and the Sensitivity Menu will appear on the left of your  
screen. Use and to change the setting.  
Boosting sensitivity will show more information on your screen, which  
may cause clutter. Reducing sensitivity will filter out some information,  
but could omit important images. We recommend adjusting sensitivity  
until the background is lightly "peppered" — that is, scattered dots  
appear, but individual objects (like fish arches or bottom structure) can  
be easily picked out of the background.  
7. Watch the display for the appearance of fish arches. When you see  
arches, you've found fish! Stop the boat and get your lure or bait into  
the water at the depth indicated on the sonar chart.  
8. Gauge the fish depth by visually comparing the fish arches with the  
depth scale on the right side of the screen, or get a more accurate measure  
with the Depth Cursor. Press MENU|to DEPTH CURSOR|ENT. Press (or )  
to align the cursor line with the fish arch. The exact depth appears in a  
box at the right end of the cursor line. To clear the cursor, press EXIT.  
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9. If you are drifting at a very low speed or anchored, you are not  
moving fast enough for a fish to return the tell-tale fish arch signal. As  
you drift over a fish, or as a fish swims through the transducer's signal  
cone, the fish echo will appear as a straight line suspended between the  
surface and the bottom.  
10. To turn off the unit, press and hold PWR key for three seconds.  
Sonar Operations  
As you can see from the quick reference, basic operation is pretty easy, right  
out of the box. If you are a sonar novice, try operating the unit with the  
factory defaults until you get a feel for how it's working.  
As you're learning the basics, there is one setting you might want to tinker  
with from time to time — Sensitivity.  
Sensitivity controls the unit's ability to pick up echoes. If you want to see  
more detail, try increasing the sensitivity, a little at a time. There are  
situations when too much clutter appears on the screen. Decreasing the  
sensitivity can reduce the clutter and show the strongest fish echoes, if  
fish are present. As you change the sensitivity setting, you can see the  
difference on the chart as it scrolls.  
You can change the sensitivity level whether you are in Auto Sensitivity  
mode or Manual Sensitivity mode. The adjustment method works the  
same in both modes, but it gives you slightly different results.  
Adjusting sensitivity in Auto Sensitivity Mode is similar to manually  
adjusting a car's speed with the accelerator pedal while cruise control is  
on. You can tell the car to run faster, but when you let off the gas the  
cruise control automatically keeps you from running slower than the  
minimum speed setting. In the sonar unit, auto mode will let you increase  
sensitivity to 100 percent, but the unit will limit your minimum setting.  
This prevents you from turning sensitivity down too low to allow automatic  
bottom tracking. When you change the setting with auto turned on, the  
unit will continue to track the bottom and make minor adjustments to the  
sensitivity level, with a bias toward the setting you selected.  
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Adjusting sensitivity in Manual Sensitivity Mode is similar to driving a  
car without cruise control — you have complete manual control of the  
car's speed. In the sonar unit, manual mode allows you to set  
sensitivity at 100 percent (maximum) or zero percent (minimum.)  
Depending on water conditions, the bottom signal may completely  
disappear from the screen when you reduce sensitivity to about 50  
percent or less!  
Fig. 1  
Fig. 2  
Fig. 3  
Fig. 4  
These figures show results of different sensitivity levels on the same  
location. Fig. 1: Sensitivity at 88 percent, determined by Auto Sensitivity.  
Typical of full auto mode. Fig. 2: Sensitivity set at 75 percent. Fig. 3:  
Sensitivity set at 50 percent. Fig. 4: Sensitivity set at 100 percent.  
Try adjusting sensitivity in both auto and manual modes to see how  
they work.  
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To adjust sensitivity:  
1. Press MENU|ENT.  
2. The Sensitivity Control Bar appears. Press to decrease sensitivity;  
press to increase sensitivity. When it's set at the desired level, press  
EXIT. (When you reach the maximum or minimum limit, a tone sounds.)  
At left, Sonar Menu with Sensitivity command selected. At right, the  
Sensitivity Control Bar.  
NOTE:  
If you want to change the sensitivity in Manual Mode, first turn off  
Auto Sensitivity: from the Sonar Page, press MENU|to AUTO  
SENSITIVITY|ENT|to SENSITIVITY|ENT. Press or to pick a different  
sensitivity setting. When it's set at the desired level, press EXIT.  
Important Tip:  
While you are experimenting and learning, it's possible to scramble  
the settings so that the sonar picture disappears from your screen.  
If that happens, remember that it's easy to switch back to full  
automatic operation by simply restoring the factory auto settings.  
Here's how:  
To Restore Factory Settings  
1. Press MENU|MENU|to RESET OPTIONS|ENT.  
2. The unit asks if you want to reset all the options. Press to  
YES|ENT. All options are reset, and the unit reverts back to the  
original settings.  
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Fish Symbols vs. Full Sonar Chart  
You may have noticed in the quick reference that we used fish arches in  
full sonar chart mode for our example, and not the popular Fish I.D.  
fish symbol feature. Here's why.  
Fish I.D. is an easier way for a sonar novice to recognize a fishy signal  
return when he sees it. However, locating fish by symbol only has some  
limitations.  
Your sonar unit's microprocessor is remarkably powerful, but it can be  
fooled. Some of the echoes calculated to be fish could be tree limbs or  
turtles! To see what's under your boat in maximum detail, we  
recommend you turn off Fish I.D. and begin learning to interpret fish  
arches.  
Fish I.D. is most handy when you're in another part of the boat or  
performing some task that prevents you from watching the sonar  
screen. Then, you can turn on Fish I.D. and the audible fish alarm.  
When that lunker swims under your boat, you'll hear it!  
Fish I.D. can also be useful when you want to screen out some of the  
sonar detail gathered by your unit. For example, in one case fishermen  
in San Francisco Bay saw clouds of clutter in the water but no fish  
arches. When a down rigger was pulled up, it brought up several small  
jellyfish. The fishermen switched their sonar to Fish I.D., which  
screened out the schools of jellyfish and clearly showed the game fish  
there as fish symbols.  
Other Free Training Aids  
The sonar options section discusses Fish I.D., fish alarms and other  
features in greater detail. If you or a friend has Internet access, you can  
also learn more about interpreting what you see on your sonar screen.  
Visit our web site, WWW.EAGLESONAR.COM. Be sure to check out the  
free Sonar Tutorial, which includes animated illustrations and more  
pictures of actual sonar returns, all described in detail. There's even a  
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"printer friendly" version of the tutorial available on our web site…it  
makes a great supplement to this operation manual!  
For the ultimate training aid, be sure to download the free emulator  
software for your unit. Aside from being just plain fun, this program  
can help you learn both basic and advanced operations without burning  
boat fuel! Eagle is one of the first sonar manufacturers to provide this  
type of training tool for customers.  
This PC application simulates the actual sonar unit on your computer.  
You can run it from your computer keyboard or use your mouse to press  
the virtual keys. Easy download and installation instructions are  
available on our web site.  
Free training emulator is available for your unit on our web site.  
The emulator works exactly like your real sonar unit. Using the Sonar  
Simulator feature, it allows you to play the demo sonar log, and practice  
changing the various settings available in your Eagle sonar unit!  
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Section 4: Sonar Options & Other Features  
Material in this section is arranged in alphabetical order.  
ASP(Advanced Signal Processing)  
The ASPfeature is a noise rejection system built into the sonar unit  
that constantly evaluates the effects of boat speed, water conditions  
and interference. This automatic feature gives you the best display  
possible under most conditions.  
The ASP feature is an effective tool in combating noise. In sonar terms,  
noise is any undesired signal. It is caused by electrical and mechanical  
sources such as bilge pumps, engine ignition systems and wiring, air  
bubbles passing over the face of the transducer, even vibration from the  
engine. In all cases, noise can produce unwanted marks on the display.  
The ASP feature has four settings — Off, Low, Medium and High. If  
you have high noise levels, try using the "High" ASP setting. However,  
if you are having trouble with noise, we suggest that you take steps to  
find the interference source and fix it, rather than continually using the  
unit with the high ASP setting.  
There are times when you may want to turn the ASP feature off. This  
allows you to view all incoming echoes before they are processed by the  
ASP feature.  
At left, Sonar Menu with Sonar Features selected. In the Sonar  
Features menu, Noise Rejection is selected with ASP in the default low  
setting (center, dual-frequency menu; at right, single-frequency menu).  
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To change the ASP level:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.  
2. Press → ↓ or to NOISE REJECTION|ENT.  
3. Press or to select a setting, then press ENT.  
4. To return to the previous page, press EXIT|EXIT.  
Alarms  
This unit has three different types of sonar  
alarms. The first is the Fish Alarm. It sounds  
when the Fish I.D.feature determines that  
an echo is a fish.  
Another alarm is the Zone Alarm, which  
consists of a bar on the side of the screen. Any  
echo on the chart that appears inside this bar  
triggers this alarm.  
The last alarm is the Depth Alarm, which has both a Shallow and a  
Deep setting. Only the bottom signal will trigger this alarm. This is  
useful as an anchor watch, a shallow water alert or for navigation.  
Depth Alarms  
The depth alarms sound a tone when the bottom signal goes shallower  
than the shallow alarm's setting or deeper than the deep alarm's  
setting. For example, if you set the shallow alarm to 10 feet, the alarm  
will sound a tone if the bottom signal is less than 10 feet. It will  
continue to sound until the bottom goes deeper than 10 feet.  
The deep alarm works just the opposite. It sounds a warning tone if the  
bottom depth goes deeper than the alarm's setting. Both depth alarms  
work only off the digital bottom depth signals. No other targets will trip  
these alarms. These alarms can be used at the same time or individually.  
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To adjust and turn on the shallow alarm:  
1. Press ALARM.  
2. Press to SHALLOW ALARM DEPTH|ENT.  
3. Press or to change the first number, then press to move the  
cursor to the next number and repeat until the depth is correct, then  
press ENT.  
4. Press to SHALLOW ALARM ENABLED|ENT|EXIT.  
5. To turn off the alarm, press ALARM|ENT|EXIT.  
To switch to a different depth setting, open the Sonar Alarms menu and  
repeat the instructions in step 3 above.  
To adjust and turn on the deep alarm:  
1. Press ALARM.  
2. Press to DEEP ALARM ENABLED|to DEEP ALARM DEPTH|ENT.  
3. Press or to change the first number, then press to move the  
cursor to the next number and repeat until the depth is correct, then  
press ENT.  
4. Press to DEEP ALARM ENABLED|ENT|EXIT.  
5. To turn off the alarm, press ALARM|to DEEP ALARM  
ENABLED|ENT|EXIT.  
To switch to a different depth setting, open the Sonar Alarms menu and  
repeat the instructions in step 3 above.  
Zone Alarm  
The zone alarm is triggered when any echo passes inside the zone  
alarm bar, shown on the right side of the screen.  
To adjust and turn on the zone alarm:  
1. Press ALARM.  
2. Press to ZONE ALARM ENABLED|to ADJUST ZONE|ENT.  
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Adjust Zone Alarm selection box, with Upper selected.  
3. To set the upper boundary for the Zone Alarm, use orto select  
UPPER, then press or to move the top of the bar to the desired depth.  
4. To set the lower boundary for the Zone Alarm, use orto select  
LOWER, then press or to move the bottom of the bar to the desired  
depth.  
5. Press EXIT|to ZONE ALARM ENABLED|ENT|EXIT. Now, any echo —  
fish, bottom, structure — within the zone alarm's depth range will  
trigger the zone alarm.  
6. To turn off the alarm, press ALARM|to ZONE ALARM  
ENABLED|ENT|EXIT.  
To switch to a different depth setting, open the Sonar Alarms menu and  
repeat the instructions in steps 3 and 4 above.  
Fish Alarm  
Use the fish alarm for a distinctive audible alarm when fish or other  
suspended objects are detected by the Fish I.D.feature (Fish I.D.  
must be turned on for the Fish Alarm to work). A different tone sounds  
for each fish symbol size shown on the display.  
To turn the fish alarm on:  
1. Press ALARM.  
2. Press to FISH ALARM|ENT|EXIT.  
3. To turn off the alarm, press ALARM|to FISH ALARM|ENT|EXIT.  
Brightness  
See the entry in this section for Screen Contrast and Brightness.  
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Calibrate Speed  
The speed sensor can be calibrated to compensate for inaccuracies.  
Before you change the setting, first calculate the percentage that the  
speed is off. You will enter this percentage in a moment.  
For example, if you figure the sensor is reading 10 percent faster than  
actual speed, you will enter – 10 in the calibration window. If the  
sensor is reading 5 percent slower than true speed, you will enter + 5 in  
the window.  
Perform your test in relatively calm water free of current, if possible.  
(Unless, of course, you are taking the current speed into consideration  
when making your calculation.) After you have a correction figure,  
here's how to enter it:  
1. Press MENU|MENU|to CALIBRATE WATER SPEED|ENT.  
2. Enter the number you calculated earlier: press or to change the  
first character (+ or –), then press to move the cursor to the next  
number and repeat until the percentage is correct, then press EXIT.  
Chart Speed  
The rate that echoes scroll across the screen is called the  
chart speed. The default is maximum; we recommend that  
you leave the speed set there for virtually all fishing  
conditions.  
However, you might consider experimenting with chart speed  
when you are stationary or drifting very slowly. You may  
sometimes achieve better images as you slow down the chart  
speed to match how fast you are moving across the bottom.  
If you are at anchor, ice fishing or fishing from a dock, experiment with  
a chart speed around 50 percent. If you are drifting slowly, try a chart  
speed around 75 percent. When you are stationary and a fish swims  
through the sonar signal cone, the image appears on the screen as a  
long line instead of a fish arch. Reducing the chart speed may result in  
a shorter line that more closely resembles a regular fish return.  
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If you do experiment with chart speed, remember to reset it to  
maximum when you resume trolling or moving across the water at  
higher speed. To change chart speed:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to CHART SPEED|ENT.  
2. The Chart Speed Control Bar appears. Press to decrease chart  
speed; press to increase chart speed.  
3. When it's set at the desired level, press EXIT.  
Contrast  
See the entry in this section for Screen Contrast and Brightness.  
Depth Cursor  
The depth cursor consists of a horizontal line with a digital depth box  
on the right side. The numbers inside the box show the depth of the  
cursor.  
Cursor line  
Depth box  
Sonar chart with the depth cursor active. The line indicates  
the large fish is 34.64 feet deep.  
The cursor can be moved to any location on the screen, letting you  
pinpoint the depth of a target.  
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1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to DEPTH CURSOR|ENT.  
2. The depth cursor appears. Press to lower the cursor line; press to  
raise the cursor line.  
3. To clear the depth cursor, press EXIT.  
Depth Range - Automatic  
When turned on for the first time, the bottom signal is automatically  
placed in the lower half of the screen. This is called Auto Ranging and  
is part of the automatic function. However, depending upon the bottom  
depth and the current range, you can change the range to a different  
depth. To do this:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to DEPTH RANGE|ENT.  
2. The Depth Range Control Scale appears. Press or to select a  
different depth range. A black bar highlights the selected range. Range  
numbers in gray cannot be selected.  
3. When the new range is selected, press EXIT to clear the menu.  
Depth Range - Manual  
You have complete control over the range when the unit is  
in the manual mode. There are 16 depth ranges, from 5  
feet to 4,000 feet.  
To switch to Manual Depth Range:  
1. First, turn off automatic depth range. From the Sonar  
Page, press MENU|to AUTO DEPTH RANGE|ENT.  
2. Press to DEPTH RANGE|ENT and the Depth Range  
Control Scale appears.  
3. Press or to select a different depth range. A  
horizontal black bar highlights the selected range.  
4. When the new range is selected, press EXIT to clear the  
menu.  
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To turn Auto Depth Range on again:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to AUTO DEPTH RANGE|ENT|EXIT.  
NOTE:  
The sonar's depth capability depends on the transducer  
installation, water and bottom conditions, and other factors.  
FasTrack  
This feature automatically converts all echoes to short horizontal lines  
on the display's far right side. The graph on the rest of the screen  
continues to operate normally. FasTrack gives you a rapid update of  
conditions directly under the boat. This makes it useful for ice fishing,  
or when you're fishing at anchor. When the boat is not moving, fish  
signals are long, drawn out lines on a normal chart display. FasTrack  
converts the graph to a vertical bar graph that, with practice, makes a  
useful addition to fishing at a stationary location.  
Surface clutter  
Fish arches  
Structure  
In FasTrack, fish  
arches show as  
horizontal bars.  
Grayline  
Bottom signal  
FasTrack  
bar graph  
Sonar Page showing FasTrack.  
Fish I.D.(Fish Symbols & Depths)  
The Fish I.D. feature identifies targets that meet certain conditions as  
fish. The microcomputer analyses all echoes and eliminates surface  
clutter, thermoclines, and other signals that are undesirable. In most  
instances, remaining targets are fish. The Fish I.D. feature displays  
fish symbols on the screen in place of the actual fish echoes.  
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There are several fish symbol sizes. These are used to designate the  
relative size between targets. In other words, Fish I.D. displays a small  
fish symbol when it thinks a target is a small fish, a medium fish  
symbol on a larger target and so on.  
The sonar's microcomputer is sophisticated, but it can be fooled. It can't  
distinguish between fish and other suspended objects such as trotlines,  
turtles, submerged floats, air bubbles, etc. Individual tree limbs  
extending outwards from a group of limbs is the hardest object for the  
Fish I.D. feature to distinguish from fish.  
You may see fish symbols on the screen when actually, there are no  
fish. The reverse is also true. The illustrations on the next page show  
how Fish I.D. can actually miss fish that are present.  
Does that mean Fish I.D. is broken? No — the feature is simply  
interpreting sonar returns in a specific way to help take some of the  
work out of reading the screen. Remember: Fish I.D. is one of the many  
tools we provide so you can analyze your sonar returns for maximum  
fish finding information. This and other features can help you  
successfully "see" beneath the boat under varied water and fishing  
conditions. So, practice with the unit in both the Fish I.D. mode and  
without to become more familiar with the feature. The default for Fish  
I.D. is off.  
Sonar Features menu with Fish I.D. Symbols selected (at left, dual-  
frequency menu; at right, single-frequency menu). When the check box  
to the left is checked, the feature is on.  
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Fig. 1 A  
Fig. 1 B  
Many fish  
Fewer fish  
arches visible  
symbols visible  
Fig. 2 A  
Fig. 2 B  
Fish arches  
above structure  
No fish shown  
FasTrack graph  
confirms fish  
At left, figures 1A and 2A show Sonar Page in normal chart mode. At  
right, figures 1B and 2B show the same underwater scene with Fish I.D.  
turned on. Note how arches are replaced with symbols.  
To turn the Fish I.D. feature on:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.  
2. Press → ↓ or to FISH ID SYMBOLS|ENT|EXIT|EXIT.  
To turn off Fish I.D., repeat the instructions in step 1.  
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FishTrack  
The FishTrack feature shows the depth of a fish symbol when it  
appears on the display. This lets you accurately gauge the depth of  
targets. This feature is available only when the Fish I.D. feature is on.  
The default setting for FishTrack is off.  
To turn on FishTrack:  
(Note: These instructions will turn on FishTrack and Fish I.D. at the  
same time.)  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.  
2. Press → ↓ to FISH ID DEPTHS|ENT|EXIT|EXIT.  
To turn off FishTrack, repeat the instructions in step 1. Turning off  
FishTrack in this manner will not turn off Fish I.D. symbols.  
Symbols with  
FishTrack depths  
Sonar Features menu with Fish I.D. Depths selected (at left, dual-  
frequency menu; center, single-frequency menu). When the check box to  
the left is checked, the feature is on. At right, Sonar Page showing Fish  
I.D. symbols and FishTrack depths turned on.  
FishReveal  
When displaying actual sonar returns, the FishReveal feature uses 10  
levels of gray tones to show fish targets hidden by surface clutter,  
thermoclines, weed beds and other cover.  
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The normal mode of operation (with FishReveal turned off) shows the  
weakest echoes as black and the strongest echoes in light gray. Since  
all weak echoes are black, fish arches show boldly against the white  
background. The drawback is that all weak echoes – such as  
thermoclines – are also emphasized. This can make it hard to  
distinguish fish signals inside thermoclines or other cover.  
In FishReveal mode, the weakest echoes are white and the strongest  
echoes are black. Echoes in between vary in gray in proportion to their  
signal strength. The Grayline control determines the range for black to  
white. Also note that when using FishReveal, we recommend that you  
turn off Auto Sensitivity and turn up Sensitivity to near maximum.  
Sonar Color Mode command with FishReveal selected  
(at left, dual-frequency menu; at right, single-frequency menu).  
To turn FishReveal on:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.  
2. Press to SONAR COLOR MODE|ENT|to FISHREVEAL|ENT.  
3. Press EXIT|to AUTO SENSITIVITY|ENT|to SENSITIVITY|ENT.  
4. Press until the Sensitivity Control Bar reads 100% (or close to it),  
then press EXIT. (If you reach the maximum limit, a tone sounds.)  
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Fish  
not  
visible  
Visible  
fish  
Fish  
arch  
Fish  
arches  
Sonar chart in regular grayscale mode, left, and in FishReveal mode,  
right. Notice how shallow fish formerly hidden in the surface clutter  
become visible in FishReveal mode.  
NOTE:  
Water conditions vary greatly, and that affects sonar performance.  
Under certain conditions, FishReveal will show you more fish than  
normal grayscale mode, but the reverse will be true in other  
circumstances. We suggest you become familiar with both modes so  
you can best match your sonar's performance to the current water  
conditions.  
Frequency (Change Transducer Frequency)  
(SeaFinder 480DF only)  
The "DF" in your unit's name refers to its dual-frequency transducer,  
which operates with both 200 kHz and 50 kHz. The 200 kHz frequency  
has a 12° cone angle and the 50 kHz frequency has a 35° cone angle.  
The default frequency is 200 kHz, which is best for use in shallow water  
(about 300 feet or less). This frequency is the best choice for about 80  
percent of the fresh and salt water sport fishing applications. When you  
get into very deep salt water, 300 to 500 feet or deeper, the 50 kHz  
frequency is the best choice.  
The 200 kHz transducer will give you better detail and definition, but  
less depth penetration. The 50 kHz transducer will give you greater  
depth penetration, but a little less detail and less definition. (Remember,  
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all sonar units typically read deeper in fresh water than in salt water.)  
There is a common exception to these rules of thumb. Some fishermen  
on freshwater lakes (or the ocean) using downriggers like to see them  
on the sonar. In many of those cases, you'll see a 50 kHz transducer  
frequency in use because the wider cone angle lets them watch the bait.  
Sonar Features menu with a frequency of 200 kHz selected.  
To change the frequency setting to 200 kHz:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to SONAR FEATURES|ENT|ENT.  
2. Press EXIT|EXIT to clear the menu.  
To change the frequency setting to 50 kHz:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.  
2. Press to 50 KHZ|ENT|.  
3. Press EXIT|EXIT to clear the menu.  
Grayline  
Grayline lets you distinguish between strong and weak  
echoes. It "paints" gray on targets that are stronger than a  
preset value. This allows you to tell the difference between  
a hard and soft bottom. For example, a soft, muddy or  
weedy bottom returns a weaker signal which is shown with  
a narrow or no gray line. A hard bottom returns a strong  
signal which causes a wide gray line.  
If you have two signals of equal size, one with gray and the  
other without, then the target with gray is the stronger signal. This helps  
distinguish weeds from trees on the bottom, or fish from structure.  
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Grayline is adjustable. Experiment with your unit to find the Grayline  
setting that's best for you.  
To adjust the Grayline level:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to GRAYLINE|ENT.  
2. The Grayline Control Bar appears. Press to decrease Grayline;  
press to increase Grayline.  
3. When it's set at the desired level, press EXIT.  
Fig. 1A  
Fig. 1B  
Hard  
structure  
Fish near  
structure  
Grayline  
Fig. 2A  
Fig. 2B  
Hard  
bottom  
Muddy  
bottom  
Grayline  
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Fig. 3A  
Fig. 3B  
Hard  
bottom  
Muddy  
bottom  
Grayline  
This series of figures shows how different Grayline settings can reveal  
more information. The "A" figures to the left show locations with  
Grayline set at the factory level of 64 percent. At right, the "B" figures  
show the same locations with Grayline increased to 84 percent. In  
Figure 1B, no fish are near the left structure, but the right structure  
shows fish holding next to the structure. Notice in figures 2B and 3B  
how Grayline displays a hard, rocky bottom (the drop-offs) with a  
wider gray line. The muddier bottom below those drop-offs appears as  
a narrower gray line.  
HyperScroll  
See the entry on Ping Speed, which controls the HyperScroll feature.  
Noise Rejection  
See the entry on Advanced Signal Processing in this section.  
Overlay Data  
To change the digital data shown on top of the sonar page:  
1. Press MENU|to OVERLAY DATA|ENT.  
2. Press or to select Data Type|ENT.  
When selected, the data type shifts to the top of the data list and a  
check mark appears beside the data type. (If you wish, you may now  
use or to select other Data Types for display.)  
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At left, we scrolled down the data list to highlight "Water Speed." At  
right, data list showing "Water Speed" selected to display on Sonar Page.  
3. To return to the previous page, press EXIT|EXIT.  
To turn off displayed data:  
1. Press MENU|to OVERLAY DATA|ENT.  
2. Press or to select Data Type|ENT. The selected data type  
disappears from the top of the list and reverts to its previous,  
unchecked position. (If you wish, you may now use or to select other  
Data Types to turn off.)  
2. To return to the previous page, press EXIT|EXIT.  
To change displayed data font size:  
1. Press MENU|to OVERLAY DATA|ENT.  
2. Press or to select Data Type|press or to Data Size|EXIT.  
The selected data type will be displayed in the new size. (To change the  
font size for another Data Type, press ENT and repeat these steps,  
beginning with step two above.)  
3. To return to the previous page, press EXIT.  
Tip:  
If you wish, you can change the displayed data font size when you  
select a data type:  
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1. Press MENU|to OVERLAY DATA|ENT.  
2. Press or to select Data Type|press or to select Data  
Size|ENT.  
The data will be shown in the new font size. To return to the  
previous page, press EXIT|EXIT.  
NOTE:  
Some data types can be displayed in only one font size. If that is the  
case, the Data Size box will not be displayed for that data type.  
Sonar chart with Overlay Data turned on. This example shows  
Depth, Water Temperature and the Water Speed of the boat.  
Ping Speed & HyperScroll  
Ping Speed controls the rate at which the transmitter and  
transducer broadcast sonar sound waves — pings — into  
the water. The unit has a default ping speed of 50 percent.  
At normal boating speeds, this automatically provides  
enough return echoes to refresh the screen and scroll the  
chart at maximum chart speed.  
However, when you are running at high speeds, or just want  
the fastest possible screen update, you may want to use the  
HyperScrollfeature. When you change the Ping Speed to any setting  
greater than 50 percent, the unit automatically enters HyperScroll mode.  
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These faster ping rates allow you to maintain a high-detail picture on  
the screen, and the screen refresh rate and chart scroll speed can keep  
pace with the boat as it moves quickly over the bottom terrain.  
When using HyperScroll, you may also need to manually decrease the  
sensitivity for optimum performance. Depending on water depth and  
other conditions, HyperScroll may cause a second bottom echo to return  
to the transducer during the next ping cycle, or sounding. This can result  
in a large amount of clutter appearing on the screen. If this occurs, just  
decrease the sensitivity to a level that eliminates the clutter. When you  
turn HyperScroll off, you can return to your original sensitivity level.  
To change Ping Speed:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to PING SPEED|ENT.  
2. The Ping Speed Control Bar appears. Press to increase ping speed;  
pressto decrease ping speed. When it's set at the desired level, press  
EXIT.  
To adjust Sensitivity:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|ENT.  
2. The Sensitivity Control Bar appears. Press to decrease sensitivity;  
press to increase sensitivity. When it's set at the desired level, press  
EXIT. (When you reach the maximum or minimum limit, a tone sounds.)  
To turn off HyperScroll:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to PING SPEED|ENT.  
2. The Ping Speed Control Bar appears. Pressto decrease ping speed  
to 50 percent. When it's set at the desired level, press EXIT.  
When you boost ping speed and switch into HyperScroll, the width of  
the FasTrack bar graph display doubles in width at the right side of the  
screen. The allows you to better see the virtually instantaneous sonar  
returns, just as you would on a flasher sonar unit. For more  
information on FasTrack, see it's entry in this section.  
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Pop-up Help  
Help is available for virtually all of the menu labels on this unit. By  
highlighting a menu item and leaving it highlighted for a few seconds, a  
"pop-up" message appears that describes the function of the menu item.  
This feature is on by default.  
To set up Popup Help: Press MENU|MENU|to POPUP HELP. With the  
option highlighted, press ENT to check it (turn on) and uncheck it (turn  
off.) After the option is set, press EXIT to return to the page display.  
Pop-up Help message for the Calibrate Water Speed command.  
Reset Options  
This command is used to reset all features,  
options and settings to their original factory  
defaults. This is useful when you have changed  
several settings and want to return the unit to  
basic automatic operation.  
1. Press MENU|MENU|to RESET OPTIONS|ENT.  
2. Press to YES|ENT.  
3. All the menus are cleared and all options are returned to the factory  
settings.  
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Reset Water Distance  
The sonar chart's Digital Data display option includes a window that  
shows distance traveled, called Water Distance ("W Distance"). This  
information is calculated from an optional water speed sensor. The  
Water Distance window can be reset to zero using the Reset Water  
Distance command.  
1. Press MENU|MENU|to RESET WATER DISTANCE|ENT. The menus are  
cleared and the water distance is reset to 0.00.  
Screen Contrast and Brightness  
To  
access  
the  
Screen  
menu,  
press  
MENU|MENU|ENT.  
Once in the Screen menu:  
To adjust the display's contrast:  
1. The CONTRAST slider bar is already selected.  
Press or to move the bar. The left end of the scale is minimum  
contrast; the right end is maximum contrast.  
To adjust the display's brightness:  
1. Press to BRIGHTNESS. Press or to move the bar. The left end of  
the scale is minimum contrast; the right end is maximum contrast.  
To adjust the screen's display mode:  
1. Press to DISPLAY MODE|ENT|press or to select mode|EXIT.  
Sensitivity & Auto Sensitivity  
The sensitivity controls the ability of the unit to pick up echoes.  
Sensitivity can be adjusted, because water conditions vary  
greatly. A low sensitivity level (from zero to 50 percent)  
excludes much of the bottom information, fish signals, and  
other target information.  
High sensitivity levels let you see this detail, but it can also  
clutter the screen with many undesired signals. Typically, the  
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best sensitivity level shows a good solid bottom signal with Grayline and  
some surface clutter.  
Automatic Sensitivity  
The default sensitivity mode is automatic. The unit bases the  
sensitivity level on water depth and conditions. When the unit is in the  
automatic mode, sensitivity is automatically adjusted to keep a solid  
bottom signal displayed, plus a little more power. This gives it the  
capability to show fish and other detail.  
However, situations occur when it becomes necessary to increase or  
decrease the sensitivity. This typically happens when you wish to see  
more detail, so an increase in sensitivity is indicated. Or, wave action  
and boat wakes can create enough tiny air bubbles to clutter much of  
the water column. In that case, a decrease in sensitivity is indicated to  
reduce some of the clutter.  
The control bar used to adjust sensitivity up or down is the same  
whether the unit is in the automatic or manual mode. In automatic you  
can adjust sensitivity up to 100 percent but the unit will limit your  
minimum setting. In auto, the unit will continue to make small  
adjustments, allowing for the setting you selected.  
In manual mode, you have complete control over sensitivity, with the  
ability to set it anywhere from zero to 100 percent. Once you select a  
level in manual, the unit will continue to use that exact sensitivity  
setting until you change it or revert to auto mode.  
To adjust sensitivity in auto mode:  
1. Press MENU|ENT.  
2. The Sensitivity Control Bar appears. Press to decrease sensitivity;  
press to increase sensitivity. When it's set at the desired level, press  
EXIT. (When you reach the maximum or minimum limit, a tone sounds.)  
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To adjust sensitivity in manual mode:  
1. First, turn off Auto Sensitivity: from the Sonar Page, press MENU|↓  
to AUTO SENSITIVITY|ENT.  
2. Press to SENSITIVITY|ENT and the Sensitivity Control Bar appears.  
Press or to pick a different sensitivity setting. When it's set at the  
desired level, press EXIT.  
To turn Auto Sensitivity back on:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to AUTO SENSITIVITY|ENT|EXIT.  
NOTE:  
To return to the original factory setting for Auto Sensitivity, see the  
entry in this section on Reset Options. If sensitivity is in manual  
mode, the Reset Options command will switch back to Auto and  
reset the factory setting at the same time.  
Tip:  
For quicker sensitivity adjustments, try leaving the Sensitivity  
Control Bar on the screen as the chart scrolls. You can see the  
changes on the screen as you press the up or down arrows. This is  
handy when there's a lot of clutter in the water, and you are  
matching the sensitivity to rapidly changing water conditions.  
Set Keel Offset  
This unit measures water depth from the face of the transducer. Since  
the transducer is installed below the water surface, the distance  
displayed by the digital depth, chart depth scale, chart cursor or fish  
symbols is not the exact water depth. If the transducer is 1 foot below  
the surface, and the screen shows the water depth as 30 feet, then the  
actual depth is 31 feet.  
On sailboats or other large vessels with deep drafts, the distance  
between the transducer installation and the keel or lower engine unit  
can be several feet. In those cases, an inexact depth reading could  
result in grounding or striking underwater structure. The Keel Offset  
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feature eliminates the need for the navigator to mentally calculate how  
much water is under his keel.  
Keel Offset lets you calibrate the digital depth: chart depth scale, chart  
cursor depth and fish symbol depth displayed on the screen. To calibrate  
the depth indicators, first measure the distance from the face of the  
transducer to the lowest part of the boat. In this example, we will use 3.5  
feet. This will entered as a negative 3.5 feet, which makes the depth  
indicators perform as if the transducer's lower in the water than it really  
is.  
1. Press MENU|MENU|to SET KEEL OFFSET|ENT.  
2. The Keel Offset dialog box appears. Press to change the plus (+)  
sign to a minus (–) sign.  
3. Press to the first number, then press to change the number to 3  
4. Press to the second number, then press to change the number to  
5, then press EXIT. The depth indicators now accurately show the depth  
of water beneath the keel.  
NOTE:  
If knowing the exact depth of water beneath the keel is less important,  
you can calibrate the depth indicators so that they show the actual  
water depth from surface to bottom. To do this, first measure the  
distance from the face of the transducer up to the surface (the water  
line on the boat). In this example, we will use 1.5 feet. This will be  
entered as a positive 1.5 feet, which makes the depth indicators  
perform as if the transducer's higher in the water than it really is.  
1. Press MENU|MENU|to SET KEEL OFFSET|ENT.  
2. The Keel Offset dialog box appears with a plus (+) sign at the  
front of the box.  
3. Press to the first number, then press to change the number  
to 1.  
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4. Press to the second number, them press to change the  
number to 5, then press EXIT. The depth indicators now accurately  
show the water depth from surface to bottom.  
Set Language  
This unit's menus are available in 10 languages: English, French,  
German, Spanish, Italian, Danish, Swedish, Russian, Dutch and  
Finnish. To select a different language:  
1. Press MENU|MENU|to SET LANGUAGE|ENT.  
2. Use or to select a different language and press ENT. All menus  
now appear in the language you selected.  
Software Version Information  
From time to time, Eagle updates the operating system software in  
some of its products. These software upgrades are usually offered to  
These upgrades make the unit perform better or introduce a new  
feature or function. You can find out what software version is running  
in your sonar unit by using the Software Information command.  
1. Press MENU|MENU|to SOFTWARE INFO|ENT.  
2. Read the information displayed on the screen.  
3. To return to the last page displayed, press EXIT|EXIT.  
Sonar Color Mode  
The default color scheme for the sonar chart is grayscale, but we offer  
other variations to suit your viewing preferences. You can select the  
chart to be displayed in reverse grayscale, bottom black or FishReveal  
mode. (For more information on FishReveal, see the entry on that topic  
elsewhere in this section.)  
To change the chart mode color scheme:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.  
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2. Press to SONAR COLOR MODE|ENT.  
3. Press or to Mode Name|ENT.  
4. Press EXIT|EXIT to return to the Sonar Page.  
Sonar Chart Display Options  
The Pages Menu offers four chart display options for dual-frequency  
models and three options for single-frequency models. To access them,  
press PAGES|to Option Name|EXIT.  
Pages Menu showing sonar chart display options  
(at left, dual-frequency menu; at right, single-frequency menu).  
Full Sonar Chart  
This is the default mode used when the unit is turned on for the first  
time or when it's reset to the factory defaults.  
The bottom signal scrolls across the screen from right to left. Depth  
scales on the right side of the screen aid in determining the depth of  
targets. The line at the top of the screen represents the surface. The  
bottom depth and surface temperature (if equipped with a temperature  
sensor or a transducer with a temp sensor built in) show at the top left  
corner of the screen.  
The FasTrack™ display shows just to the right of the scale. This  
changes all echoes into short horizontal bars, replicating a flasher  
sonar. The zoom bar on the far right shows the area that's zoomed  
when the zoom is in use. (See the Zoom section for more information.)  
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Full Sonar Chart. The Overlay Data (depth and water temperature)  
are both set to the small text size.  
Split Zoom Sonar Chart  
A split chart shows the underwater world from the surface to the  
bottom on the right side of the screen. The left side shows an enlarged  
version of the right side. The zoom range shows at the bottom left  
corner of the screen.  
Split Zoom Sonar Chart. Image at left shows the left window zoomed to  
2X. The right image shows the left window zoomed to 4X.  
Split Frequency Sonar Chart  
(SeaFinder 480DF only)  
This page shows sonar data from the 50 kHz transducer element on the  
left side of the screen and data from the 200 kHz transducer on the  
right side. All other functions and features are the same as the Full  
Chart page.  
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Split Frequency Sonar Chart page, with  
50 kHz view at left and 200 kHz view at right.  
You can adjust the sensitivity in each window.  
To adjust sensitivity in auto mode:  
1. Press MENU|ENT.  
2. The unit asks which you wish to adjust. Press orto select the one  
you want | ENT.  
3. The Sensitivity Control Bar appears. Press to decrease sensitivity;  
press to increase sensitivity. When it's set at the desired level, press  
EXIT. (When you reach the maximum or minimum limit, a tone sounds.)  
The Split Frequency page allows you to adjust sensitivity  
separately for each window.  
Digital Data/Chart  
This mode shows the chart on the right side of the screen. The left side has  
six large digital boxes or windows containing: Water Depth; Water Speed  
(from an optional speed sensor); Water Distance (distance traveled or log, it  
also requires a speed sensor); Surface Water Temperature; Temperature #2  
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and Voltage used. (Note: Temperature #2 requires an additional optional  
temperature sensor.)  
Digital Data/Chart  
Customizing the Digital Data/Chart Screen  
The Digital Data/Chart screen can be customized to show digital data  
different from the defaults first shown. To customize this screen:  
1. From the Sonar Page (in Digital Data mode), press MENU|to  
CUSTOMIZE|ENT.  
2. The W Speed window title bar flashes, indicating the window  
contents can be changed. Press ENT|or  
type|ENT|EXIT.  
to select data  
Options List for customizing Digital Data windows. At left, the list first  
appears with Water Speed selected. At right, Temperature 3 has been  
picked to replace Water Speed in the top digital data window.  
Tip:  
You can customize other digital data windows before returning to  
the Sonar Page. After changing the first window by selecting the  
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Data Type and pressing Enter, use the key to select another  
window to change. When the selected window title bar flashes,  
press ENT|or to select data type|ENT. Repeat these steps until  
you're finished customizing, then press EXIT to return to the Sonar  
Page.  
Sonar Simulator  
This unit has a built-in simulator that lets you run it as if you were on  
the water. All sonar features and functions are useable. When in  
simulator mode, you will see [Simulator Mode] in the Sonar Page title  
bar. To use the simulator:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|MENU|to SONAR SIMULATOR|ENT.  
2. Turn off Sonar Simulator by pressing MENU|MENU|to SONAR  
SIMULATOR|ENT|EXIT.  
NOTE:  
If you turn on your unit before attaching a transducer, it may enter  
a demo mode. The words "demo mode" flash on the bottom of the  
screen and a sonar chart plays much like the simulator. Unlike the  
simulator, the demo mode is for demonstration only, and will  
automatically stop as soon as you turn on the unit with a  
transducer attached. The simulator will continue to function  
normally.  
Stop Chart  
If you are running multiple units on a boat, there are times when you  
may want to turn off the sonar. This command turns off the sonar and  
stops the chart from scrolling. Sonar restarts automatically each time  
you turn on your unit.  
1. Press MENU|to STOP CHART|ENT|EXIT.  
To turn on sonar and start the chart scrolling again, repeat the above step.  
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Surface Clarity  
The markings extending downward from the zero line on the chart are  
called "surface clutter." These markings are caused by wave action,  
boat wakes, temperature inversion and more.  
The surface clarity control reduces or eliminates surface clutter signals  
from the display. It does this by changing the sensitivity of the receiver,  
decreasing it near the surface and gradually increasing it as the depth  
increases.  
There are three levels of surface clarity available: low, medium, or high.  
It can also be turned off. The default level is off.  
To adjust the Surface Clarity level:  
1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU|to SONAR FEATURES|ENT.  
Sonar Features menu with Surface Clarity selected (at left, dual-  
frequency menu; at right, single-frequency menu).  
2. Press to SURFACE CLARITY|ENT. (For single-frequency units, just press  
ENT).  
3. Press or to select clarity level|EXIT|EXIT|EXIT.  
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Surface clutter  
In the illustration at left, Surface Clarity is turned off.  
The right view shows Surface Clarity set at High.  
Units of Measure  
This menu sets the speed and distance  
(statute or nautical miles, meters),  
depth (feet, fathoms, or meters) and  
temperature (degrees Fahrenheit or  
Celsius). To change the units:  
Press MENU|MENU|to UNITS OF  
MEASURE|ENT.  
To set Speed/Distance Unit of Measure: Press or to change the  
Speed/Distance, then press ENT. After the option is set, press  
EXIT|EXIT|EXIT to return to the page display.  
Zoom & Zoom Bar  
"Zooming" the display is a common, fast and easy method used to  
enlarge small detail, fish signals and the bottom with its associated  
structure. This unit lets you zoom the display quickly and easily by  
pressing the Zoom In key, ZIN.  
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Pressing ZIN once doubles the size (2X) of all echoes on the screen.  
Pressing it again quadruples the size of the echoes (4X). The zoom bar  
on the far right side of the screen shows which echoes will be displayed  
on the screen when the ZIN key is pressed.  
For example, pressing the ZIN key once will enable a 2X zoom which will  
show all echoes that are between the top and bottom of the 2X zoom bar.  
Pressing the key again will give a 4X zoom and only the echoes between  
the top and bottom of the 4X bar will show on the screen.  
Press the Zoom Out key, ZOUT, to return the display to the normal mode.  
At left, Sonar Page, normal view. Center, same view zoomed to 2X.  
Right, same view zoomed to 4X  
Zoom Pan  
Your unit has the handy ability to quickly zoom in on any portion of the  
water column with just the touch of an arrow key. The Zoom Pan feature  
lets you rapidly move the zoomed area up and down to different depths.  
By "pointing" your zoom at different portions of the chart as it scrolls,  
you can get a good, close-up look at structure or cover below you.  
To use Zoom Pan, switch to a manual depth Range setting (see page 51)  
and turn on 2X or 4X Zoom. Then, simply press or to pan up and  
down the water column.  
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Notes  
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Section 5: Troubleshooting  
If your unit is not working, or if you need technical help, please use the  
following troubleshooting section before contacting the factory customer  
service department. It may save you the trouble of returning your unit  
for repair. For contact information, refer to the last page, just inside the  
back cover of this manual.  
Unit won't turn on:  
1. Check the power cable's connection at the unit. Also check the  
wiring.  
2. Make certain the power cable is wired properly. The red wire  
connects to the positive battery terminal, black to negative or ground.  
3. Check the fuse.  
4. Measure the battery voltage at the unit's power connector. It should  
be at least 11 volts. If it isn't, the wiring to the unit is defective, the  
battery terminals or wiring on the terminals are corroded, or the  
battery needs charging.  
Unit operates only in demo mode:  
1. The transducer has not yet been connected or has been disconnected.  
To leave demo mode, make sure the transducer is securely connected  
before turning the unit on.  
Unit freezes, locks up, or operates erratically:  
1. Electrical noise from the boat's motor, trolling motor, or an accessory  
may be interfering with the sonar unit. Rerouting the power and  
transducer cables away from other electrical wiring on the boat may  
help. Route the sonar unit's power cable directly to the battery instead  
of through a fuse block or ignition switch  
2. Inspect the transducer cable for breaks, cuts, or pinched wires.  
3. Check both the transducer and power connectors. Make certain both  
are securely plugged in to the unit.  
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Weak bottom echo, digital readings erratic, or no fish signals:  
1. Make certain the transducer is pointing straight down. Clean the  
face of the transducer. Oil, dirt and fuel can cause a film to form on the  
transducer, reducing its effectiveness. If the transducer is mounted  
inside the hull, be sure it is shooting through only one layer of  
fiberglass and that it is securely bonded to the hull. Do NOT use RTV  
silicone rubber adhesive or Marine-Texepoxy.  
2. Electrical noise from the boat's motor can interfere with the sonar.  
This causes the sonar to automatically increase its Discrimination or  
noise rejection feature. This can cause the unit to eliminate weaker  
signals such as fish or even structure from the display.  
3. The water may be deeper than the sonar's ability to find the bottom. If  
the sonar can't find the bottom signal while it's in the automatic mode, the  
digital sonar display will flash continuously. It may change the range to  
limits far greater than the water you are in. If this happens, place the unit  
in the manual mode, then change the range to a realistic one, (for example,  
0-100 feet) and increase the sensitivity. As you move into shallower water,  
a bottom signal should appear.  
4. Check the battery voltage. If the voltage drops, the unit's transmitter  
power also drops, reducing its ability to find the bottom or targets.  
Bottom echo disappears at high speeds or erratic digital  
reading or weak bottom echo while boat is moving  
1. The transducer may be in turbulent water. It must be mounted in a  
smooth flow of water in order for the sonar to work at all boat speeds.  
Air bubbles in the water disrupt the sonar signals, interfering with its  
ability to find the bottom or other targets. The technical term for this is  
cavitation.  
2. Electrical noise from the boat's motor can interfere with the sonar.  
This causes the sonar to automatically increase its Discrimination or  
noise rejection feature. This can cause the unit to eliminate weaker  
signals such as fish or even structure from the display. Try using resistor  
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spark plugs or routing the sonar unit's power and transducer cables  
away from other electrical wiring on the boat.  
No fish arches when the Fish I.D. feature is off:  
1. Make certain the transducer is pointing straight down. This is the  
most common problem if a partial arch is displayed.  
2. The sensitivity may not be high enough. In order for the unit to  
display a fish arch, it has to be able to receive the fish's echo from the  
time it enters the cone until it leaves. If the sensitivity is not high  
enough, the unit shows the fish only when it is in the center of the cone.  
3. Use the Zoom feature. It is much easier to display fish arches when  
zoomed in on a small range of water than a large one. For example, you  
will have much better luck seeing fish arches with a 30 to 60 foot range  
than a 0 to 60 foot range. This enlarges the targets, allowing the  
display to show much more detail.  
4. The boat must be moving at a slow trolling speed to see fish arches.  
If the boat is motionless, fish stay in the cone, showing on the screen as  
straight horizontal lines.  
NOISE  
A major cause of sonar problems is electrical noise. This usually  
appears on the sonar's display as random patterns of dots or lines. In  
severe cases, it can completely cover the screen with black dots, or  
cause the unit to operate erratically, or not at all.  
To eliminate or minimize the effects of electrical noise, first try to  
determine the cause. With the boat at rest in the water, the first thing  
you should do is turn all electrical equipment on the boat off. Make sure  
the engine is also off. Turn your sonar on, then turn off Noise Reject  
[also known as the ASP feature (Advanced Signal Processing)].  
Sensitivity should be set at 90-95 percent. There should be a steady  
bottom signal on the display. Now turn on each piece of electrical  
equipment on the boat and view the effect on the sonar's display. For  
example, turn on the bilge pump and view the sonar display for noise. If  
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no noise is present, turn the pump off, then turn on the VHF radio and  
transmit. Keep doing this until all electrical equipment has been  
turned on, their effect on the sonar display noted, then turned off.  
If you find noise interference from an electrical instrument, trolling  
motor, pump, or radio, try to isolate the problem. You can usually reroute  
the sonar unit's power cable and transducer cable away from the wiring  
that is causing the interference. VHF radio antenna cables radiate noise  
when transmitting, so be certain to keep the sonar's wires away from it.  
You may need to route the sonar unit's power cable directly to the battery  
to isolate it from other wiring on the boat.  
If no noise displays on the sonar unit from electrical equipment, then  
make certain everything except the sonar unit is turned off, then start  
the engine. Increase the RPM with the gearshift in neutral. If noise  
appears on the display, the problem could be one of three things; spark  
plugs, alternator, or tachometer wiring. Try using resistor spark plugs,  
alternator filters, or routing the sonar unit's power cable away from  
engine wiring. Again, routing the power cable directly to the battery  
helps eliminate noise problems. Make certain to use the in-line fuse  
supplied with the unit when wiring the power cable to the battery.  
When no noise appears on the sonar unit after all of the above tests,  
then the noise source is probably cavitation. Many novices or persons  
with limited experience make hasty sonar installations which function  
perfectly in shallow water, or when the boat is at rest. In nearly all  
cases, the cause of the malfunction will be the location and/or angle of  
the transducer. The face of the transducer must be placed in a location  
that has a smooth flow of water at all boat speeds. Read your  
transducer owner's manual for the best mounting position.  
82  
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Section 6: Supplemental Material  
FCC Compliance  
This device complies with Part 15 of the U.S. Federal  
Communications Commission (FCC) Rules. Operation is subject  
to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause  
harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any  
interference received, including interference that may cause  
undesired operation.  
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the  
manufacturer could void the user's authority to operate the  
equipment.  
Note:  
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the  
limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC  
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection  
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This  
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy  
and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,  
may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,  
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular  
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to  
radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning  
the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct  
the interference by one or more of the following measures:  
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.  
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different  
from that to which the receiver is connected.  
Consult the factory customer service department for help.  
83  
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Notes  
84  
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EAGLE DATABASES LICENSE AGREEMENT  
THIS IS A LEGAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE END-USER WHO FIRST  
PURCHASES THIS PRODUCT AS A CONSUMER ITEM FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY, OR  
HOUSEHOLD USE ("YOU") AND EAGLE ELECTRONICS, A DIVISION OF LEI, THE  
MANUFACTURER OF THIS PRODUCT ("WE", "OUR", OR "US"). USING THE  
PRODUCT ACCOMPANIED BY THIS LICENSE AGREEMENT CONSTITUTES  
ACCEPTANCE OF THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS. IF YOU DO NOT ACCEPT ALL  
TERMS AND CONDITIONS, PROMPTLY RETURN THE PRODUCT WITHIN 30 DAYS  
OF PURCHASE. PLEASE RETURN USING THE ENCLOSED UPS SHIPPING LABEL  
AND INCLUDE: PROOF OF PURCHASE, NAME, ADDRESS, AND PHONE NUMBER.  
YOUR PURCHASE PRICE AND ANY APPLICABLE TAXES WILL BE REFUNDED.  
PLEASE ALLOW 4-6 WEEKS TO PROCESS YOUR REFUND.  
1. This License Agreement applies to the one or more databases that your product may  
contain. We refer to these singly as a "Database" and together as the "Databases."  
Your product may thus include the "WBS Database" which contains worldwide  
background surface mapping data, the "SmartMap Database" which contains inland  
mapping data, or other Databases.  
2. The Databases that your product may contain are licensed, not sold. We grant to you the  
nonexclusive, nonassignable right to use these Databases for supplemental navigation  
reference purposes, but only as long as you comply with the terms and conditions of this  
License Agreement. We reserve the right to terminate this license if you violate any  
aspect of this License Agreement. You are responsible for using official government  
charts and prudent navigation for safe travel.  
3. The Databases housed in your product are protected by the copyright notices  
appearing on the product or its screen(s). You may NOT modify, adapt, translate,  
reverse engineer, decompile, disassemble, rent, lease, or resell any Database, and you  
may NOT create derivative works based upon any Database or its contents.. Any  
unauthorized reproduction, use, or transfer of a Database may be a crime and may  
subject you to damages and attorney fees.  
4. This License Agreement will terminate immediately without prior notice from us if  
you fail to comply with or violate any of the provisions of this Agreement. Upon  
termination, you will promptly return all products containing one or more Databases  
to us.  
5. Prices and programs are subject to change without notice.  
6. This License Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Oklahoma and  
comprises the complete and exclusive understanding between you and us concerning  
the above subject matter.  
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DATABASES LIMITED WARRANTY  
"We", "our", or "us" refers to Eagle Electronics, a division of LEI, the manufacturer of this  
product. "You" or "your" refers to the first person who purchases the product as a  
consumer item for personal, family, or household use. The Databases Limited Warranty  
applies to the one or more databases that your product may contain. We refer to each of  
these as a "Database" or together as the "Databases." Your product may thus include the  
"WBS Database" which contains worldwide background surface mapping data, the  
"SmartMap Database" which contains inland mapping data, or other Databases.  
We warrant to you that we have accurately compiled, processed, and reproduced the  
portions of the source material on which the Databases are based. However, we are under  
no obligation to provide updates to the Databases, and the data contained in the Databases  
may be incomplete when compared to the source material. WE MAKE NO EXPRESS OR  
IMPLIED WARRANTY OF ANY KIND ABOUT THE ACCURACY OF THE SOURCE  
MATERIAL ITSELF, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF  
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.  
If there is a defect in any Database, your exclusive remedy shall be, at our option, either a  
refund of the price you paid for the product containing the defective Database or a  
replacement of such product. WE WILL NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES BE  
LIABLE TO ANYONE FOR ANY SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR  
OTHER INDIRECT DAMAGE OF ANY KIND.  
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages,  
so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you.  
This warranty does NOT apply in the following circumstances: (1) when the product has been  
serviced or repaired by anyone other than us, (2) when the product has been connected,  
installed, combined, altered, adjusted, or handled in a manner other than according to the  
instructions furnished with the product, (3) when any serial number has been effaced, altered,  
or removed, or (4) when any defect, problem, loss, or damage has resulted from any accident,  
misuse, negligence, or carelessness, or from any failure to provide reasonable and necessary  
maintenance in accordance with the instructions of the owner’s manual for the product.  
We reserve the right to make changes or improvements in our products from time to time  
without incurring the obligation to install such improvements or changes on equipment  
or items previously manufactured.  
This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which  
may vary from state to state.  
Your remedies under this warranty will be available so long as you can show in a  
reasonable manner that the defect occurred within one (1) year from the date of your  
original purchase, and we must receive your warranty claim no later than 30 days after  
such 1-year period expires. Your claim must be substantiated by a dated sales receipt or  
sales slip.  
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EAGLE ELECTRONICS  
FULL ONE-YEAR WARRANTY  
"We," "our," or "us" refers to EAGLE ELECTRONICS, a division of LEI, the manufacturer of this  
product. "You" or "your" refers to the first person who purchases this product as a consumer item for  
personal, family, or household use.  
We warrant this product against defects or malfunctions in materials and workmanship, and against  
failure to conform to this product's written specifications, all for one (1) year from the date of original  
purchase by you. WE MAKE NO OTHER EXPRESS WARRANTY OR REPRESENTATION OF ANY  
KIND WHATSOEVER CONCERNING THIS PRODUCT. Your remedies under this warranty will be  
available so long as you can show in a reasonable manner that any defect or malfunction in materials  
or workmanship, or any non-conformity with the product's written specifications, occurred within one  
year from the date of your original purchase, which must be substantiated by a dated sales receipt or  
sales slip. Any such defect, malfunction, or non-conformity which occurs within one year from your  
original purchase date will either be repaired without charge or be replaced with a new product  
identical or reasonably equivalent to this product, at our option, within a reasonable time after our  
receipt of the product. If such defect, malfunction, or non-conformity remains after a reasonable  
number of attempts to repair by us, you may elect to obtain without charge a replacement of the  
product or a refund for the product. THIS REPAIR, OR REPLACEMENT OR REFUND (AS JUST  
DESCRIBED) IS THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY AVAILABLE TO YOU AGAINST US FOR ANY  
DEFECT, MALFUNCTION, OR NON-CONFORMITY CONCERNING THE PRODUCT OR FOR ANY  
LOSS OR DAMAGE RESULTING FROM ANY OTHER CAUSE WHATSOEVER. WE WILL NOT  
UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES BE LIABLE TO ANYONE FOR ANY SPECIAL,  
CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR OTHER INDIRECT DAMAGE OF ANY KIND.  
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the  
above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you.  
This warranty does NOT apply in the following circumstances: (1) when the product has been serviced  
or repaired by anyone other than us; (2) when the product has been connected, installed, combined,  
altered, adjusted, or handled in a manner other than according to the instructions furnished with the  
product; (3) when any serial number has been effaced, altered, or removed; or (4) when any defect,  
problem, loss, or damage has resulted from any accident, misuse, negligence, or carelessness, or from  
any failure to provide reasonable and necessary maintenance in accordance with the instructions of  
the owner's manual for the product.  
We reserve the right to make changes or improvements in our products from time to time without  
incurring the obligation to install such improvements or changes on equipment or items previously  
manufactured.  
This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which may vary from  
state to state.  
REMINDER: You must retain the sales slip or sales receipt proving the date of your original purchase  
in case warranty service is ever required.  
EAGLE ELECTRONICS  
PO BOX 669, CATOOSA, OK 74015  
(800) 324-1354  
87  
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How to Obtain Service…  
…in the USA:  
We back your investment in quality products with quick, expert service  
and genuine Eagle replacement parts. If you're in the United States  
and you have technical, return or repair questions, please contact the  
Factory Customer Service Department. Before any product can be  
returned, you must call customer service to determine if a return is  
necessary. Many times, customer service can resolve your problem over  
the phone without sending your product to the factory. To call us, use  
the following toll-free number:  
800-324-1354  
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Standard Time, M-F  
Eagle Electronics may find it necessary to change or end our shipping  
policies, regulations, and special offers at any time. We reserve the right  
to do so without notice.  
…in Canada:  
If you're in Canada and you have technical, return or repair questions,  
please contact the Factory Customer Service Department. Before any  
product can be returned, you must call customer service to determine if  
a return is necessary. Many times, customer service can resolve your  
problem over the phone without sending your product to the factory. To  
call us, use the following toll-free number:  
800-661-3983  
905-629-1614 (not toll-free)  
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, M-F  
…outside Canada and the USA:  
If you have technical, return or repair questions, contact the dealer in the  
country where you purchased your unit. To locate a dealer near you, visit  
our web site, www.eaglesonar.com and look for the Dealer Locator.  
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Accessory Ordering Information  
for all countries  
To order Eagle accessories such as power cables or transducers,  
please contact:  
1) Your local marine dealer or consumer electronics store. Most quality  
dealers that handle marine electronic equipment or other consumer  
electronics should be able to assist you with these items.  
To locate an Eagle dealer near you, visit our web site,  
www.eaglesonar.com and look for the Dealer Locator. Or, you can  
consult your telephone directory for listings.  
2) U.S. customers: LEI Extras Inc., PO Box 129, Catoosa, OK 74015-0129  
Call 1-800-324-0045 or visit our web site www.lei-extras.com.  
3) Canadian customers can write:  
Lowrance/Eagle Canada, 919 Matheson Blvd. E. Mississauga, Ontario  
L4W2R7 or fax 905-629-3118.  
Shipping Information  
If it becomes necessary to send a product for repair or replacement, you  
must first receive a return authorization number from Customer  
Service. Products shipped without a return authorization will not be  
accepted. When shipping, we recommend you do the following:  
1. Always use the original shipping container and filler material the  
product was packed in.  
2. Always insure the parcel against damage or loss during shipment.  
Eagle does not assume responsibility for goods lost or damaged in  
transit.  
3. For proper testing, include a brief note with the product describing  
the problem. Be sure to include your name, return shipping address  
and a daytime telephone number.  
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Visit our web site:  
Eagle Pub. 988-0143-711  
Printed in USA 103103  
© Copyright 2003  
All Rights Reserved  
Eagle Electronics  
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