Helix 7 DI & US2 Compatability

[Brandon B]

Hey guys, I am wanting to get a new ultrex. I currently run a fortrex with an external transducer to a Helix 7 DI unit. I've seen differing opinions, but does anyone know for certain if the US2 universal sonar on the ultrex will work in 2D sonar with my unit. I don't really care if I cant get the down imaging on the bow as long as I can get sonar. I don't want cables running down the shaft if possible and don't really want to get a new sonar unit just for this reason. Also, if it does work, I am assuming that I would use the MKR-US2 8 cable? Thank you!

[Bradrodfish]

All you had to do was google it.
https://www.minnkotamotors.com/US2-C...?LangType=1033

[Brandon B]

I know that...I am asking if the 2D sonar will work. After digging on here...a lot of people have differing opinions on whether the 2D sonar will actually work with the US2 on a Helix 7 DI unit. I know the imaging will NOT work but I want to know about the sonar.

[Ohio Archer]

Minn Kota does not recommend it whether it works or not. May damage your Helix but it's your choice.

NOTE: Minn Kota motors with built-in Universal Sonar 2 (including those with i-Pilot Link) are not compatible with Humminbird's Down Imaging Sonar. An external XTM 9 WIDE DI 20 T (83/200) or XTM 9 DI 25T (200/455) is required for all sonar readings with all HELIX 12 , HELIX 10, HELIX 9, 1100, 900, and 800 Humminbird Down Imaging units. An external XTM 9 DI 25T transducer would be required for the Down Imaging versions of the HELIX 7 and HELIX 5 along with the 788ci HD DI.

[Jonestrollingmotor]

I know that...I am asking if the 2D sonar will work. After digging on here...a lot of people have differing opinions on whether the 2D sonar will actually work with the US2 on a Helix 7 DI unit. I know the imaging will NOT work but I want to know about the sonar.

Yes, the 83/200 sonar will work on the di unit, but as you already know, it will not read di, just sonar. You'll need the us2 8 adapter. If i can help, let me know. We sell and ship to the lower 48 states.

[Brandon B]

Ok thanks jones...was hoping I didn’t have to buy another unit...only want gps and sonar. Thanks!

[Wayne P.]

Yes, the 83/200 sonar will work on the di unit, but as you already know, it will not read di, just sonar. You'll need the us2 8 adapter. If i can help, let me know. We sell and ship to the lower 48 states.

The DI units use 200/455 kHz for 2D sonar. The US2 is tuned for 83/200 kHz.

[Brandon B]

Wayne, so it won’t work because they are different frequencies?

[Brandon B]

I just checked my unit and they “beam select” for sonar gives me the options for 200khz and 400 kHz. Will the 200 khz work for just the 2D sonar? There wasn’t an option for 83/200...is 83/200 the same as 200 kHz on my options in beam select? Thank you guys for your help.

[Wayne P.]

I just checked my unit and they “beam select” for sonar gives me the options for 200khz and 400 kHz. Will the 200 khz work for just the 2D sonar? There wasn’t an option for 83/200...is 83/200 the same as 200 kHz on my options in beam select? Thank you guys for your help.

Yes the 200 kHz is the same, just the coverage is larger using the 200/455 kHz transducer.
Spec 20 degrees with a 83/200 transducer and 28 degrees with a 200/455 kHz transducer.

[Brandon B]

Thanks Wayne...I looked at the frequencies for the helix sonar and helix SI and it says 83/200. My unit the DI model says 200/455 for the 2D sonar...I’m gonna roll with it like you said and try it

[lifeisfun]

Having the same problem owning Helix 5 DI and now Terrova with US2
How is your unit if you use it with the US2?
I noticed that I have to set it to manual depth of 50' since auto setting will not work.
Wondering if flashing Sonar GPS version software would work.

Thanks