Humminbird HELIX 9 Operation Manual
  1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. Humminbird Manuals
  4. GPS
  5. HELIX 9
  6. Operation manual

Humminbird HELIX 9 Operation Manual

Hide thumbs Also See for HELIX 9:
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

See also: Operating Manual , Operation & Installation Manual
HELIX 9
HELIX 10
and

Operations Guide

532400-1EN_A

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading

Related Manuals for Humminbird HELIX 9

Summary of Contents for Humminbird HELIX 9

  • Page 1: Operations Guide

    HELIX 9 HELIX 10 Operations Guide 532400-1EN_A...

  • Page 2: Warnings

    HANK Thank you for choosing Humminbird®, the #1 name in marine electronics. Humminbird has built its reputation by designing and manufacturing top quality, thoroughly reliable marine equipment. Your Humminbird is designed for trouble-free use in even the harshest marine environment. We encourage you to read this manual carefully in order to get the full benefit from all the features and applications of your Humminbird product.
  • Page 3 360 Imaging®, AUTOCHART®, ChartSelect™, Contour XD™, Down Imaging®, DualBeam PLUS™, Fish ID+™, HELIX™, HumminbirdPC™, Humminbird®, LakeMaster®, Real Time Sonar™, RTS™, RTS Window™, Side Imaging®, SI™, Structure ID™, SwitchFire®, UniMap™, WhiteLine™, X-Press™ Menu, are trademarked by or registered trademarks of Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc.

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Tips for Using the Menu System ......20 Display Humminbird LakeMaster Change the User Mode (Normal or Advanced) ....21 Contour Lines and Depth Ranges .

  • Page 7: Introduction

    NTRODUCTION The instructions in this manual describe the HELIX 9 and HELIX 10 control head operations. For an overview of functions, see the Operations Summary Guide included with your product. Build your Network: Some of the features shown in this manual require a separate purchase. Radar, AIS, Compass/Heading Sensor, Ethernet, i-Pilot Link, etc.

  • Page 8: Getting Started

    The procedures in this section describe how to get started with your control head. Some of the settings in this section are a one- time set up, and other settings (such as checking the GPS reception) you will use each time you hit the water. Power On Follow the instructions below to power on your Humminbird control head. 1. Press the POWER key.
  • Page 9 3. Select Normal. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. Normal mode is required for on-the-water operation. If a functioning transducer is Normal connected to the control head, Normal will be selected automatically, and your control head can be used on the water. To learn how to use your control head, select Simulator.
  • Page 10 2. Close: Press the EXIT key. Language The available languages are determined by your Humminbird model. Set the maximum depth of the body of water. When Max Depth is set to Auto, the control head will acquire bottom readings as needed (within the capabilities of the unit). When Max...
  • Page 11 Check Accessory Connections If you’ve connected other separate-purchase equipment to the control head network, such as AIS, Compass/Heading Sensor, Radar, i-Pilot Link, 360 Imaging, and more, use these instructions to confirm the equipment is detected and communicating with the control head. 1.
  • Page 12 Check GPS Reception Use the instructions in this section to confirm the control head has GPS reception. 1. Press and hold the VIEW key. 2. Select System > GPS Diagnostic View. Confirm Fix Type is shown as Enhanced or 3D. Confirm that the latitude/longitude position readout is displayed.

  • Page 13: Set Alarms

    Set Alarms When an alarm is turned on, an alert will sound or display on the control head to indicate the threshold has been exceeded. Turn on Alarms and Adjust Settings 1. Main Menu: Press the MENU key twice. To open the Main Menu from a System View, press the MENU key once. 2.
  • Page 14 Reset the Triplog The Triplog includes the timer for elapsed time, distance traveled since last reset, and average speed. Use the following instructions to reset the triplog. To display the Triplog as a digital readout, see Views: Display Digital Readouts. 1.
  • Page 15 Change Units of Measurement Use the instructions in this section to change the units of measurement format. You can also change the time and date format, language, and installation offsets from this menu. See Manage your Control Head for more information. 1.

  • Page 16: Helix Control Head

    HELIX C ONTROL Control Head Keys ZOOM I (+)/ZOOM O (–) KEYS URSOR ONTROL KEY (LEFT, RIGHT, UP, or DOWN Cursor keys) Press the ZOOM keys to change the scale of the view. For a closer view, press the ZOOM IN (+) key. For a Press the arrows on the Cursor Control key wider view, press the ZOOM OUT (-) key.

  • Page 17: Mark Key

    MARK SD Card Slot(s) The SD card slot on your control head can be used with an SD Press the MARK key to save a waypoint at the boat card (separate purchase required) to update software, add position. If the cursor is active, the waypoint will be detailed charts to your control head, import/export navigation marked at the cursor position.

  • Page 18: Menu System Overview

    YSTEM VERVIEW The menu system provides menu options that are determined by the operations mode, on-screen view, and connected accessories. Open an X-Press Menu The X-Press Menu displays menus that are related to the on-screen view and the operations mode (such as navigation). In this illustration, the Sonar X-Press Menu is displayed because the Sonar View is displayed on the screen.

  • Page 19: Select A Menu

    Select a Menu Use the Cursor Control key to select a menu in the Main Menu or X-Press Menu. Select a Tab (Main Menu) Select a Menu 1. Press the RIGHT or LEFT Cursor keys. 1. Press the DOWN or UP Cursor keys. Select a Tab Select a Menu Change a Menu Setting...

  • Page 20: Tips For Using The Menu System

    Start an Action/Open a Submenu Start an Action or Open a Submenu 1. If a menu has a right arrow on it, press the RIGHT Cursor key to start the action or open the submenu. Tips for Using the Menu System You can move through the menu system quickly using the following tips.

  • Page 21: Change The User Mode (Normal Or Advanced)

    Change the User Mode (Normal or Advanced) The User Mode determines how many menus are shown in the menu system. Select Normal to see fewer menus that are used more often. Select Advanced to see all the menus available in the menu system. Main Menu (Advanced User Mode): Instructions in this manual marked with Main Menu (Advanced User Mode) indicate that the menu system User Mode must be set to Advanced for the selected menu to be shown.

  • Page 22: Views

    IEWS The HELIX control head has many options to display data on-screen, and the data can be displayed in a variety of ways. There are also several ways to quickly display a view on-screen. Display a View The available views on your control head are determined by the model you’ve purchased and the connected transducer. Display a View from the Views X-Press Menu 1.

  • Page 23: Show Your Favorite Views

    Display the Next/Previous View Next View: Press the VIEW key repeatedly until the view you want is displayed on-screen. Previous View: Press the EXIT key repeatedly until the view you want is displayed on-screen. Display a Saved View 1. Press a VIEW SHORTCUT key. You can save one view on each VIEW SHORTCUT key.

  • Page 24: Display Digital Readouts

    Display Digital Readouts Digital Readout data can be displayed as an overlay, or it can be displayed in data boxes on the views. You can also choose which digital readouts you want to display. The format and readouts you choose will be applied to all views. Accessories: The available digital readouts are determined by the installed equipment, so if you connect accessories, additional readouts will be available.
  • Page 25 Digital Readouts with Overlay Selected (Sonar View) speed temperature depth Digital Readouts with Overlay Selected (Chart View) speed Course Over Ground (COG) Distance to Go (DTG) Views...
  • Page 26 Customize Digital Readouts If you have Digital Readouts set to Boxes, you can select the data that will be displayed in each box. Use the Select Readouts menu to set your standard digital readouts. Use the Select Nav Readouts menu to set the digital readouts that will be displayed during navigation.
  • Page 27 Understand Digital Readouts The following table displays the digital readouts that are available in the Select Readouts menu or the Select Nav Readouts menu. The available digital readouts are determined by the installed equipment. Navigation Label Name Description Readout The direction to a destination waypoint measured in degrees from Bearing Bearing •...

  • Page 28: Combo Views

    Combo views display two views (or more) on the screen at the same time. You can open the X-Press Menu for the active side of the view, select menus or actions, and change the size of each window. The available combo views are determined by your Humminbird model.

  • Page 29: Sonar Overview (Sonar, Di, Si)

    A functioning transducer must be attached to the control head to enable sonar functions. To purchase accessory transducers and Ethernet hardware, visit our Web site at humminbird.com. NOTE: Depth capability is affected by such factors as boat speed, wave action, bottom hardness, water conditions, and transducer installation.
  • Page 30 Down Imaging Sonar (HELIX DI GPS) The Down Imaging transducer scans the water with razor-thin, high-definition beams. The beams are wide (side to side) but very thin front to back. The Down Imaging beams (shown in green) can be operated at two frequencies: 455 kHz (75°) or 800 kHz (45°).

  • Page 31: Set Up Sonar (Sonar, Di, Si)

    NOTE: To see the latest transducers that are compatible with your control head, visit our Web site at humminbird.com. 1. Main Menu: Press the MENU key twice. Select the Sonar tab.
  • Page 32 Change the Max Depth The Max Depth was set when you first configured the unit with the Quick Setup dialog box (see Getting Started: Quick Setup). Use the instructions in this section to adjust the maximum depth setting. 1. Main Menu (Advanced User Mode): Press the MENU key twice. Select the Sonar tab. 2.
  • Page 33 2. Select Beam Select. 3. Select the beam(s) you want to use. DualBeam PLUS (2D) Beam Select Options (HELIX SONAR GPS, HELIX SI GPS) Select for deep water (more than 800 feet). 83 kHz can be used for deep returns at high 83 kHz speed.
  • Page 34 Select a Down Imaging Frequency (HELIX DI GPS only) In the HELIX DI GPS, you can choose a Down Imaging frequency that will be used for the Down Imaging View. For the best overall image quality and depth, select 455 kHz. For the sharpest image (but limited depth capability), select 800 kHz. 1.

  • Page 35: Display A Sonar View On-Screen

    ISPLAY A ONAR CREEN There are a variety of views available to display sonar data. You can customize the view by showing or hiding information (see Customize the Sonar View), and you can adjust the sonar settings to refine the information displayed on-screen (see Adjust Sonar Display Settings and Adjust Settings While you Fish).

  • Page 36: Understand The Sonar Views

    NDERSTAND THE ONAR IEWS As the boat moves, the unit charts the changes in depth on the display to create a profile of the bottom contour. The Sonar View displays the sonar return intensity with different colors. Strong returns often result from rocky or hard bottoms (compacted sediment, rocks, fallen trees), while weaker returns often result from soft bottoms (sand, mud), vegetation, and small fish.

  • Page 37: Customize The Sonar View

    USTOMIZE THE ONAR You can customize the sonar views by showing or hiding information, such as the temperature graph, depth lines, color bar, and RTS Window. You can also change the color palette and background. Customizing the Sonar View temperature graph depth lines temperature...
  • Page 38 Customize the RTS Window The RTS Window plots the depth and intensity of a sonar return. It updates at the fastest rate possible for depth conditions and shows only the returns from the bottom, structure, and fish that are within the transducer beam. When you use the cursor to review sonar history, the sonar history will freeze, but the RTS Window will continue to display sonar returns in real time.
  • Page 39 Change the View Colors The Sonar Colors menu changes the colors used to display sonar returns on the view. You can also change the background color. Sonar View with Customized Sonar Colors and Background color bar with sonar colors set to palette 4 Strong Weak...

  • Page 40: Adjust Sonar Display Settings

    DJUST ONAR ISPLAY ETTINGS Use the instructions in this section to adjust how the sonar returns are shown on the Sonar View, so you can tune into what you want to see in the display. The settings in this section are optional. You can use the default display settings for the Sonar View, or you can customize it with your preferences.
  • Page 41 Turn on/off Fish ID+ Settings Fish ID+ uses advanced signal processing to interpret sonar returns and will display a fish symbol on the Sonar View when very selective requirements are met. Also, if Fish ID+ is turned on, you can adjust the sensitivity used for detection and receive alerts with the Fish ID Alarm turned on.
  • Page 42 Adjust the Fish ID Sensitivity Use Fish ID Sensitivity to adjust the threshold used for detecting a fish with Fish ID+. To display only larger species of fish as fish symbols, select a low setting. To see smaller fish species or baitfish, select a high setting. Fish ID+ must be turned on to enable this menu.
  • Page 43 Set the Bottom View Display Bottom View selects the method used to represent bottom and structure on the display. Bottom View is also affected by the palette selected in Sonar Colors (see Customize the Sonar View: Change the View Colors). Bottom View set to WhiteLine color bar with sonar colors...

  • Page 44: Adjust Settings While You Fish

    DJUST ETTINGS WHILE YOU ONAR RESS The X-Press Menu provides menu options to adjust the sensitivity and range as you fish. You can also control how fast the sonar history scrolls across the screen. The menus allow you to see more or less of the sonar returns from the transducer beams as you adjust each setting.
  • Page 45 Adjust the Sensitivity Sensitivity controls how much detail is shown on the display and will adjust the sensitivity of all sonar frequencies. To eliminate the clutter from the display that is sometimes present in murky or muddy water, decrease the sensitivity. When operating in very clear water or greater depths, increase the sensitivity to see weaker returns.
  • Page 46 Set the Upper/Lower Range Upper Range and Lower Range control how much of the water column is displayed on the view. For example, if you are only interested in the area between 20 and 50 feet deep, set the Upper Range to 20 and the Lower Range to 50. The view will not display sonar returns outside of the set ranges, and greater detail for the selected range will be displayed.
  • Page 47 Change the Sonar Colors Palette The Sonar X-Press Menu allows you to quickly change the display palette while you fish. See Customize the Sonar View: Change the View Colors for more information. 1 Sonar X-Press Menu: With a Sonar View displayed on-screen, press the MENU key once. 2.

  • Page 48: Compare Sonar Beams (Split Sonar View)

    Split Sonar View displays sonar returns from each down beam frequency on separate sides of the view. You can use this view to make side by side comparisons between the sonar returns from both beams. The beams are determined by your Humminbird model and the installed transducer.

  • Page 49: Review Sonar History And Zoom In/Zoom Out

    EVIEW ONAR ISTORY AND In addition to adjusting the sonar settings while you fish, you can freeze the sonar history, magnify sonar returns, and review position information. Freeze the Sonar History Press any arrow on the Cursor Control key, and the sonar history will freeze and the cursor will display on-screen. If you move the cursor over a sonar return, digital readouts for the cursor position are displayed on the view.
  • Page 50 Zoom in/Zoom Out Use the Sonar Zoom View to see a magnified view of the bottom and structure. For example, if there are fish close to the bottom or near structure (tree, vegetation, etc.), Sonar Zoom View makes it easier to see the separate sonar returns that might be displayed close together.
  • Page 51 Magnifying Sonar Returns in Sonar Zoom View (Bottom Lock Off) zoom level upper range, zoom view upper range, full range view zoomed full range view zoom preview, bottom range lower range, zoom view lower range, full range view ZOOM In ZOOM Out ZOOM In Move the Cursor...
  • Page 52 Turn on/off Bottom Lock Use Bottom Lock and Bottom Range to focus on the bottom and control how much of the water column is shown in Sonar Zoom View. Bottom Lock continuously graphs the bottom at a constant point on the display regardless of changes in depth. This “flattens” out the bottom contour but is effective at showing fish on or near the bottom.

  • Page 53: Navigation In Sonar Views

    AVIGATION IN ONAR IEWS To mark waypoints and start navigation, the control head must have a GPS Fix from a connected or internal GPS receiver. See Getting Started for more information. Mark a Waypoint You can mark a waypoint at the boat position or the cursor position. Waypoints are saved to the Waypoint Management dialog box (see Manage your Navigation Data).
  • Page 54 Navigate to a Position Use the instructions in this section to start navigation to a position in the view. See Navigation Overview for more information about these features. Navigate to the Cursor Position 1. Use the Cursor Control key to move the cursor to a position on the view. 2.
  • Page 55 Starting Navigation to the Cursor Position cursor depth depth below cursor distance to cursor position bearing to cursor position cursor digital readouts cursor Move the Cursor Start Navigation Sonar (2D)

  • Page 56: Display A Down Imaging View On-Screen

    ISPLAY A MAGING CREEN (HELIX DI GPS, HELIX SI GPS ONLY There are a variety of views available to display Down Imaging data. You can also customize the view by showing or hiding information (see Customize the Down Imaging View), and you can adjust the sonar settings to refine the information displayed on-screen (see Adjust Settings While you Fish).

  • Page 57: Down Imaging Overview

    MAGING VERVIEW The images you see on the Down Imaging display are produced using sonar technology. Each time the unit pings, a strip of data representing all the echoes received by the transducer are put together on the display to form the image that you see. Like traditional 2D Sonar, the sonar history scrolls left across the screen.

  • Page 58: Customize The Down Imaging View

    USTOMIZE THE MAGING You can customize the Down Imaging views by showing or hiding information, such as depth lines, temperature graph, and digital readouts. You can also change the color palette. Customizing the Down Imaging View temperature graph digital readouts set to boxes depth lines...
  • Page 59 Change the View Colors The DI Colors menu changes the palette used to display sonar returns on the view. Down Imaging View with Palette 10 Selected (DI Colors) Change the Down Imaging Colors Palette 1. Down Imaging X-Press Menu: With a Down Imaging View displayed on-screen, press the MENU key once. 2.

  • Page 60: Adjust Settings While You Fish

    DJUST ETTINGS WHILE YOU MAGING RESS The X-Press Menu provides menu options to adjust the sensitivity and range as you fish. You can also control how fast the sonar history scrolls across the screen. The menus allow you to see more or less of the sonar returns from the transducer beams as you adjust each setting.
  • Page 61 Enhance the Down Imaging View The DI Enhance menu allows you to adjust the sensitivity, contrast, and sharpness on the Down Imaging View. As you adjust each setting, the changes are displayed immediately on the view. Enhancing the Down Imaging View Enhance the Down Imaging View 1.
  • Page 62 Set the Upper/Lower Range Upper Range and Lower Range control how much of the water column is displayed on the view. For example, if you are only interested in the area between 20 and 50 feet deep, set the Upper Range to 20 and the Lower Range to 50. The view will not display sonar returns outside of the set ranges, and greater detail for the selected range will be displayed.

  • Page 63: Review Down Imaging History And Zoom In/Zoom Out

    EVIEW MAGING ISTORY AND In addition to adjusting the sonar settings while you fish, you can freeze the sonar history, magnify sonar returns, and review position information. Freeze the Down Imaging View Press any arrow on the Cursor Control key, and the sonar history will freeze and the cursor will display on-screen. If you move the cursor over a sonar return, digital readouts for the cursor position are displayed on the view.
  • Page 64 Zooming into the Down Imaging History cursor depth depth below cursor distance to cursor position bearing to cursor position cursor digital zoom level readouts zoom box can be moved with the Cursor Control key ZOOM In ZOOM Out Move the Cursor Down Imaging Sonar...

  • Page 65: Navigation In Down Imaging Views

    AVIGATION IN MAGING IEWS To mark waypoints and start navigation, the control head must have a GPS Fix from a connected or internal GPS receiver. See Getting Started for more information. Mark a Waypoint You can mark a waypoint at the boat position or the cursor position. Waypoints are saved to the Waypoint Management dialog box (see Manage your Navigation Data).
  • Page 66 Navigate to a Position Use the instructions in this section to start navigation to a position in the view. See Navigation Overview for more information about these features. Navigate to the Cursor Position 1. Use the Cursor Control key to move the cursor to a position on the view. 2.

  • Page 67: Display A Side Imaging View On-Screen

    ISPLAY A MAGING CREEN (HELIX SI GPS ONLY There are a variety of views available to display Side Imaging data. You can also customize the view by showing or hiding information (see Customize the Side Imaging View), and you can adjust the sonar settings to maximize the information displayed on-screen (see Adjust Settings While you Fish).

  • Page 68: Understand The Side Imaging View

    NDERSTAND THE MAGING Side Imaging beams “illuminate” the bottom contour, structure, and fish. The side beam coverage is very thin from front to back, yet very wide from top to bottom. The bottom composition determines the intensity of the sonar return, and upward slopes that face the transducer reflect sonar better than downward slopes that face away from the transducer.
  • Page 69 Side Imaging View, variations in the width of the water column show variations in the distance to the bottom as the boat passes over. For Best Side Imaging Performance • Boat Speed: 2 to 6 mph • Straight line navigation • Minimum turning time and wave turbulence Also, see humminbird.com for tutorials and Side Imaging videos. Side Imaging Sonar...

  • Page 70: Customize The Side Imaging View

    USTOMIZE THE MAGING The settings in this section are optional. You can use the default settings for the view, or you can customize it with your preferences. Showing Digital Readouts and SI Range Lines range numbers digital readouts set to boxes range lines Show/Hide SI Range Lines SI Range Lines divide each side beam range into equal sections on the Side Imaging View.
  • Page 71 Show/Hide Digital Readouts on the Side Imaging View If you have Digital Readouts set to Boxes on all views, you can hide the digital readout boxes on the Side Imaging View exclusively. For details, see Views: Display Digital Readouts. 1. Main Menu: Press the MENU key twice. Select the Sonar tab. 2.

  • Page 72: Adjust Settings While You Fish

    DJUST ETTINGS WHILE YOU MAGING RESS The X-Press Menu provides menu options to adjust the sensitivity and range as you fish. You can also control how fast the sonar history scrolls down the screen. The menu options allow you to see more or less of the sonar returns from the transducer beams as you adjust each setting.
  • Page 73 Adjust Sensitivity Sensitivity controls how much detail is shown on the display and will adjust the sensitivity of all sonar frequencies. You can adjust sensitivity from the X-Press Menu or the Enhance menu (see Enhance the Side Imaging View). Decrease the sensitivity to eliminate the clutter from the display that is sometimes present in murky or muddy water. When operating in very clear water or greater depths, increase the sensitivity to see weaker returns.
  • Page 74 Sensitivity controls how much detail is shown on the display and will adjust the sensitivity of all sonar frequencies. Decrease the sensitivity to eliminate the clutter from the display that Sensitivity is sometimes present in murky or muddy water. When operating in very clear water or greater depths, increase the sensitivity to see weaker returns that may be of interest.
  • Page 75 Adjust the Side Imaging Range SI Range sets the deepest range that will be displayed on the Side Imaging views. Choose a low range number to focus on a shorter distance of the water column and see greater detail on the view. Choose a higher range number to see farther into the water and see an overview of details on the screen.

  • Page 76: Review Side Imaging History And Zoom In/Zoom Out

    EVIEW MAGING ISTORY AND In addition to adjusting the sonar settings while you fish, you can freeze the sonar history, magnify sonar returns, and review position information. Freeze the Side Imaging View Press any arrow on the Cursor Control key, and the sonar history will freeze and the cursor will display on-screen. If you move the cursor over a sonar return, digital readouts for the cursor position are displayed on the view.
  • Page 77 Zooming into the Side Imaging History cursor depth depth below cursor distance to cursor position bearing to cursor position cursor digital zoom level readouts zoom box can be moved with the Cursor Control key ZOOM In ZOOM Out Move the Cursor Side Imaging Sonar...

  • Page 78: Navigation In Side Imaging Views

    AVIGATION IN MAGING IEWS To mark waypoints and start navigation, the control head must have a GPS Fix from a connected or internal GPS receiver. See Getting Started for more information. Turn on/off SI Navigation SI Navigation controls how the boat icon is displayed in Side Imaging Views. See Navigate to a Position for more information. If SI Navigation is turned on, an arrow icon indicates the direction the boat needs to turn to reach the next waypoint during navigation.
  • Page 79 Navigating to a Waypoint direction to turn the boat to reach the next waypoint (SI Navigation On) navigation digital readouts next waypoint Start Navigation Move the Cursor Cancel Navigation 1. Press the MENU key once. 2. Select Cancel Navigation. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. Side Imaging Sonar...

  • Page 80: Manage Screen Snapshots And Recordings

    ANAGE CREEN NAPSHOTS AND ECORDINGS Snapshot and Recording View displays the saved screen snapshots and recordings from the installed SD card (separate purchase required). Use this view to review the snapshot and recording file details, start recording, and adjust the recording settings. Enable Screen Snapshot and Recording It is important to install an SD card and turn on the appropriate menus to enable Screen Snapshot and Recording.
  • Page 81 Screen Snapshot and Recording View saved screen snapshot (selected selected file file) summary scroll bar saved recording SD card storage (yellow = used space) Scroll through the List Display Screen Snapshots and Recordings...
  • Page 82 Take Screen Snapshots Screen Snapshots are saved pictures of the view on the screen. The screen snapshot will include the menus, dialog boxes, warnings, and messages that were active when the screen snapshot was taken. Saved Screen Snapshots can be viewed from the Snapshot and Recording View or Chart View.
  • Page 83 Display a Saved Screen Snapshot from Snapshot and Recording View 1. Display the Screen Snapshot and Recording View on-screen. 2. Select a Snapshot: Press the UP or DOWN Cursor keys to scroll through the saved files. 3. Display: Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 4.
  • Page 84 Record and Playback The Recording feature records active sonar information. When the recording is played back, the views that were active during the recording are available in Playback. You can play a saved recording from the Snapshot and Recording View. NOTE: Screen Snapshot and Recording must be enabled to use the instructions in this section.
  • Page 85 Play a Recording 1. Display the Screen Snapshot and Recording View on-screen. 2. Select a Recording: Press the UP or DOWN Cursor keys to scroll through the saved files. 3. Start Playback: Press the RIGHT Cursor key. Navigation is cancelled during playback. Use Different Views: To use different views on the control head and continue playback, press the EXIT key.
  • Page 86 Adjust Playback Speed 1. X-Press Menu: From any view, press the MENU key once. 2. Select Playback Speed. 3. Press the RIGHT or LEFT keys to adjust playback speed or pause. Adjusting the Playback Speed Side Imaging recording playing indicates Playback is in progress Stop Playback 1.

  • Page 87: Chart Overview

    HART VERVIEW To enable the chart and navigation features, the control head must have a GPS Fix from an internal or external GPS receiver (see Getting Started to check the sensor reception). Some of these features also require a compass/heading sensor to be connected to the control head.

  • Page 88: Display A Chart View On-Screen

    ISPLAY A HART CREEN There are a variety of views available to display charts and navigation. The views can be customized and displayed as a Combo View. Display a Chart View or Bird’s Eye View 1. Press and hold the VIEW key. 2.

  • Page 89: Select A Chart Source

    ELECT A HART OURCE The HELIX control head includes a built-in Contour XD chart (domestic models) or UniMap (international models). You can also install SD map cards with additional chart information for a particular location (separate purchase required). When you install an SD map card, the control head automatically chooses the best map to display. If you install more than one SD map card, you can choose which chart source you want to use.
  • Page 90 Use Set Map Offset to move the chart position on-screen and correct a position error in the cartography. This setting setting applies to all charts, not just the chart that requires correction. NOTE: This feature is not available with Humminbird LakeMaster map cards. 1. Display a Chart View on-screen.
  • Page 91 Set up Humminbird ChartSelect ChartSelect allows you to purchase a Humminbird chart online and download it to a blank SD Card. Visit chartselect.humminbird.com for more information and to download the ChartSelect User Guide. Encrypt an SD Card Use the Encrypt SD Card menu to prepare a blank SD card for ChartSelect.
  • Page 92 Set up Humminbird LakeMaster When a Humminbird LakeMaster map card is installed and selected as the chart source, additional menus are added to the menu system. The menu options are determined by the map card you purchased. Compatible Chart Sources: Humminbird LakeMaster, LakeMaster PLUS, ZeroLine Map Card, AUTOCHART PC, etc. Visit our Web site at humminbird.com for compatibility details and updates.
  • Page 93 Chart tab (see Customize the Chart View) and/or the Platinum tab. Compatible Chart Sources: Navionics Gold, HotMaps, HotMaps Premium, and Platinum+. Visit our Web site at humminbird.com for compatibility details and updates.

  • Page 94: Customize The Bird's Eye View

    ’ USTOMIZE THE Navaids on Bird’s Eye View allows you to add navigational aids to the Bird’s Eye View, such as lights or buoys. The available settings are determined by the installed map card and the selected chart source. Chart/Bird’s Eye Combo View Bird’s Eye View Chart View 3D view...

  • Page 95: Customize The Chart View

    USTOMIZE THE HART The settings in this section are optional. You can use the default settings for the chart appearance and chart source, or you can customize the Chart View. Customizing the Chart View (Contour XD) course projection line set to COG/SOG longitude line shaded...
  • Page 96 Show/Hide the Course Projection Line The course projection line is an arrow or line extending from the bow of the boat icon. It projects the current course and shows where the boat will go if you continue on your present course. 1.
  • Page 97 Customize the Chart Detail Level Use the following instructions to add or hide chart details and navaids on the Chart View and the Bird’s Eye View. Navionics Chart Displayed with Chart Detail set to Navigation navaid map scale chart info map border (dotted black line)
  • Page 98 Select Custom Chart Layers 1. Main Menu (Advanced User Mode): Press the MENU key twice. Select the Chart tab. 2. Select Chart Detail Level. 3. Select Custom. 4. Press the DOWN Cursor key. 5. Select Custom Chart Layers. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 6.

  • Page 99: Display Humminbird Lakemaster Contour Lines And Depth Ranges

    NOTE: A Humminbird LakeMaster map card must be installed and selected as the chart source to enable these features. For details and additional features related to your LakeMaster map card, visit our Web site at humminbird.com to download the accessory guide.
  • Page 100 Display or hide the water contour lines in the Chart View. This feature is also affected by the Water Level Offset setting. See Select a Chart Source: Set up Humminbird LakeMaster. 1. Main Menu: Press the MENU key twice. Select the Chart tab.

  • Page 101: Change The Chart Orientation And Motion Mode

    HANGE THE HART RIENTATION AND OTION The Chart View pans automatically so the boat is always centered on the view. The settings in this section allow you to change the chart orientation, zoom the view automatically, set the north reference, and see more or less of the view based on the speed or range setting.
  • Page 102 Set the Bearing North Reference North Reference allows you to have the bearing displayed as True North or Magnetic North. 1. Main Menu: Press the MENU key twice. Select the Nav tab. 2. Select North Reference. 3. Select True North or Magnetic North. Turn on/off Auto Zoom Turn on Auto Zoom to zoom the Chart View automatically based on the speed of the boat.
  • Page 103 Turn on Vessel Offset Vessel Offset allows you to see more of the Chart View based on the speed of the boat. Vessel Offset works with Offset Speed. When the boat is moving below the Offset Speed setting, the boat icon will be displayed in the center of the view. When the boat is moving at or above the Offset Speed setting, the boat icon will move to the edge of the view so more of the Chart View is shown.

  • Page 104: Navigation Overview

    There are many ways to start navigation or edit navigation data with your Humminbird control head. The instructions in this section review navigation features on the chart views. To use navigation features from the Waypoint Management dialog box, see Manage your Navigation Data.
  • Page 105 Shifting the Eye Point and Zooming in Bird’s Eye View boat icon ZOOM In ZOOM Out Exit Move the Eye Point Navigation Overview...

  • Page 106: Navigation Alarms Overview

    AVIGATION LARMS VERVIEW When an alarm is turned on, an alert will sound or display on the control head to indicate the threshold has been exceeded. When you set the Off Course Alarm, Arrival Alarm, and Drift Alarm, the limits are shown on the Chart View. Turn on Alarms and Adjust Settings 1.

  • Page 107: Man Overboard (Mob) Navigation

    (MOB) N VERBOARD AVIGATION As soon as you know that you have a man overboard (MOB), activate Man Overboard navigation to maximize the chances for a successful rescue. Man Overboard navigation marks the approximate point where the person went overboard and starts continuous navigation toward the Man Overboard waypoint.
  • Page 108 When Man Overboard is activated, any current navigation will be cancelled and the current route will be discarded without notification. Man Overboard navigation will begin immediately, and you will see the following on the screen: Chart View: The view will switch to Chart View automatically. Man Overboard Waypoint: A waypoint is created at the boat’s current position, regardless of whether the chart cursor is active or not.

  • Page 109: Waypoints

    AYPOINTS Waypoints are saved latitude/longitude positions. They mark a position of interest such as your favorite fishing area, structure, or marker buoy. The control head saves the position and allows you to edit the waypoint name, icon, and more (see Manage your Navigation Data).
  • Page 110 Show/Hide Waypoint Proximity Flags Waypoint flags show the distance from the boat (or active cursor) to each waypoint. If set to visible, the waypoint flags for the ten closest waypoints to the boat or cursor will be shown on the Chart View. 1.
  • Page 111 Mark Waypoints Waypoints can be marked at the boat position or cursor position. To edit the waypoint, see Edit a Waypoint in the Chart View or Manage your Navigation Data. Mark a Waypoint at the Boat Position 1. Press the MARK key. Mark a Waypoint at the Cursor Position 1.
  • Page 112 Select a Waypoint in the Chart View You can select a saved waypoint using the menu system or using the cursor on the Chart View. Select a Saved Waypoint on the Chart View 1. Use the Cursor Control key to move the cursor to a waypoint on the Chart View. Edit: Press the MENU key.

  • Page 113: Edit A Waypoint

    Edit a Waypoint You can edit a waypoint as you mark it or after it is saved. The instructions in this section show you how to edit a waypoint in the Chart View. To edit a waypoint or a group of waypoints from the Waypoint Management dialog box, see Manage your Navigation Data. Mark and Edit Waypoints (on-the-go) Use the instructions in this section to edit a waypoint as soon as you mark it.
  • Page 114 Changing the Waypoint Name Move from Space to Space Select a Letter, Number, or Symbol Save 6. Save: Select Save. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 7. Close: Press the EXIT key. Change the Waypoint Position in the Chart View 1. Use the Cursor Control key to move the cursor to a waypoint on the Chart View. 2.
  • Page 115 Waypoint with Target Displayed selected waypoint target Remove a Target 1. Chart X-Press Menu: With a Chart View displayed on-screen, press the MENU key once. 2. Select Remove Target. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. Show/Hide a Waypoint Trolling Grid Use the instructions in this section to display a trolling grid on a selected waypoint. Display a Trolling Grid 1.

  • Page 116: Navigate To A Waypoint Or Position

    Delete a Waypoint in the Chart View Use the following instructions to select a waypoint and delete it. 1. Use the Cursor Control key to move the cursor to a waypoint on the Chart View. 2. Press the MENU key. 3.
  • Page 117 Navigate Continuously Around a Waypoint Continuous Navigation Mode allows you to continue to navigate and fish around a selected waypoint, even if you pass over it multiple times. 1. Main Menu: Press the MENU key twice. Select the Nav tab. 2.

  • Page 118: Routes

    OUTES Routes link two or more waypoints together to create a path for navigation. A route represents your intended navigation and shows the shortest path from each data point to the next. The distance between each waypoint is a route leg. You can save 47 routes (with 50 waypoints each) to the control head.
  • Page 119 Save the Current Route A route must have at least two waypoints to be saved as a route. 1. Chart X-Press Menu: With a Chart View displayed on-screen, press the MENU key once. 2. Select Save Current Route. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 3.
  • Page 120 Reset XTE (Cross Track Error) Use Reset XTE to recalculate the cross track error (XTE) from the boat’s current position to the next waypoint in the route. For example, if you’ve deviated from a route to navigate around an island, select Reset XTE to update the control head’s course calculations from the current boat position instead of from the previous waypoint in the route.
  • Page 121 Selecting a Saved Route on the Chart View cursor digital readouts selected route name current track selected route (red) Select a Waypoint Open the Go To Menu on a Route Routes...

  • Page 122: Delete A Saved Route

    Edit a Saved Route You can edit the route name and display it or hide it on the Chart View. To edit routes from the Waypoint Management dialog box, see Manage your Navigation Data. 1. Use the Cursor Control key to move the cursor to a waypoint on the route. Press the MENU key. If the route was saved recently, you don’t have to select it first.

  • Page 123: Tracks

    RACKS A track is a collection of track points that contains the boat’s detailed position history at set intervals. The Current Track shows the position history since the control head was powered on. You can clear the Current Track or save it at any time. To change the track point interval, edit saved tracks, and create track settings, see Manage your Navigation Data.
  • Page 124 3. Use the Cursor Control key to change the following: To show all tracks on the chart, select Visible. To hide tracks, select Hidden. If you choose Visibility Hidden, the control head continues to save trackpoints, but the track will not be displayed on the view.
  • Page 125 Clear the Current Track Use the following instructions to clear the current track on the view and start a new track at the present boat position. 1. Chart X-Press Menu: With a Chart View displayed on-screen, press the MENU key once. 2.

  • Page 126: Search

    EARCH There are many ways to search the area for ports, tide stations, and current stations. You can also search for information based on the cursor position. The search options and the search area distance are determined by the installed map card and selected chart source.
  • Page 127 Use this menu to display a lake other than your current location. The lake map displayed on the Chart View is based on the GPS latitude/longitude position and the Humminbird LakeMaster map card installed in the control head. GPS reception is required for the correct lake to be displayed.

  • Page 128: Manage Your Navigation Data

    ANAGE YOUR AVIGATION Your control head allows you to start navigation or edit your navigation data from the Chart View. You can also start navigation or edit navigation data from the Waypoint Management dialog box. The instructions in this section apply to the Waypoint Management dialog box.
  • Page 129 Selecting Files in the Waypoint Management Dialog Box (Waypoints, Routes, Tracks) selected file (highlighted in yellow) selected file preview waypoint route track Directory: Bass08 is the selected group information and instructions Scroll through the List Open a Menu Go Back Manage your Navigation Data...
  • Page 130 Jump to the Top The Options menu, and other important actions, are located at the top of the Waypoint Management dialog box. Use these instructions to quickly select Options or jump to the top. 1. Press the EXIT key. Selecting Options (Jump to the Top) Options Directory: Bass08 is the selected group...

  • Page 131: Manage Waypoints

    Manage Waypoints When you press the MARK key and create a new waypoint, an alphanumeric name (beginning with WP) is assigned to the waypoint. You can use the Waypoint Management dialog box to edit the saved waypoint or create a new waypoint. You can also select a waypoint icon and category for all new waypoints.
  • Page 132 Editing a Waypoint icon category changing the icon visibility latitude longitude save waypoint information Edit a Saved Waypoint 1. Select a waypoint. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 2. Select Edit. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 3. Use the Cursor Control key to edit the available fields. Select the file name, and press the RIGHT Cursor key.
  • Page 133 Changing the Waypoint Name Move from Space to Space Select a Letter, Number, or Symbol Save Create a New Waypoint Use the following instructions to create a new waypoint and add your own settings. To mark a waypoint in Chart View, see Navigation Overview: Waypoints.
  • Page 134 Set the Waypoint Icon Default Use the following instructions to set the waypoint icon category and the waypoint icon for all new waypoints. NOTE: If the Waypoint Management dialog box is open, press the EXIT key to close the dialog box, and proceed with the following instructions.

  • Page 135: Manage Routes

    Manage Routes You can edit your saved routes, and you can also create new routes from scratch using your saved waypoints. Route names are alphanumeric and begin with RT. Open the Route Submenu 1. Select a route from the Waypoint Management dialog box. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 2.
  • Page 136 Open a Saved Route 1. Select a route. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 2. Select Open. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. Opening a Saved Route waypoint order (first to last) Directory: RT002 is the selected route Review Route Distance Information Use the instructions in this section to open a saved route and review the distance and bearing from each waypoint to the next.
  • Page 137 Travel a Saved Route 1. Select a route. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 2. Select Travel. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 3. Select Forward or Reverse. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. Navigation begins immediately. The Waypoint Management dialog box will close so you can see the route on the Chart View. Edit a Saved Route You can customize a route name, add or remove waypoints, and change the travel order for navigation.
  • Page 138 Create a New Route 1. Open a Group: Select a group (where you want to save the new route). Press the RIGHT Cursor key. Home is the highest level group, or the main directory, in the Waypoint Management dialog box. 2.
  • Page 139 Adding Waypoints to a Route sort files next steps selected waypoint (highlighted in yellow) Directory: Bass08 is the selected group instructions Scroll through the List Select Add Waypoints to a Route When you add a waypoint to a route, it is a copy. If you make changes to the copy, the changes will be made to all copies. 1.
  • Page 140 Delete a Waypoint from a Route 1. Select a route. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 2. Select Open. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 3. Select a waypoint in the route. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 4. Select Delete. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 5.
  • Page 141 Changing the Route Order (Moving a Waypoint) move a waypoint up or down in the route order Directory: RT002 is the selected route instructions Select the Waypoint Move the Waypoint Up or Down Confirm the New Location Manage Routes...

  • Page 142: Manage Tracks

    Manage Tracks Save and edit your tracks with the Waypoint Management dialog box. Track names are saved with a date and time stamp. The Tracks submenu allows you to edit the track name, appearance, and the track visibility. You can also move tracks from one group to another group.
  • Page 143 Editing a Track track name hidden or visible To display the color options, select a line style. save track summary Edit a Saved Track Use the following instructions to edit a saved track. To edit the current track, see Navigation Overview: Tracks. 1.

  • Page 144: Manage Groups

    Manage Groups Use groups to organize your waypoints, routes, and tracks in one set. Some anglers prefer to group their navigation items by trip, fish-type, body of water, or time of day. New group names are alphanumeric and begin with GP, and you can edit the name. NOTE: Groups and sub-groups use storage.
  • Page 145 Set a Group as the Default Directory To save all your new waypoints, routes, and tracks to a designated group, use the following steps: 1. Select a group. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 2. Select Open. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 3.
  • Page 146 Adding Items to a Group sort files next steps instructions Scroll Up or Down Add/Remove Navigation Items 1. Select a group. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 2. Select Add/Remove. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. The menu will close. 3. Add: Press the UP or DOWN Cursor keys to choose a waypoint, route, or track. Press the RIGHT Cursor key to add it to the group.
  • Page 147 Edit a Group 1. Select a group. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 2. Select Edit. Press the RIGHT Cursor key. 3. Use the Cursor Control key to edit the available fields. Select the file name, and press the RIGHT Cursor key. See the illustration Changing the Group Name Name.

  • Page 148: Search And Organize

    The Waypoint Management dialog box allows you to move your waypoints, routes, and tracks into a designated group, make copies, and search for information. You can also organize your navigation items in HumminbirdPC (see Import/Export Navigation Data), and visit our Web site at humminbird.com for details. Search By Search By allows you to search the items in the Waypoint Management dialog box by Name, Distance, Date, Icon, or Icon Category.
  • Page 149 Selecting Multiple Waypoints sort files next steps selected waypoints (highlighted in yellow) Directory: Bass08 is the selected group instructions Scroll Up or Down Select Create a Copy and Save as a New Item Use the instructions in this section to copy a waypoint, route, or track and save it as a separate item. The new item retains the properties from the original, but it will not be affected by changes to the original.

  • Page 150: Import/Export Navigation Data

    Use the following instructions to import waypoints, routes, tracks, and groups into your Humminbird control head. The control head will import Humminbird navigation data from an installed SD card. If the navigation data is from another source or format, it must be converted (using HumminbirdPC) before you can import it.

  • Page 151: Manage Your Control Head

    NMEA-compatible device, such as an autopilot. See the accessory guide for details. Accessory guides can be downloaded from our Web site at humminbird.com. 1. Main Menu (Advanced User Mode): Press the MENU key twice. Select the Setup tab.

  • Page 152: Start The Timer

    NOTE: The Timer can be displayed as a digital readout. See Views: Display Digital Readouts. Change the Display Language The available languages are determined by your Humminbird model. 1. Main Menu: Press the MENU key twice. Select the Setup tab.
  • Page 153 Apply an Offset to a Digital Readout Use the following instructions to adjust the digital readout by the offset amount entered. 1. Main Menu (Advanced User Mode): Press the MENU key twice. Select the Setup tab. 2. Select one of the following menus. Use the RIGHT or LEFT Cursor keys to adjust the offset. Adjusts the depth digital readout by the amount entered.
  • Page 154 Adjust the Backlight 1. Press the POWER key. 2. Select Light. 3. Adjust the Backlight setting from Dim to 10 (brightest). Restore System Defaults Use the following instructions to reset ALL menu settings to the factory defaults. CAUTION! Use this menu with caution! 1.

  • Page 155: Update Software

    OFTWARE Set up an online account at humminbird.com so that you will receive the latest Humminbird news and software updates for your Humminbird model. You can also download HumminbirdPC from your account, which allows you to manage your waypoints, routes, and tracks on your personal computer.

  • Page 156: Maintenance

    Humminbird continues to deliver top performance. Control Head Maintenance It is important to consider the following precautions when using your Humminbird control head: • Chemicals, such as those found in bug spray and sunscreen, may cause permanent damage to the control head screen. Such damage is not covered by the warranty.

  • Page 157: Troubleshooting

    ROUBLESHOOTING Before contacting Humminbird Customer Service, please read the following section. Taking the time to review these troubleshooting guidelines may allow you to solve a performance problem yourself, and therefore avoid sending your unit back for repair. Control Head Doesn’t Power Up If your control head doesn’t power up, use the installation guide to confirm the following:...

  • Page 158: Display Problems

    Display Problems There are several main conditions or sources of possible interference that may cause problems with the quality of the information displayed on the control head. Look in the following table for some symptoms of display problems and possible solutions: Display Problems Possible Solutions If the power output of your boat’s engine is unregulated, the control head may be...

  • Page 159: Specifications

    Target Separation ..................2.5 inches (63.5 mm) NOTE: Humminbird verifies maximum stated depth in saltwater conditions, but actual depth performance may vary due to transducer installation, water type, thermal layers, bottom composition, and slope.
  • Page 160 Target Separation ..................2.5 inches (63.5 mm) NOTE: Humminbird verifies maximum stated depth in saltwater conditions, but actual depth performance may vary due to transducer installation, water type, thermal layers, bottom composition, and slope.
  • Page 161 Target Separation ..................2.5 inches (63.5 mm) NOTE: Humminbird verifies maximum stated depth in saltwater conditions, but actual depth performance may vary due to transducer installation, water type, thermal layers, bottom composition, and slope.
  • Page 162 HELIX 9 Control Head Measurements HELIX 9 Gimbal Mount 13.44 (341.38 mm) 7.114 (180.7 mm) 7.434 (188.82 mm) 4.203 (106.76 mm) Specifications...
  • Page 163 HELIX 9 In-Dash Mount 13.44 (341.38 mm) 7.114 (180.7 mm) 3.991 (101.37 mm) 1.324 (33.63 mm) 3.685 (93.59 mm) Specifications...
  • Page 164 Target Separation ..................2.5 inches (63.5 mm) NOTE: Humminbird verifies maximum stated depth in saltwater conditions, but actual depth performance may vary due to transducer installation, water type, thermal layers, bottom composition, and slope.
  • Page 165 Target Separation ..................2.5 inches (63.5 mm) NOTE: Humminbird verifies maximum stated depth in saltwater conditions, but actual depth performance may vary due to transducer installation, water type, thermal layers, bottom composition, and slope.
  • Page 166 Target Separation ..................2.5 inches (63.5 mm) NOTE: Humminbird verifies maximum stated depth in saltwater conditions, but actual depth performance may vary due to transducer installation, water type, thermal layers, bottom composition, and slope.
  • Page 167 HELIX 10 Control Head Measurements HELIX 10 Gimbal Mount 13.44 (341.38 mm) 7.114 (180.7 mm) 7.434 (188.82 mm) 4.203 (106.76 mm) Specifications...
  • Page 168 HELIX 10 In-Dash Mount 13.44 (341.38 mm) 7.114 (180.7 mm) 3.991 (101.37 mm) 1.324 (33.63 mm) 3.685 (93.59 mm) Specifications...

  • Page 169: Linux Operating System

    Eufaula, AL 36027 *NOTE: A copy of the Linux operating system is not required to upgrade your fishing system. The Humminbird application software and control head include a separate service warranty. Please see humminbird.com and the separate warranty card included with your unit for details.

  • Page 170: Contact Humminbird

    ONTACT UMMINBIRD Contact Humminbird Customer Service in any of the following ways: Web site: humminbird.com E-mail: service@humminbird.com Telephone: 1-800-633-1468 Direct Shipping: Humminbird Service Department 678 Humminbird Lane Eufaula, AL 36027 USA Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Central Standard Time) Social Media Resources: Facebook.com/HumminbirdElectronics...

This manual is also suitable for:

Helix 10

Table of Contents