Lowrance HDS 5M

[brians]

I am considering the purchase of the above unit which looks good value with a decent size and performance screen. Probably will link it to AIS such a DY ANT200.

Does anyone have any experience of this unit either good or bad?

 

[pvb]

Probably will link it to AIS such a DY ANT200.

If you're intending to do that, you'd be better choosing a plotter which can display AIS data...

 

[brians]

The HDS 5M can handle AIS. Refer to the manual. This has also been confirmed by MES Ltd.

I think you are confused with the Lowrance Elite 5M which cannot handle AIS.

Check your facts before trying to make people look stupid.

 

[pvb]

The HDS 5M can handle AIS. Refer to the manual. This has also been confirmed by MES Ltd.

Well, I did refer to the HDS-5M manual, but I couldn't see any mention of AIS, nor is there any mention of AIS capability on Lowrance's website. Which page of the manual should I look at?

 

[brians]

I know what you mean which is why I checked with MES Ltd.

It is in the manual in the section headed 'Vessels'. AIS is not referred to as such in the index nor on their website. Lowrance is probably losing business because of this as most people will be going for AIS now and in the future.

 

[pvb]

I know what you mean which is why I checked with MES Ltd.

It is in the manual in the section headed 'Vessels'. AIS is not referred to as such in the index nor on their website. Lowrance is probably losing business because of this as most people will be going for AIS now and in the future.

So it is! My apologies. Can't understand why Lowrance don't mention AIS capability in their specs. Very strange.

 

[pvb]

Oh, and although you mentioned MES, if you decide to buy one it's only £396 inc delivery at Sea-Kit.