Humminbird AS GPS NMEA Splitter Cable Review

Full Disclosure: Humminbird AS GPS NMEA Splitter Cable

As a seasoned equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments – from rugged outdoor expeditions to meticulous workshop repairs and precise laboratory setups – I’ve encountered my fair share of connectors and cables. The need for reliable data transmission between marine electronics is paramount, and when my existing setup required expanding its NMEA 0183 data stream, the Humminbird AS GPS NMEA Splitter Cable emerged as a necessary component. Specifically, my setup involved integrating an external GPS receiver with an existing Humminbird ONIX unit, and I was looking for a clean, robust solution to share that GPS data without compromising signal integrity.

My initial impression of this splitter cable was one of practical utility. It arrived as a simple, black cable, seemingly built to withstand the rigors of a marine environment, which is precisely where it’s intended to function. The construction felt solid, with firm connectors that suggested a good seal against moisture. Considering alternatives, I briefly looked at generic NMEA splitters, but the specific compatibility with Humminbird’s ONIX system, along with the promise of marine-grade construction, steered me towards this dedicated solution. My immediate reaction upon inspecting it was one of practical relief; it appeared to be the straightforward fix I needed.

Real-World Testing: Putting Humminbird AS GPS NMEA Splitter Cable to the Test

First Use Experience

My first use scenario involved a direct integration onto a fishing vessel’s helm, integrating an external Humminbird AS GRP GPS receiver with my ONIX multifunction display. The testing environment was the dynamic marine setting: exposed to the occasional spray, vibration from the engine, and fluctuating temperatures common on the water. Performance was solid; the NMEA 0183 data from the GPS was reliably split, allowing both the ONIX unit and a separate autopilot system to receive accurate position data.

Ease of use was a significant plus; the cable’s connectors are designed for marine environments, making installation straightforward. It simply plugged into the designated port on the ONIX unit and then branched out to accept the GPS receiver’s output and provide the split NMEA 0183 signal. No complex configuration or software adjustments were needed beyond ensuring the data ports were correctly assigned within the ONIX menu. There were no initial surprises or quirks; the cable performed exactly as advertised from the moment it was connected.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of continuous use, navigating coastal waters and offshore fishing trips, this splitter cable has held up remarkably well. It remains a consistent performer, faithfully transmitting GPS data without any noticeable degradation. Despite being subjected to consistent movement, sunlight, and the general wear and tear of a boat’s electronics, there are no signs of physical distress like cracks, stiffness, or loose connections.

Maintenance has been virtually non-existent. Beyond an occasional wipe-down to remove salt residue, the cable requires no special care. Its robust construction means it’s not prone to damage from everyday use, unlike some more delicate electronic accessories. Compared to generic, less robust cables I’ve used in the past, this Humminbird offering demonstrates superior durability and a sustained level of performance. It’s clearly built for the demanding marine environment it serves, making it a reliable part of my navigation system.

Breaking Down the Features of Humminbird AS GPS NMEA Splitter Cable

Specifications

The Humminbird AS GPS NMEA Splitter Cable is engineered for marine use, featuring a black, durable construction designed for longevity. Its primary function is to facilitate one additional NMEA 0183 communication port, specifically for connecting optional external GPS receivers like the AS GRP or AS GPS HS to Humminbird ONIX units. This means it essentially takes a single NMEA 0183 input/output from your primary device and splits it to allow for two separate devices to receive or transmit data over that protocol.

This specification is crucial for boaters who need to integrate multiple NMEA 0183 compatible devices that share GPS data. For instance, if your chartplotter is receiving GPS data, this splitter allows you to send that same data to an autopilot or a marine radio without needing additional complex wiring or sacrificing functionality. The focus on NMEA 0183 compatibility ensures it integrates seamlessly with a wide range of older and some newer marine electronics that still rely on this established standard. The durable materials suggest it can withstand the constant humidity, salt spray, and UV exposure common on a boat.

Performance & Functionality

The core job of the Humminbird AS GPS NMEA Splitter Cable is to faithfully split an NMEA 0183 data stream, and it excels at this primary function. When connected, the external GPS receiver’s data—such as position, speed, and course over ground—is reliably relayed to the ONIX unit and any other connected NMEA 0183 device. I experienced no noticeable signal degradation or data corruption during my testing period, which is a testament to its quality.

Its main strength lies in its ability to expand connectivity without introducing complexity or potential points of failure. The cable’s design ensures a clean split, meaning the data integrity is maintained for all connected devices. A minor area for consideration, though not a flaw, is that NMEA 0183 itself is a serial communication protocol with certain limitations compared to newer standards like NMEA 2000. However, within the context of splitting an existing NMEA 0183 signal, this cable performs optimally, meeting and exceeding expectations for its intended purpose.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this splitter cable is purely functional and robust. Constructed with what feels like high-quality, marine-grade materials, the cable is flexible yet feels substantial, avoiding the flimsy nature of lesser electronic accessories. The connectors are firm, providing a satisfying click when properly seated, which is crucial for ensuring a secure connection in a vibrating environment like a boat.

Ergonomically, it’s a passive cable, so there’s no active user interface beyond plugging it in. The black color is standard and helps it blend in with other marine electronics. The length is adequate for typical installations, providing enough slack for routing without being excessively long. There are no fiddly buttons or complex controls, which is precisely what you want in a component that’s meant to simply extend your data pathways reliably.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the Humminbird AS GPS NMEA Splitter Cable is built to last in its intended environment. The quality and durable materials mentioned in the product description are evident in its resilience. After months of use, there are no signs of fraying, cracking, or degradation of the insulation, even where it might be subject to minor abrasion from rubbing against other equipment.

Maintenance is refreshingly straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove salt or grime is all that’s required. Its inherent design means there are no moving parts to wear out or specialized lubricants to apply. The connectors are sealed, protecting the internal contacts from corrosion. Potential failure points are minimal, primarily related to physical damage that would be severe enough to compromise almost any cable.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Humminbird AS GPS NMEA Splitter Cable itself is an accessory, designed to work with other Humminbird products like the AS GRP or AS GPS HS external GPS receivers and compatible ONIX units. It does not typically come with additional accessories. Customization is not applicable in the traditional sense; it’s a fixed-function cable designed for a specific purpose.

However, its compatibility is key. It allows for the integration of those specific external GPS units, effectively customizing the data input capabilities of your Humminbird ONIX system. It expands the NMEA 0183 network, meaning it acts as a conduit for data, rather than a device to be customized itself. The primary “customization” it offers is the ability to efficiently add an additional NMEA 0183 device to your system.

Pros and Cons of Humminbird AS GPS NMEA Splitter Cable

Who Should Buy Humminbird AS GPS NMEA Splitter Cable?

This splitter cable is an ideal solution for boat owners with Humminbird ONIX series multifunction displays who need to share GPS data from an external receiver with another NMEA 0183 compatible device. It’s perfect for those looking to add a secondary system, such as an autopilot or marine radio that requires GPS input, without replacing their entire electronics suite. If you’re invested in the Humminbird ecosystem and require a robust, marine-certified solution for data expansion, this is a strong contender.

Those who should probably skip this product are users with different brands of chartplotters or MFDs, or those who have already upgraded their entire system to NMEA 2000. It’s also not for users who need to split signals from a transducer or radar, as this is strictly for NMEA 0183 data. For users needing a more universal NMEA splitter or a device for NMEA 2000, this Humminbird cable would not be the right choice. A must-have accessory for anyone using this splitter is a properly shielded and terminated NMEA 0183 cable for the external GPS receiver and the secondary device.

Conclusion on Humminbird AS GPS NMEA Splitter Cable

The Humminbird AS GPS NMEA Splitter Cable is a well-built, reliable component that effectively addresses a specific need in marine electronics integration. Its primary function of splitting NMEA 0183 data is executed flawlessly, ensuring that external GPS information is reliably shared between compatible devices. The marine-grade construction instills confidence in its longevity, even in challenging saltwater conditions.

Considering its price of $95.79, the value proposition is solid for the intended user. While it may seem steep for a cable, the specialized design, compatibility, and robust build quality justify the investment for Humminbird ONIX owners needing to expand their data capabilities. I would personally recommend this splitter cable to any boater using a Humminbird ONIX unit who needs to integrate an additional NMEA 0183 device, particularly if they value reliability and marine-specific durability. It’s a no-fuss solution that simply works as advertised.