Humminbird AS HHGPS Handheld GPS Connection Cable Kit Review

What I Wish I Knew Before Buying the Humminbird AS HHGPS Handheld GPS Connection Cable Kit

My sonar unit, a trusty Humminbird model that has navigated countless fathoms, suddenly felt… incomplete. Its internal GPS was struggling to acquire a lock under dense tree canopies on shore or in deep canyons where satellite signals were fickle. This wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it certainly interrupted the flow of marking waypoints and tracking my progress with the precision I’d come to expect. I needed a way to reliably feed a strong GPS signal into my existing Humminbird ecosystem. This led me to the Humminbird AS HHGPS Handheld GPS Connection Cable Kit.

The primary function of this kit is to bridge the gap between a compatible handheld GPS unit and a Humminbird fishfinder or chartplotter. It promises to enhance the GPS capabilities of my sonar by using an external, dedicated handheld device. My initial impression upon receiving the package was one of practicality; it’s a straightforward set of cables and an adapter, devoid of unnecessary frills. It felt like a necessary but unglamorous piece of hardware designed for a specific, functional purpose.

I briefly considered generic NMEA cables, but the specificity of integrating a handheld GPS with a marine electronics system often requires proprietary or at least tested compatibility. This cable kit appeared to offer that assurance, albeit at a price point slightly higher than a generic cable. My immediate feeling was a cautious optimism – could this simple kit truly unlock more reliable GPS performance for my Humminbird unit?

Real-World Testing: Putting Humminbird AS HHGPS Handheld GPS Connection Cable Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place on a remote lake, precisely the kind of environment where signal acquisition can be a challenge. I connected the Humminbird AS HHGPS Handheld GPS Connection Cable Kit to my handheld GPS unit, then to the NMEA port on my Humminbird sonar. The setup was relatively intuitive, though I double-checked the detailed instructions provided with the kit to ensure correct pin orientation and connection.

The performance in these signal-challenged conditions was immediately noticeable. My Humminbird unit, which had been intermittently losing its GPS lock, now displayed a solid, consistent track derived from the handheld unit. This was particularly evident when I was under heavy tree cover near the shoreline, an area that previously rendered my sonar’s internal GPS nearly useless. The ease of use was certainly there after the initial connection; once wired, the handheld GPS became the primary source of positional data for the sonar without further intervention.

The primary surprise was how seamlessly it integrated. I had braced for potential configuration hurdles or compatibility warnings, but my Humminbird unit recognized the NMEA data stream from the handheld GPS without any fuss. There were no unexpected quirks or error messages, just a steady stream of accurate GPS data feeding into my sonar’s display.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months of regular use, including trips in varying weather conditions and prolonged periods out on the water, the cable kit has held up remarkably well. It’s become a standard part of my on-water setup, connecting between my handheld GPS and sonar unit almost every time I launch. I’ve experienced no degradation in signal quality or connection integrity, even after being coiled and uncoiled numerous times.

Durability hasn’t been an issue; the cables are robust, and the connectors have maintained a snug fit without any signs of loosening. I haven’t encountered any cracks, stiffness, or performance drops, which is a testament to the quality of the materials and assembly. The kit has proven itself to be a reliable piece of equipment, functioning exactly as intended without requiring any special maintenance.

Compared to previous experiences with generic connection cables that sometimes yielded intermittent signal issues or failed prematurely, this dedicated kit feels far more robust and dependable. It performs on par with other purpose-built marine electronic accessories, offering peace of mind in its reliability. The straightforward nature of the kit means there are no complex maintenance routines; it’s essentially plug-and-play.

Breaking Down the Features of Humminbird AS HHGPS Handheld GPS Connection Cable Kit

Specifications

The Humminbird AS HHGPS Handheld GPS Connection Cable Kit is comprised of three key components: an NMEA connection cable, a Y cable, and detailed instructions. The primary NMEA cable features standard NMEA 0183 connectors, designed to interface with compatible Humminbird units. The included Y cable is crucial for routing data from your handheld GPS unit, allowing it to simultaneously feed information to the Humminbird unit and potentially other NMEA-compatible devices if needed.

These specifications are vital because they dictate the compatibility and functionality of the kit. The use of the NMEA 0183 standard ensures that the kit can communicate with a wide range of older and some newer marine electronics, including a vast list of Humminbird models provided by the manufacturer. The included Y cable adds versatility, allowing for a single source of GPS data to be shared across multiple devices, which can be incredibly useful on a boat.

When compared to simpler, direct USB connections often found on newer GPS units, this NMEA-based system reflects a more traditional approach to marine electronics communication. While perhaps less “modern,” the NMEA 0183 protocol is widely supported and often more resilient in harsh marine environments. The black color of the cables is standard for marine accessories, helping them blend in with existing wiring looms.

Performance & Functionality

The core job of the Humminbird AS HHGPS Handheld GPS Connection Cable Kit is to reliably transfer GPS data from a handheld unit to a Humminbird sonar or chartplotter. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. Once connected, the flow of positional information is constant and accurate, significantly improving the GPS capabilities of the connected Humminbird unit.

Its primary strength lies in its ability to provide a strong, stable GPS signal, especially in environments where the sonar’s internal GPS might struggle. This includes areas with dense overhead cover or challenging terrain. The kit essentially leverages the superior GPS reception of a dedicated handheld unit and channels it into your Humminbird system.

A potential weakness, though inherent to the technology rather than the kit itself, is the reliance on the handheld GPS unit’s battery life and signal acquisition. If the handheld unit loses signal or its battery dies, the Humminbird unit will revert to its internal GPS or lose positional data entirely. However, this is not a fault of the cable kit but rather a characteristic of the connected system. It meets and often exceeds expectations for its intended purpose.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Humminbird AS HHGPS Handheld GPS Connection Cable Kit is purely functional, prioritizing durability and connectivity over aesthetic flair. The cables are of a good gauge, feeling substantial and not prone to kinking or damage. The connectors are robust and designed for secure mating in a marine environment, resisting accidental disconnections.

Ergonomically, the kit is straightforward. The NMEA connectors are standard and easy to plug in, and the Y cable provides a sensible way to manage multiple connections. There’s no real “learning curve” to speak of beyond understanding which port on your Humminbird unit is designated for NMEA input and ensuring your handheld GPS is configured to output NMEA data.

The practical design details include clear labeling on the connectors (if present) and the solid feel of the cable jacket. These elements contribute to a user experience that is fuss-free once the initial setup is complete. The black coloring is practical, helping to prevent glare and maintain a low profile amongst other onboard equipment.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its intended use in marine environments, the durability of the Humminbird AS HHGPS Handheld GPS Connection Cable Kit is a significant factor. From my experience, these cables are built to last. They are constructed from materials that resist the elements, such as saltwater, UV exposure, and temperature fluctuations.

Maintenance is minimal. The most important aspect is keeping the connectors clean and free from corrosion, especially if used in saltwater environments. A simple wipe-down with a clean cloth after use, and perhaps a light application of a marine-grade electrical contact cleaner periodically, will ensure optimal performance and longevity.

There are no obvious wear points or common failure points that I’ve encountered. The cables are flexible enough to be managed without stress on the internal wires, and the connectors are designed for repeated connection and disconnection. This means the kit should offer a good service life for its intended purpose.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Humminbird AS HHGPS Handheld GPS Connection Cable Kit itself is the accessory, providing the crucial link between devices. It includes the necessary NMEA connection cable and a Y cable, which are essential for its functionality. The kit also comes with detailed instructions, which are invaluable for ensuring correct setup, especially for users who may be less familiar with NMEA networking.

Customization within the kit itself is limited, as it’s a fixed set of components designed for a specific task. However, its compatibility with the broader Humminbird ecosystem means it can be used in conjunction with a wide array of their sonar and chartplotter units. The true customization comes from the choice of the handheld GPS unit that is connected to it. Users can select a handheld GPS that best suits their individual needs for accuracy, battery life, and additional features.

The included Y cable is a key feature that offers a degree of flexibility, allowing the NMEA data to be potentially shared with other compatible devices on a boat, though this is often dependent on the specific NMEA configuration and capabilities of the connected units.

Pros and Cons of Humminbird AS HHGPS Handheld GPS Connection Cable Kit

Who Should Buy Humminbird AS HHGPS Handheld GPS Connection Cable Kit?

This connection cable kit is ideal for Humminbird sonar and chartplotter owners who frequently operate in areas with poor satellite reception. Anglers who fish under heavy tree cover, in deep canyons, or far from shore will find this kit invaluable for maintaining consistent waypoint marking and navigation. It’s also a great solution for anyone whose Humminbird unit has an internal GPS that has become less reliable over time or is prone to signal dropouts.

Those who should probably skip this product are users with newer Humminbird units that already feature excellent internal GPS performance or those who primarily operate in wide-open water with no signal obstruction. If your budget doesn’t allow for the purchase of a separate compatible handheld GPS unit, then this kit won’t be of much use. Consider purchasing a handheld GPS with a long battery life and proven NMEA output capabilities to maximize the benefit of this connection kit.

For optimal use, ensuring your handheld GPS unit is correctly configured to output NMEA 0183 data is essential. A quality marine-grade dielectric grease applied to the connectors can also help prevent corrosion and ensure a solid connection over time.

Conclusion on Humminbird AS HHGPS Handheld GPS Connection Cable Kit

The Humminbird AS HHGPS Handheld GPS Connection Cable Kit is a highly effective, if unassuming, solution for enhancing the GPS capabilities of compatible Humminbird marine electronics. It delivers on its promise of providing a more stable and accurate positional data feed by leveraging a dedicated handheld GPS unit. The build quality is robust, suitable for the rigors of marine use, and the inclusion of a Y cable adds a touch of useful versatility.

Considering its price point, which hovers around $37.49, the value proposition is strong, especially when one factors in the potential cost of upgrading a Humminbird unit with a superior internal GPS or replacing a malfunctioning one. It offers a cost-effective way to breathe new life into an existing sonar or chartplotter.

I would personally recommend this kit to any Humminbird owner experiencing GPS signal issues in challenging environments. It’s a practical, reliable, and straightforward upgrade that directly addresses a common frustration for many boaters and anglers. If you have a compatible handheld GPS at the ready, this cable kit is an excellent investment for more dependable navigation on the water.