The Humminbird HELIX 7 DI GPS is pretty much similar to the previous, smaller model, HELIX 5 DI GPS. They basically have the same features and options, only the HELIX 7 model comes with the 7″ display. The pixel matrix on its head unit is 800H x 480V, offering 256 colors and a crystal clear view for both Down Imaging and Side Imaging. The screen also has LED backlight, for superior readability even during a bright, sunny day. The head unit of this fish finder and chartplotter offers NMEA 0183 connectivity, and also 1 microSD card for waypoint backup, better maps or sonar recording.
Regarding its navigation features, this HELIX model has the precision GPS, offering 5 updates per second, with an positioning accuracy of 4.5 meters. The GPS is internal, and also uses WAAS EGNOS and MSAS information, for improved positioning results. The GPS system of the unit is also capable of tracking speed, therefore you won’t be needing an additional speed probe.
Another aspect regarding this unit’s navigation capabilities are its maps. It does not come with the most advanced maps, the unit does have the Humminbird UniMap cartography package built-in. It’s compatible though with Lakemaster, Navionics Gold and HotMaps charts, upgrade which can be done via a microSD chip (available separately). Although the UniMap charts are pretty basic, the unit does offer the 3D chart view, which considerably enhances your situational awareness. Evidently, this type of view is simply great with a Lakemaster or Navionics charts pack.
Last but not least, in terms of navigation features, the HELIX 7 DI GPS has a waypoints function, a track log function and a route function. It can store up to 2,500 waypoints, up to 45 routes, and 50 trails (20,000 points each).
The main sonar applications that this unit comes with are Down Imaging, and 2D DualBeam Plus sonar. Just to be clear, it’s a DI fish finder, and does not support Side Imaging or 360 Imaging. The box includes the XNT 9 DI T transducer with a transom mount system. The transducer also includes a water temperature probe.
In 2D, it can use two frequencies, 200/455 kHz, with a coverage of 28° and respectively 16°, with conical beams. In Down Imaging, the unit also can use two frequencies 455/800 kHz, with fan-shaped beams, and angles of 75° and 45° (and cca 2° and 1.4° fore to aft). Its depth capability can reach 350 ft. in Down Imaging and 600 ft. in standard mode.
Selective FishID+, Sonar Recording, Temperature Alarm, SwitchFire, are also extremely useful functions available with this unit. On top of that its internal software can be upgraded for free, whenever new software updates are released by Humminbird.
