Electromagnetic Signal Interference
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) is created by a device and transmitted in the form of an electrical current through a power cord or emitted as an electromagnetic field. Sources can include trolling motors, power cables, bilge pumps, magnetic sources, stereos, radar, and VHF radios.
Widely spaced vertical lines on the chartplotter sonar view may indicate acoustic or electromagnetic interference.
You can reduce electromagnetic interference by ensuring proper grounding of the sonar device and other equipment. Motors are a common source of electromagnetic interference.
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If you want to see the highest intensity signal returns on the screen, you can lower the gain or brightness on your chartplotter screen to remove lower intensity returns and noise.
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To lessen electromagnetic interference with your transducer signal, you can try these methods.
- You can install a ferrite bead on the transducer cable .
- You can route the transducer cable away from other powered cables.
- If the transducer cable must cross a power cable, you can orient the cables at 90 degrees.
- You can apply EMI tape to insulate the cables.