Fishfinder direct to battery?

[cdyer77]

I have a 12' glass gamefisher that I want to add a fishfinder to. I currently do not have a battery or fishfinder (Still researching both) but i want to ask if i can wire the fish finder directly to the battery?

I'm thinking about getting a smakker 12volt re chargable that I've seen on Cabelas web site - This one -

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/t...parentType=index&indexId=cat601233&hasJS=true

 

[flargin]

Re: Fishfinder direct to battery?

I have a 12' glass gamefisher that I want to add a fishfinder to. I currently do not have a battery or fishfinder (Still researching both) but i want to ask if i can wire the fish finder directly to the battery?

I'm thinking about getting a smakker 12volt re chargable that I've seen on Cabelas web site - This one -

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/t...parentType=index&indexId=cat601233&hasJS=true

Go for it.

Couple suggestions.

1. Make sure there is a fuse in the line. There likely will be, but if not get one and install it.

2. You should install a switch on the line, near the battery. to turn off the power to the system. this will prevent you from having to pull the wires every time. Letting the battery drain to 0 does a lot to reduce the life of a battery. You can just pull the plug, but eventually you will have a loose connection and more problems.


That battery is perfect for you, but you may want to figure out how much your fishfinder draws, but assuming 1 Amp, you will get a good day's worth of running. (8Ah = 8 hours at 1 Amp draw, or 16 hours at .5 Amp draw)

 

[John_S]

Re: Fishfinder direct to battery?

That is a Sealed Lead-Acid battery commonly abreviated SLA. I have been using a 6V lantern battery equivelent. Based on my experience, assume it is slightly overated for your calculations. The fishfinder will shut-off before you drain it all the way down. Six Ah should be good for your calculations. Non-color fishfinders are usually stingy on their power requirements. On the other hand, bright color displays can be hogs. Also consider 12V motorcyle or lawnmower batteries if tipover is not a concern.

 

[simplystressed]

Re: Fishfinder direct to battery?

I'd get a little bigger battery. My lowrance with the screen at brightest setting drains the little batteries a little too quick for my liking.