How to Test Lowrance LCX 16 CI

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The Lowrance LCX 16 Ci depth finder uses sonar waves to display images of the lake or ocean bottom, sediment and bottom type, fish and obstacles beneath the boat. The LCX 16 Ci uses a full-color display screen, a GPS unit for chartplotting and navigation and transducers for the sonar waves. It broadcasts the sonar on dual frequencies, 50mghz or 200mghz. Testing the unit prior to use is a necessary step to ensure proper information is being transmitted to the display via the transducer.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step 1

Turn the power on by pressing the PWR/LGHT button on the right-hand-side control panel on the display screen. Visually check the display screen is on the default settings when the power comes on. Look for a large black number on the left-hand-side of the unit. This is the depth of the water (displayed in feet) beneath the boat.

Step 2

Check the power cable is attached to the unit on the display screen (located on the back of the unit) and at the transducer, found under the boat. Should the unit not turn on, be sure it is attached to a power source, such as the boat battery should the unit not turn on. Check the fuse for the unit on the boat's fuse panel if there is still no power.

Step 3

Inspect the transducer's location and cables if the unit freezes up, displays erratic electronic static or operates erratically. Move the transducer to a location further away from trolling motors or electric engines as they can interfere with the signal being relayed to the display unit.

Step 4

Move the transducer to a location directly beneath the boat if there are echo signals, erratic digital readings or you receive no fish signals at all. Clean the bottom section of the boat where the transducer will be moved and then secure it to the boat.

Step 5

Turn off all other electrical equipment, cell phones, navigation devices or motors if there is electronic noise on the display unit. Begin turning the items back on, one by one, while watching for the noise to begin again on the screen. When the noise appears, you can pinpoint the source. Move the unit from the source device, or leave that piece of equipment off if feasible.

Tips & Warnings

Always check the battery and power connections when testing the unit. The most common problem is incorrect attachments.

Article Written By Eric Cedric

A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.

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