Sonar Black Boxes and Transducers

Perhaps inspired by the spy gadgets created by “Q” in James Bond films, the term “black box” as it applies to boat sonar is an industry term for devices that contain the electronic components of a fishfinder but lack a screen. Instead, after processing data from a sonar transducer, the “black box” transmits the data to a compatible chartplotter or multi-function display where fish, bottom structure and other information can be viewed. West Marine offers black box sounders (aka sonar modules) from Garmin, Lowrance and Raymarine.

Sonar Module Functionality

Each manufacturer’s black box sonar module offers the same functionality as comparable stand-alone fishfinders. For example, Raymarine’s RVX1000 3D CHIRP Sonar Module offers all of the performance and features as their Axiom Pro. Features include RealVision 3D sonar technology, CHIRP Side and DownVision, plus high powered 1kW dual channel CHIRP sonar.

Key Benefit of Black Box Sonar

The key benefit of black box sonar modules is directly tied to the convenience of multi-function displays (MFDs) which have the capability to display a wide range of navigation and other information from multiple sources. This can include things like radar, sonar, GPS, and weather data. MFDs can also be connected to other devices such as autopilots, cameras, and other sensors, so you can have all the information you need in one place.

Available Transducers

Many sonar modules come packaged with a transom-mount transducer. Many are also sold without a transducer, which gives users the ability to select a transducer that best meets their needs, such as a plastic or bronze thru hull transducer.