Speed and Distance on HDS

[WalleyePhan]

Does anyone know whether the HDS has GPS speed or does it use the speed wheels? Isn't GPS the most accurate way of getting a true speed reading when going under 3-5 mph? From what I have read on Lowrance's site it seems that GPS is not the way they give there speed readings on the HDS units?:huh:

[perchjerker]

I have a hard time believing that is the case

[WalleyePhan]

I thought the same thing but if you go on there site and look at the specs, for the HDS7: Speed & Distance LogAvailable with optional speed sensor
For the HDS8:Speed & Distance LogYes in 50/200 kHz Pack; Optional in 200 kHz Pack
I cut and pasted this off of there site.

[perchjerker]

I think they are talking about analog speed and distance from a paddlewheel sensor.

I have had 5 gps units and I have never seen one without speed on it. Unless these units are available without gps antennas...

[WalleyePhan]

I think you are right, I can't imagine it not having gps speed. I also noticed that they have this listed under the sonar section of the spec sheet.

[blueroof]

The HDS units use the GPS for speed. River guys like the analog wheel accessory to figure out the relative speed.

[Albertan]

Only the HDS-5x doesn't have GPS capabilities on its own, and would need a paddle wheel to give you any sort of speed reading. The other units will use the GPS for speed, and can also give you a reading from a paddle wheel. The user manuals are all available for download on Lowrance's site.