1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of the Furuno CA50B-6B Rubber Coated Transducer. Designed for marine applications, this 1kW transducer is engineered to provide reliable depth and fish-finding capabilities. Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting any installation or operation to ensure optimal performance and safety.
The Furuno CA50B-6B is a robust, rubber-coated transducer built for durability and consistent performance in various marine environments. It is designed to be used with compatible Furuno echo sounders and fish finders.
2. Safety Information
Always observe the following safety precautions to prevent injury, damage to the equipment, or damage to the vessel.
- Electrical Safety: Ensure all power to the vessel's electrical system is disconnected before beginning installation. Improper wiring can lead to electrical shock or fire.
- Installation Location: Select a mounting location that is free from obstructions and allows for proper cable routing. Avoid areas where the transducer could be damaged by propellers or other moving parts.
- Water Sealing: When installing through-hull, ensure all drilled holes are properly sealed with marine-grade sealant to prevent water ingress into the hull.
- Cable Management: Route cables away from heat sources, sharp edges, and areas where they might be pinched or abraded. Secure cables to prevent strain.
- Professional Installation: If you are unsure about any aspect of the installation, consult a qualified marine electronics technician.
3. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the optimal performance of your Furuno CA50B-6B transducer. This section outlines general installation guidelines. Refer to your vessel's specific requirements and the accompanying echo sounder manual for detailed instructions.
3.1. Choosing a Mounting Location
The ideal location for a transducer is one that provides a clear, unobstructed path for the acoustic signal to travel through the water. Avoid areas near propellers, keels, or other hull irregularities that can cause turbulence or air bubbles, which degrade performance.
- For through-hull mounting, select a flat section of the hull with minimal deadrise.
- Ensure sufficient clearance inside the hull for the transducer body and cable routing.
3.2. Physical Installation
The Furuno CA50B-6B is designed for through-hull installation. The following steps are general and may vary based on your specific vessel and mounting hardware (not included with this transducer).
- Prepare the Mounting Surface: Clean the chosen area on the hull thoroughly, both inside and out.
- Drill the Hole: Carefully drill a pilot hole, then enlarge it to the appropriate diameter for the transducer shaft. Ensure the hole is perpendicular to the hull surface.
- Apply Sealant: Apply a generous amount of marine-grade sealant around the transducer shaft and the edges of the drilled hole to ensure a watertight seal.
- Insert Transducer: Insert the transducer from the outside of the hull, ensuring it is properly seated.
- Secure Internally: From inside the hull, secure the transducer with the provided backing plate and nut (if applicable), tightening it firmly but without overtightening.
- Final Seal: Apply additional sealant around the internal components to ensure no water can penetrate.
Figure 3.2.1: The Furuno CA50B-6B Rubber Coated Transducer. This image shows the robust, cylindrical design of the transducer with its integrated cable extending upwards. The rubber coating provides enhanced durability and protection.
3.3. Cable Connection
The CA50B-6B transducer comes without a pre-attached plug, allowing for custom cable routing and connection to various Furuno echo sounders. Ensure proper wiring according to your echo sounder's manual. Incorrect wiring can damage the transducer or the echo sounder.
- Route the transducer cable carefully, avoiding sharp bends or kinks.
- Connect the cable wires to the appropriate terminals on your Furuno echo sounder or junction box, following the color-coding or pinout diagram provided with your echo sounder.
- Secure all connections to prevent accidental disconnection or corrosion.
4. Operating the Transducer
The Furuno CA50B-6B transducer operates in conjunction with a compatible Furuno echo sounder or fish finder. Once properly installed and connected, its operation is largely controlled by the settings on your display unit.
4.1. Initial Power-Up and Configuration
- Power On: Turn on your Furuno echo sounder.
- Transducer Recognition: The echo sounder should automatically detect the connected transducer. If not, check cable connections and power.
- Frequency Selection: The CA50B-6B is a 50 kHz transducer. Ensure your echo sounder is set to operate at 50 kHz for optimal performance with this unit.
- Gain and Range Adjustment: Adjust the gain (sensitivity) and range settings on your echo sounder to achieve a clear display of depth and fish targets. Start with automatic settings and fine-tune manually as needed.
4.2. Optimizing Performance
- Speed and Trim: Performance can be affected by vessel speed and trim. Experiment with different speeds to find the optimal setting for clear readings.
- Interference: Minimize electrical interference from other onboard electronics. Ensure proper grounding of all marine electronics.
- Water Conditions: Water temperature, salinity, and aeration can affect acoustic performance. Be aware that readings may vary in different water conditions.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance will ensure the longevity and continued performance of your Furuno CA50B-6B transducer.
- Cleaning the Transducer Face: Periodically inspect the transducer's face (the part exposed to water) for marine growth, barnacles, or fouling. Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soap or a marine-safe hull cleaner. Do not use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals as they can damage the rubber coating.
- Inspect Cable and Connections: Regularly check the transducer cable for any signs of wear, cuts, or abrasion. Ensure all electrical connections remain secure and free from corrosion.
- Hull Integrity: For through-hull installations, periodically inspect the area around the transducer for any signs of leaks or sealant degradation. Reapply sealant as necessary.
- Winterization: If the vessel is stored in freezing temperatures, ensure the transducer is not exposed to ice formation, which can cause damage.
6. Troubleshooting
This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter with your Furuno CA50B-6B transducer. If the problem persists, contact Furuno customer support or a qualified technician.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No depth reading or weak signal. |
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| Intermittent readings. |
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| No power to echo sounder. |
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7. Specifications
Key technical specifications for the Furuno CA50B-6B Rubber Coated Transducer:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | CA50B-6B |
| Brand | Furuno |
| Frequency | 50 kHz |
| Power Output | 1 kW (1000 Watts) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hull (No Plug) |
| Material | Rubber Coated Plastic |
| Item Dimensions (LxWxH) | 10 x 0.01 x 10 inches (approximate transducer body dimensions) |
| Item Package Dimensions (LxWxH) | 15 x 13 x 4 inches |
| Package Weight | 8.8 Pounds |
| Part Number | CW13834 |
| UPC | 611679111159 |
8. Warranty and Support
The Furuno CA50B-6B Transducer is covered by a manufacturer's warranty. Specific warranty terms and conditions, including duration and coverage details, are typically provided with your purchase documentation or can be found on the official Furuno website.
For technical support, service, or warranty claims, please contact Furuno customer service directly or visit their official website. Have your product model number (CA50B-6B) and part number (CW13834) ready when contacting support.
Furuno Official Website: www.furunousa.com (Example link, actual link may vary by region)
