More details on the Lowrance HDS Gen3

Published on 14 Apr 2014

Shotgun Marine authorised service Agent for Lowrance

Marine electronics.

Want to use an iPad to control your HDS Gen3? Watch Lowrance Product Expert Jacob Scott configure a connection between an iPad and a HDS Gen3.

How to Connect Your iPad to HDS Gen3: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you’re out on the water, navigating your boat, or fishing in your favorite spot, having access to real-time data and charts is essential. If you're using an HDS Gen3, the powerful fishfinder and navigation system from Lowrance, you might want to connect your iPad for even more convenience and functionality. The ability to view sonar readings, navigation charts, and other critical information directly on your iPad can enhance your boating and fishing experience.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to connect your iPad to the HDS Gen3 system so you can access all your important information from the convenience of your tablet.

Why Connect Your iPad to HDS Gen3?

Before we dive into the steps, let's quickly touch on why connecting your iPad to the HDS Gen3 system can be incredibly useful:

1. Remote Monitoring: You can monitor sonar readings, GPS charts, and even engine data without having to be right next to the display unit.
2. Convenience: Control and view your HDS system from anywhere on the boat, especially helpful if you want to keep track of your navigation while moving around the vessel.
3. Sharing Data: You can share or view route plans, waypoints, and fishing spots between your HDS Gen3 and your iPad.
4. Enhanced Navigation: You can use your iPad’s touchscreen interface to control your HDS system or view live data in real-time.

What You’ll Need

To get started, make sure you have everything you need:

• An HDS Gen3 unit installed on your boat.
• Your iPad with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities.
• Lowrance GoFree Wi-Fi Module or Bluetooth Connection (depending on your setup).
• GoFree App (for Wi-Fi connection) or Navico App (for Bluetooth connection), available in the App Store.

Connecting Your iPad via Wi-Fi (Using Lowrance GoFree Module)

One of the most straightforward ways to connect your iPad to the HDS Gen3 is via a Wi-Fi connection using the Lowrance GoFree Wi-Fi Module. This allows you to wirelessly access your HDS system’s data on your iPad.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Install the GoFree Module:

   • If you haven’t already, install the GoFree Wi-Fi Module to your HDS Gen3 unit. This module enables Wi-Fi communication between your HDS unit and your iPad.
   • Plug the module into the data port on your HDS Gen3. It’s usually a simple plug-and-play connection.

2. Power On Your HDS Gen3:

   • Turn on your HDS Gen3 system and ensure it is functioning properly. The GoFree module should be powered up automatically when the HDS unit is turned on.

3. Connect Your iPad to the GoFree Network:

   • On your iPad, go to the Wi-Fi settings and look for the Lowrance GoFree network.
   • Select the GoFree network. The iPad will connect to the HDS Gen3 system wirelessly.

4. Download the GoFree App:

   • Go to the App Store on your iPad and download the GoFree Controller App. This app is designed to allow your iPad to communicate with the HDS system and control many of its functions.

5. Launch the GoFree App:

   • Open the GoFree Controller App once it’s installed. The app should automatically detect your HDS Gen3 unit and display the information from your chartplotter, sonar, and more.

6. Start Controlling and Monitoring:

   • With the connection established, you can begin using your iPad to control your HDS system, view sonar readings, navigate charts, and track your routes or waypoints, all from your tablet.

Connecting Your iPad via Bluetooth

If you prefer not to use Wi-Fi, you can also connect your iPad to the HDS Gen3 via Bluetooth, providing a more direct, wireless communication method. However, Bluetooth connections typically offer fewer features compared to Wi-Fi, so keep that in mind.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Enable Bluetooth on the HDS Gen3:

   • Start by turning on your HDS Gen3 unit and navigating to the Settings menu.
   • In the settings menu, enable Bluetooth functionality. You’ll find this under Wireless Settings or a similar option.

2. Turn On Bluetooth on Your iPad:

   • Open your iPad’s Settings and ensure Bluetooth is turned on.

3. Pair Your iPad with HDS Gen3:

   • Under Bluetooth settings on your iPad, you should see the Lowrance HDS Gen3 listed as an available device.
   • Select the device to pair your iPad with the HDS system. You may be prompted to enter a pairing code (usually found in the HDS system’s Bluetooth settings).

4. Launch the Navico App:

   • Once paired, download and launch the Navico app (or other compatible apps) from the App Store. This app allows you to control your HDS Gen3 system via Bluetooth.
   • You should now be able to view sonar, GPS data, and control certain features directly from your iPad.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter any issues while connecting your iPad to the HDS Gen3, here are a few troubleshooting tips to keep in mind:

• Check Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Connections: Ensure that the iPad is properly connected to the correct network (GoFree or Bluetooth) and that the HDS Gen3 is powered on.
• Update Software: Make sure both your HDS Gen3 unit and your iPad are running the latest software updates.
• Reset the Connection: If the connection is unstable, try restarting both the iPad and the HDS Gen3 unit and reconnecting.
• Refer to Manuals: If you run into specific issues, consult the user manuals for both your iPad and HDS Gen3 for troubleshooting steps specific to your model.

Conclusion

Connecting your iPad to your HDS Gen3 can enhance your boating experience by giving you remote access to vital information, improved navigation, and the ability to control your system from anywhere on the boat. Whether using Wi-Fi through the GoFree Wi-Fi Module or Bluetooth, the process is relatively simple and can be a game-changer for anyone who relies on their HDS system for navigation and fishing.

By following these easy steps, you'll be able to seamlessly integrate your iPad with your HDS Gen3 and enjoy a smarter, more efficient boating experience.