Cables and connectors from GPS and sonar with issues - Kayak Fishing Adventures on Big Water’s Edge

GregAndrew · 03-13-2012, 06:31 PM

Designing connectors that are intended to be coupled and uncoupled on a frequent basis would be a good start. That means making the terminals durable, and the connecting part easy to attach/unattach.

Dealing with water and salt would be the next most important to me. Since we are only inches above the waterline, virtually everything gets wet on a regular basis. Most units are designed for boats and are only water resistant, not really waterproof. Not only does salt corrode any exposed metal, it makes many twist-lock connections very difficult to operate.

Specifically for kayaks, the connection from the wire to the connectors not only need to be strong, they also need to not be bulky. Since we are removing and reattaching them all the time, they must be able to handle it. We also do not attach to dashboards, and frequently need to make sharp turns of the wire close to the back of the head units.

Just a few thoughts, hope it helps.

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03-13-2012, 06:31 PM	#2
GregAndrew Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Posts: 2,384	Designing connectors that are intended to be coupled and uncoupled on a frequent basis would be a good start. That means making the terminals durable, and the connecting part easy to attach/unattach. Dealing with water and salt would be the next most important to me. Since we are only inches above the waterline, virtually everything gets wet on a regular basis. Most units are designed for boats and are only water resistant, not really waterproof. Not only does salt corrode any exposed metal, it makes many twist-lock connections very difficult to operate. Specifically for kayaks, the connection from the wire to the connectors not only need to be strong, they also need to not be bulky. Since we are removing and reattaching them all the time, they must be able to handle it. We also do not attach to dashboards, and frequently need to make sharp turns of the wire close to the back of the head units. Just a few thoughts, hope it helps.