Garmin has just announced their new down and side-scanning sonar technology called SideVü and DownVü.  Garmin will also be offering a brand new line of standalone echo fishfinders and echoMAP combination units with built-in DownVü capability.  A software update that allows any new GPSMAP 500 and 700 series units to be DownVü compatible will be released in addition to these units.  The company will also be offering the GCV 10, their SideVü and DownVü sonar black box with CHIRP scanning technology.  The GCV 10 will provide a near-picture quality image and is compatible with the echoMAP 70 series, GPSMAP 700, 800 and 1000 series.

Garmin DownVü is a high-frequency sonar that provides a near picture quality representation of objects, structure and fish that the boat is passing over.  With a finer, concentrated sonar signal scanning a designated area, DownVü provides excellent resolution with great target separation in fresh and saltwater.
 
Then, the new Garmin echo™ dv Series, an updated line of echo fishfinders will now support DownVü.  Whether it’s a 4-inch grayscale echo unit or one with full color display, anglers can receive the same clear precision of DownVü on a dedicated fishfinder with a DownVü transducer.  This updated echo series will also support a 50kHz transducer, further expanding the functionality to saltwater anglers.
 
For any angler who’s already purchased a new GPSMAP 500 or 700 series device without built-in DownVü, a free software update will be available through the Garmin website that allows these units to utilize DownVü scanning.  Then, with a DownVü transducer (adapter required for some models), the GPSMAP unit will provide full DownVü technology at the angler’s fingertips.
 
For all the information, and a full list of compatible units, go to www.garmin.com/marine2014.