AIRMAR® R109LHW

The GARMIN AIRMAR® R109LHW transducer is a high-end through-hull transducer designed for offshore fishing. It features CHIRP dual-band technology with low frequencies (38-75 kHz) and wide high frequencies (150-250 kHz). With a 2 kW power output, it reaches great depths while providing excellent target separation and detailed fish detection.

This transducer uses CHIRP (Compressed High-Intensity Radiated Pulse) dual-band technology. The CHIRP emits a frequency sweep over a long pulse, enabling reception of a broader and more detailed signal, thereby improving resolution and target separation compared to fixed-frequency depth sounders.

The GARMIN AIRMAR® R109LHW transducer covers two distinct frequency ranges:

Low frequencies: from 38 to 75 kHz, ideal for deep-water detection and large fish tracking.High-frequency wide (LHW): from 150 to 250 kHz, providing a wider beam coverage and exceptional detail in shallower waters, as well as better target separation.

The GARMIN AIRMAR® R109LHW transducer has an output power of 2 kW (2000 Watts). This high power is essential for optimal signal penetration in water, enabling very deep depths to be reached and maintaining excellent image quality even in challenging conditions.

Thanks to its CHIRP dual-band capability and 2 kW power output, the R109LHW is particularly suited to demanding anglers fishing in both deep and shallow waters. It excels at detecting fish and structures at various depths, offering versatility for coastal and offshore fishing.

The GARMIN AIRMAR® R109LHW transducer housing is made of urethane. This material is known for its robustness, durability, and resistance to marine environments, including saltwater, UV exposure, and impacts, ensuring a long product lifespan.

Yes, absolutely. Thanks to its dual-band CHIRP technology, the R109LHW is designed to excel in detecting fish and structures across a wide range of depths. Low frequencies penetrate deeply, while wide high frequencies provide precise details and broad coverage in shallower water layers.

Low frequencies (38–75 kHz) provide better water penetration, making them ideal for reaching very deep depths and detecting distant or larger targets. High wide frequencies (150–250 kHz) offer superior target resolution and separation with a wider detection cone, perfect for identifying fish schools and fine structures in shallower waters.

Yes, the designation "LHW" (Low-High Wide) indicates that the high-frequency range (150-250 kHz) uses a wide beam. This provides extended coverage beneath the boat, increasing the chances of detecting fish and structures over a larger area, particularly useful in sport fishing.

The GARMIN AIRMAR® R109LHW is designed to meet the demands of the most serious anglers, whether sport or professional. Its cutting-edge CHIRP dual-band detection performance and 2 kW power make it a valuable tool for exploring the seabed and locating fish, regardless of skill level.

Main advantages of CHIRP dual-band:

Better target separation: It allows distinguishing individual fish within a school or detecting fish very close to the seabed. Greater detection depth: Low CHIRP frequencies can penetrate much deeper. Clearer and more detailed images: The wide frequency band provides superior resolution, enabling better identification of underwater structures and the thermocline. Versatility: It covers both deep-sea and shallow-water fishing needs with a single transducer.

The GARMIN AIRMAR® R109LHW transducer is compatible with Garmin sounder/chartplotter combos and Garmin sounder modules that support high-power CHIRP technology (2 kW) and have a 12-pin connector. This typically includes the GPSMAP® series and certain advanced GSD sounder modules.

To fully utilize the 2 kW power and CHIRP dual-band capabilities of the R109LHW, an external high-performance depth sounder module, such as the Garmin GSD™ 26, is often recommended or required, depending on your Garmin chartplotter model. Some newer Garmin combos may have sufficient integrated CHIRP capabilities.

The GARMIN AIRMAR® R109LHW transducer is equipped with a Garmin 12-pin connector. It is essential to verify the compatibility of this connector type with your Garmin device or fishfinder module.

Although the AIRMAR® R109LHW transducer is manufactured by Airmar, this version is specifically configured with a 12-pin Garmin connector. For compatibility with other brands, an Airmar transducer with a connector suited to that brand or a specific adapter would typically be required, which is not the case for this Garmin reference.

The GARMIN AIRMAR® R109LHW is a through-hull transducer. This means it requires drilling a hole in the boat's hull for installation, with the transducer's active face flush with the hull's bottom for optimal performance without interference.

Installing a through-hull transducer like the R109LHW requires standard marine tools, including a hole saw of the appropriate diameter for drilling the hull, wrenches, marine sealant (e.g., Sika or 3M 5200), and wiring tools. It is highly recommended to hire a professional if you are not experienced with this type of installation.

Yes, the choice of location is crucial for performance. It is recommended to install the transducer:

In an area where water flow is most laminar and free of air bubbles (away from propellers, keels, water intakes, etc.).
Away from any source of turbulence or electrical noise.
In an area with minimal hull angle so the beam is directed vertically downward.
Easily accessible for maintenance and cable connection inside the boat.