Questions:
1. What prompted you to go with the HDS-7. I'm am currently trying to decide between Lowrance and Hummingbird.
Alot of post reading/research and hands on time at bass pro shops. I liked the way the Lowrance functioned in use. For me it was easier, faster, and just made more sence. I wanted the 8 but could not afford it. Honestly I read the H 898 and the HDS 7's owners manuals before I even bought one or touched a graph. I suggest doing the same. Skim it and read the main function parts. I really like the way the HDS scans the bottom on a map.
2. How did the installation go? What equipment did you get? The only thing I bought was a few zip ties, stainless steel screws. The rest I had. Wiring wise it was easy. Installation of the transducer cables took the longest. Not because of the unit itself but my boat design. It took awhile fishing wires for the first one. After the first wire it was a breeze.
Any tips? Best ones I have are, hands on time before purchase, read the installation/operation manuals, read them again, plan out installation, and then install.