Raymarine RVM1600 Black Box Sonar, For Axiom Chartplotters, RealVision MAX, 1kW CHIRP

Overview

The Raymarine E70665 is the RVM1600 RealVision black box sonar module for Raymarine Axiom chartplotter systems. It adds RealVision MAX imaging, CHIRP DownVision, CHIRP SideVision, RealVision 3D, and traditional broadband CHIRP sonar from a separate module, giving the helm a fuller view of fish, bait, bottom shape, wrecks, and structure around the boat.

This module supports 12 V and 24 V DC installations, with an operating voltage range of 10.8 V to 31.2 V DC and maximum power consumption of 10.4 W. Sonar output includes 600 W RMS on the RealVision MAX high CHIRP channel and 1 kW RMS on the traditional CHIRP channel, so it suits serious fishing setups where deeper bottom tracking and clear target separation matter.

The housing is rated IPx6 and IPx7 for marine exposure, with operating temperatures from -25°C to +55°C. It connects to the display network through RayNet and accepts both a 25-pin RealVision MAX 3D transducer connection and an 11-pin 1 kW CHIRP transducer connection, depending on the transducer setup on board.

Key features

• RealVision MAX sonar module for Raymarine Axiom chartplotters using RayNet networking.
• Supports CHIRP DownVision, CHIRP SideVision, RealVision 3D, and traditional broadband CHIRP sonar from one black box module.
• 600 W RMS RealVision MAX high CHIRP output and 1 kW RMS traditional CHIRP output for fishing applications that need stronger depth performance.
• Tracks bottom in depths greater than 1,200 ft and marks fish beyond 400 ft when paired with suitable RealVision MAX transducers and conditions.
• High-contrast RealVision MAX color palettes help fish targets stand out from the water column and surrounding structure.
• IPx6 and IPx7 waterproof rating for installation in protected marine locations where spray, washdown, and damp conditions are part of normal use.
• 12 V and 24 V DC compatible, with a 10.8 V to 31.2 V DC operating range for common marine electrical systems.
• Connection layout includes a 3-pin power connector, 10-pin RayNet connector, 25-pin RealVision MAX 3D transducer connector, and 11-pin 1 kW transducer connector.

Installation and setup

The RVM1600 is a black box module, so it is normally mounted away from the helm display in a dry, accessible area such as inside a console, electronics bay, or protected locker. Allow space for cable bends and service access, especially around the RayNet, power, and transducer connectors.

The module measures 299.4 mm wide, 84.4 mm deep, and 205.6 mm high including connectors, with a weight of 1.585 kg. Height including cable bend radius is 285.6 mm, which is useful to check before mounting it inside a tight cabinet or behind a panel.

Electrical and system integration

Power should be taken from a stable 12 V or 24 V DC supply with the correct circuit protection. The specified inline fuse rating is 5 A, and the thermal breaker rating is 5 A. Maximum current is 2.4 A peak and 1.2 A RMS at 12 V DC.

For network integration, the unit uses a RayNet connection to communicate with compatible Raymarine Axiom displays. The transducer choice determines which sonar functions are available, so the installed transducer and cable path should be checked before replacing an older module or planning a new installation.

Use cases on board

This sonar module is a strong match for fishing boats that use Raymarine Axiom displays and need more than basic depth sounder information. It is especially useful for anglers working reefs, wrecks, ledges, bait schools, or deeper water where SideVision, DownVision, 3D views, and 1 kW CHIRP readings each add a different piece of the picture.

It also fits larger recreational and light commercial helm layouts where the display space is already committed to navigation, radar, and engine data, but sonar processing can be handled cleanly by a dedicated module mounted out of sight.

What’s included

• RVM1600 3D CHIRP sonar module
• 1.5 m power cable
• 2 m RayNet female to RayNet female network cable
• Mounting screws M4.5 x 20, quantity 4
• Documentation