Let’s Talk About Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery
The Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery is designed to transform your compatible Humminbird fish finder into a portable unit, offering anglers the flexibility to use their sonar equipment on various watercraft or even from the shore. This all-in-one kit includes a soft-sided carrying case, a rechargeable 12V battery with a smart charger, transducer and control head mounting hardware, and dedicated storage compartments. For years, I’ve been rigging up makeshift portable sonar setups for ice fishing and kayak trips, usually involving duct tape and a milk crate.
My biggest pain point was needing a truly portable solution for my Humminbird HELIX 5 when I was moving between my kayak, canoe, and borrowing a friend’s boat. I was tired of constantly transferring and re-wiring everything. The Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery offered a seemingly simple, clean, and integrated solution to my portability woes.
Upon unboxing the Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery, I was pleasantly surprised by the overall design. The soft-sided case appeared durable, and the internal compartments seemed well-organized. The battery felt substantial, and the inclusion of a smart charger was a definite plus.
Initially, I considered building my own portable setup using a hard case and a separate battery, but the all-in-one nature of the Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery won me over due to its convenience. Compared to other pre-built portable kits, the Humminbird system seemed to offer better value with its included battery and charger. My first impression was positive; I was excited to see if it would live up to its promise of easy portability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery on a local lake during a kayak fishing trip. The conditions were relatively calm, with clear skies and minimal wind. Setting up the Humminbird HELIX 5 in the case was straightforward using the included gimbal mount.
The portability factor was immediately noticeable; carrying the case down to the water was significantly easier than lugging around my old homemade setup. The battery powered the HELIX 5 for the entire 6-hour fishing trip without any issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery has proven to be a reliable companion on various fishing excursions. I’ve used it in rain, and while the case isn’t fully waterproof, it offered enough protection to keep the electronics dry. The case itself has held up well with no significant signs of wear and tear, though I am careful to keep it out of direct sunlight when not in use.
Cleaning the case is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my previous ad-hoc solutions, the Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery has significantly improved my overall fishing experience by making it easier to transport and use my fish finder. The battery continues to hold a charge well, and the smart charger ensures it’s always ready to go.
Breaking Down the Features of Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery
Specifications
- Compatibility: Compatible with Humminbird HELIX 7 Series, HELIX 5 Series, all 100 Series, all 300 Series, all 500 Series, all 600 Series, and all 700 Series fish finders. This wide compatibility ensures that many Humminbird users can easily adapt their existing units for portable use.
- Battery: Includes a rechargeable 12V, 9 Amp Hour gel-cell battery. The 9 Amp Hour battery provides ample power for extended fishing trips, allowing for several hours of continuous use.
- Charger: Features a smart charger for the 12V battery. The smart charger prevents overcharging, extending the battery’s lifespan and ensuring optimal performance.
- Case Material: Soft-sided portable bag with carry handle. The soft-sided design offers a good balance of protection and portability, making it easy to carry and store.
- Storage: Transducer, Battery, and Charger storage compartments. Dedicated compartments ensure that all components are securely stored and easily accessible.
- Mounting Hardware: Hardware and HELIX 5 & HELIX 7 Gimbal mounts included. The included mounting hardware allows for easy conversion of the transducer and control head to portable use.
- Color: Black. The black color is practical and helps to conceal dirt and grime.
These specifications collectively contribute to a user-friendly and reliable portable fish finding solution, making it easier to use sonar equipment in various fishing scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery performs its job admirably, providing a seamless transition from a permanently mounted fish finder to a portable one. It’s reliable, easy to use, and provides sufficient power for extended fishing trips. While the soft-sided case provides adequate protection, it’s not as robust as a hard case.
The only real weakness is the lack of complete waterproofing, meaning extra care is needed in heavy rain. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a portable fish finder kit.
Design & Ergonomics
The Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery is well-designed, with a focus on portability and ease of use. The materials used are durable enough for regular use, and the carry handle is comfortable. The layout of the compartments is intuitive. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery should last for several seasons. It’s relatively easy to maintain; cleaning the case is as simple as wiping it down with a damp cloth. Repairing any potential damage would likely involve replacing the entire case, but the individual components (battery, charger) are readily available if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery comes with all the necessary accessories to convert a compatible Humminbird fish finder into a portable unit, including the gimbal mount and battery charger. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the included mounting hardware is compatible with standard Humminbird transducers. You could potentially swap out the included battery for a higher-capacity one for even longer run times, assuming it fits within the battery compartment dimensions.
Pros and Cons of Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery
Pros
- All-in-one Solution: Includes everything needed to convert a compatible Humminbird fish finder into a portable unit. This eliminates the need to source individual components and ensures compatibility.
- Long Battery Life: The 9 Amp Hour battery provides ample power for extended fishing trips. Users can enjoy hours of continuous use without worrying about running out of power.
- Convenient Portability: The soft-sided case and carry handle make it easy to transport the fish finder. This is especially beneficial for anglers who fish from multiple watercraft or from the shore.
- Smart Charger: The included smart charger prevents overcharging, extending the battery’s lifespan. This ensures that the battery is always ready to go and performs optimally.
- Easy Setup: The included mounting hardware makes it easy to set up the fish finder in the case. Users can quickly and easily convert their existing unit for portable use.
Cons
- Not Fully Waterproof: The soft-sided case is not fully waterproof. Extra care is needed to protect the unit in heavy rain or splashing.
- Soft-Sided Case: While portable, the soft-sided case offers less protection than a hard case. This may be a concern for users who frequently transport their fish finder in rough conditions.
Who Should Buy Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery?
The Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery is perfect for anglers who frequently fish from multiple watercraft, such as kayaks, canoes, or rental boats. It’s also ideal for ice fishermen who want a portable sonar solution. Anyone wanting a simple way to transport and power their compatible Humminbird fish finder will appreciate this product.
Those who need a rugged, waterproof solution for harsh conditions should probably skip this product and opt for a hard case and separate power source. A must-have accessory would be a small waterproof bag to provide extra protection for the unit in heavy rain.
Conclusion on Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery
The Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery offers a convenient and reliable way to convert a compatible Humminbird fish finder into a portable unit. The all-in-one design, long battery life, and ease of use make it a valuable tool for anglers who fish from various watercraft. While not fully waterproof, it provides adequate protection for most fishing scenarios.
The price is justified by the included battery, charger, and mounting hardware, making it a worthwhile investment for serious anglers. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a simple and effective portable fish finder solution. Stop struggling with DIY setups and upgrade to the Humminbird PTC U2 Portable Soft Sided Carry Case w/Battery for a hassle-free fishing experience.