RealVision 3D Bronze Thru-Hull Transducer (RV-212 / RV-220)

A80466 corresponds to the Raymarine RV-212P RealVision 3D Bronze Transducer (Port side, 12° tilt), part of Raymarine’s flagship sonar lineup. Here we provide a general overview that applies to both the 12° RV-212 and 20° RV-220 bronze transducers – they differ only in tilt angle, while functionality remains the same. This bronze transducer is a single through-hull unit from the RealVision 3D range, meant for installation on one side of a boat’s hull (either port or starboard). Typically, it works as half of a pair: one port and one starboard transducer form the complete 3D sonar system for vessels with V-shaped hulls. However, in cases of damage, upgrade, or expansion, part numbers like A80466 allow you to purchase individual units as needed.

RealVision 3D capabilities: This transducer houses the four CHIRP sonar channels integral to the RealVision 3D technology:

• DownVision™: For high-resolution photo-like imaging directly beneath the boat.
• SideVision™: For looking out to the sides (port and starboard) scanning the water and seabed horizontally.
• High-Frequency CHIRP (fishfinder): For conventional fish finding and depth, using a conical beam.
• RealVision 3D™: For combining all of the above with motion sensing to create a three-dimensional representation of the underwater environment.

AHRS Stabilization: Built into the bronze transducer is an AHRS (Attitude and Heading Reference System) sensor – essentially accelerometers and gyros. This measures the boat’s pitch, roll, and yaw in real time. Raymarine’s system uses this data to stabilize the sonar returns. For example, if your boat pitches in waves, the AHRS helps adjust the sonar imagery so the 3D model doesn’t tilt with the boat – it stays oriented correctly. In practical terms, this means your 3D view remains accurate and easy to interpret even in less-than-calm conditions, a major advantage for data reliability.

Element Tilt Options:

• The RV-212 (12°) bronze transducer has an internal element tilted by 12 degrees relative to the mounting base. This is optimal for moderate V-hulls – roughly 6° to 18° deadrise. When installed on such a hull section, its beams point straight down. This covers the majority of typical hull shapes in recreational boats.
• The RV-220 (20°) bronze transducer has a 20° tilted element, aimed at steeper deadrise hulls (~13° to 25°). This is used for deep-V designs so that even on a steep angle, the transducer’s beams are vertical.

Rugged Construction & Installation: The bronze RealVision transducers are built tough:

• Material: Marine bronze, which stands up to years of submersion and resists corrosion. It’s the go-to for through-hulls on boats that stay in the water long-term or operate in harsh conditions.
• Design: Low-profile and nearly flush with the hull, reducing drag and protecting the unit from snags. An included anti-rotation bolt secures the transducer body, preventing it from spinning or backing out due to water force.
• Hull compatibility: Best suited for fiberglass or wooden hulls (bronze is traditionally not used on metal hulls without precautions). If installing on an aluminum hull, proper isolation (like a plastic sleeve or spacer) must be used between the bronze and the hull to prevent galvanic issues, or the stainless steel series transducers should be considered.

Use cases for individual purchase:

• Replacement: If one of your RealVision 3D transducers (port or starboard) gets damaged, you can replace just that one instead of buying a full set again. This is a cost-effective way to maintain your system’s performance.
• Expansion: If you initially installed only a single RealVision bronze transducer (for example, some flat-bottom boats might run one transducer in the center as a compromise) and later decide to go full 3D with a second transducer, you can add another single unit to complete the pair.
• Custom setups: In unique scenarios, an installer might mount a single transducer on a smaller vessel or alongside other equipment. While two are recommended for full functionality, one will still operate and provide partial 3D/sonar data (just with a reduced side view on the opposite side). Having singles available gives flexibility to design a system that fits unique needs.

Important: To harness the complete RealVision 3D sonar experience, your Raymarine display or sonar module must support 3D (e.g., Axiom Pro RVX, Axiom 2 Pro RVM, or an external RVX1000 module). A single transducer will feed data, but for the full 3D effect, inputs from both port and starboard are required. When only one transducer is connected, the system runs in a “single transducer mode” – you’ll still get DownVision, fishfinder, and SideVision to one side, and a partial 3D view (the opposite side will have a blind spot).

Advantages:

• Modular Serviceability: Raymarine’s offering of these transducers individually speaks to their commitment to after-sales service. It allows boat owners to keep their advanced sonar system running without a hitch, replacing only what’s needed. This is particularly important for commercial users or avid anglers who can’t afford downtime.
• Full RealVision Feature Set: Each bronze transducer carries the entire feature set – you don’t compromise on capabilities. So if you replace a unit, the new one gives you exactly the same advanced sonar functions and quality as the original.
• High Reliability: The bronze variant is engineered for reliability and longevity. It is slightly heavier and sturdier than the plastic counterpart, often chosen by those who operate in challenging environments (ice, debris, heavy seas) and want the most robust option.
• Precision in Installation: Offering two tilt angles ensures that installers and boat owners can choose a transducer that perfectly matches their hull’s geometry. This eliminates performance loss due to sub-optimal angles. Raymarine provides clear guidelines on which model suits which deadrise range, making selection straightforward and installation results optimal.

In essence, the RealVision 3D Bronze Thru-Hull Transducer (RV-212/RV-220) is the premium choice for those who demand the ultimate sonar technology and durability from Raymarine. Whether you are replacing a port/starboard unit or adding one to enhance your system, this transducer delivers exceptional underwater vision and is built to last. It ensures that your Raymarine RealVision 3D system continues to run at peak performance, giving you unparalleled insight below the waves, year after year.