Marine Electronics Q&A with BOE Marine - idiot-proof my simrad/lowrance purchase

Jim,
I currently have a Simrad NSS8, B60 ducer, and LSS1 module on my 24' CC with soft t-top. Other than ethernet, I do not have any network set up. My VHF is wired to the NSS via NMEA0183 plug. I would like to take advantage of your present sale and purchase the following:

1) Lowrance HDS8 Gen 2.
2) Lowrance or Simrad 3G radar.
3) Raymarine S1000 autopilot.

Questions:
A) Can you advise what connections, network expansions, etc I would need. My understanding with the LSS1 is that I get 3 ethernet ports. I'm hoping I can connect the radar + 2 screens using just the LSS1 ethernet, and then just use the NMEA0183 output from the HDS8 to speak to the S1000.

B) Any reason I don't save a few bucks by using the Lowrance radar? I would like to be able to view this on both the NSS and HDS screens.

C) To add chart overlay, I'd need the R10 interface box, heading sensor, and NMEA2000 network, right?

D) Can you recommend a dome mount (I assume I want to bolt to tubing on my soft-top).

E) Anything else I'm about to screw up without realizing it?

Q) Can you advise what connections, network expansions, etc I would need. My understanding with the LSS1 is that I get 3 ethernet ports. I'm hoping I can connect the radar + 2 screens using just the LSS1 ethernet, and then just use the NMEA0183 output from the HDS8 to speak to the S1000.

A - I would suggest the Lowrance radar. You will just need one additional ethernet cable to connect the HDS8. The LSS1 will act as the hub. You should get a nmea2000 starter kit and an extra cable and T to connect it all via N2K too.

Q) Any reason I don't save a few bucks by using the Lowrance radar? I would like to be able to view this on both the NSS and HDS screens.

A - The Lowrance dome will be fine

Q) To add chart overlay, I'd need the R10 interface box, heading sensor, and NMEA2000 network, right?

A - The RI10 is only for target tracking which is useless for most people. You just need a heading sensor. Its called the RC42. You'll need a simnet to NMEA 2000 adapter too.

Q) Can you recommend a dome mount (I assume I want to bolt to tubing on my soft-top).

A - Would need to see the boat. Common sense prevails here. You can often bolt a mounting plate in place. Or maybe weld one in place.

Thanks Jim. One follow-up question.

Assuming I don't add the rate compass now, what benefit do I receive by setting up the N2K network at this stage instead of just connecting via ethernet?

There is nothing gained by setting up nmea2000 at this point.