Bill, you must use the T-connector (60/120 ohm terminator) when connecting the GPS puck to your unit. There's no way around that. There will also be an extension running from the terminator to the main unit. This extension is long, 16 feet I think. If you don't need the 16', just bundle it up and tie it up. You can't cut this extension to suit your needs as the internal protection is at either ends of the cable.
I don't know if these cables/terminator were supposed to be supplied with your unit. Lowrance has a tech support number on their site or in your installation manual. Use it, they are very efficient and helpful.
Hope this helps.