When it comes to bathymetric surveys, choosing the right echo sounder can make a significant difference. Whether it’s for environmental monitoring, dredging, or construction planning, SPH Engineering offers both single-frequency and dual-frequency drone-integrated echo sounders to help you get precise, reliable data, even in hard-to-reach or hazardous environments.
Understanding the Basics of Single vs. Dual Frequency Echo Sounders
At their core, echo sounders work by emitting sound waves and measuring the time it takes for them to reflect. This allows for accurate depth measurements that help map underwater topography. However, single-frequency and dual-frequency echo sounders have distinct characteristics:
- Single Frequency (e.g., ECT 400S)
Operating at a higher frequency, like 450 kHz, single-frequency echo sounders are optimized for hard bottom environments, including rocky and clay terrains. They’re effective for general depth measurements, making them a great choice for projects focused primarily on water depth without needing details on sediment layers.
- Dual Frequency (e.g., ECT D052S and ECT D024S)
Dual-frequency echo sounders, on the other hand, combine two frequencies, which gives them the flexibility to assess not only the hard bottom but also softer layers like sediment build-up. The ECT D052S model, for example, offers a 50/200 kHz frequency range, allowing for a broader measurement range (up to 200 meters) and more detailed analysis of sediment versus solid layers.
Which One is Right for Your Survey?
Your choice depends largely on the specifics of your project and the environment you’ll be working in.
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Single Frequency (ECT 400S)This model is ideal if your primary goal is to measure depth in relatively stable environments where sediment analysis is not a priority. It’s lightweight (approximately 1.6 kg with light housing), easy to deploy, and highly efficient for shallow, obstacle-prone areas, like small lakes or rivers.
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Dual Frequency (ECT D052S or ECT D024S)If your project requires detailed analysis of sediments alongside depth measurements, a dual-frequency model is the better choice. With two frequency bands, dual-frequency sensors offer flexibility for more complex terrains, distinguishing between sediment and solid bed layers. This versatility is especially useful for environmental studies, sediment analysis, and scenarios where detailed profiling is needed.
| Feature | ECT 400S | ECT D052S | ECT D024S |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frequency Type | Single Frequency | Dual Frequency | Dual Frequency |
| Frequencies | 450 kHz | 50 kHz / 200 kHz | 200 kHz / 450 kHz |
| Measurement Range | 0.15 – 100 m | 1.0 – 200 m (50 kHz), 0.5 – 200 m (200 kHz) | 0.5 – 200 m (200 kHz), 0.15 – 100 m (450 kHz) |
| Beam Width | Conical 5° | Conical 27° (50 kHz) / 7° (200 kHz) | Conical 10° (200 kHz) / 5° (450 kHz) |
| Weight | 1.6 kg (light housing), 2.6 kg (heavy housing) | 2.7 kg | 2.4 kg |
| Sediment Measurement | No | Yes | Yes |
| Integrated Tilt Sensor | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Integrated Temperature Sensor | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Compatible Drones | DJI M210 (light housing), DJI M300/M350 RTK, DJI M600 Pro | DJI M300/M350 RTK, DJI M600 Pro | DJI M210 (light housing), DJI M300/M350 RTK, DJI M600 Pr |
Key Points:
- ECT 400S: Best suited for straightforward depth measurements where sediment differentiation isn’t needed.
- ECT D052S: Ideal for detailed sediment and depth analysis with a broader range, making it versatile for environmental monitoring.
- ECT D024S: A balanced option for projects needing dual-frequency capabilities with slightly lighter weight and dual frequency.
Why Choose Skyline Drones for Bathymetric Surveys?
At Skyline Drones, we use SPH Engineering’s cutting-edge, drone-integrated echo sounders to bring unparalleled precision and efficiency to your bathymetric projects. Our system combines advanced sensors, the SkyHub onboard computer, radar altimeters, and UgCS ground control software, making data collection straightforward and effective. This integration allows us to conduct bathymetric surveys in challenging environments—like shallow waters with heavy vegetation or contaminated areas—where traditional boat-based methods fall short.
Our drone system not only accelerates deployment but also ensures precise, stable flight paths for accurate data, no matter the conditions. With Skyline Drones, you get reliable, high-quality bathymetric data delivered with speed and safety.
Conclusion
Choosing between single and dual-frequency echo sounders comes down to your project’s depth measurement needs and environmental conditions. SPH Engineering’s offerings, whether single or dual frequency, are designed to give you robust, precise data for any bathymetric challenge.
Explore SPH Engineering’s Echo Sounders and discover more bathymetry products tailored for your projects. Visit La Orizont to learn more!
Want to Learn More About Our Bathymetric Solutions?
Check out our latest article, “Navigating the Depths: A Comparison Between Z-Boats and YellowScan Navigator for Professional Drone Services,” where we dive into the tech behind our bathymetric capabilities. Discover how our tools make a difference in precision and performance.
