FD-F700L Miniature Front View Sonar

FD-F700L Miniature Front View Sonar

Technical Specification

1. Purpose of the Equipment

FD-F700L miniature forward-looking sonar is a low-cost, maintenance-free two-dimensional forward-looking multi-beam imaging sonar. It provides acoustic vision ahead of the carrier in both clear and turbid water bodies, enabling functions such as target detection and identification, collision avoidance, and obstacle detection. Its features include low cost, compact size, lightweight, and low power consumption.

The FD-F700L features a single-frequency design with multiple frequency bands including 700kHz, 900kHz, and 1.2MHz, with additional frequencies available for customization. Thanks to its specialized design and manufacturing process, this sonar is priced significantly lower than our other 2D multi-beam sonars and most comparable products on the market. Moreover, the sonar housing is entirely constructed from corrosion-resistant and low-water-permeability materials, enabling continuous operation in seawater for weeks without maintenance.

The FD-F700L features a 316 stainless steel casing with optional carbon fiber options. The carbon fiber variant offers enhanced lightweight performance, achieving zero or slight negative buoyancy in water while maintaining identical technical specifications.

The FD-F700L has a maximum working depth of 100 meters.

2. Technical Specifications

2.1. Sonar Technical Specifications

(1)Center frequency: The standard options are 700kHz, 900kHz, or 1.2MHz, with additional frequencies available upon request.

(2)For details on the detection range, central beam width, and opening angle, please refer to the table below (the maximum detection range applies to strong reflection targets such as rocks, coastlines, etc., under conditions of clear water, flat sandy seabed, good or moderate hydrological conditions, and a speed of <6 knots):

pour ：

1. The horizontal 3dB energy distribution angle of the target formed by the horizontal and vertical center points of the sonar is allowed to have an error of +10%/-30%.

2. The sonar's field of view. Large targets within this angle can be observed by sonar, but the resolution, clarity, and detection range at the edges may be lower than at the center.

3. The detection range of high reflectivity objects such as embankment and bridge pier in seawater under good hydrological conditions is about 1~2 times of that in fresh water under the same conditions.

★: Preferred frequency, usually available in stock.

(1)Distance resolution: 5mm;

(2)Range: 2~80 meters, continuously adjustable;

(3)Refresh rate: up to 25Hz (for 15 meters or shorter range);

2.1.1. General Sonar Indicators

(1)Number of beams: 256;

(2)Transmission mode: CW or CHIRP, with automatic or manual selection;

(3)Maximum operational water depth: 100 meters;

(4)Maximum operational speed: 6 knots. Exceeding this speed has no impact on functionality, but may reduce the detection range (design specification).

(5)Working blind spot: ≤0.3m;

2.2. Electrical Interfaces

(1)Input voltage: 18 to 50VDC;

(2)Power consumption: The average power is approximately 6W, with a peak power below 15W.

(3)Communication interface: 1100Mbps Ethernet port for transmitting sonar data and control signals.

(4)Communication Protocol: 'General Communication Protocol for Forward-looking Sonar Ethernet';

(5)External connectors: 1 waterproof connector for transmitting network and power signals;

2.3. Mechanical Specifications

(1) Volume (width*height*thickness, excluding connectors and cables):

(2)Approximately 66.5 (±1) × 137 (±3) mm (diameter × height) ;

(3)Weight (air/water, excluding cable): 700g/300g;

Carbon fiber shell version: 430g with negligible buoyancy.

(4)Installation: Secure with a clamp or M5 screws at the base.

(5)Outer shell materials: carbon fiber or 316 stainless steel, silicone rubber, composite materials;

(6)Surface treatment: None;

(7)Internal non-magnetic design;

(8)The surface is smooth without burrs or sharp edges.

2.4. Data Interaction and Display Control

users can control the sonar device through the following methods:

1.Our company's proprietary control software, SapphireViewer, enables comprehensive sonar operation and is compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac OS.

2.Access the built-in web server of sonar directly through browsers such as IE, Chrome, Firefox, and Safari to perform display and control operations. It supports multiple platforms including computers, smartphones, and tablets, as well as various operating systems. The drawback is the inability to record or replay local data.

3. Stream Sonar's content via the streaming media player;

4. The company provides an SDK, enabling users to develop their own software for operating sonar.

2.5. Technical Specifications of "Seven Properties"

2.5.1. Reliability

The mean time between failures (MTBF) of is ≥1000 hours (design specification).

2.5.2. Security

(1)Functional modules should be designed for easy replacement and structural disassembly.

(2)Provide all necessary spare parts, accessories, and consumables based on operational and maintenance requirements.

(3)Equipped with dedicated transport containers for easy transportation and storage.

2.5.3. Testability

Features a power-on self-check function, which enables fault localization and analysis to pinpoint the affected functional module when a malfunction occurs.

2.5.4. Maintainability

(1)The sonar lacks user repairability, requiring complete replacement after failure.

(2)For users, the manufacturer will provide free repairs for any non-human-induced or improper-use failures occurring within the first year of purchase.

(3)Manufacturers provide lifetime warranty and maintenance services.

2.5.5. Safety

(1)The features a power failure protection mechanism, ensuring that unexpected power loss does not compromise the performance of the forward-looking sonar. After a power outage, a 10-second delay before power restoration is implemented, maintaining normal sonar operation.

(2)The features high-voltage protection measures, with transient high voltage inside the sonar, ensuring no safety risks to operators during normal debugging and operation.

(3)When the transducer array is submerged in water, the device can be powered on normally without damaging the transducer array.

2.5.6. Environmental Adaptability

(1)Operating temperature: -10℃ to +50℃ (design specifications);

(2)Storage temperature: -40℃ to +70℃ (design specifications);

(3)The design should be simple in structure and shape, provided that the functional requirements and intended usage conditions are met.

(4)Select electronic components, wires, and standard parts that are resistant to extreme temperatures to meet environmental temperature requirements.

(5)All connectors mounted on the circuit board are secured to prevent loosening caused by shock or vibration.

(6)Circuit boards are treated with three-proof or potting processes (if required by the customer).

2.5.7. Electromagnetic Compatibility Requirements

(1)The electromagnetic compatibility design meets the self-compatibility of the system;

(2)Meet shielding requirements without interfering with other devices in the same system or electromagnetic environment, nor being affected by them.

3. Mechanical dimensions of appearance

4. Connectors and Definitions

4.1. Connector and Description

The external cable adapter socket is installed on the rear side of the sonar system, and the connector models are listed in the table below. The connectors support wet-mateable operation; however, underwater mating/unmating is not recommended. Prior to each connection, any water and contaminants on the connectors must be cleared, and silicone grease should be applied before mating.

4.2. Connector Pin Definitions

5. Coatings, Markings, Packaging and Transportation

5.1. Surface Treatment and Corrosion Protection

(1)The sonar surface is constructed from 316L stainless steel, composite materials, and silicone rubber, providing exceptional corrosion resistance.

(2)The sonar can operate continuously in seawater for weeks without maintenance. However, regular inspections are required to check for aquatic biofouling on the sonar surface and promptly remove it, as failure to do so may compromise its performance. Additionally, after each submersion, the device must be thoroughly rinsed with clean water and dried.

(3)Sonar should not be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods, as this may significantly reduce its lifespan.

(4)If you require products capable of long-term underwater operation, please specify this requirement during the ordering process. Our company will then utilize specialized materials and manufacturing techniques.

5.2. Packaging and Labeling

(1)The sonar uses polypropylene aviation boxes as its outer packaging, offering shockproof, waterproof, and drop-resistant features.

(2)The sonar model and specifications are printed on both the sonar surface and the packaging box, with a sonar nameplate affixed to the exterior of the box.

(3)The package includes: the sonar host, a 5-meter waterproof cable (standard with sonar connector), user manual, software USB drive, and test report.

5.3. Transportation

The sonar can be transported by common railway, highway and air.