FD-F750EL Dual-Frequency 2D Forward-Looking Multi-beamimaging sonar

FD-F750EL

Miniature Active and Passive Front View Sonar

Technical Specification

1. Device Purpose

The FD-F750EL mini active-passive forward-looking sonar is a two-dimensional multi-beam imaging sonar that provides forward-looking acoustic vision in both clear and turbid water, enabling target detection, identification, collision avoidance, and obstacle detection. The FD-F750EL also features an optional passive direction-finding function, allowing the sonar to rapidly scan sound sources within a specified frequency band and estimate their azimuth.

2. Technical Specifications

2.1. Technical Specifications of Active Mode

(1) Center frequency: The standard frequency options are 375kHz, 400kHz, 700kHz, 750kHz, and 900kHz / 1.2MHz / 1.8MHz / 2.1MHz; other frequencies are customizable.

(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.

(1)Resolution: 2.5mm;

(2)Refresh rate (range-dependent): up to 40Hz (depending on distance and operating mode);

(3)Number of beams: 768;

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

(5)Maximum working water depth: 300m,500m, or 1.5km;

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

(7)Working blind spot: ≤0.3m;

(8)Collision Avoidance Mode (with collision avoidance option): The sonar displays the azimuth and distance of the top 10 strongest targets.

2.2. Technical Specifications of Passive Mode

(1)Frequency range: 10kHz to 200kHz;

(2)Single-frequency sweep bandwidth: 80kHz;

(3)Detection range: 2km (for a typical 37.5kHz beacon);

(4)Direction-finding accuracy: <5° (37.5kHz) and <3° (100kHz).

(5)Maximum frame rate: 40 fps;

2.3. Built-in Sensors (All the following are design specifications)

(1)Outputs the current water pressure;

(2)Measurement range: 0~3MPa or 0~20MPa;

(3)Accuracy ：5%+10kPa；

2.4. Electrical Interfaces

(1)Input voltage: 18 to 50VDC;

(2)Power consumption: The average power is approximately 16W, with peak power below 50W.

(3)Communication interface: 1100Mbps Ethernet port and 1 optional synchronous interface.

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

(5)External connectors: 1 waterproof 6-pin or 8-pin connector for transmitting network, synchronization, and power signals.

2.5. Mechanical Specifications

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

300m and 500m:120 (±1) x 50 (±1) x 113.5 (±3)mm;

1.5km type: 126 (±1) x 56 (±1) x 119.5 (±5) mm;

(2)Weight (air/water, excluding cable):

300m and 500m: approximately 840g/350g;

1.5km model: 1.3kg/700g;

(3)Installation: Secure with M4 screws at the base.

(4) Outer shell materials: aluminum alloy (300m and 500m models), titanium alloy (1.5km model);

(5)Surface treatment options: Surface oxidation (300m and 500m variants) or metal finish (1.5km variant).

(6)Internal non-magnetic design;

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

2.6. Data Interaction and Display Control

Users can control the sonar device through the following methods:

1. Our proprietary SapphireViewer display control software enables comprehensive sonar operation, compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac OS.

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

3. The company provides a free SDK, enabling users to develop their own software for operating sonar.

2.7. Technical Specifications of "Seven Properties"

2.7.1. Reliability

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

2.7.2. 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.

2.7.3. Testability

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

2.7.4. 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.

2.7.5. 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.

2.7.6. 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 requirements;  All connectors on the circuit board are securely fastened to prevent loosening caused by shock or vibration.

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

2.7.7. 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

FD-F750EL (300m and 500m working depth)

4. Connectors and Definitions

4.1. Connector and Description

The external cable adapter socket is mounted on the rear of the sonar system, connecting Ethernet, power supply, and synchronization (optional).

Three connector models are available: IE55-1206, SMCBH/IL6, and MCBH/IL8. The IE55-1206 model has the smallest footprint but requires plug socket combination or insertion plug for voltage resistance, and does not support wet plugging. The SMCBH6 model is slightly larger but supports wet plugging and end-face sealing. The MCBH8 model has the largest footprint but supports wet plugging, end-face sealing, and external synchronization input/output functions. (Default configuration is IE55-1206) The connectors are designed as follows:

4.2. Connector Pin Definitions

5. Coatings, Markings, Packaging and Transportation

5.1. Surface Treatment and Corrosion Protection

(1)The aluminum alloy model features a hard oxide surface that resists short-term seawater immersion. However, if the coating is damaged, seawater exposure may cause corrosion. In such cases, the device should be returned to the manufacturer for repainting or casing replacement. Additionally, the sacrificial anode behind the sonar must be replaced promptly if severely corroded.

(2)Titanium alloy models can withstand prolonged seawater immersion. However, seawater may gradually seep into the sonar's sealant, causing irreversible damage. For products requiring long-term underwater operation, please specify this requirement during ordering. Our company will then employ specialized materials and manufacturing processes.

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 water-tight cable (standard 5-meter length with sonar connector), and the instruction manual.

5.3. Transportation

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