Simrad, compatible transducer?

[vic008]

If I replace my Simrad cruise chartplotter do I have to worry about transducer compatibily. Bloody thing wont answer to any button push

 

[Daverw]

My Lowrence was ok for my new B&G plotter as they are both Navico, transducers and radar etc, Simrad is also Navico and much is compatible with each, I’ve seen cable adapters for fitting transducers to various models available

 

[ChromeDome]

Depends a lot. There are several transducer types and technical designs so you might have to ask Navico

 

[KompetentKrew]

If I replace my Simrad cruise chartplotter do I have to worry about transducer compatibily. Bloody thing wont answer to any button push

How naive I was to think this would "obviously" be connected by NMEA 0183 or NMEA 2000.

 

[ChromeDome]

When alluding to several transducer types and technical designs you need to check compatibility with, I was thinking that you should consider the below before talking to people selling this kind of equipment:


Types of Sounder Transducers

1. Single Beam Transducers: These are basic and emit a single beam of sound waves directly below the vessel, suitable for shallow-water surveys.
2. Dual Frequency Transducers: These operate at two frequencies simultaneously, typically one for shallow water and another for deeper water, providing versatility and improved depth penetration.
3. Multibeam Transducers: These emit multiple beams in a fan-shaped pattern, allowing for wide-area mapping of the seafloor and high-resolution bathymetric data.
4. Side Scan Sonar Transducers: Specialized for creating detailed images of the seafloor and detecting underwater objects, these are mounted on the sides of vessels.

In summary, the variety of sounder transducers is extensive, with many manufacturers producing multiple models tailored to specific marine needs. The choice of transducer depends on the intended application, such as fishing, surveying, or navigation.

Sounder transducers operate at various frequencies, typically measured in kilohertz (kHz), which correspond to the number of sound wave cycles per second. Here are the key frequencies commonly used:

Common Frequencies

1. 50 kHz:
   • Best for deep water applications.
   • Provides greater penetration and a wider coverage area, making it suitable for detecting fish and structures at significant depths.
2. 83 kHz:
   • Often used for shallow to medium depths.
   • Offers a wider cone angle, allowing for broader area coverage.
3. 200 kHz:
   • Ideal for shallow water due to its higher resolution.
   • Produces clearer images and better target separation but has a narrower coverage area compared to lower frequencies.
4. 455 kHz and 800 kHz:
   • Used in advanced imaging systems like Lowrance Structure Scan.
   • These higher frequencies provide detailed images of the seafloor and are effective in shallow waters.
5. CHIRP (Compressed High-Intensity Radiated Pulse):
   • A technology that uses a range of frequencies rather than a single frequency, enhancing target discrimination and depth penetration.

Summary of Frequency Characteristics

• Lower Frequencies (50 kHz): Greater depth penetration, wider coverage, less detail.
• Higher Frequencies (200 kHz and above): More detail and resolution, narrower coverage, less effective at depth.

Choosing the right frequency depends on the specific marine application, such as fishing or surveying, and the water conditions being navigated.

Types of Transducer Mounts

1. Transom Mounts:
   • These are attached to the back (stern) of the boat and are suitable for most recreational vessels. They often come with adjustable brackets to ensure proper positioning below the waterline.
2. Through-Hull Mounts:
   • Installed through the hull of the boat, these mounts provide a permanent solution and are ideal for vessels that require a more streamlined profile. They typically require careful installation to avoid leaks.
3. In-Hull Mounts:
   • These are placed inside the hull, usually in a water- or oil-filled chamber, allowing for the transducer to operate without being exposed to the elements. This type is often used in fiberglass boats.
4. Flush Mounts:
   • Designed for racing sailboats and other applications where a smooth hull surface is critical. These require special tools for installation and are less obtrusive.
5. Arm Mounts:
   • These mounts allow for flexible positioning of the transducer, often used in kayak or small boat applications. They can be adjusted easily to achieve the best angle and depth for optimal readings.
6. Clamp Mounts:
   • These are versatile mounts that can be attached to various surfaces without permanent installation, making them suitable for temporary setups.

Installation Considerations

• Proper positioning is crucial to avoid turbulent water flow and ensure unobstructed sound wave transmission. The transducer should be mounted at a depth that keeps it submerged and aligned correctly for accurate readings.
• Adaptability: Many mounts are designed to accommodate different types of transducers, ensuring compatibility across various brands and models.

NMEA 0183 and 2000

• Transducers that support NMEA protocols allow for the transmission of critical data such as depth, speed, and temperature. If connecting older systems to new, an NMEA adapter is needed.
• NMEA communication include
  
  • GGA: Global Positioning System Fix Data
  • RMC: Recommended Minimum Specific GPS/Transit Data
  • DBT: Depth below the transducer
  • DPT: Depth data
  • VTG: Track made good and ground speed

It's worth noting that several manufacturers use their own software in addition to NMEA for advanced sonar functions, meaning you have to use the same brand of display and transducer to get all display functions and interaction. One can't help but suspect that this is also done to retain customers for their own brand, which challenges the whole ethos of NMEA.

The same is seen when, for example, an autopilot needs to be upgraded via download to the plotter, which pushes the data to the AP. Ostensibly to ensure that all devices are upgraded to the same version.