Simrad released s.v.24.7.1 for Matrix Sonars

A new software (v.24.7.1) for the latest Processor Units of SN90 and SN50 SIMRAD Matrix Sonars has been released. The updated Processor Unit software is controlling all functionality, Tx/Rx, interfacing with external peripherals and sensors, plus offering a modernized and simplified user interface. The new software introduces a lot of new functions and addresses some bugs which have been reported by our users or detected during our own product testing. We recommend that all users update their software. The following specific changes have been made with this latest update:

Trawl lines

Trawl lines have been added to the inspection view. The functionality is similar to the Simrad ES80 echo sounder.

Marker

If you operate your sonar system with a traditional computer mouse, you can now press the scroll wheel to place a marker on the sonar presentation.

New functionality added to the Tilt function which controls the vertical angle of the sonar beams.

Link Inspection Beams

This is an “on/off” switch. Activate Link Inspection Beams to “connect” all the inspection beams together. When the beams are linked, they are tilted simultaneously. The distance between each beam is fixed, and defined by the value you have chosen for Beam Spacing.

  • You can link the inspection beams for both vertical and horizontal movements.
  • You can not link both tilt and bearing at the same time.

Beam Spacing

Select a value for Beam Spacing to define the distance (in degrees) between the linked beams.

Apply to All

Check this box if you wish to use the chosen setting in all the Inspection views.

New functionality added to the Motion Reference Unit page.

The SIMRAD Omni Sonars are provided with a built-in motion sensor to provide electronic stabilization of the sonar beams. An external motion reference unit (MRU) may be used for improved operational accuracy. The MRU measures the roll and pitch movements of the vessel. Some external sensor models also measure heave. Users may now choose from several Motion Reference Unit sources.

Hull unit indicator

The hull unit indicator on the top bar flashes when the hull unit is being hoisted or lowered.

Note: applicable only to SN92HPX and SN93HPX versions with built-in Gear Monitoring Hydrophones.

New functionality added to the Operating Panels

  • Added Horizontal 3 range as an option for the rotary switch.
  • Added option Place Marker for push-down rotation switch (Mk2 and Mk3 operating panels).
  • Added option Delete All Objects to push-down rotation switch (Mk3) and push buttons for Mk2.
  • Added option Increase Display Gain and Decrease Display Gain for push buttons (Mk2 and Mk3 operating panels).
  • Added option Display Gain for rotary switches (Mk2 and Mk3 operating panels).

Coverage plot

We have added a coverage plot to the Vertical 2 ping in the Horizontal view.

 

The end-user documentation and online help for the SN90 and SN50 SIMRAD Matrix Sonars have been updated with the latest software release. The corresponding Reference Manuals are included with the software as context sensitive on-line help.

SIMRAD Matrix Sonars introduce an efficient tool for purse seiners and trawlers. A Matrix sonar, as opposed to an Omni sonar, has a fixed, square transducer where the elements are placed in a matrix pattern. The advantage is a focused coverage area in the direction the transducer is installed. Dubbed ‘five echo sounders in one’, the SN90 and SN50 provide unprecedented insights through five individually controlled inspection beams.

For trawlers, the forward&down-looking transducer, mounted on the bow, is shielded from acoustic interference from hull movement, machinery, and propellers. Its high resolution and extensive range help detect individual fish and schools from hundreds of meters away. With transducer that project a wide swath, the SIMRAD Matrix Sonars offer a powerful tool for long-range fish detection.

Purse seiners benefit greatly from the side-looking transducer installation, which enhances seine setting with comprehensive control. It requires no retraction due to the flush side hull mounting. The horizontal transducer beams cover almost all the area on the side of the vessel, while the vertical beam width spans 5 to 8 degrees, varying by frequency. This enables purse seiners to maintain a continuous overview of their school evaluation, catch and pursing operations.

 

For further information you may contact the Official Distributor and Support Center for Greece:

Aegean Electronics SA

4 Zosimadon Str, Piraeus 185 31, Greece

Tel: +30 210 4123000

E-mail: info@aegeanel.com