Simrad PI44 User Manual

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Operator manual

Simrad PI44 Catch monitoring system

www.simrad.com

M A X I M I Z I N G Y O U R P E R F O R M A N C E A T S E A

(CD11035E)

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44

Catch monitoring system

Operator manual

Important notice

Operation of the PI44 catch monitoring system

assumes that the communication between the

Operator Unit and the sensors is fully functional.

Ensure that the communication channels and update

rates defined on the Operator Unit matches those of

the sensors.

About this document

Rev Date Written by Checked by Approved by

Rev.B

02.12.05 RBr KR KR

Revised for SW version 0.40. New function Trawl Calculator implemented.

reproduced or otherwise copied without prior permission from Simrad AS. The information contained in this document is subject to change without prior notice.

Simrad AS shall not be liable for errors contained herein, or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with the furnishing, performance, or use of this document.

The equipment to which this manual applies must only be used for the purpose for which itwasdesigned.Improperuseormaintenancemay causedamagetotheequipmentorinjury topersonnel. The usermustbefamiliar with the contentsof the appropriate manuals before attempting to operate or work on the equipment. Simrad AS disclaims any responsibility fordamageorinjurycausedbyimproperinstallation,useormaintenanceoftheequipment.

If you require maintenance on your Simrad equipment, contact your local dealer. You can also contact Simrad using the following e-mail address: fish-support@simrad.com

Sections

1Introduction

This section introduces the PI44 catch monitoring system operator manual. Refer to page 1.

2 System description

This section provides a general introduction to the PI44 catch monitoring system and the units in use. Refer to page 3.

3 Getting started

This section provides general guidelines to help you get started with the PI44 catch monitoring system. Refer to page 9.

4 Applications

This section gives an overview of the various applications that the PI44 can offer. Refer to page 25.

Operator manual

5 Display modes

This section gives an in--depth description of all the display presentations. Refer to page 32.

6 Operational procedures

This section provides detailed procedures to guide you through the most common functions. Refer to page 55.

7 Practical use of the sensors

This section describes how to install and use each sensor type. Both PI and PS sensors are described and explained. Refer to page 103.

8 Sensor chargers

This section describes how to install and use the sensor chargers.Refer to page

164.

9Menusystem

This section allows you to access the refer ence information from the menu structure. Refer to page 169.

10 References

This section details the various setup pages, those selected from the menu system and those accessed from the display presentation. Refer t o page 173.

11 PI Configurator

This section explains how to use the PI Configurator utility to change the sensor’s communication channel and update r ate. Refer to page 226.

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Simrad PI44

12 Sensor test procedures

This section provides simple test procedureyou can use to verify thethe sensors are working properly. Refer to page 265.

13 Technical specifications

This section provides the basic technical specifications. Refer to page 285.

14 Software updates

If you need to upgrade the software in your PI44 Operator Unit, the necessary procedures can be found here. Refer to page 291.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Operator manual

INTRODUCTION 1..............................................

SYSTEM DESCRIPTION 3......................................

System diagram 4..........................................

Operator Unit 5...........................................

Hull mounted and portable hydrophones 6......................

Sensor overview 7.........................................

Battery chargers 8..........................................

GETTING STARTED 9...........................................

How to switch power on and off 10.............................

Introducing the presentation principles 11........................

Defining initial presentation pages 13...........................

Introduction to the main menu 16..............................

Introduction to the keypad 17.................................

Introducing the sensors 20....................................

APPLICATION EXAMPLES 25....................................

Purse seine 26..............................................

Danish seine 27............................................

Bottom trawl 28............................................

Pelagic trawl 29............................................

Echo sounder 30............................................

Graphic display 31..........................................

DISPLAY PRESENTATIONS 32..................................

Numeric display 33.........................................

Graphic display 41..........................................

Surface temperature 45.......................................

Status display 46...........................................

Echo sounder display 50.....................................

Highway display 53.........................................

Position display 54..........................................

OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES 55................................

Overview 55...............................................

How to define sensor presentation 56...........................

How to set up the sensors 58..................................

How to mount the sensors on the net 61.........................

How to use the sensors 62....................................

How to replace the sacrificial water switch 63....................

How to test the sensors 64....................................

How to calibrate the Depth sensor 65...........................

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III

Simrad PI44

How to define sensor offsets 66................................

How to set up a Twin Spread sensor for twin trawl applications 67....

How to set up two Twin Spread sensors for dual twin trawl 72.......

How to access graphic display parameters 79.....................

How to view echo sounder data 80.............................

How to set up marker lines 81.................................

Special features for trawl marker lines 86........................

How to access echo sounder parameters 88.......................

How to use visual aids and filters 89............................

How to define echo sounder range 91...........................

How to zoom in on bottom echoes 93...........................

How to zoom in on pelagic echoes 94...........................

How to enable A-Scope presentation 95.........................

How to define alarm limits 96.................................

How to select menu language 99...............................

How to control automatic page rotation 100.......................

How to restore default settings 101..............................

How to personalize your system 102.............................

PRACTICAL USE OF THE SENSORS 103..........................

Sensor configuration 104......................................

PI Bottom Contact sensor 107..................................

PS Bottom Contact sensor 111.................................

PI Catch sensor 115..........................................

PS Catch sensor 120..........................................

PI Depth sensor 124..........................................

PS Depth sensor 129.........................................

PI Height sensor 134.........................................

PI Rip sensor 138............................................

PI Spread and Remote sensors 143..............................

PI Twin Spread 148..........................................

PI Temperature sensor 153.....................................

PS Temperature sensor 159....................................

SENSOR CHARGERS 164..........................................

Overview 164...............................................

PI Charger 165..............................................

PS30 Charger 167...........................................

MENU SYSTEM 169................................................

The main menu 170..........................................

Echo quick menu 172.........................................

850-165085 / Rev.B

Operator manual

REFERENCES 173..................................................

Setup map 174..............................................

Depth calibration 176.........................................

Echo presentation setup 177....................................

Echo sounder setup 180.......................................

Factory presets 183..........................................

Graphic setup 184...........................................

Interface setup 187...........................................

Marker line setup 197.........................................

Navigation setup 200.........................................

Numeric setup 202...........................................

Offset adjust 203............................................

Page setup 204..............................................

Palette setup 205............................................

Position display setup 206.....................................

Quick guide 207.............................................

Receiver setup 208...........................................

Sensor alarms 211...........................................

Sensor setup 215............................................

Speed setup 217.............................................

Status setup 218.............................................

Surface temperature setup 219..................................

Temperature setup 220........................................

Trawl calculator 221..........................................

Trawl info setup 223.........................................

Units setup 225..............................................

PI CONFIGURATOR 226..........................................

Purpose 226................................................

Basic information 227........................................

About sensor configuration 229.................................

Main dialogue description 231..................................

Operational procedures 233....................................

References 240..............................................

Maintenance 261............................................

SENSOR TEST PROCEDURES 265.................................

Overview 265...............................................

Bottom Contact test procedure 266..............................

Spread & Remote sensors test procedure 269......................

Catch sensor, test procedure 273................................

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Simrad PI44

Depth sensor, test procedure 276................................

Temperature sensor, test procedure 279...........................

Height sensor, test procedure 282...............................

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 285...............................

Sensors 286................................................

SOFTWARE UPDATES 291........................................

Overview 291...............................................

DSP Software upgrade 292....................................

MMI Software upgrade 296....................................

PI DSP Upload 299..........................................

INDEX 300.........................................................

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Operator manual

Sensors

Use this table to write down the sensors you use on your PI44 catch monitoring system.

Sensor

type

Serial

number

Communication

channel

Update

rate

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VII

Simrad PI44

Sensors

Use this table to write down the sensors you use on your PI44 catch monitoring system.

Sensor

type

Serial

number

Communication

channel

Update

rate

VIII

850-165085 / Rev.B

INTRODUCTION

The Simrad PI44 is an integration of proven commercial fishing technologies which can dramatically increase the yield and effectiveness of purse/danish seining and bottom/pelagic trawling applications.

By means of six underwater sensors mounted on the gear, this robust, maintenance-free catch monitoring system allows unparalleled control over fishing operations by providing continuous, centralised information on the vessel’s position, its gear and the environment at and below the surface.

This manual is not intended to be read from cover to cover, but is designed as a book of references that you can consult whenever necessary.

This manual describes PI44 software version 0.40.

Introduction

Topics

→ System description, page 3 → Getting started, page 9 → Applications, page 25 → Display modes, page 32 → Operational procedures, page 55 → Sensors, page 103 → Menu system, page 169 → References, page 173 → PI Configurator, page 226 → Sensor test procedures, page 265 → Software updates, page 291

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44

Changes to this manual

The following changes have been made to this manual.

Rev.A

This was the original issue.

Rev.B

Operational procedures: Additional procedures added. Sensors: “PI Twin Spread” and “Sensor configuration” chapters

added.

Software update: This is a new section. New software version: SW 0.40 implemented. New function

“Trawl calculator” described.

850-165085 / Rev.B

SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

The Simrad PI44 catch monitoring system consists of an operator station, a hydrophone and an optional echo sounder transducer. The hydrophone and the transducer are both mounted under the vessel’s hull. The system further comprises a number of small and robust sensors measuring the conditions on your fishing gear.

The PI44 catch monitoring system can work with six sensors simultanously.

The sensors are powered by built-in rechargeable batteries. They are housed in titanium casings, and designed using advanced shock absorbing materials. The information collected by the sensors are sent through the water to the hydrophone by means of coded sound waves. From the hydrophone, the signals are sent to the operator unit, which decodes the information, interprets it, and finally present it to you.

System description

Topics

→ System diagram, page 4 → Operator unit, page 5 → Hydrophones, page 6 → Sensors overview, page 7 → Battery chargers, page 8

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44

System diagram

(A) = Operator Unit (B) = PI charger (C) = Hydrophone

(provides communication with the sensors)

(D) = Optional echo sounder transducer. Several types are available.

(E) = Sensors mounted on the net. Maximum six sensors may be used simultanously, and several types are available.

(F) = Interfaces to external sensors (serial lines, NMEA format)

(G) = DC power input

850-165085 / Rev.B

System description

Operator Unit

The PI44 Operator Unit is a marine grade electronic instrument incorporating an impact resistant polycarbonate front panel, die-cast aluminium housing and watertight electrical connections.

The PI44 electronics are sealed in the operator unit allowing the it to be flush or bracket mounted in the wheelhouse or at an exposed control station.

Computed information is displayed in both numerical and graphical form on the display. The unit is operated using drop-down menus and an integrated keypad.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44

Hull mounted and portable hydrophones

Two hull mounted hydrophones are available, one for purse seining operations, and one for trawl operations. You can install both, and then select active hydrophone by means of a selector box on the bulkhead.

Purse seining: The hull mounted hydrophone for purse seining operations has a 90 degrees horizontal beam and a 30 degrees vertical beam to provide the PI44 with optimal reception from the sensors. This specific beam pattern is especially suited for purse seining and the wide coverage area reduces the need for careful alignment.

Trawling: The hull mounted hydrophone for trawling operations has a 50 degrees horizontal beam and a 30degrees vertical beam to provide the PI44 with optimal reception from the sensors. This specific beam pattern is especially suited for trawling and the wide coverage area reduces the need for careful alignment.

(CD5582)

Portable: A portable hydrophone is also available. It is designed as a temporary measure until a fixed hydrophone can be installed at the vessel’s next planned dry docking. It has an omni-directional beam and a 50 meter integrated cable which is sheathed in polyurethane providing robust external protection to compliment its 150 kg tensile strength. The cable is supplied on a reel for convenient retrieval and stowage, and is equipped with a plug for easy attachment to the Operator Unit.

850-165085 / Rev.B

System description

Sensor overview

This chapter provides a very short description of each sensor.

• Depth sensor - The Depth sensor provide information about

the current depth as well as the descending or ascending rate related to the surface.

• Catch sensor - The Catch sensor provides information about

the amount of catch in the trawl. The sensor monitors the opening of the meshes in the cod-end, and will activate once the caught volume pulls the detector wire. To monitor the filling rate, you are adviced to use minimum two sensors.

• Bottom Contact sensor - The Bottom Contact sensors

detects if a trawl is accidentally lifted off the seabed, or a purse seine is touching the bottom.

• Rip sensor - The Rip sensor provides an immediate warning

when the net is ripped.

• Temperature sensor - Temperature sensors read and transmit

the ambient water temperature at the gear depth.

• Height sensor - The Height sensor contains s small echo

sounder to measure the current depth related to the seabed.

• Spread & Remote sensor - These sensor always work in

pairs, and they measure the distance betwen the trawl doors. You can also use two Remote sensors if you run a twin trawl.

The use of separate communication channels for the individual sensors allows you to use your sensors in the vincinity of other vessels using PI or PS sensors. The communication channels can be defined and/or changed onboard your vessel using a standard computer and the PI Configurator utility.

Related topics

→ More information about the sensors, page 20 → How to use the sensors, page 103

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44

Battery chargers

All sensors are power by internal batteries, and these need charging at regular intervals. The Simrad chargers have been designed to allow the sensors to be stored in charging positions whenever they are not used, and “overcharging” will not take place. Either of the two charger types can be used on any of the sensors, but the PI Charger will only provide fast charging on the PI Sensors.

PS30 Charger

Three different Simrad PS30 Chargers are available depending on the vessel’s main power supply; 230 Vac, 110 Vac and +24 Vdc.

PI Charger

The PI Charger will provide fast charging of the new PI sensor series. The Simrad PI Charger requires a +12 to +32 Vdc power supply.

Related topics

→ PI Charger, page 165 → PS30 Charger, page 167

850-165085 / Rev.B

GETTING STARTED

This section contains an brief overview of the basic system operation. If you are a first time user, we recommend that you read through this chapter while operating the PI44 so that you can familiarize yourself with the buttons, menus and display presentations.

In order to navigate the menu structures and display presentations, you need to know the most important buttons.

MENU: Press to access the main menu. Press again to close it. ENT: Press to apply the changes you have requested. Selector pad (circular): Press along the edges to move the

cursor. PAGE: Leaf through the predefined display pages. Each page

can contain one, two or four separate windows. You can have four different presentation pages active simultanously, and use this button to access them.

Getting started

WIN: Press to select active window on the current presentation page. Each page can have one, two or four windows. The active window is identified with a red border.

ADJ: Press to access the setup parameters for the current presentation.

Topics

→ How to switch power on and off, page 10 → Introducing the presentation principles, page 11 → Defining initial presentation pages, page 13 → Introducing the main menu, page 16 → Introducing the keypad, page 17 → Introducing the sensors, page 20

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44

How to switch power on and off

Observe the following procedure to switch the PI44 on and off.

Power on

1 Press and hold the PWR button until the display is

switched on.

2 Observe that the start-up page appears. 3 Press ENT to start normal operations.

If you press PAGE you will access the built-in “Quick guide”. Once opened, use the two GAIN buttons to leaf through the pages, and then MENU or ENT to exit. If you wish to access the “Quick guide” later, you can find it on the Setup menu.

When you power up the PI44, it will automatically assume operation using the most recent page mode.

Power off

1 Press the PWR buttontocalluptheLight and power

dialogue.

2 Press and hold the PWR button to switch off the PI44.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Getting started

Introducing the presentation principles

Observe the following description and procedures to understand how the presentation principles apply.

Pages and Windows

The PI44 display is set up with four different presentation pages. You can leaf through these pages by pressing the PAGE button in the lower left corner of the keypad.

Each page can be set up to display one, two or four windows. Each of these windows can then be set up to present the information of your choice.

When you set up a page to contain more than one window, you can select the active window using the WIN button. The active window is identified with a red border.

To set up a presentation page

This procedure explains how to set up a page using the main menu and the WIN button.

1 Press the MENU button to open the main menu. 2 Observe the WIN symbol in the top right corner of the

display.

3 Press the WIN button one or more times to select how

many windows you wish to use on the presentation page, and which window you wish to active.

- The blue fields in the WIN symbol symbolises the page

configuration.

- The information you choose to display during this session will be placed in the corresponding window on the current page.

4 Use the selector tab, and move the cursor to the Fishery

menu.

5 Select one of the options on the menu.

- If a menu option is shown with red print, it means that the information can not be displayed with the currently selected window size. Use the WIN buttontoselecta new window size.

- You can also select the menu option using the corresponding alphanumerical button. You might find that easier to do!

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6 Press the ENT button.

- The PI44 will return to the previous page, and the information you chose on the Fishery menu will appear in the selected window.

Simrad PI44

If you change your page configuration from full screen (one window) to two or four windows, you may see that one or more windows will not display any information. If this is the case, observe the procedure below.

To define window information

This procedure explains how to set up the information in a window using the WIN button and the main menu.

1 If your current page contains more than one window, press

the WIN button to select active window.

- The active window is identified by its red border.

2 Press the MENU button to open the main menu. 3 Use the selector tab, and move the cursor to the Fishery

menu.

4 Select one of the options on the menu.

- If a menu option is shown with red print, it means that the information can not be displayed with the currently selected window size. Select an other presentation.

- You can also select the menu option using the corresponding alphanumerical button. You might find that easier to do!

5 Press the ENT button.

- The PI44 will return to the previous page, and the information you chose on the Fishery menu will appear in the selected window.

Window sizes and information

Observe the table below to see which modes that can be used in each window size.

Window size FULL HALF QUARTER

Numeric display -- Yes Yes

Graphic display Yes Yes Yes

Surface temperature Yes -- Yes

Status display Yes -- --

Echo display Yes Ye s Ye s

Pilot display Yes -- Yes

850-165085 / Rev.B

Getting started

Defining initial presentation pages

Observe the following procedure to set up the four display pages on the PI44. The presentations chosen are those commonly used, but using the guidelines in this procedure you can change the content of individual pages to suit your requirements.

Note that although the procedure instructs you to use the Selector pad to make the menu selections, you may find it much easier to access the choices directly using the alphanumerical buttons.

Page 1: Echo sounder

1 Press the MENU button to bring up the main menu. 2 Press the Selector pad to move the cursor (inverse video)

to the ECHO choice on the main menu.

3 Observe the WIN icon at the top right corner of the

display. Press the WIN button repeatidly until the blue rectangle covers the entire icon.

4 On the Echo menu, select Echo 38 kHz. 5 Press the ENT button to enter the choice.

A full screen echo sounder appears. If you already know the basic settings of an echo sounder you can access the Echo quick menu by pressing the ENT button one more time.

Page 2: Numeric display

1 Press the PAGE button once to select the next display

page.

2 Press the MENU button to bring up the main menu. 3 Press the Selector pad to move the cursor (inverse video)

to the Fishery choice on the main menu.

4 Observe the WIN icon at the top right corner of the

display. Press the WIN button repeatidly until the blue rectangle covers the left half of the icon.

5 On the Fishery menu, select Numeric display. 6 Press the ENT button to enter the choice.

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The numeric display appears on the left (or right) half of the display page. If you already know how to perform the basic setup, you can access the Numeric setup by pressing the ADJ button.

Simrad PI44

The right side may have been predefined to provide an other display presentation, or it may simply show the text Select display via MENU. In order to fill the space,proceed as follows:

7 Press the WIN button, and observe the red border moving

from one window to the next. Place the border on the window you wish to define.

8 Press the MENU button to access the main menu. 9 Press the Selector pad to move the cursor (inverse video)

to the Echo menu. 10 On the Echo menu, select Echo 200 kHz. 11 Press the ENT button to acknowledge.

The 200 kHz echo sounder will now appear in the chosen window.

Page 3: Graphic display

1 Press the PAGE button once to select the next display

page.

2 Press the MENU button to bring up the main menu. 3 Press the Selector pad to move the cursor (inverse video)

to the FISHERY choice on the main menu. 4 Observe the WIN icon at the top right corner of the

display. Press the WIN button repeatidly until the blue

rectangle covers the entire icon.

5 On the Fishery menu, select Graphic display, Echo 38

kHz. 6 Press the ENT button to enter the choice.

The graphic display appears with the sensor data shown on the top and the echo sounder shown below. If you already know how to set up the basic parameters you can access the Echo quick menu by pressing the ENT button one more time.

Page 4: Navigation display

1 Press the PAGE button once to select the next display

page.

2 Press the MENU button to bring up the main menu. 3 Press the Selector pad to move the cursor (inverse video)

to the PILOT choice on the main menu. 4 Observe the WIN icon at the top right corner of the

display. Press the WIN button repeatidly until the blue

rectangle covers the entire icon.

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Getting started

5 On the Pilot menu, select Highway. 6 Press the ENT button to enter the choice.

The navigation display appears. If you already know how to set up the basic parameters you can access the Navigation setup page by pressing the ADJ button.

Leafing through the pages

To leaf through the display presentations you have defined, press the PAGE button.

Related topics

→ Display presentations, page 32

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44

Introduction to the main menu

The main menu is located across the top of the display. To open the menu, press the MENU button. Note that if it is left unactivated, the menu will disappear automatically after a few seconds.

Each of the four options of the main menu provide a drop-down menu. On these, you can select which information to view in each display window, or which parameters to define. Main and drop-down menus are highlighted when selected, and the complete main menu title is displayed in the top left-hand corner of the screen.

Observe the WIN icon in the top right corner. Using the WIN button, you can position the information into the selected window on the current page. Note however that setup pages are not affected by the choices you make with the WIN button.

• To open a sub-menu, press the ENT button, press the

corresponding alphanumerical button, or press “down” on the selector tab.

• To make your selection, highlight the choice and press the

ENT button. You can also press the corresponding alphanumerical button.

Related topics

→ The choices on the main menu, page 170

850-165085 / Rev.B

Getting started

Introduction to the keypad

The keypad is used for direct user interface with the PI44 system, and allows you to control the functionality. Note that the majority of the buttons are mainly used only during echo sounder operations, and that some of them will only work when they are enabled by a specific function.

EVENT: This button places a vertical marker on the echo sounder depth display to identify an event.

MENU: This button turns the menu bar on and off. It will also allow you to exit dialogues without applying any changes.

ENT (Enter): This button allows you to apply the changes you have made in a setup dialogue, or to select a function from the menu. This button will also give you access to the “Echo quick menu”, and it will open the setup dialogue for the presentation in the active window.

Selector pad: Use this button to navigate through menus and dialogues. It moves the cursor horizontally by pressing it on the left or right side, and vertically by pressing it on its top or bottom.

-/+: These two button are used to select between available values, scales and ranges. (-) reduces and (+) increases the graduation.

GAIN: The two gain buttons are used to adjust the receiver gain on the echo sounder.

STND (Standard): This button will activate an echo sounder window in Standard mode. If you press this button while an other window is active, the display switches to an echo sounder page. If one of your other pages already contains a full screen echo sounder, the PI44 will automatically change to this page, and you must press the PAGE button to return to your previous page. If you do not have an echo sounder presentation among your four presentation pages, the current presentation will be replaced by the echo sounder presentation.

ADJ (Adjust): This button provides a direct access to the setup parameters for the data in the active window. To exit the setup without making changes, press the MENU button.

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VRM (Variable Range Marker): This button provides a horizontal marker line on the echo sounder display. Use the selector pad to alter the depth of the marker. The button will only work if you have an echo sounder presentation on the current page.

Simrad PI44

WIN (Windows): This button is used to select which display window to be active. During normal operation, the active window is identified with a red border. When the main menu is opened, the current active window is shown in the upper right corner of the display.

B-LCK (Bottom lock expansion): This button will activate an echo sounder window, and then expand the area just above the bottom. In the expanded view, the bottom will appear flat. The vertical range of the expansion window is defined in the echo sounder setup. If you press this button while an other window is active, the display switches to an echo sounder page. If one of your other pages already contains a full screen echo sounder, the PI44 will automatically change to this page, and you must press the PAGE button to return to your previous page. If you do not have an echo sounder presentation among your four presentation pages, the current presentation will be replaced by the echo sounder presentation. To switch off this function, press the

STND or SHIFT buttons.

ZOOM: This button will activate an echo sounder window, and

then expand an area above and below a horizontal marker line. The depth of the marker line can be adjusted with the selector pad, while the vertical range of the expansion window is defined in the echo sounder setup. If you press this button while an other window is active, the display switches to an echo sounder page. If one of your other pages already contains a full screen echo sounder, the PI44 will automatically change to this page, and you must press the PAGE button to return to your previous page. If you do not have an echo sounder presentation among your four presentation pages, the current presentation will be replaced by the echo sounder presentation. To switch off htis function, press the STND or SHIFT button.

SHIFT: This button will activate the Phased range echo sounder mode. You can then select start range with the + and buttons, and depth range with the numerical buttons (1 to 9). If you press this button while an other window is active, the display switches to an echo sounder page. If one of your other pages already contains a full screen echo sounder, the PI44 will automatically change to this page, and you must press the PAGE button to return to your previous page. If you do not have an echo sounder presentation among your four presentation pages, the current presentation will be replaced by the echo sounder presentation. T o select Standard mode, press the STND button.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Getting started

PAGE: The page button is used to leaf through the predefined presentation pages. If you press and hold this button for more than three seconds, you will start automatic page rotation. The PI44 will then leaf through the four pages automatically. The page rotation interval (time used to display each page) is controlled by page setup parameter. To switch this function off, press any other button.

PWR (Power): This button is used to switch the system on and off. During operation, it is also used to adjust the display brightness and contrast.

CLR (Clear): T his button will remove the variable range marker. It will also clear the input fields in dialogues.

0to9:The alphanumerical buttons will greatly speed up your menu operations, as you can access most menu items using a number. You can also use these buttons to insert data into dialogue fields. During echo sounder operations, they will even provide you with fast access to a set of predefined depth ranges. The 0 button will enable automatic depth range selection.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44

Introducing the sensors

The PI44 catch monitoring can be used with a variety of sensors. All these sensors can be placed on your trawl or purse seine to monitor key parameters.

On the PI44, you can use maximum six sensors simultanously. There are two sensor families; PI and PS. The sensors in the

two families are almost identical, and they can be used together on the same PI44 system. The PI sensors will however offer increased range, some added functionality, and they can also be charged much faster using the PI Charger.

Bottom Contact: Best at the bottom!

With patented technology and awardwinning design, Simrad provides you full control of the actions that take place at the bottom. Mounted on a bottom trawl, pelagic trawl or purse seine, this sensor will provide the important information when you need it!

(A) = The Bottom Contact sensor mounted on a bottom trawl will let you know once the trawl lifts a few centimeters above the bottom. You can then immediatley perform the necessary adjustments, and you will not loose any catch.

(B) = On a purse seine you will be notified once the seine reaches the bottom, and you can thus fish even on a rough bottom.

The Bottom Contact sensor will let you know immediately if your gear touches the bottom.

• Bottow trawl: If your trawl lifts off the bottom, this may

cause fish to escape, and hence reduce the catch. This sensor will detect this, and allow you to trim your equipment for perfect balance.

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Getting started

• Pelagic trawl: On a pelagic trawl, this sensor proves very

useful when the trawl moves downwards. It will let you know immediately if the footrope touches bottom.

• Purse seine: When you work with a purse seine, you need to

know when the seine reaches the bottom. This sensor will let you know. once it happens.

• Danish seine: Used on a Danish seine, the sensor will let you

know when the net has a stable bottom contact, and when it is time to haul.

• Scientific research: During scientific surveys, an exact

definition of towed distance with proper ground gear contact is an essential parameter in bottom trawl swept area estimates of fish abundance. Using a Bottom Contact sensor will reduce errors in this key parameter.

Catch sensor: When is the trawl full?

This is your “eye” at the cod-end. With PI Catch sensors in use, you can easily monitor the fi lling rate and the amount of catch in the trawl. Save time and fuel, haul in the trawl at the right moment! The design is rugged and awardwinning, and the sensor’s sensitivity is easily adjustable for trawls of all sizes.

Some professionals claim that the Catch sensor is the most important sensor on the trawl. Why? Because it will tell you the amount of catch in the trawl.

The sensor simply monitors the expansion of the meshes in the cod-end. Once the volume caught is enough to expand the meshes, they will pull the detector wires and engage the sensor. The sensitivity of the sensor can easily be adjusted, just extend the detection rubber bands to span additional meshes.

To monitor the filling rate, we recommend that you use minimum two sensors. Place the first sensor at the far end of the cod-end, it will tell you that the trawl is actually fishing. Place the second sensor closer to the trawl opening. Once the trawl is filled to the chosen location, the sensor is engaged, and you know that it is time to haul.

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Use the PI Catch sensor to adjust the catch volume according to the production capacity, check that the trawl is fishing, adjust the caught volume to secure quality, and minimize the towing time to save fuel. These are only a few of the reasons why this sensor is considered to be so important.

Simrad PI44

Depth: How deep can you go?

When the sonar and echo sounder tell you how deep the school goes, it is good to know that you can place your fishing gear at the same depth. And even better, you can monitor and hold the desired depth. The design is rugged and awardwinning, and the sensor is available for three different depth ranges.

The PI Depth sensor provides information about the current depth and the depth changes of your gear.

• Bottom trawl: On a bottom trawl, you will use the sensor to

achieve full control when shooting, and to position the trawl on the slope.

• Pelagic trawl: During pelagic trawling, you know how

important it is to position the trawl relative to the largest concentration of fish. By using a Depth sensor, you can monitor the exact depth relative to the surface, and adjust the trawl depth accordingly. Additional depth sensors on the doors will monitor if the doors stay at the same depth.

• Purse seine: During seining, use the Depth sensor to monitor

the depth of the net, and the descending speed of the net. Then you will know when to start pursing, and which speed to use.

• Danish seine: Mounted on a Danish Seine the Depth sensor

monitors the sinking speed of the net, and it will tell you when to start hauling once the net has stopped sinking.

Height sensor: Accurate distance to the bottom!

With a built-in echo sounder, this new PI sensor is full of advanced technology. Wherever you place it, it will always tell you the exact distance to the bottom.

The height sensor measures the height over the bottom, that is the distance from the bottom and up to wherever the sensor is located. This provides you with a valuable range of applications for bottom and pelagic trawling.

• Bottom trawl: Place the sensor behind the headrope, and it

will tell you the height of the trawl opening. This allows you to adjust you equipment immediately if the opening is reduced, and you will avoid loosing catch.

• Pelagic trawl: With a height sensor behind the footrope you

will know at once if the trawl approaches the bottom. If you use a second sensor behind the headrope, the difference between the two measurements will give you the height of the trawl opening.

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Getting started

Rip: Check for damages!

The Rip sensor is identical to the Catch sensor, and can thus be regarded as a application for the Catch sensor. Place the sensor on the trawl belly behind the footrope, and use it to detect if the trawl is torn or in any other ways damaged by rocks or other roughness on the bottom. If this is detected immediately you can adjust the gear to minimise the damage.

Spread and Remote: Check the trawl doors!

This dynamic duo tells you the exact distance between the trawl doors. Used on bottom and pelagic trawls the Spread and Remote sensors provide crucial information about your trawl behaviour. On a twin trawl, simply add a Remote sensor and you have both openings covered!

These two sensors always work in pairs. They are used to monitor the physical distance between the trawl doors during bottom and pelagic trawling.

Use a Spread sensor on the port door and a Remote sensor on the starboard door. Both sensors are normally mounted in special adapters, but you may also attached them to the wing-end or warp using snap hooks or rope.

The Spread sensor communicates with the Remote sensor using a special transverse communication link. By means of this link it measures the excact distance (maximum 350 meters) between the two sensors. The information is is transmitted to the vessel by the Spread sensor.

As you already know, correct door spread is important in order to obtain the correct sweep-angle, as this ensures optimal trawl performance. Door behavior and stability during shooting and towing is also monitored by these sensors. Many regard this pair of sensors one of the most important sensors to obtain efficient trawling.

A special version of the PI Spread sensor, The PI Twin Spread, allows you to use a single Spread sensor with two Remote sensors to monitor a twin trawl.

Temperature: Too warm or too cold water?

Fishingintoowarmortoocoldwatermaybejustawasteof time and money. The same applies to a pelagic trawl placed on the wrong side of a thermal layer. Using advanced technology, rugged construction and awardwinning design, the PI Temperature sensor allows you to increase your fishing efficiency.

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The PI Temperature sensor tells you the exact sea water temperature while you are fishing.

Simrad PI44

The water temperature is an important parameter. Fish and bait are temperature sensitive, and they are normally found within specific temperature zones for feeding and spawning.

However, the temperature layers in the water are changing constantly, and for this reason the temperature must be monitored constantly. Fishing in an area with unfavourable water temperature might be just a waste of time!

For any kind of trawling, use this sensor to monitoring and log the temperature. Then, increase your knowledge about the correlation between temperature, fish concentration and catch efficiency. On a purse seine net, monitor the temperature to see when you are passing the thermo-cline.

Related topics

→ Purse seine, application, page 26 → Danish seine, application, page 27 → Bottom trawl, application, page 28 → Pelagic trawl, application, page 29 → Sensor configuration, page 104 → PI Bottom Contact, page 107 → PS Bottom Contact, page 111 → PI Catch, page 115 → PS Catch, page 120 → PI Depth, page 124 → PS Depth, page 129 → PI Height, page 134 → PI Rip, page 138 → PI Spread & Remote, page 143 → PI Twin Spread, page 148 → PI Temperature, page 153 → PS Temperature, page 159

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APPLICATION EXAMPLES

The Simrad PI44 system is designed to fulfill all your requirements within a range of specific applications. This chapter provides a few examples on how the various sensors can be placed on your fishing gear. It also provides a brief description of the echo sounder and graphic display functionality.

Topics

→ Purse seine, application, page 26 → Danish seine, application, page 27 → Bottom trawl, application, page 28 → Pelagic trawl, application, page 29 → Echo sounder, application, page 30 → Graphic display, application, page 31

Applications

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Simrad PI44

Purse seine

When used for purse seining, the PI44 system must have one or more of the following sensors attached to the net: Depth sensor, Bottom Contact sensor and Temperature sensor.

The system is designed to be used with up to six sensors, optimally two Depth sensors, one Temperature and one Bottom Contact sensor. The sensor configuration can be tailored to suite individual needs.

(A) = (B) = Depth / Bottom Contact sensor (C) = Temperature / Bottom Contact sensor (D) = Depth sensor (placed on the headrope to warn if it sinks)

Using the recommended sensors, the PI44 system will provide the following information:

• When to begin pursing, and which speed to use for the most

efficient pursing

• Location of the net related to the school

• Bottom approximation without net contact

• Net sink rate, when the net has stopped sinking, and when it

starts to rise

• Water temperature at different depths

• When the gear passes the thermocline

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Applications

Danish seine

When used for Danish seining the PI44 system needs up to three of the following sensors attached to the net: Depth and Bottom Contact.

The system is designed to be used with up to six sensors. You can use two Depth sensors (located at the top and bottom of the net), a Height sensor (on the top of the net) and one Bottom Contact sensor. You can also use a Spread/Remote combination on the wing ends. Sensor configuration can be tailored to suite individual needs.

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(A) = Bottom contact sensor (B) = (C) = Depth sensors

Using the recommended sensors, the PI44 system will provide the following information:

• When to start hauling

• Monitor net sinkage rate

• Bottom approximation without net contact

• Net opening (using two depth sensors)

Simrad PI44

Bottom trawl

When used for bottom trawling, the PI44 system will give you all necessary information about the trawl status. You should have minimum three of the following sensors attached to the net: Depth sensors(s), Bottom Contact sensor, Rip sensor and Catch sensors(s).

The system is designed to be used with up to six sensors. We recommend that you use a Bottom Contact sensor behind the footrope, a Height sensor behind the headrope, two Catch sensors, a Temperature sensor and a Spread sensor. Sensor configuration can be tailored to suite individual needs.

(A) = Depth sensor (headrope) (B) = Depth sensor (footrope) (C) = Bottom contact sensor (D) = Rip sensor (E) = (F) = Catch sensor(s)

Using the recommended sensors, the PI44 system will provide the following information:

• Optimal vessel speed with regard to net sink rate and bottom

approximation.

• When the codend is full.

• Footwire/bottom lift-off.

• Net opening (using two depth sensors) and damage

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Applications

Pelagic trawl

When used for pelagic trawling the PI44 system must have one or more of the following sensors attached to the net: Depth sensor(s), Bottom Contact sensor, Temperature sensor, Rip sensor and Catch sensor(s).

The system is designed to be used with up to six sensors. We recommend that you use a Bottom Contact sensor behind the footrope, a Depth sensor behind the headrope, two Catch sensors, a Temperature sensor and a Spread sensor. Sensor configuration can be tailored to suite individual needs.

(A) = Depth sensor (headrope) (B) = Depth sensor (footrope) (C) = Bottom contact sensor (D) = Rip sensor (E) = Temperature sensor (F) = (G) = Catch sensors

Using the recommended sensors, the PI44 system will provide the following information:

• Optimal vessel speed with regard to net sink rate and school

location.

• When the codend is full.

• Bottom approximation to avoid net contact.

• Net opening (using two depth sensors) and damage

• Ambient water temperature at gear depth.

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Simrad PI44

Echo sounder

The built-in echo sounder will provide information about depth, bottom contours and the presence of fish below the vessel. The echo sounder can use three frequencies; 38 kHz, 50 kHz and 200 kHz. Two frequencies can be operated simultanously.

The following operational modes are available

• Standard mode: Range start is fixed, and the depth range

can be altered

• Phased range mode: The range start can be adjusted, and the

current value is added to the depth range

• Bottom lock: The echo sounder provides an expansion

window to study the echoes closest to the bottom.

• Zoom: The echo sounder provides an expansion window to

study echoes in the water column.

• A-scope: Single ping echo presentation

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Applications

Graphic display

By means of the built-in echo sounder and the information provided by the analogue sensors, you can set up a graphic display to give you a total overview of the underwater situation.

The graphic display presents the echogram at the bottom of the screen while the numerical sensor presentations are listed at the top of the screen. The information from those sensors providing analogue data (Depth, Height, Temperature and Spread) are superimposed on the echogram.

Related topics

→ How to superimpose echo sounder data, page 80 → How to superimpose marker lines, page 81

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Simrad PI44

DISPLAY PRESENTATIONS

The PI44 supports a range of display presentations. These are the information elements that you can choose to see on each page.

Topics

→ Numeric display, page 33 → Graphic display, page 41 → Surface temperature, page 45 → Status display, page 46 → Echo sounder display, page 50 → Highway display, page 53 → Position display, page 54

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Display modes

Numeric display

The numeric display provides vital sensor data in large, easy to read digits and symbols. In the following, all sensor presentations are explained in detail.

Note that depending on the window size, the sensor data may be shown with different layouts, and even with some of the information removed due to the limited space available.

This illustration shows a typical twin display setup with the numeric presentation from six sensors on the left side and an echo sounder presentation on the right hand side.

The background colour for the numerical display presentations can be selected individually from the palette. If the data from the sensors are unstable, the presentations will use the following character presentations:

??? - The sensor provides uncertain readings. ±±± - No communication between Spread and Remote sensors ***.* - No communication with the sensor.

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Simrad PI44

Topics

→ Bottom Contact sensor presentation, page 35 → Catch sensor presentation, page 36 → Depth sensor presentation, page 37 → Height sensor presentation, page 38 → Spread sensor presentation, page 39 → Temperature sensor presentation, page 40

To change presentation parameters

The numeric presentations are controlled by the parameters defined in the setup. To change these parameters, make the presentation window active, and press the ADJ (Adjust) or ENT button to access the Numeric setup page.

Related topics

→ Numeric setup, page 202

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Display modes

Bottom Contact presentation

The Bottom Contact sensor presentation is shown below.

(A) The character and the number identifies the type of sensor, and which identification number the sensor has on the PI44 system. In this example, B4 means that it is a bottom contact sensor, and that it is sensor no.4.

(B) Status field. The three arrows display “bottom contact”, graphically represented by the black or red downward pointing arrows in contact with the horizontal black line. Upon loss of bottom contact, the arrows will rise from the black line (seabed) and change colour from black to red. At the same time an audible warning is sounded, and the timer starts. Bottom sensor measurement range may be adjusted as necessary.

(C) Timer, records how many minutes that have elapsed since the sensor lost bottom contact. If the bottom contact is regained, the timer stops. It is then restarted once the status changes again. The timer must be manually restarted in the Numeric setup.

(D) Yellow pulse lamp blinks each time a signal is received from the corresponding sensor.

(E) Interference warning, activated when the PI44 detects interference from other nearby vessel(s) operating on the same channel or with similar hydroacoustic equipment. Contact your Simrad dealer to select a different frequency should this problem persist.

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Simrad PI44

Catch presentation

The Catch sensor presentation is shown below.

Note: If you use more than one catch sensor in the trawl, make sure

that you configure them with different channel numbers, and that you mount and read them in the correct order!

(A) The character and the number identifies the type of sensor, and which identification number the sensor has on the PI44 system. In this example, C3 means that it is a catch sensor, and that it is sensor no.3.

(B) Status field. A yellow rectangle means that the sensor has not been activated yet. A red rectangle means that the trawl has been filled with fish, and this has triggered the sensor. When the indicator switches from yellow to red an audible alarm is sounded, and the timer starts.

(C) Timer, records how many minutes that have elapsed since the sensor was triggered. If the status switches from red back to yellow, the timer stops. It is then restarted once the status changes again. The timer m ust be manually restarted in the

Numeric setup. (D) Yellow pulse lamp blinks each time a signal is received

from the corresponding sensor. (E) Interference warning, activated when the PI44 detects

interference from other nearby vessel(s) operating on the same channel or with similar hydroacoustic equipment. Contact your Simrad dealer to select a different frequency should this problem persist.

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Display modes

Depth presentation

The Depth sensor presentation is shown below.

(A) The character and the number identifies the type of sensor, and which identification number the sensor has on the PI44 system. In this example, D1 means that it is a depth sensor, and that it is sensor no.1.

(B) Unit of measure. [m] means meter, [ft] means feet, [fm] means fathoms and [pb] means braccia.

minute. The direction is shown with the arrow (E). I f the speed is 0, the arrow is removed.

(E) Direction indicator for net movements. (F) Graphic alarm. The direction of the triangle indicates if the

net depth should be increased or decreased with regard to the selected alarm limits. I f requested, this graphic alarm may be accompanied with an audible alarms.

(G) Yellow pulse lamp blinks each time a signal is received from the corresponding sensor.

(H) Interference warning, activated when the PI44 detects interference from other nearby vessel(s) operating on the same channel or with similar hydroacoustic equipment. Contact your Simrad dealer to select a different frequency should this problem persist.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44

Height pre sentation

The Height sensor presentation is shown below.

(A) The character and the number identifies the type of sensor, and which identification number the sensor has on the PI44 system. In this example, H1 means that it is a height sensor, and that it is sensor no.1.

(B) Unit of measure. [m] means meter, [ft] means feet, [fm] means fathoms and [pb] means braccia.

(D) Speed of increasing or decreasing depth. The two arrows (E) are used to indicate if the distance is increasing or decreasing. If the depth is constant and the speed is 0, the arrows are removed.

(E) Depth increase/decrease indicators. If the two arrows point towards each other (as shown in the example), the depth is decreasing.

(F) Graphic alarm. The direction of the triangle indicates if the depth should be increased or decreased with regard to the selected alarm limits. I f requested, this graphic alarm may be accompanied with an audible alarms.

(G) Yellow pulse lamp blinks each time a signal is received from the corresponding sensor.

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Display modes

Spread presentation

The Spread sensor presentation is shown below.

(A) The character and the number identifies the type of sensor, and which identification number the sensor has on the PI44 system. In this example, S3 means that it is a spread sensor, and that it is sensor no.3.

(B) Unit of measure. [m] means meter, [ft] means feet, [fm] means fathoms and [pb] means braccia.

(C) Readout of the actual distance between the two trawl doors. (D) Increasing or decreasing distance speed of the trawl door

distance shown in units per minute. The two arrows (E) are used to indicate if the distance is increasing or decreasing. If the distance is constant and the speed is 0, the arrows are removed.

(E) Distance increasing/decreasing indicators. If the two arrows point away from each other (as shown in the example), the distance is increasing.

(F) Graphic alarm. The direction of the triangle indicates if the trawl door distance should be increased or decreased with regard to the selected alarm limits. If requested, this graphic alarm may be accompanied with an audible alarms.

(G) Yellow pulse lamp blinks each time a signal is received from the corresponding sensor.

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Simrad PI44

Temperature presentation

The temperature sensor presentation is shown below.

(A) The character and the number identifies the type of sensor, and which identification number the sensor has on the PI44 system. In this example, T2 means that it is a temperature sensor, and that it is sensor no.2.

(B) Temperature readout. (C) Unit of measure in Celcius or Fahrenheit. When

presentation space is limited, the unit of measure is shown in the top left corner.

(D) Temperature trend, indicates if the temperature is falling or rising. An arrow pointing up this indicates that the temperature is increasing, while an arrow pointing down indicates decreasing temperature.

(E) Graphic alarm. The direction of the triangle indicates if the temperature is higher or lower than a predefined limit.

(F) Yellow pulse lamp blinks each time a signal is received from the corresponding sensor.

(G) Interference warning, activated when the PI44 detects interference from other nearby vessel(s) operating on the same channel or with similar hydroacoustic equipment. Contact your Simrad dealer to select a different frequency should this problem persist.

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Display modes

Graphic display

The graphic display provided by the PI44 offers an accurate echo sounder combined with numeric readouts from the net sensors.

The graphic sounder display can be set up as a full screen feature, but you can also set it up to be displayed in smaller windows. Depending on the window size, the echo sounder and sensor data may be shown with different layouts, and even with some of the information removed due to the limited space available.

Note that some of the information provided by the graphic presentation assumes that you have the relevant sensors connected to your PI44 system.

This illustrations shows a graphic display with numerical information along the top, and an echo sounder presentation below. Additional information from the sensors can be superimposed on the echo sounder presentation.

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Simrad PI44

The graphic display presentation will provide a lot of information. The example shown above provides the following data.

(A) Numeric information

In this example, the information from a Bottom Contact sensor is shown. The trawl has currently lifted off the seabed.

(B) Numeric information

In this example, the information from a Spread sensor is shown. The trawl opening is currently 65.5 meters wide, but the opening is decreasing by 13 meters per minute.

In this example, the information from a Catch sensor is shown. The sensor has been triggered, so we assume that the net is about to be filled.

(D) Numeric information

In this example, the information from a Depth sensor is shown. The current depth is 10.5 meters, and it is decreasing with 5 meters per minute.

(E) Numeric information

In this example, the information from a Temperature sensor is shown. The current temperature is 1.5 degrees, and the temperature is decreasing.

(F) Numeric information

In this example, the information from a Height sensor is shown. The current distance from the head rope to the sea bottom is

32.8 meters, and the depth is decreasing by 3 meters per minute.

(G) Additional information

To switch this information bar on or off, use the Graphic setup. From left, the following information is provided:

• echo sounder frequency

• transmit power

• pulse width

• ambient temperature

• vessel speed

• depth (depth under keel (DK) is shown in the example)

If you use the selector pad to adjust the depth of the VRM (Variable range marker) or the echo sounder receiver gain, it will show you the current depth and gain settings while you do this.

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Display modes

(H) Time scale

Elapsed time since sounding (ping). Note that the time scale will change depending on the chosen scroll speed. To switch the time scale on or off, use the Graphic setup.

(I) Depth scale

In the Echo presentation setup, this scale can be set up change automatically depending on the current depth. To open this setup page, press the ENT button to open the Echo quick menu.

(J) A-scope presentation

To switch this presentation on or off, press the ENT button to open the Echo quick menu.

(K) Colour scale

This scale shows how the echoes are presentes, The strongest echoes are displayed using the colour on the top of the scale, while the weakest echoes are displayed using the coloutrs at the bottom of the scale. If you choose to see the temperature scale, it will replace the colour scale.

(L) Bottom echo

In the example, t he bottom contour is shown.

(M) Fish echo

In the example, small schools of fish can be seen.

Informationnotshowninthisexample

Temperature scale: When requested, a temperature scale can be displayed. It will then replace the colour scale. To switch the temperature scale on or off, press the ADJ button to open

Graphic setup, then select the Temperature menu. Depth bars: Depth information from relevant sensors can be

shown as vertical bars on the right side of the display. The depth bars will replace the A-scope presentation. Each vertical bar will use the same colour as the current background colour of the relevant numeric display. To switch the depth bars on or off, press the ENT button to open the Echo quick menu.

Superimposed sensor information: You can make information from the sensors appear on the graphic display. To do this, press the ADJ button to access the Graphic setup, and choose the Marker line and Trawl info menus. The information from the sensors will appear as lines on the display, and each line will use the same colour as the current background colour of the relevant numeric display.

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Simrad PI44

To change presentation parameters

The graphic display presentation is controlled by the parameters defined in the graphic and echo presentation setups.

• To change the graphic parameters, press the ADJ button.

• To access the Echo quick menu to switch A-Scope and

depth bars on and off, press the ENT button.

• To change the echo presentation parameters, press the ENT

button to access the Echo quick menu, and then select Echo presentation setup.

• To change presentation units, press the MENU button to

open the main menu, and then select Speed alarm, unit s and settings on the Setup menu.

Related topics

→ Graphic setup, page 184 → Echo presentation setup, page 177

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Display modes

Surface t emperature

The Surface temperature display shows the current temperature. By means of the graph it will also show you the temperature history for the past minute. The presentation is activated from the Fishery menu. To have this information available, you must have the relevant temperature feeler connected to your PI44 system. A suitable feeler is integrated with several Simrad echo sounder transducers, or it may be connected as a separate peripheral.

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To change presentation parameters

The graphic display presentation is controlled by the parameters defined in the setup. To change the surface temperature parameters, press the ENT or ADJ buttons to access the Surface temperature setup.

Related topics

→ Surface temperature setup, page 219

Simrad PI44

Status display

The Status display shows sensor data, signal thresholds and background noise levels providing an overview of present hydro-acoustical conditions and the margin for reliable signal detection. Other information displayed includes cable status, program version, and echo sounder / position information.

Note that some of the information provided by the Status display assumes that you have the relevant sensors connected to and operational on your PI44 system.

The Status display can only be set up as a full screen feature.

Information fields

The infor mation provided by the Status display can be divided into five fields:

(A) = Numeric information from the sensors (B) = Upper status field (C) = Frequency spectrum for noise monitoring

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Display modes

(D) = Gain indicators for the current sensors (E) = Lower status field

(A) Numeric information

The numeric displays at the top of the Status display provide the current information from the active sensors. Due to the lack of space, the information from the sensors have been abbreviated slightly. For a more detailed presentation, you must select the the Numeric display presentation.

(B) Upper status field

The upper status field provides an overview of key parameters. Receiver setup: All the parameters on the left side are those

defined by the Receiver setup dialogue. To change these, press the MENU button to access the Setup menu (4), and select

Receiver setup (6). SW: This sentence provides the current software version in your

PI44 system. Main is the operational software providing the user interface, µC is the PI44 microcontroller, while DSP is the software controlling the digital signal processor, that is the reception and interpretation of sensor information.

Max sh. speed: This is the maximum shooting speed as defined in the Receiver setup dialogue.

Demo: This entry shows you if the sensor demonstration mode has been activated. To switch the Demo mode on or off, access the Sensor setup.

Last received ch: This entry shows you which of the sensors that last provided information to the PI44.

Error: This is simply an error code. This information is provided for test purposes only. Unless a software error occurrs, the code will be 0 (zero).

Hydrophone: A yellow indicator is provided when the hydrophone is connected and fully operational. If the indicator is red, a short circuit has occurred. If the indicator is black, the PI44 has lost electrical contact with the hydrophone.

850-165085 / Rev.B

NMEA1/2: Any information accepted by the NMEA interface will provide a green indicator. If the indicator is black, the PI44 is currently not receiving input traffic, however, information may still be exported continuosly.

Simrad PI44

This graph provides you with information about the background noise and the signal strength of the frequency band or channel number selected. Each vertical bar represents the background noise for the given frequency or channel, and the level is measured continuously.

To select spectrum display, press the ADJ button to open the

Status setup dialogue, and select Spectrum, display to show Frequency or Channel. In most cases a Channel view will be

most useful to you. This function is very useful if you have too much noise and this

makes the communication with the sensor unreliable. Switch off as much electrical, mechanical and acoustic gear and equipment as possible. Then, switch the systems on again one by one while keeping an eye on the frequency spectrum. When the “noisy” system is activated, it is most likely easy to see!

Note that the frequency spectrum presentation depends on the Interference filter setting.

(D) Gain indicators

There are six gain indicators, one for each of the current sensors. At the top of each indicator you can see sensor number and sensor type, at the bottom you can see the sensor’s communication channel and current update rate.Green colour indicates that the reception of signals and noise is within normal specifications. Red colour indicates that the received signal exceeds the minimum level required for reception, this is therefore not an error message.

For the technical minded: When no sensors have been deployed, the indicators will present the mean noise level. This is the noise in the surrounding water, caused by mechanical, electrical, acoustic and natural disturbances. This noise level should be as low as possible. When a sensor in the water transmits its information back to the PI44, this is indicated as the green indicator extends above the mean noise level. In order for the reception circuitry to accept and recognize the signal, it must be stronger than a predefined minimum level. The level is normally referred to as the detection level. If the signal is stronger than the detection level, the indicator bar will change colour to red.

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Display modes

(E) Lower status field

The lower status field provides an overview of key parameters. Geographical location: At the left side of the field, the curret

geographic location is provided. Note that this information can only be displayed if a positioning system has been connected to the PI44.

COG: Current course over ground. Note that the course information can only be provided if the relevant sensor (GPS) has been connected to the PI44.

SOG: Current speed over ground. Note that the speed information can only be provided if the relevant sensor (GPS) has been connected to the PI44.

W ater speed: Current speed in the water. Note that the speed information can only be provided if the relevant sensor (GPS or speed log) has been connected to the PI44.

Echo 38kHz: This entry provides the current status of the low frequency echo sounder, as well as its current pulse length and detection threshold.

Echo 200kHz: This entry provides the current status of the high frequency echo sounder, as well as its current pulse length and detection threshold.

Water temp: This entry provides the current water temperature. Note that this information can only be provided if the relevant sensor have been connected to the PI44.

Time and date: This entry is a readout of the current time and date.

Related topics

→ Receiver setup, page 208 → Status setup, page 218

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44

Echo sounder display

The PI44 offers an accurate echo sounder with a colour display. The echo sounder can operate on 38, 50 or 200 kHz, and with two frequencies simultanously. In order to enjoy the echo sounder functionality, you must have one or two echo sounder transducers installed.

Note that some of the information provided by the echo sounder presentation assumes that you have the relevant sensors connected to your PI44 system.

The echo sounder display can be set up as a full screen feature, but you can also set it up to be displayed in smaller windows. Depending on the window size, the echo sounder data may be shown with different layouts, and even with some of the information removed due to the limited space available.

The following information is provided in the echo sounder presentation.

(A) Current primary technical parameters. (B) Current course.

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Display modes

(C) Current ambient air temperature. (D) Current vessel speed (E) Current wind speed (F) Depth under keel (G) Time scale: Elapsed time since sounding (ping). Note that

the time scale will change depending on the chosen scroll speed. (H) Depth scale: This scale can be set up change automatically

depending on the current depth.

(I) A-scope presentation. (J) Colour scale. This scale shows how the echoes are presentes,

The strongest echoes are displayed using the colour on the top of the scale, while the weakest echoes are displayed using the coloutrs at the bottom of the scale.

(K) Bottom echo (L) Fish echo

The presentation is controlled by the parameters defined in the presentation setup. To change these parameters, press the ENT button to open the Echo quick menu, and choose Echo

presentation setup. To change presentation units, press the MENU button to open the main menu, and then select Speed alarm, units and settings on the Setup menu.

In the Echo sounder setup you can change the readout for current depth (F), and you can disable the time scale. These setup parameters are available on the Setup menu.

Bottom expansion

The PI44 provides a Bottom expansion function. When enabled the vertical area close to the seabed is expanded. The resulting presentation will not show the depth variations, as the bottom will appear flat. However, echoes close to the bottom will be enhanced. Note that the depth range in this presentation will be “upside down”, as the seabed is defined as level “0”.

850-165085 / Rev.B

To enable the Bottom expansion function, press the B-LCK button on the keypad. To disable it, press the STND button. The vertical depth range of the bottom expansion function is controlled by the Expansion window parameter in the Echo presentation setup.PresstheADJ button to access this setup page.

Simrad PI44

A-Scope

The PI44 provides an A-Scope function. This presentation provides the echo from the latest ping only. The strength of the returned signal from various depths in the water column are indicated by the horizontal deflections from the Y-axis. This presentation is very useful if you wish to search for single fish, as those echoes are hard to see on the regular echogram. Also, the presentation will give an indication on how strong the various echoes are.

To enable this function, press the ENT button to open the Echo

quick menu, and select Activate A-Scope. To disable it, select Hide A-Scope on the same menu.

To change presentation parameters

The echo sounder presentation is controlled by the parameters defined in the setup. To change these parameters, make the presentation window active, and press the ADJ (Adjust) to access the Echo presentation setup page. You can also press the ENT key to access the Echo quick menu, and select the Echo presentation setup there.

The technical parameters for the echo sounder are located on the Echo sounder setup page. To access, press the MENU button, and select Echo sounder setup on the Setup menu.

Related topics

→ Echo presentation setup, page 177 → Echo sounder setup, page 180

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Display modes

Highway display

The navigation display provided by the PI44 offers all key information related to waypoint navigation. Note that the information pr ovided by this presentation assumes that you have the relevant sensor (GPS) connected to your PI44 system.

The navigation display can be set up as a full screen feature, but you can also set it up to be displayed in smaller windows.

The following information is provided by the navigation display:

(A) “C” is the current course over ground, while “B” is the course to the next waypoint.

(B) “X” is the cross-track error, while “D” is the distance to the next waypoint.

(D) These are the crosstrack error alarm lines.

(E) The ideal course line between the two waypoints.

To change presentation parameters

The presentation is controlled by the parameters defined in the PI44 setup. To change these parameters, press the ADJ or ENT button to open the Navigation setup page.

To access the Pilot/Position parameters, press the MENU button to access the main menu. Then. select Pilot/Position Setup on the Setup menu.

Related topics

→ Navigation setup, page 200

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→ Pilot/Position setup, page 200

Simrad PI44

Position display

The Position display provided by the PI44 offers all key information related to safe navigation on one display presentation. Note that the information provided by the Position display assumes that you have the relevant sensors (GSP and temperature feeler) connected to your PI44 system.

The Position display can be set up as a full screen feature, but you can also set it up to be displayed in smaller windows.

The following information is provided by the position display:

W ater temperature: The temperature will only be available if the applicable temperature feeler is connected to the PI44.

Two individual distance logs:

Both distance logs can be reset using the setup parameters.

Current geographical position: If the position fails to

be updated, the characters will flash.

Current speed, course and depth: This information will only be available if the applicable sensors have been connected to the PI44.

Local time and date External POS: This is the current status of the satellite

reception. The character “A” means that the reception is good, “B” means that the reception is acceptable, and “C” means that it is poor. If there is no reception, the message Not valid will be shown.

To change presentation parameters

The presentation is controlled by the parameters defined in the PI44 setup. To change these parameters, press the ADJ or ENT buttons to open the Position display setup page. To access the Pilot/Position parameters, press the MENU button to access the main menu. Then. select Pilot/Position Setup on the Setup menu.

Related topics

→ Position display setup, page 206 → Pilot/Position setup, page 200

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OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES

Overview

This chapter will provide you with basic procedures in order to help you set up the most common functions and parameters in the PI44.

Operational procedures

Sensor procedures

→ How to show or hide the graphic

alarm, page 56

→ How to show or hide the sensor timers,

page 56

→ How to reset the sensor timers,

page 56

→ How to change background colour,

page 56

→ How to set up the sensors, page 58 → How to mount the sensors on the net,

page 61

→ How to use the sensors, page 62 → How to replace the sacrificial water

switch, page 63

→ How to test the sensors, page 64 → How to calibrate the Depth sensor,

page 65

→ How to define sensor offsets, page 66 → How to set up a Spread sensor for a

twin trawl, page 67

→ How to set up a Spread sensor for a

dual twin trawl, page 72

Echo sounder procedures

→ How to access echo sounder

parameters, page 88

→ How to use visual aids and filters,

page 89

→ How to define range, page 91 → How to zoom in on bottom echoes,

page 93

→ How to zoom in on pelagic echoes,

page 94

→ How to activate the A-Scope

presentation, page 95

Common procedures

→ How to define alarm limits, page 96 → How to select menu language, page 99 → How to control automatic page

rotation, page 100

→ How to restore default settings, page

101

→ How to personalize your system,

page 102

Graphic display procedures

→ How to access graphic display

parameters, page 79

→ How to view echo sounder data,

page 80

→ How to set up marker lines, page 81 → How to use the special features for

trawl markers, page 86

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44

How to define sensor presentation

The information from the various sensors are provided by the Numerical display, where each sensor is presented in its own rectangular data winsow.

How to show or hide the graphic alarm

1 Ensure that you have a Numeric display presentation in

your active window. 2 Press the ADJ button to open the Numeric setup

dialogue.

3 Switch Show graphic alarm on or off. 4 Press the ENT button to save the parameters and exit.

How to show or hide the sensor timers

Sensor timers are only used on Catch and Bottom Contact sensors.

1 Ensure that you have a Numeric display presentation in

your active window. 2 Press the ADJ button to open the Numeric setup

dialogue.

3 Switch Sensor timer on or off. 4 Press the ENT button to save the parameters and exit.

How to reset the sensor timers

Sensor timers are only used on Catch and Bottom Contact sensors.

1 Ensure that you have a Numeric display presentation in

your active window. 2 Press the ADJ button to open the Numeric setup

dialogue.

3 Set Reset sensor timers to YES. 4 Press the ENT button to save the parameter and exit. 5 Press the ENT button one more time to accept the process.

The next time you access the Numeric setup dialogue, the value for Reset sensor timers is NO.

How to change the background colour

You can change the background colours on the rectangular data windows in order to easily distingush them from each other.

1 Press the ENT button to open the manin menu.

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Operational procedures

2 On the Setup menu, select Palette setup. 3 Observe the first palette page appear. It contains fixed

colours, which can not be altered. Press the + button

repeatedly until you reach a custom page. 4 By means of the circular Selector pad and the + and -

buttons, select the requested colour(s). 5 Press the ENT button to accept the choice.

Related topics

→ Numeric setup, page 202 → Numeric display, page 33

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Simrad PI44

How to set up the sensors

The very first time you switch on the PI44, you will need to set up the sensor configuration. This will also be required if you perform a “master reset” on the PI44, and then reload the manufacturer’s default settings.

Observe the following procedure to establish the most common values. For more detailed information about the settings, refer to the References chapter.

Note: In order to establish the sensor configuration, you need to know

what kind of sensors you have, which channels they communicate on, and how often they communicate. This information is required before you start the configuration on the PI44.

Note: Do not attempt to set up the sensors unless this is absolutely

necessary.

We strongly suggest that you use the forms in the front of this manual to write down the sensor you have with information about their update rates and communication channels.

1 Press the MENU button to open the main menu. 2 Open the Setup menu (4), and select Sensor setup (5). 3 Press the ENT key to bypass the warning page. 4 For each of the sensors you shall use, select the following

parameters:

a Set Sensor type to SINGLE to activate the sensor.

b Set Update rate FAST, SLOW or NORMAL

c Set Measure to chosen sensor type.

d Set Channel to correct communication channel for the

chosen sensor.

5 For operational use, make sure that Demo mode is set to

OFF. 6 When you have defined the sensors, press the ENT

buttom to save the changes and exit. If you configure less then six sensors, you will be able to set the

Sensor parameter to Dual. You can not use this setting. Dual sensors are not yet available, and this functionality is not yet supported by the digital signal processing in the PI44. The ability to choose Dual is implemented for future expansion only, and any attempt to choose this setting will not work.

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Operational procedures

Predefined settings

Each sensor is delivered with a predefined setup. This setup includes:

• transmission channel for the acoustic communication link

between the sensor and the vessel’s hydrophone

• update rate; how often the sensor sends its readings back to

the PI44 system.

To change the sensor setup, you can call your local Simrad dealer, or you can do it yourself if you have the proper equipment, training and the PI Configurator software.

Changing a transmission channel

It may be required to change one or more transmission channels, and there may be many reasons for this.

• You have more than one of each sensor. For example, if you

have three temperature sensors, they MUST communicate on three different channels.

• Other vessels near your use the same PI44 system (or a

similar), and they have one or more of their sensors set up to the same communication channels as you have. This will create interference, as you will “read” each others sensors.

• If your sensors are set up to use communication channels too

close to each other (for example, you have chosen channels 4, 5 and 6), this will limit the vessel’s speed. The reason for this is the doppler effect. If the speed is too high, the doppler will cause the transmission frequencies to change so much that they overlap, and this will create interference. The PI44 will provide a warning if this is about to happen! You must then either change to other communication channels further apart, or reduce the maximum shooting speed.

• If you operate at the maximum range of the sensors, you may

be able to increase this range slightly if you use lower communication channels. This is because the lower communication channels user lower transmission frequencies.

Changing the update rate

850-165085 / Rev.B

It may be required to change the update rate on a sensor, that is how often it sends information back to the PI44 system. A high update rate will give frequent information updates, but the sensor will use more battery power. If you need your batteries to last as long as possible, you must consider lowering the update rate.

Simrad PI44

• A low update rate will provide you with fewer information

updates, but the battery will last very long.

• A high update rate will give you frequent information

updates, but the battery will run out faster.

All sensors are provided from Simrad with a default update rate setting. In some cases you may find that this update rate does not suit your operational needs. This is a decision you have to make depending on the local fishing conditions.

How to change the sensor setup

To change the sensor setup, you can call your local Simrad dealer, or you can do it yourself if you have the proper equipment, training and the PI Configurator software.

Related topics

→ Sensor setup, page 215 → Max shooting speed, page 208 → PI Configurator, page 226

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Operational procedures

How to mount the sensors on the net

Once the sensor has been coded correctly, you must mount it on the net. The mounting instructions for each sensor is provided in the Sensors chapter, and the same information can also be found on the Quick Reference Guide for each sensor.

Related topics

→ Sensors overview, page 103

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Simrad PI44

How to use the sensors

Once the sensors have been coded and installed on the net, they will automatically be switched on once they are submerged into water. The PI44 will then automatically retreive information from them, and provided that you have chosen the correct display presentation, the information will be provided to you.

Applications

The various applications available to you with the different sensors are explained in the Getting started and Applications chapters.

Display presentation

How to set up the display to see the information provided by the sensors are described in the Getting started chapters. The various modes are explained in detail in the Display modes chapter.

Practical information

The practical information about the various sensors is provided in the Sensors chapter, and the same information can also be found on the Quick Reference Guide for each sensor.

Related topics

→ Getting started: Presentation pages, page 13 → Getting started: Sensors, page 20 → Applications, page 25 → Sensors overview, page 103

850-165085 / Rev.B

Operational procedures

How to replace the sacrificial water switch

All PI and PS sensors are equipped with a water switch, and two different types are used. If your sensors are equipped with a brass screw, observe the following procedure for replacement.

1 Turn the sensor upside down, and locate the brass screw. 2 Inspect the screw for wear and tear. If required, replace

the screw. A standard commercial brass screw is used. Local supply will

normally be available, but the following specifications must be met:

Brass, Size M5x10, DIN85A, rounded head

Before a new screw is inserted, Aqua Shield (or a similar underwater lubricant) must be applied. Due to the size of the tube, we recommend that the grease is applied from a syringe.

1 Apply Aqua Shield to the screw threads. 2 Insert the screw, mount firmly, but not too hard. 3 Use maximum torque 1.5 NM

A pack with ten screws and a tube of Aqua Shield can be ordered from Simrad as a spare parts kit.

Aqua Shield is manufactured by D.A.Stuart, Warrenville, Illinois, USA (www.d-a-stuart.com).

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Simrad PI44

How to test the sensors

By using the PI Configurator, you can test the operational status of each sensor. Test procedures for all the sensors have been provided in a separate chapter in this manual.

Note that PI and PS sensors are tested using the same procedures.

Related topics

→ PI Configurator, page 226 → Test procedures, page 265

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Operational procedures

How t o calibrate the Depth sensor

Only the Depth sensor can be calibrated. The purpose is to ensure that the depth reported by the sensor is as accurate as possible.

This procedure is carried out onboard the vessel.

1 Mount a rope to the top fastening lugs on the sensor. 2 Tighten the rope, and measure one meter from the bottom

of the sensor to a spot on the rope. Place a visual marker

on the rope at that location. 3 Lower the sensor over the side of the vessel and into the

water. Lower it until the visual marker on the rope is even

with the surface. 4 On the PI44, observe the numerical presentation of the

sensor, and allow the reading to stabilize itself.

5 On the PI44, press the MENU button to open the Main

menu. 6 Press 4 to open the Setup menu, and 4 againtoopenthe

Sensor alarm/calibration dialogue. 7 Press the GAIN+ button three -3- times to access the

Depth calibration dialogue. 8 Set Depth sensor calibration to YES. 9 Press the ENT button to accept the choice, and one more

time to acknowledge. 10 Observe the information page. Press the ENT button once

again to proceed. 11 Leave the sensor hanging from the rope for minimum two

minutes. Meanwhile, observe that the numerical

presentation shows grey characters only. 12 On the PI44, observe that the numerical presentation of

the Depth sensor is stable, and shows 1 meter. 13 Retrieve the sensor from the water.

Note: In order to calibrate the sensor, it must be submerged in salt

water.

You may wish to use a different depth reference than the sea surface. If this is the case, change the marking on the rope to fit you preference, for example the depth of the keel or the depth of an echo sounder transducer.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Related topics

→ How to define sensor offsets, page 66 → Depth calibration, setup, page 176

Simrad PI44

How to define sensor offsets

Only the Depth and Spread sensors can have their offset values adjusted. The purpose is to allow you to compensate for known deviations.

You may wish to insert a Depth sensor offset to line up the depth readings from the sensor with those from your echo sounder. If the echo sounder transducer is located X meters below the surface, the Depth sensor should have the same offset value.

Note: If you have performed a Depth sensor calibration, you will see

than an offset value may already be present. This value has been provided by the calibration routine.

1 On the PI44, press the MENU button to open the main

menu.

2 Press 4 to open the Setup menu, and 4 againtoopenthe

Sensor alarm/calibration dialogue. 3 Press the GAIN+ button four -4- times to access the

Offset adjust dialogue. 4 Enter the required values. 5 Press the ENT button to save the parameters and exit.

Related topics

→ Offset adjust, setup, page 203

850-165085 / Rev.B

Operational procedures

How to set up a Twin Spread sensor for twin trawl applications

By means of the T win Spread sensor, you can set up your PI44 to monitor the openings on a twin trawl. Apart from the Twin Spread sensor, you will also need two Remote sensors.

Sensor configuration

The Twin Spread and Remote sensors are supplied in sets, and they MUST operate in these sets. The sets are:

• Twin Spread 1 uses two Remote sensors; Remote 1 and

Remote 3.

• Twin Spread 2 uses two Remote sensors; Remote 2 and

Remote 4.

When supplied from the manufacturer, all Twin Spread sensors are set up as Tw in Spread 1. If you wish to use a Twin Spread 2, your dealer (or yourself) must reconfigure the sensor using the PI Configurator application.

Communication channels and update rate

Each Twin Spread sensor will communicate on two channels, one for each of the two distances the sensor measures. By default, these communication channels are set to 02 and 07.

• Channel 02 is used to measure the distance to Remote 1.

• Channel 07 is used to measure the distance to Remote 3.

By default, both communication channels are set up with Fast update rate. In order to increase the lifetime between each sensor charging, you may consider changing to Normal update rate.

If you wish to reconfigure the settings, your dealer (or yourself) must use the PI Configurator application.

Placing the sensors on the trawl

The Twin Spread sensor must be mounted on the port trawl door, and the three communication transducers on the sensor must not be obstructed. Ensure that you have a clear line of sight between the tip of the Twin Spread sensor and the vessel, and between the Twin Spread sensor and the two Remote sensors.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Remote 1 is placed on the centre clump. Remote 3 is placed on the starboard door.

Simrad PI44

This configuration will allow the Twin Spread sensor to measure the distance from the port door to the centre clump directly. It will also measure the distance between the two trawl doors. In order to calculate the distance between the centre clump and the starboard door, you must perform the required settings on the PI44.

(P) = Port trawl (S) = Starboard trawl (C) = Port trawl door with the Twin Spread 1 sensor mounted. (D) = Centre clump with Remote 1 mounted. (E) = Starboard trawl door with R emote 3 mounted. (F) = Forward (1) = Distance between port trawl door and centre clump,

measured direcly by the Twin Spread sensor. (2) = Distance between the centre clump and the starboard

trawl door, must be calculated by the PI44 system.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Operational procedures

Sensor setup

Observe the procedure below to set up a Twin Spread configuration with its default settings.

In this procedure, sensors 1 and 2 are used, and no other sensors are shown. Due to the fact that the T win Spread sensor occupy two communication channels, the setup program requires that it is configured as if it was two separate sensors, but not necessarily sensors 1 and 2. The remaining four channels can be used for other sensors.

We strongly suggest that you use the forms in the front of this manual to write down the sensor you have with information about their update rates and communication channels.

1 Press the MENU button to open the main menu. 2 Open the Setup menu (4), and select Sensor setup (5). 3 Press the ENT key to bypass the warning page. 4 To configure the Twin Spread sensor, enter the following

parameters:

a Set Sensor 1 type to SINGLE to activate the sensor.

b Set Update 1 rate to FAST.

c Set Measure 1 to SPREAD.

d Set Channel to 02.

e Set Sensor 2 type to SINGLE to activate the sensor.

f Set Update 2 rate to FAST.

g Set Measure 2 to SPREAD.

h Set Channel to 07. 5 For operational use, make sure that Demo mode is set to

OFF. 6 When you have defined the sensors, press the ENT

buttom to save the changes and exit.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44

According to the sensor locations previously described, Spread 1 will now measure the distance from the port trawl door to the centre clump, while Spread 2 will measure the distance from the port trawl door to the starboard trawl door.

Readout adjustments

It is necessary to set certain parameters in order to have the PI44 to calculate the distance from the centre clump to the starboard trawl door.

GAIN- GAIN+

Headrope sensor: Footrope sensor: Trawl opening mode: Manual trawl marker: Clump sensor: Door sensor: Trawl data in additional info: Type of trawl data:

MENU Exit

Trawl info

SPREAD 1 SPREAD 2

SPREAD

(CD11105C)

1 Press the MENU button to open the main menu. 2 Press the WIN button to select a full screen presentation. 3 Open the Fishery menu, and select a Graphic display. 4 Press the ADJ button to open the Graphic setup. 5 Press the PAGE+ button three -3- times to access the

Trawl info dialoge. 6 Locate the Clump sensor setting, select SPREAD 1.

- As previously defined and described, sensor Spread 1 measures the distance between the port trawl door and the centre clump.

7 Locate the Door sensor setting, select SPREAD 2.

- As previously defined and described, sensor Spread 2 measures the distance between the port and the starboard trawl doors. This setting allows the PI44 to calculate the distance between the clump and the starboard trawl door.

8 Locate Trawl data in additional info, select ON.

9 Locate Type of trawl data, select SPREAD. 10 Press the ENT button to save the settings and exit.

Readouts

Following the configuration and readout adjustments explained, the following readouts are now available in the Graphic display.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Operational procedures

• Numeric display: Rectangle S1 shows the distance between the port trawl door and the centre clump. Rectangle S2 shows the distance between the port trawl door and the starboard trawl door.

• Additional information: The information bar directly below the numeric rectangles displays the abbreviation TS and a value. This value represents the distance between the centre clump and the starboard trawl door.

Related topics

→ Twin Spread, page 148 → Sensor setup, page 215 → Trawl info, page 223

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44

How to set up two Twin Spread sensors for dual twin trawl application

By means of two Twin Spread sensors, you can set up your PI44 to monitor the four openings on a dual twin trawl. Apart from the two Twin Spread sensors, you will also need four Remote sensors.

(A) = Twin trawl Alpha (Port) (B) = Twin trawl Bravo (Starboard)

850-165085 / Rev.B

Operational procedures

Sensor configuration

The Twin Spread and Remote sensors are supplied in sets, and they MUST operate in these sets. The sets are:

• Twin Spread 1 uses two Remote sensors; Remote 1 and Remote 3.

• Twin Spread 2 uses two Remote sensors; Remote 2 and Remote 4.

When supplied from the manufacturer, all Twin Spread sensors are set up as Twin Spread 1. You will now need to use Twin Spread 2 as well, and your dealer (or yourself) must reconfigure aTwinStread1sensorusingthePI Configurator application.

Communication channels and update rate

Each Twin Spread sensor will communicate on two channels, one for each of the two distances the sensor measures. By default, these communication channels are set to 02 and 07.

• Channel 02 on Twin Spread 1 is used to measure the distance to Remote 1.

• Channel 07 on Twin Spread 1 is used to measure the distance to Remote 3.

By default, both communication channels are set up with Fast update rate. In order to increase the lifetime between each sensor charging, you may consider changing to Normal update rate.

When you reconfigure a Twin Spread 1 sensor to act as a Twin Spread 2, you must also choose two additional communication channels. You can choose any channels available on your system.

In this description we will use channels 09 and 11 as follows:

• Channel 09 on Twin Spread 2 is used to measure the distance to Remote 2.

• Channel 11 on Twin Spread 2 is used to measure the distance to Remote 4.

If you wish to reconfigure the settings, your dealer (or yourself) must use the PI Configurator application. Make sure that the channels you choose are not used by any of your other sensors!

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44

Only twin trawl Alpha (port) is shown. (P) = Port trawl (S) = Starboard trawl (C) = Port trawl door with the Twin Spread 1 sensor mounted. (D) = Centre clump with Remote 1 mounted. (E) = Starboard trawl door with R emote 3 mounted. (F) = Forward (1) = Distance between port trawl door and centre clump,

measured direcly by the Twin Spread sensor. (2) = Distance between the centre clump and the starboard

trawl door, must be calculated by the PI44 system.

Placing the sensors on the trawl

The two twin trawls are referred to as Alpha (port) and Bravo (starboard).

On the twin trawl Alpha, the Twin Spread 1 sensor must be mounted on the port trawl door, and the three communication transducers on the sensor must not be obstructed.

Remote 1 is placed on the centre clump of Alpha. Remote 3 is placed on the starboard door of Alpha.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Operational procedures

On twin trawl Bravo, the Twin Spread 2 sensor must be mounted on the port trawl door, and the three communication transducers on the sensor must not be obstructed.

Remote 2 is placed on the centre clump of Bravo. Remote 4 is placed on the starboard door of Bravo.

This configuration will allow the Twin Spread sensors on each dual trawl Alpha and Bravo to measure the distance from the port door to the centre clump directly. It will also measure the distance between the two trawl doors.

In order to calculate the distance between the centre clump and the starboard door, you must perform the necessary settings on the PI44. This is however only possible with one of the twin trawls, as the current software version does not support this function.

Sensor setup

Observe the procedure below to set up a Twin Spread configuration with the settings defined above.

In this procedure, sensors 1, 2, 3 and 4 are used, and no other sensors are shown. Due to the fact that each Twin Spread sensor occupy two communication channels, the setup program requires that each sensor is configured as if it was two separate sensors, but not necessarily sensors 1 through 4. The remaining two channels can be used for other sensors.

We strongly suggest that you use the forms in the front of this manual to write down the sensor you have with information about their update rates and communication channels.

parameters:

a Set Sensor 1 type to SINGLE to activate the sensor. b Set Update 1 rate to FAST.

850-165085 / Rev.B

c Set Measure 1 to SPREAD. d Set Channel to 02. e Set Sensor 2 type to SINGLE to activate the sensor. f Set Update 2 rate to FAST. g Set Measure 2 to SPREAD.

Simrad PI44

h Set Channel to 07. i Set Sensor 3 type to SINGLE to activate the sensor. j Set Update 3 rate to FAST. k Set Measure 3 to SPREAD. l Set Channel to 09. m Set Sensor 4 type to SINGLE to activate the sensor. n Set Update 4 rate to FAST. o Set Measure 4 to SPREAD. p Set Channel to 11.

5 For operational use, make sure that Demo mode is set to

OFF.

6 When you have defined the sensors, press the ENT

buttom to save the changes and exit.

According to the sensor locations previously described, the following measurements are made:

• Twin trawl Alpha (port): Spread 1 will measure the distance from the port trawl door to the centre clump, while Spread 2 will measure the distance from the port trawl door to the starboard trawl door of the port twin trawl.

• Twin trawl Bravo (starboard): Spread 3 will measure the distance from the port trawl door to the centre clump, while Spread 4 will measure the distance from the port trawl door to the starboard trawl door of the starboard twin trawl.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Operational procedures

Readout adjustments

It is necessary to set certain parameters in order to have the PI44 to calculate the distance from the centre clump to the starboard trawl door.

Note: This is however only possible for one twin trawl, not for both.

Trawl info dialoge.

6 Locate the Clump sensor setting, select Spread 1 (or

Spread 3)

- As previously defined and described, sensor Spread 1 measures the distance between the port trawl door and the centre clump.

7 Locate the Door sensor setting, select Spread 2 (or

Spread 4)

- As previously defined and described, sensor Spread 2 measures the distance between the port and the starboard trawl door. This setting allows the PI44 to calculate the distance between the clump and the starboard trawl door.

8 Locate Trawl data in additional info, select Yes. 9 Locate Type of trawl data,selectSpread. 10 Press the ENT button to save the settings and exit.

Readouts

Following the configuration and readout adjustments explained, the following readouts are now available in the Graphic display.

• Numeric display:

- Rectangle S1 shows the distance between the port door

and the centre clump on twin trawl Alpha (port).

- Rectangle S2 shows the distance between the port and

starboard trawl doors on twin trawl Alpha (port).

850-165085 / Rev.B

- Rectangle S3 shows the distance between the port door

and the centre clump on twin trawl Bravo (starboard).

- Rectangle S4 shows the distance between the port and

starboard trawl doors on twin trawl Bravo (starboard).

Simrad PI44

Related topics

→ Twin Spread, page 148 → Sensor setup, page 215 → Trawl info, page 223

850-165085 / Rev.B

Operational procedures

How to access graphic display parameters

The various parameters defining the Graphic display presentation are controlled from the following dialogues:

• Graphic setup

• Temperature

• Marker line

• Trawl info

• Trawl calculator

How to use the most common parameters are explained in separate procedures.

Access

1 Make sure that you have a Graphic display presentation in

your active window.

2 Press the ADJ button to open the Graphic setup

dialogue.

3 Press the GAIN+ button repeatedly to open the various

setup dialogues.

Related topics

→ Graphic setup, page 184 → Temperature setup, page 220 → Marker line setup, page 197 → Trawl calculator, page 221 → Trawl info setup, page 223

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44

Howtoviewechosounderdata

When you have chosen the Graphic display presentation, you can choose to superimpose the information from the echo sounder. This feature allows you to see where your sensors are located in relation to the bottom and fish echoes. Note that this feature will only work if you have mounted an echo sounder transducer to the PI44.

1 Make sure that a Graphic display presentation is active. 2 Press the ADJ button to open the Graphic setup

dialogue.

3 Locate the setting Superimpose echo sounder, and set the

option to ON.

4 Press the ENT button to save the setting and close the

dialogue.

Related topics

→ Graphic setup, page 184

850-165085 / Rev.B

Operational procedures

How to set up marker lines

When you have chosen the Graphic display presentation, you can choose to superimpose the information from the echo sounder, and then add marker lines to see where your sensors are located in relation to the bottom and fish echoes. Note that the echo sounder data will only appear if you have mounted an echo sounder transducer to the PI44.

The following parameters will affect the way the marker lines are displayed:

• Width - you can select how thick (in pixels) each marker line shall be.

• Delay - The echo sounder information is provided by the transducer, and this transducer is located under the vessel. The sensors are located on the gear, which may be positioned several hundred meters behind the vessel. To adjust for this delay, you can enter a value for Marker line delay.Youmust calculate this value (in minutes) based on the vessel’s speed, the wire length and the depth of the gear.

Alternatively, you can use the built-in Trawl caluclator to find the correct delay.

• Colour - The colour of the marker line is automatically set to the current Numeric display background colour for the same sensor. To change that colour, you must access the Display colour setup page from the Setup menu.

• Expanded view: With the setting Sensor marker in expansion active, the Depth and Height marker lines are

shown in the expanded areas (Bottom lock, Zoom and Shift), and thus easier to read. This is a useful feature when the sensor is towed close to the bottom, and it is particulary important for the Height sensor.

• Marker white zone: When this setting is enabled, white pixels are added above and under the marker line to make it easier to distinguish it from the background colours.

• Height marker in main echogram: This setting is special for Height sensors. If you have a Height sensor on the top of a bottom trawl and the trawl opening is small, it may be difficult to tell the Height marker from the bottom echo. If this is the case, set this function to Off, and view the Height marker in expanded mode only.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44

• Height reference: The Height sensor measures the distance from the headrope to the bottom. If you use the PI44 echo sounder, set Height reference to Bottom (default), and the height marker will follow the bottom contour. If you even define the delay correctly, you will be able to see the trawl in true motion. If you do not have en active echo sounder, set Height reference to Surface. The height will then be shown with 0 m depth as reference, and the marker line will appear as a nearly straight line some distance below 0 meters. The distance from the 0 meter line and down to the marker line will be the current height of the trawl.

(A) = Numeric depth display, Sensor “4D” (Depth) (B) = Marker line from Depth sensor”4D” (C) = Numeric depth display, Sensor “6D” (Depth). A different

background colour has been chosen to tell the marker lines apart.

(D) = Marker line from Depth sensor”6D”

850-165085 / Rev.B

Operational procedures

Access to the marker line parameters

1 Make sure that a Graphic display presentation is active. 2 Press the ADJ button to open the Graphic setup

dialogue.

3 Press the GAIN+ button until the Marker line setup

dialogue appears.

4 Observe the list of sensors. Only the sensors capable of

providing data for marker lines are listed.

Trawl calculator

In order to calculate the correct delay, we suggest that you use the built-in Trawl calculator. Observe the following procedure:

1 Press the GAIN+ button to access the Trawl calculator

setup page.

2 Set Trawl calculator mode to Auto. 3 Set Towing speed to Auto.

- In order to retrieve speed information, the relevant equipment (GPS) must be interfaced to your PI44.

- When you read the speed information from a GPS, the information is very accurate. Due to the fact that the trawl calculations are made continuously, even the slightest change in speed will be reflected on the display presentation, and you may experience that the markers fluctuate. If this is a problem, enter the average vessel speed manually.

4 If you run a pelagic trawl, set Trawl depth to Manual,

and enter the mean depth.

5 If you run a bottom trawl, you can set the Trawl depth to

Bottom, and read the depth from the echo sounder.

- If a transducer is connected to the PI44, the trawl calculator will update the delay based on the data from the echo sounder.

6 Enter the Wire length. In most cases, this is the length

from the stern of the vessel to the trawl doors.

850-165085 / Rev.B

7 Enter the Wire length offset. This is the distance from the

trawl doors to the headrope, and normally a fixed value. The calculator will add the wire length to the wire length offset, and use the sum of these in the calculations.

Simrad PI44

Depth and Height marker lines

The purpose of these marker lines is to provide an easy way to monitor the depth of the gear. The Height sensor measures the distance from the seabed and up to the sensor, while the Depth sensor measures the distance from the sea surface and down to the sensor.

1 Identify which of the sensors that are the Depth and/or

Height sensors.

2 For each sensor, set Auto to On.

- This enables the PI44 to use the delay calculated by the Trawl calculator.

- You can also set Auto to Off. You must then calculate the delay yourself, and enter it manually in the Delay column.

3 Enter your preferred value for marker line Width. 4 Enable each individual marker line by setting Show to

On.

5 If you wish to see the marker line(s) in expanded view

(Bottom Lock, Zoom and Shift), set the Sensor marker line in expansion to On.

6 If you wish the PI44 to draw a thin white line over and

under the marker line to enhance the view, set Marker white zone to On.

7 If you wish to view the Height marker in expanded mode

only, set Height marker in main echogram to Off. 8 Select the appropriate setting for Height reference. 9 Press ENT to save the settings and exit to the graphic

display presentation. The Depth and Height marker lines are presented on the

Graphic display with continuous lines in the same background colour as in the Numeric display. To read the depth, consult the depth range on the right side of the display, or the readout in the Numeric display.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Operational procedures

Spread marker line

The purpose of this marker line is to provide an easy way to monitor the distance between the trawl doors.

1 Identify which of the sensors that is the Spread sensor. 2 Set the marker line to ON. 3 Enter the preferred settings for Marker line thickness

and Marker line delay. 4 Press ENT to save the settings and return the the graphic

presentation. The Spread marker line is presented on the Graphic display

with a continuous line. The colour of the line is the same as the background colour in the numeric presentation. To read the distance between the trawl doors, consult the depth range on the right side of the display, or the readout in the Numeric display. If the trawl door distance is reduced or increased, this will be easily detected as the marker line moves up or down. Note that you do not monitor the depth of the trawl doors even though you use the depth scale, the scale is used as a range scale.

Surface temperature marker line

The purpose of this marker line is to provide an easy way to monitor the surface temperature. Note that this is NOT a reading from a temperature sensor, but from a feeler. Such feelers are often built into the echo sounder transducers.

1 Ensure that a proper feeler is connected to the PI44. 2 Set the marker line to On. 3 Enter the preferred settings for Marker line thickness

and Marker line delay. 4 Use the ADJ button to open the Temperature setup page. 5 Press ENT to save the settings and exit to the graphic

display presentation. The Temperature marker line is presented on the Graphic

display as a continuous line.

Related topics

→ Graphic setup, page 184

850-165085 / Rev.B

→ Marker line setup, page 197 → Temperature setup, page 220 → Trawl calculator, page 221

Simrad PI44

Special f eatures for trawl marker lines

When you have chosen a graphic presentation, you can choose to superimpose the information from the echo sounder, and then add marker lines to see where your sensors are located in relation to the bottom and fish echoes. When you use a pelagic or bottom trawl, the PI44 offers certain special features to provide additional information.

(A) = Numeric depth display, Sensor “6D” placed on the headrope

(B) = Marker line from the footrope, added by using the Manual trawl marker setting

The recommended sensor configuration to monitor the trawl opening is to use one Height or Depth sensor on the headrope, and one Depth sensor on the footrope. However, if you only use one of these sensors, place it on the headrope. The PI44 will then manually draw the trawl opening markers for you provided that you enter the typical height of the trawl opening.

The following parameters will provide the extra information related to trawl markers:

• Headrope and footrope sensors: You need to tell the PI44

which Depth and/or Height sensor(s) you have placed on the footrope and/or headrope of the trawl.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Operational procedures

• Trawl opening mode: This parameter decides how the trawl

opening shall be recreated on the graphic presentation. If you have sufficient sensors on the trawl you must select Auto, and the the PI44 will automatically calculate the trawl opening and draw it accordingly. If you only have one sensor on the trawl opening (Depth or Height sensor on the headrope), the Manual setting will add an artificial line on the presentation. The distance from the headrope to the footrope must then be defined manually using the Manual trawl marker parameter.

Access to the parameters

1 Make sure that a graphic presentation is active. 2 Press the ADJ button to open the Graphic setup

dialogue. 3 Press the GAIN+ button to access the Trawl info setup

page.

Set up the parameters

1 Locate the setting Headrope sensor, and choose the

sensor that you have placed on the headrope.

- If you have no Depth or Height sensors on the

headrope, leave the setting to None.

2 Locate the setting Footrope sensor, and chose the sensor

that you have placed on the footrope.

- If you have no Depth or Height sensors on the

footrope, leave t he setting to None.

3 Observe that the setting for Trawl opening mode is

automatically set to Auto or Manual.

- If you have sensors placed on both the footrope and the headrope, the PI44 will be able to calculate the trawl opening automatically, and the mode is set to Auto.

- If you have only one sensor, you will need to enter a manual trawl marker.

4 If you have only one sensor, enter a value for Manual

trawl marker.

- This value must represent the actual height of your trawl opening, based on your knowledge about your gear. The information will be used by the PI44 to draw a second trawl marker line.

850-165085 / Rev.B

Related topics

→ Graphic setup, page 184 → Marker line setup, page 197 → Trawl info setup, page 223

Simrad PI44

How to access echo sounder parameters

The built-in echo sounder is easily controlled from separate dialogues.

• The Echo presentation setup dialogue controls the visual

parameters, such as Range, Gain, White line and Expansion window.

• The Echosounder setup dialogue controls the operational

parameters, such as alarms, sound velocity and transducer selection.

How to find the most common parameters are explained in separate procedures. The parameters are described in detail in the References chapter.

Echo presentation setup

1 Make sure thast you have an echo sounder presentation in

your active window.

2 Press the ADJ button to open the Echo presentation

setup.

Alternatively, you can press the ENT button to open the Echo quick menu, and then select Echo presentation setup (9).

Echosounder setup

1 Press the MENU button to open the main menu. 2 Select Setup (4) 3 Select Echosounder setup (STND).

Related topics

→ Echo presentation setup, page 177 → Echosounder setup, page 180

850-165085 / Rev.B

Simrad PI44 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual