Syqwest HydroBox Installation, Operation And Maintenance Manual

SYQWEST INCORPORATED

High Resolution Echo Sounders and Acoustic Systems

For Precision Seafloor Exploration

HydroBox ™ Hydrographic
Echo Sounder

• Installation

• Operation

• Maintenance

Ver 3, 7.25.10

[e-mail]

222 Metro Center Blvd.

Warwick, RI 02886 USA

TEL: [phone] / FAX: [phone]

| http://www.syqwestinc.com/

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 INTRODUCTION..............................................................................................................................1-1

1.1 GENERAL INFORMATION............................................................................................................1-1

1.2 ABOUT THIS MANUAL ...............................................................................................................1-1

1.3 ECHO SOUNDING PRINCIPLES ....................................................................................................1-2

1.3.1 Underwater Acoustics........................................................................................................1-2

1.3.1.1 Decibels..........................................................................................................................1-2

1.3.1.2 Sound Propagation.........................................................................................................1-2

1.4 SPECIFICATIONS .........................................................................................................................1-7

1.4.1 HydroBox Sensor Specifications........................................................................................1-7

1.5 SOFTWARE FEATURES ADDED IN RELEASE V2.45 ......................................................................1-8

1.5.1 Improved Shallow Water Digitizing Performance.............................................................1-8

1.5.2 Improved Auto All Operation.............................................................................................1-8

1.5.3 Bottom Digitizer Threshold Parameter..............................................................................1-8

1.5.4 User selectable Gate Limits...............................................................................................1-8

1.5.5 Sensor Reset on Program Exit ...........................................................................................1-8

1.5.6 NMEA Depth Output written to .CSV file..........................................................................1-9

1.5.7 NMEA I/O and External Event COM Port Settings...........................................................1-9

1.5.8 NMEA I/O Output written to Port during Playback ..........................................................1-9

2.0 INSTALLATION...............................................................................................................................2-1

2.1 - HYDROBOX SYSTEM INSTALLATION OVERVIEW ....................................................................2-1

2.1.1 Important Notes regarding Hydrobox operation – Please Read!......................................2-1

2.1.2 - Getting Started................................................................................................................2-2

2.2 TRANSDUCERS (DIMENSIONS & MOUNTING) ................................................................2-3

2.2.1 P/N P04816 TRANSDUCER 33/210Khz............................................................................2-3

2.2.2 P/N P04817 TRANSDUCER 50/210Khz............................................................................2-4

2.2.3 P/N P04515 TRANSDUCER 210Khz 8 deg......................................................................2-5

2.2.4 P/N P04517 TRANSDUCER 50Khz 18 deg.......................................................................2-5

2.2.5 - Installing the HydroBox Electronics................................................................................2-6

2.2.6 - Installing the HydroBox Transducer ...............................................................................2-8

2.2.7 - Electrical Connections...................................................................................................2-12

2.3 - HYDROBOX PC SOFTWARE INSTALLATION...........................................................................2-15

3.0 OPERATION .....................................................................................................................................3-1

3.1 HYDROBOX PC SOFTWARE........................................................................................................3-1

3.1.1 - The Main Window............................................................................................................3-1

3.2 – THE MENU BAR.......................................................................................................................3-5

3.2.1 – The File Menu.................................................................................................................3-5

3.2.2 –Edit Menu.........................................................................................................................3-6

3.2.2.1 Configure Sonar Port .....................................................................................................3-6

3.2.2.2 Configure NMEA I/O ....................................................................................................3-7

3.2.2.3 NMEA Depth (dpt) ........................................................................................................3-8

3.2.2.4 Configure Events............................................................................................................3-8

3.2.2.5 Configure Thermal Printer.............................................................................................3-9

3.2.2.6 - Configure Detection Threshold .................................................................................3-10

3.2.2.7 - Configure Gate Limits...............................................................................................3-10

3.2.2.8 User Preferences ..........................................................................................................3-10

3.2.3 – The View Menu..............................................................................................................3-12

3.2.3.1 Diagnostic View...........................................................................................................3-14

3.2.4 – The Help Menu..............................................................................................................3-14

3.3 DATA OUTPUTS........................................................................................................................3-15

3.3.1 ODEC Depth (dpt) Format..............................................................................................3-15

TABLE OF CONTENTS I

TABLE OF CONTENTS

3.3.2 PMC Depth (dt) Format...................................................................................................3-15

3.3.3 NMEA Depth Below Transducer (dbt) format.................................................................3-15

3.3.4 NMEA Depth (dpt)...........................................................................................................3-16

4.0 MAINTENANCE...............................................................................................................................4-1

4.1 – POST (POWER ON SELF TEST)................................................................................................4-1

4.2 – LED INDICATOR......................................................................................................................4-1

4.3 – FIRMWARE UPDATE ................................................................................................................4-1

4.3.1 – Connection......................................................................................................................4-2

4.3.2 – Firmware Update File ....................................................................................................4-2

4.3.3 – HydroBox PC Software Firmware Update.....................................................................4-2

4.4 – TROUBLESHOOTING.................................................................................................................4-3

4.4.1 – HydroBox Sensor Troubleshooting.................................................................................4-3

4.4.2 – HydroBox PC Software Troubleshooting........................................................................4-3

4.5 HOW TO PERFORM SOFTWARE AND FIRMWARE UPDATES........................................................4-4

5.0 APPENDIX 1 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ............................................................................5-1

5.1 – HYDROBOX/HYPACK OR THIRD PARTY SURVEY SOFTWARE CONNECTIONS FOR USE ON 1 PC 5-
1

5.1.1 Hydrobox COM Port Connections: ...................................................................................5-1

5.1.2 Hypack Survey Software Port Connections:......................................................................5-1

5.2 CONFIGURING HYDROBOX TO USE WITH SURVEY SOFTWARE AND LAPTOP PC ........................5-2

TABLE OF FIGURES

Figure 1-1 Absorption Coefficient Versus Frequency..........................................................................1-3

Figure 1-2 Acoustic Beam Pattern..........................................................................................................1-6

Figure 2-1 System Interconnect Diagram..............................................................................................2-2

Figure 2-2 Bulkhead Mounting the Sensor Unit...................................................................................2-7

Figure 2-3 Typical Over the Side Mount (reference drawing) ............................................................2-9

Figure 2-4 Over The Side Transducer Mounting Picture..................................................................2-10

Figure 2-5 HydroBox Sensor Unit Connections..................................................................................2-12

Figure 2-6 HydroBox Sensor Power Connector..................................................................................2-13

Figure 2-7 HydroBox Sensor Data Connector ....................................................................................2-14

Figure 2-8 HydroBox Sensor Transducer Connector.........................................................................2-14

Figure 2-9 Printer Port.........................................................................................................................2-15

Figure 5-1 HYPACK Serial Connections...............................................................................................5-3

Figure 5-2 Optional Interface Connections...........................................................................................5-4

TABLE OF TABLES

Table 2-1 Basic Equipment.....................................................................................................................2-2

Table 2-2 Accessories and Options......................................................................................................... 2-3

Table 2-3 Portable Transducer Installation Parts ................................................................................2-9

Table 2-4 HydroBox System Cables.....................................................................................................2-12

Table 3-1 Sound Velocity (Celcius versus part per thousand)...........................................................3-11

TABLE OF CONTENTS II

HYDROBOX ™

Operations and Maintenance Manual

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 General Information

The HydroBox™ is a portable, low power, high-resolution, and water-resistant marine hydrographic
echosounding instrument capable of delivering cm resolution for bottom depth measurements. When
used with SyQwest’s survey grade transducers the instrument provides depth measurement accuracy that
meets all of the IHO requirements. It is designed exclusively for inshore and coastal hydrographic marine
survey up to 800 meters of water depth and operates at either 33, 50, or 200kHz. An interleaved dual
frequency option is also available for dual frequency surveys. Included with the HydroBox™ product is
the following:

•

HydroBox™ Sensor Unit (Single or Dual)

•

HydroBox™ Installation CD

•

HydroBox™ Manual

HydroBox™ Sensor Unit provides all of the transmit/receive electronics, and all of the signal processing
functions. It is powered from a 10-30VDC source and consumes 10 watts of power. It interfaces to the
Host PC via a single COM port. The mechanical case for the Electronics Unit is Water Resistant to the
EN60529 IP65 Specification and is also UV Stable and Chemical Resistant.

There are a host of transducer options that may be used with the HydroBox™ Sensor Unit. Transducer
selection depends upon a number of application parameters: maximum depth, bottom type, single or dual
frequency operation. All of the Transducer assemblies are lightweight and designed for portable pole or
small plate mounting. Transducer options are identified and described in further detail in the Installation
section.

The HydroBox™ Installation CD will install the PC software used to configure, control, and acquire data
from the HydroBox Sensor device. It will also include this manual in PDF format and any Release Notes
that have been generated.

A hardcopy of the HydroBox™ Manual is also included so that the user may learn to install, operate, and
maintain the HydroBox™ Equipment and Accessories. The manual also includes a section on acoustic
theory.

The HydroBox PC software was designed for use with the Windows operating systems. We recommend
the software be used on a PC with a processor speed of at least 266 MHz. The software requires at least 1
available Serial Port for connection to the HydroBox instrument, and optionally, additional Serial Ports
for NMEA Navigation/GPS Input, NMEA Depth Out, and External Annotation. The software features
Navigation Input, External Annotation, Data Storage, Zoom Modes, Thermal Printer output,
Automatic/Manual Eventing, and more. The HydroBox software interface is divided into two fields. The
Controls field is located on the left and contains navigation/depth information, configuration buttons, and
system status. The Data field is located on the right and contains the actual acoustic echo data.

1.2 About This Manual

This manual contains important information regarding acoustic theory, installation, operation and
maintenance of your new equipment. The user should take sufficient time to read the entire manual and
to understand the full functionality of the HydroBox Sensor and PC Software.

The manual is organized into four chapters:

©2006 SyQwest Incorporated

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1) An introduction (this section), which provides a system overview and basic outline of echosounding

acoustics.

2) Installation, which provides details on how to properly mount all of the HydroBox System

components. Details on installing the HydroBox PC Software package are included also.

3) Operational instructions describing how to operate the HydroBox Sensor unit and the HydroBox PC

Software.

4) Maintenance, which provides information on replaceable parts and troubleshooting guidelines.

The user should pay attention to notes that are displayed in a gray box. These notes contain important
information regarding installation and use of the HydroBox System. An example is given below:

NOTE: Important operation and installation information is provided in gray boxes

throughout the manual.

1.3 Echo Sounding Principles

Basic echo sounding principles that should be understood by all operators of hydrographic equipment are
provided in this section.

1.3.1 Underwater Acoustics

1.3.1.1 Decibels

The scale most often used to describe a measurement unit of sound is the decibel (abbreviated “dB”). The
decibel system was selected for a number of reasons. First, it is a logarithmic system, which is useful for
dealing with large changes in measured quantities. Decibel units make multiplication and division simple
because they are reduced to an addition and a subtraction operation respectively. Secondly, for
underwater acoustics, the primary concern is ratios of power levels and signal levels rather than absolute
numeric values.

Transducer calibration values are typically provided in units of decibels, including source level, receive
sensitivity and directivity index. These transducer calibration values are outlined later in this section.
These quantities are used to predict performance levels of a given transducer used with a sonar system.

1.3.1.2 Sound Propagation

The sea, together with its boundaries, forms a remarkably complex medium for the propagation of sound.
Figure 1-2 shows the interaction of a transmitted sound source and the water. Both signal loss and
interference result from interactions with boundaries and components within the water column, causing
the source to be delayed, distorted and weakened. The main components affecting sound propagation are
spreading loss and attenuation loss.

Spreading Loss
As a transmitted pulse of sound leaves the transducer, it spreads out in all directions. At the transmission

point, the sonar puts a fixed amount of energy into the water. As the pulse travels away from the
transducer, it occupies a greater and greater volume. This effect is called spherical spreading. The
general rule is that the intensity of the sound falls off as the square of the distance traveled. In respect to
typical acoustic measurements, this mathematically becomes a loss of 6 decibels for each doubling of the
distance.

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©2006 SyQwest Incorporated

HYDROBOX ™

Operations and Maintenance Manual

For echo sounders, the distance actually traveled is two times the distance to the seafloor from the source
transducer (from the transmission source, to the bottom and back again). This results in a significant
source of signal loss for the system receiving the sound pulse, which must be compensated for at the
receiver. Typically a Time Varied Gain (TVG) amplifier is used to correct for spherical spreading loss in
an acoustic receiver. A TVG amplifier works by applying an increasing amount of gain to the return
signal as time of travel increases.

Attenuation Loss
Attenuation of sound energy in the oceans comes from three factors: absorption, scattering (or

reverberation) and bottom loss. Sound absorption takes place at two levels; one, absorption in the actual
seawater medium, and two, absorption into the seafloor. Primary causes of absorption are viscosity and
thermal conductivity in the molecules of water as the sound travels. At the molecular level, absorption is
primarily related to frequency. At high frequencies- 500 kHz, for example, a loss of 0.14 dB/meter
occurs in seawater, while at 50 kHz the loss is only 0.014 dB/meter. This is a major concern when
selecting a transducer required to meet specified depth criteria. A graph showing the attenuation loss
versus frequency is shown in

Figure 1-1.

Figure 1-1 Absorption Coefficient Versus Frequency

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Sound reflected off the seafloor usually suffers a significant loss in intensity. Part of this loss is due to
scattering (reflection) but most of it results from the portion of sound entering the new medium and
traveling into the seafloor until it is completely absorbed. The amount of energy lost by this effect varies
greatly and depends on bottom type, sound frequency, and the angle at which the sound intersects the
seafloor. Total losses can vary from 10 dB to 40 dB, with hard bottoms (packed sand, rock outcrops)
causing little loss, and soft bottoms causing a significant amount of energy loss (muddy, silt-like
sediments). Therefore, it is necessary when designing an echo sounder to compensate for this wide range
in signal variation.
Another form of attenuation is scattering, also called reverberation, which results when sound reflects off
components in the water column. Some of these reflectors include boundaries (sea surface and bottom),
bubbles, biological material, suspended particulate and water type boundaries such as thermoclines. As
the sound pulse travels from the transducer, it will reflect off these objects in many different directions.
The larger the area of the reflector compared to the wavelength of the transmitted sound, the more
effective it is as a scatterer. During the scattering process, part of the sound is reflected back to the
surface, and the rest is scattered in all directions. This will cause a reduction in the acoustic energy that
can travel to the seafloor and back to the transducer. For echosounding, this causes a reduced signal
strength, which complicates location of the bottom. In the extreme case, scatterers will cause such a good
reflection it looks like the bottom to the echo sounder and corrections must be made by the user to
properly determine the digitized bottom value.
Bottom reverberation occurs whenever a sound pulse strikes the ocean bottom. In deep water this
condition normally does not cause serious problem, but in shallow water reverberation can happen
multiple times, causing high background signal levels (i.e. the sound travels from the surface to the
bottom and back again many times).

Noise Sources

Background noise can cause interference with the reception of the desired acoustic echo return from the
seafloor. Unlike reverberation, however, noise does not result from the transmitted pulse but from active
producers of noise located at the ship or in the water. Noise can be classified as self produced or ambient
noise.

Self-noise

Self-noise is produced by noisy ship components, electrical circuitry, and water turbulence around the
transducer, including noise caused by water flow and cavitation.
Machinery noise and other sonar systems are the main components of ship produced self-noise. The
dominant source of machinery noise is the ship power plant, including the main engine, generators, and
propellers. The only way to reduce the effect of these noise makers is in proper selection of the
transducer frequency for the echo sounder, and to locate the transducer as far away as possible from the
noise sources. Typically, these sources are of lower frequencies than the echo sounder, but some
mechanical and electrical equipment will produce sound in the ultrasonic region (above 15 kHz) which
can detrimentally affect the performance of a system.
In general echosounding, flow noise, cavitation, and sonar circuitry are more important than other noise
sources. Flow noise results when there is a difference in the relative motion between the transducer and
water surrounding it. As flow increases, friction between an object and water increases, resulting in
increased turbulence and, thus, increasing noise due to varying static pressure in the water. Flow noise is
directly related to the speed of the ship and, on an improperly mounted transducer, there is usually a
certain speed threshold that will cause the echo sounder to start picking up unwanted noise. Increased
flow noise over time can usually be attributed to growth of marine animals and plants on the bottom of
the ship.

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Operations and Maintenance Manual

Cavitation is a result of the pressure on the face of the transducer reducing to a level that permits the
water to boil (i.e. turn from a liquid to a gas). This is directly related to the flow around the transducer as
described above. Cavitation is also related to the depth, source level, and frequency of the transducer
being used. As the depth of the transducer increases, static pressure increases to levels that will prevent
cavitation from occurring. If the transducer is mounted properly, with flow noise and cavitation levels
considered, this phenomenon should never affect an echo sounder.
Cavitation may also occur on a ship’s propeller. As the speed of the water increases over the surface of
the propeller, turbulence causes changes in the static pressure of the water. At this point, if the pressure is
low enough, boiling will occur. This process releases a large quantity of bubbles into the water, causing
noise that can affect the performance of an echo sounder. Care should be taken to mount a transducer as
far as possible from this noise source.

Ambient Noise

Ambient noise is always present in the ocean. This noise is caused by both natural or human-made
events. For echosounding principles, ambient noise sources that are significant include hydrodynamic
boundaries, ocean traffic and biological transmitters.
Hydrodynamic noise results from natural phenomenon such as wind, waves, rain or currents. The levels
produced vary greatly, but are largely related to the sea state level. In severe storms, hydrodynamic noise
can reach levels that make reception of a transmitted signal very difficult, if not impossible.
Ocean traffic noise is dependent on the number of ships, the distance from noise sources, and the current
propagation conditions due to thermoclines and sea state. Ocean traffic generally produces acoustic noise
that is not within the frequency bandwidth of most navigational echo sounders, except when ships pass
very near to the receiving transducer.
Biological noise producers include marine life such as shrimp, fish, and mammals. Mechanical
movements of crustaceans, with their hard shells, may produce significant noise when in large schools.
Likewise, certain fish species produce noise by reflecting noise off their swim bladder.

Transducer Properties

Properties of a chosen transducer affect sonar performance which directly relates to depth measurements.
The source level, directivity index, and beam width of a transducer have a relationship with how the sonar
system performs under different conditions.

Source Level

Sound is created by a transducer from a mechanical vibration of the ceramic material of which underwater
transducers are made. The movement of the transducer face creates alternating regions of high and low
pressure, resulting in an acoustic wave. The amount of energy transmitted into the water column is
defined as the acoustic source level. A source level is expressed in units of decibels that describe the
intensity of sound relative to a reference intensity at one unit distance from the sound source. For the
user, a source level is useful for selecting a transducer for a particular use.
The amount of movement on the face of the transducer is linearly related to the voltage difference created
across the ceramics of the transducer. Normally it would seem desirable to put as much power into the
water as possible to achieve maximum depth performance. Cavitation, however, which results from high
source levels and small transducer depths below the sea surface, is generally the limiting factor when
driving a transducer. The electrical and mechanical design of the transducer, which has a maximum
recommended input power level, must also be considered.

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Beam Width

The beam width of a transducer is described as the width of the main lobe of a transmit pattern. The
width is usually measured between the -3 dB points on either side of the beam pattern. Shown in
1-2

is a transmit beam pattern for a 125 kHz transducer. The shape of the transducer beam pattern is a

Figure

result of the transducer design. An array of ceramic elements, or a single ceramic element, emits sound at
given frequency. The spacing of the elements and the frequency being used can control the shape of the
beam pattern. At the center of the beam pattern is the main lobe of the transducer, with a width of 7
degrees (centered at zero degrees). The -3 dB point is shown as a dashed line on the graph. The side
lobes of this transducer are the smaller lobes, approximately 18 dB below the level of the main lobe.

Figure 1-2 Acoustic Beam Pattern

The width of a beam is important for calculating how small an object the system can detect. If two
objects fall within the main beam the object will appear as one object when it is received by the system.
Thus, a narrow beam width is required for navigational echo sounders so it is capable of discriminating
small objects.

The size of the transducer sidelobes (smaller beams off to the side of the main lobe) is important in
determining how the system will behave on steep slopes. On steep slopes, transmitted acoustic energy
from the side lobes will be received first and reveal a signal that looks like the actual bottom. In reality,
the bottom is directly below the ship, and as seen by the main lobe, is much deeper. For this reason, it is
important to select a transducer which has reduced sidelobes.

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©2006 SyQwest Incorporated

HYDROBOX ™

Operations and Maintenance Manual

Directivity Index

The directivity index measures the ability of a transducer to reject noise from extraneous sources. In the
ocean, noise may be coming from all directions, but a narrow beam transducer will only “hear” noise
within the beam width pattern. A sonar systems signal to noise ratio (SNR) will be affected by the ability
of a transducer to reject unwanted noise, and thus is related to the directivity index. The higher the
directivity index of a transducer, the better the ability to reject unwanted noise.

1.4 Specifications

1.4.1 HydroBox Sensor Specifications

Units

Depth Ranges

Data Offset

Shift Range

Zoom Range
Zoom Modes

Display

Sound Velocity

Depth Resolution

Depth Accuracy

Data Output

Geographic Position

Data Interface
Printer Output
Shallow Water

Operation

Transmit Rate

Event Marks

Data File Output

Data File Playback

Frequency Output

Transmit Power

Input Power

Dimensions

Weight

Environmental

Feet or Meters
0-15, 30, 60, 120, 240, 450, 900, 1500, 2400 Feet.
0-5, 10, 20, 40, 80, 150, 300, 500, 800 Meters. Auto-ranging Modes in all units.
0 to 30 feet (0 to10 meters)
1 foot increments in depths to 100 feet
10 foot increments in depths greater than 100 feet
15, 30, 60, 120, 240, 480 feet; 5, 10, 20, 40, 80 , 160 meters
Bottom Zoom, Bottom Lock, Marker Zoom, GUI Zoom (Playback Only)
Normal Data, Zoom Data, Navigation, Depth, Command/Status, Color Control for Data: 4
Selections or Custom (User Input), Data Color Invert possible
4600 - 5250 ft/sec (1400 - 1600 mt/sec) 1 mt/sec int.

0.1 foot, 0.01 meters. (in less than 100 meters) ,

0.1 meters for depths greater than 100 me te rs
Meets or exceeds all current IHO hydrographic requirements for single beam echo
sounders; 0-40m 2.5cm, 40-200m 5.0cm, >200m 10.0cm
NMEA 0183, DPT, DBT, PMC, Hypack & HydroPro Compatible
NMEA 0183, GLL, GGA, RMC, VTG, VHW, HDT
Selectable Baud Rates (RS-232): 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400
SYQWEST HydroBox Interface, 57600 Baud (RS-422)
Centronics (Parallel Port) interface to TDU Series Thermal Printers

< 1 meter; frequency dependant
Up to 10 Hz, depth and operator mode dependant

Periodic, External, and/or Manual (Periodic selectable in 1 minute intervals)
Stores Depth, Navigation, and Graphic Data in ODC format (Proprietary)

Normal and Zoom Data stored is Pixel data and can be played back and/or printed
Files can be played back and/or printed at Normal or Fast-Forward speed, with Pause and

GUI Zoom available
Selectable at time of purchase from any of the following:

200Khz, 50Khz or 33Khz (single channel system) or
50/200Khz, 33/200Khz dual frequency system
( impedance matched transducers available from SyQwest)
600 Watts (nominal) matched to transducer (1000 Watts capable)
10-30 Volts DC, Nominal power 8 Watts,
Reverse Polarity and Over Voltage Protected

25.4 cm (10”) Length, 15.876 cm (6.25”) Width, and 6.25 cm (2.5”) Height

0.9 kg (2.0 lbs)

-25°C to +60°C Operating Temperature (-55°C to +90°C Storage)
Water Resistant to EN60529 IP65
EMC meets EN60945 Emissions; CE Compliant

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1.5 Software features added in release v2.45

The Hydrobox product has gone through a significant Software and Firmware update based on feedback
from our customers. All of the updates have been incorporated to provide the user with enhanced
performance during data acquisition and data storage. Hydrobox data storage has been enhanced to
provide position and depth information in a comma separated variable format (.CSV). The major system
improvements are listed and described in detail below:

1.5.1 Improved Shallow Water Digitizing Performance

This enhancement provides for better “hands off” operation in shallow water and also allows for
operation down to the shallowest of depths in manual mode.

1.5.2 Improved Auto All Operation

This product improvement includes the updates for shallow water operation but also provides for reliable
depth digitizing in deeper water depths and at both high and low frequencies of operation.

1.5.3 Bottom Digitizer Threshold Parameter

The Bottom Digitizer Threshold parameter has been incorporated to allow the user to manually adjust the
amplitude threshold that is recognized as a valid bottom target. The scale is 0 through 9. A “0” setting
allows the digitizer to lock onto the strongest returns (i.e. dark colors such as red in the RAINBOW
pallet). A “9” setting allows it to lock onto the weaker returns (i.e. lighter colors such as green in the
RAINBOW pallet). In shallow water and soft sediment survey conditions a higher value is required to
consistently digitize on the bottom without saturating the first few meters of bottom penetration. The
default setting is “0”, which should work under most conditions. Increase incrementally as required.

1.5.4 User selectable Gate Limits

Bottom Gate Limits are provided to help the user ensure that the data captured reflects the correct
digitized bottom depth when conditions are difficult. The Hydrobox is intended for use in shallow water.
Unfortunately, using any sonar in very shallow water creates challenges due to surface reverberation and
multiple echo issues. By using the Bottom Gate Limits the user can ensure that the digitizer does not lock
on a transmit reverberation or a 2nd echo return. The Bottom Gate Limit values for Shallow and Deep
limits are entered in the selected units (Feet or Meters) and the "Enable Gate Limits" check box allows the
Gate Limits to be Enabled or Disabled. Please note Gate Limits will only work in manual range and gain
mode (not for use in auto mode). When Manual Gate Limits are enabled their selected values will show
up in the lower right corner of the screen as GLS (Gate Limit Shallow) and GLD (Gate Limit Deep).
Also, once enabled if the actual bottom moves out of the selected window you will no longer be able to
digitize (you will get -.- for depth). When the Gate Limits are disabled a message is displayed to alert the
user that they have been disabled and should be re-checked.

1.5.5 Sensor Reset on Program Exit

This feature causes the Hydrobox sensor to be reset whenever the user exits the Windows Application
software. It eliminates the need for a cycle of the sensor power to reset the sensor interface.

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Operations and Maintenance Manual

1.5.6 NMEA Depth Output written to .CSV file

The Hydrobox host application has been updated to write the NMEA Depth output string to a comma
separated variable file that can be easily imported into an MS Excel spreadsheet or another application for
processing. The .CSV file is written in the format selected via the NMEA Out Dialog box as selected by
the user (DPT, DBT, PMC, or ODEC). Whenever the user “Starts Recording” the .CSV file is saved
along with the .ODC file. The .CSV file is saved in the user specified directory that is set in the “User
Preference” Dialog Box. We had a number of requests for this feature and hopefully many of our
customers will put the data to good use.

1.5.7 NMEA I/O and External Event COM Port Settings

The COM port selection settings for the NMEA Input, NMEA Output, and External Events was updated
to support a more flexible for the user. Each of the functions can be connected via a separate COM port
or used together to minimize COM port usage. Previous versions of the Hydrobox required the NMEA In
and NMEA Out ports to be connected to the same COM port. This update allows for a simpler
connection between the Hydrobox and the HyPack or HyDroPro software packages.

1.5.8 NMEA I/O Output written to Port during Playback

This feature allows the user to produce a comma separated variable (CSV) type file from ODC files
collected in the past through the use of HyperTerminal or another terminal emulator program. This
feature is helpful in situations where the Depth and/or Time and Position information was not logged
properly during the acquisition portion of the survey. To execute this feature, set the Hydrobox up such
that it would output NMEA depth via your selected COM port and using a NULL MODEM cable connect
to another open COM port that you can run terminal software such as Windows Hyperterminal. Insure
that you have the button checked for ODEC string. Set up Hyperterminal to store (capture text) then
simply playback the collected file as you normally would. During playback, the hydrobox software will
send ASCII data out to Hyperterminal.

There are a number of speed, timing and test improvements that are included in this update as well that
allow the application to start up faster, run with less CPU usage, and provide the developers and users
with debug information when needed. These updates need not be described in further detail.

©2006 SyQwest Incorporated

INTRODUCTION 1-9

Operations And Maintenance Manual

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HYDROBOX ™

INTRODUCTION 1-10

©2006 SyQwest Incorporated

HYDROBOX ™

Operations and Maintenance Manual

2.0 INSTALLATION

2.1 - HydroBox System Installation Overview

This section presents instructions for initial setup and installation of the HydroBox Sensor. Physical and
electrical installation details are provided for connecting, mounting, and getting started with the
HydroBox. A summary is given of the software installation and setup procedure as well.

Although the HydroBox Sensor is designed to deliver the highest levels of quality and performance, it can
best attain those standards when the equipment has been properly installed. Because of the great variety
of vessels that will employ the HydroBox Sensor, it is not feasible to provide complete and detailed
instructions that will fit all installation possibilities. Therefore, this section will provide practical
guidelines to assist the user in planning a typical installation of the HydroBox System aboard the vessel.

Shown in
minimum operational system configuration requires:

The GPS, NMEA Depth Out, and External Eventing connections are optional but, if used, will require the
PC to have additional COM ports. The HydroBox Data I/O is compatible with both the Hypack &
HydroPro Survey Software packages. For many portable PC’s additional COM ports may be installed via
one of the PCMCIA expansion slots.

The TDU Printer, if used, is attached via the PC’s Printer Port.

Figure 2-1 is a system-interconnecting diagram. Optional items are shown with dashed lines. A

1. PC running Windows, Pentium II @ 266MHz or greater

2. HydroBox Sensor Unit

3. HydroBox Transducer Assembly

4. HydroBox Cables (Power, Data, Transducer)

5. 10-30 Volt DC Power Source (10 Watts)

6. Transducer Mounting Hardware

2.1.1 Important Notes regarding Hydrobox operation – Please Read!

Please be advised that the direct serial connection from the computer to the Hydrobox is critical. The
Hydrobox data cable incorporates a port-powered RS-232 to RS-422 converter. Because power to the
converter needs to originate from the computer, USB to serial converters generally do not work for this
application. This interface requires seamless real-time bidirectional serial communication. Also, do not
split this connection.

We recommend PCMCIA to serial adapters such as those made by Quatech instead of USB to serial
adapters.

©2006 SyQwest Incorporated

INSTALLATION 2-1

Operations And Maintenance Manual

HYDROBOX ™

Figure 2-1 System Interconnect Diagram

2.1.2 - Getting Started

Unpacking and Inspection

Use care when unpacking the unit from it’s shipping carton to prevent damage to the contents. It is also
recommended that the carton and the interior packing material be saved even after the unit has been
installed on the vessel. In the unlikely event that it is necessary to return the unit to the factory, the
original carton and packing material should be used. Verify that all parts described in the next section
have been shipped with the unit.

Basic Equipment

The following (
Echo Sounder.

SINGLE CHANNEL SYSTEM

Part
Number
P04503 HydroBox Sensor Unit 1* P04803 HydroBox Sensor Unit 1*

P04412 Power Cable (10 feet) 1 P04412 Power Cable (10 feet) 1
P04413 Data Cable (10 feet) 1 P04413 Data Cable (10 feet) 1
P04521 HydroBox Software CD 1 P04521 HydroBox Software CD 1
P04525 HydroBox Manual 1 P04525 HydroBox Manual 1

Table 2-1) is a list of the basic equipment supplied with the HydroBox Hydrographic

Item Quantity

Part

Number

DUAL CHANNEL SYSTEM

Item Quantity

INSTALLATION 2-2

Table 2-1 Basic Equipment

©2006 SyQwest Incorporated

HYDROBOX ™

Operations and Maintenance Manual

Accessories and Options

The following items are available to complement and enhance the operation of the HydroBox
echosounder. Please contact your authorized SyQwest distributor or visit our web site for information and
assistance in obtaining any of these items.

Product
Code

Item Quantity

P04515 Transducer, 210Khz 1
P04516 Transducer, 33Khz 1
P04517 Transducer 50Khz 1
P04816 Transducer, 33/210Khz 1
P04817 Transducer 50/210Khz 1
P02553 TDU-850 Thermal Printer 1
P03100 TDU-1200 Thermal Printer 1
P03120 TDU-2000F Thermal Printer 1
P03050 12 Channel DGPS System w/ Combo Antenna 1
Optional Over-the-Side Mounting Kit (OTSM) 1

Table 2-2 Accessories and Options

2.2 TRANSDUCERS (DIMENSIONS & MOUNTING)

(Transducer drawings and specifications are for reference only and are subject to change; please contact
SYQWEST for current transducer information.) For installation suggestions, please visit our website

http://www.syqwestinc.com/

2.2.1 P/N P04816 TRANSDUCER 33/210Khz

Resonant Frequency: 33/210 KHz.
Nominal Impedance: 60/60 ohms
Beamwidth (@ 3 dB point): 33khz 23° 210khz 8°
Cable: 30 feet (2C 14AWG) (with plug)
Housing Material: Urethane
Stem Stainless Steel ½-14NPS Thread

Weight: 11 lbs (5 kg)

©2006 SyQwest Incorporated

INSTALLATION 2-3