SPH – Echo recorder ECT 400 for drone

Simple and effective bathymetry by drone

The ECT 400 is part of SPH Engineering’s integrated drone bathymetry system. It allows replacing traditional boat surveys for:

• Easy access to shallow or hard-to-reach areas

• Reducing deployment time and field logistics

• Accurately following preprogrammed survey lines

• Efficient operation in rivers, lakes, and small bodies of water

Echo sounder optimized for shallow depths

• Single frequency: 450 kHz, especially suited for shallow waters and clear environments.

• Nominal accuracy: 0.2% of the measured depth

• Resolution: < 1 mm

• Built-in tilt and temperature sensors to improve data quality and interpretation.

• RS232 interface ensuring stable transmission of measurements.

Integration with SkyHub (onboard computer)

SkyHub provides:

• Maintaining a constant drone altitude above the water using a high-frequency radar altimeter.

• Automatic recording of measurements in georeferenced format.

• Starting data acquisition as soon as the sensor is submerged and stopping when it leaves the water.

• Real-time transmission of depths to the ground station for field validation.

Data formats and software compatibility

Export available in:

• CSV (XYZ coordinates + depth + metadata)

• NMEA 0183 (compatible with standard hydrographic software)

• SEG-Y (raw echo sounder data)

Compatible with HydroMagic, Reefmaster, as well as several GIS and bathymetric platforms.

Operating modes

• Continuous measurements along survey lines

• Measurements at defined waypoints

• Manual spot measurements

• 1 × Depth sounder ECT 400 (stainless steel case, cable, hook + carabiner)
• 1 × Set of cables
• 1 × Onboard computer SkyHub
• 1 × Radar altimeter + mounting brackets for drone