SPH – Echologger ECT D052 dual-frequency for unmanned aerial vehicle

 Deep bathymetry by drone

The ECT D052 is part of SPH Engineering’s integrated drone bathymetry system. It effectively replaces traditional boat-mounted solutions by allowing:

• Access to areas difficult or costly to reach by boat

• Quick deployment and simplified logistics

• Accurate tracking of programmed survey lines

• Use in varied environments (lakes, rivers, reservoirs, calm coastal zones)

 Dual-frequency sensor aimed at “great depth”

• Dual-frequency: 50 kHz / 200 kHz, ideal for deeper measurements and variable water conditions.

• Nominal accuracy: 0.2% of measured depth

• Resolution: < 1 mm

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

• RS232 interface ensuring stable data transmission over long cable.

 Integration with SkyHub (onboard computer)

The SkyHub provides:

• Maintaining a constant drone height above the water thanks to a high-frequency radar altimeter (more precise than a barometric altimeter).

• Recording measurements in georeferenced format.

• Automatic start of data acquisition upon sensor immersion and stop when it emerges from the water.

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

 Data formats and software compatibility

Export possible in:

• CSV (XYZ coordinates + depth + metadata)

• NMEA 0183 (compatible with standard hydrographic software)

• SEG-Y (complete raw echo sounder data)

Compatible notably with HydroMagic and Reefmaster, as well as with various GIS and bathymetry tools.

 Modes of operation

• Continuous measurements along survey lines

• Measurements at defined waypoints

• Spot manual measurements

• 1 × Depth sounder ECT D052 (stainless steel case, cable, hook + carabiner)
• 1 × Set of cables
• 1 × Onboard computer SkyHub
• 1 × Radar altimeter + mounting brackets for drone