The RiverSurveyor S5 and M9 systems from SonTek represent a complete redesign from earlier versions. The electronics, mechanical hardware, software, telemetry, and floating platforms are all new. This system was specifically designed for open channel discharge measurements – unlike previous generations for acoustic Doppler instruments that were designed with oceanographic applications in mind.

NEW FEATURES:

• Multi-frequency acoustics – The S5 and M9 represent a new generation of Doppler instruments that incorporate multi-frequency acoustics. In the past, range (both minimum and maximum), cell size, and precision were limited by a single acoustic frequency. The S5 and M9 both use the latest in high-speed microelectronics, which enables extremely high ping rates.
• Fully automated setup and operation – The S5 and M9 both automatically set their own cell size and pulse scheme to adapt to the river conditions. Note that it does this dynamically while you are taking a measurement, so optimal performance is ensured throughout the measurement process. The M9 even changes automatically from 3.0 MHz to 1.0 MHz as the depth changes. This powerful feature allows for the most comprehensive shallow-to-deep discharge measurements possible.
• Vertical Beam – The vertical beam enables superior channel definition. This is particularly evident in trapezoidal canal situations or other channels where there are steep slopes or unusual bathymetric conditions. The previous generation relied on the average of three or four beams at a 20-30 degree angle. The vertical beam also enables the S5 or M9 to dramatically extend its bottom detection range well beyond the capability of the velocity beams (up to 15 m with the S5, and 80 m with the M9). This is useful in extreme situations such as floods where depths are greater than normal.
• Internal Discharge calculation – All discharge data is computed inside the Doppler instrument, as opposed to a handheld device or a laptop. This means that as long as the instrument is turned on and started, data collection and recording is assured, regardless of whether or not you have a telemetry link. That is, you can turn off your mobile device or PC while the M9 is operating, and not only will no data be lost, but the device will show the latest discharge value and other parameters.
• Mobile phone operation – RiverSurveyor Live Mobile operates on a SonTek-supplied mobile phone via Bluetooth link making one-person discharge measurements as easy as ever. Because all discharge data are calculated and stored inside either the S5 or M9, there is no risk of data loss when telemetry is interrupted.

• Fully integrated GPS solutions – The SonTek RiverSurveyor S5 and M9 can be factory configured with differential and RTK GPS options. This is useful for augmenting bottom tracking in moving bed situations (such as during a flood event) and assigning geographic positions to data samples.

• Side Lobe Suppression – The River Surveyor S5 and M9 employ SonTek’s proprietary method of acoustic side lobe suppression on each of its transducers. This innovative design technique allows for the primary side lobe to be reduced by as much as 20dB, which is equivalent to 100 times the energy level as a non-suppressed design. A transducer with a significantly reduced primary side lobe allows for greater acoustic directivity, and therefore increases the useful working environment of acoustic sensors in shallow water and near-boundary locations.
• Independent data sampling – The data output from a single 1-Hz sample contains all the necessary information to construct the entire profile (including system and user settings) and compute all discharge related information at that point in time.

OPTIONAL PLATFORMS:

Oceanscience Hulls

SonTek Board

Tripod