Echotrac MKIII Operator's Manual 4.06
Page 7 of 48
January 21, 2019
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Echotrac MKIII
The Echotrac MKIII professional grade echo sounder
Recorder, Digitizer, Transceiver, utilizes multiple
processors including two dedicated Digital Signal
Processors (DSPs), working in concert to accomplish
specific analysis tasks while communicating effectively on a
real-time basis in order to assure accurate measurements
under difficult sea conditions and over all types of seabed.
1.1.1 Dual Frequency Operation
Two simultaneously transmitted frequencies are
selectable in 100 Hz steps in the following bands: High
Band - from 100 kHz to 1000 kHz and in the Low Band –
from 10 kHz to 50 kHz.
1.1.2 Printer Mechanism
The high-resolution thin-film thermal print head (216mm
(8.5") wide, 8 dots per mm (203/in.) is capable of printing
returns in up to 16 gray shades. Because of its construction,
the print head consumes very little power compared to
previous technologies. A stepper motor drives the print
mechanism while a DC motor and associated slipping-clutch mechanism re-winds the printed chart independently.
1.1.3 Display
Transflective, Back-lighted Graphical LCD Module (64 x 240 dots). The display shows six dot rows, has an on
board controller and LED backlighting. The transflective display was chosen because of its excellent visibility in all
light conditions from bright sun to darkened wheelhouse.
1.1.4 LCD Chart Panel
An alternative to the printer module is the LCD chart panel. It is a 1024x768 pixel color active matrix display with a
500 NIT back light. The LCD chart panel records echosounder data on internal drives. An export is possible via
the LCD chart panel’s USB interface or LAN interface.
1.1.5 Keypad
The 18 key-sealed micro-switch unit has good tactile feel and audible feedback. The keypad is used for direct
parameter value entry and functional control of the sounder from the front panel.
1.1.6 Receivers
The MKIII gives immediate control of Receiver Gain via continuously variable front panel mounted potentiometers.
The unit incorporates multiple, selectable TVG curves (10 log, 20 log, 30 log, and 40 log) and AGC as well.
1.1.7 Transmitter
Transmit frequencies are digitally synthesized and based on the stable frequency characteristics of a crystal
controlled clock oscillator. Transmitted power for both high and low channels is individually adjustable via front panel
mounted controls. Power is adjustable from the minimum of only 2 watts in high frequency shallow water
applications to over 2000 watts in low frequency deepwater uses. Transmit Pulse Width is variable either
automatically (actual value dependent on frequency and depth) or manually by keypad entry.
Summary of Contents for Echotrac MKIII
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