The Default Settings in the Transponder application will place the transponder signal in range cell 10 (±2
rc’s) and approximately 75% to the right of center (DC) in SeaSondeAcquisition spectral doppler.
Save settings to the transponder (press STORE button) and verify that they remain after
cycling power
CONFIGURE TRANSPONDER ANTENNA as indicated below:
Turn o
ff
all SeaSondes operating at the same frequency that are within range
Place transponder > 1 wavelength from receive antenna and test
Identify the peak in the Doppler spectra plot and check for Time Series (Lvl) file creation.
Save screenshot.
Note range cell number, signal strength (dBm) and Doppler bin number of transponder peak
Collect two shore-based data points (ends of the arc) with the transponder and handheld
GPS
At the Boat
Check boat & assemble transponder antenna
Install antenna so it is not blocked to either side & configure antenna sea water ground if
using green whip
Configure (or confirm) Transponder Settings
Clear GPS memory then configure the GPS for logging every 1-5 seconds and also to “stop
when full”
Turn o
ff
GPS and proceed to position where antennas are visible from boat
Turn handheld GPS receiver on and confirm it is logging data. Place it in safe location with
5+ satellites visible
At the Receiver
Boat proceeds to center of arc a few ~ 100-300m o
ff
shore to provide good signal for
testing
Identify the peak in the Diagnostics window, start logging Time Series and check for Lvl file
creation
Boat proceeds to starting point of 1st arc to begin the pattern
Confirm peaks in channels 1, 2 and 3 as transponder travels through its arcs- ideal peak
strength -90 to -120dB
SeaSonde Model
Antenna Configuration
(Boat Run-APM)
**Antenna Configuration
(Walking-WAPM)
5MHz
12MHz head w/green a OCEAN GND three 8’ white whips on sides and top
12MHz
12MHz head w/green a OCEAN GND three 8’ white whips on sides and top
25Mhz
White whips (2 - 4’ whips on sides + 8’ on top)
two 4’ white whips on sides and 8’ top
42MHz
White whips (2 - 4’ whips on sides + 4’ on top)
three 4’ White whips on sides and top
