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Sonar Angle
To achieve optimal performance while imaging targets and/or the bottom at a given depth, the angle that
the sonar is tilted down from the surface is important. This issue is demonstrated in the figures below. On
the left, the sonar is tilted down at a steep angle that provides only a narrow field of view of the bottom.
The sonar on the right-hand figure is set at a much shallower angle that provides both a better
perspective on targets and a larger field-of-view of the bottom. The BV 3200 allows the user to select any
angle from 5 to -20 degrees in 5 degree increments. The table below should be used as a guide for initial
angle selection.
Target Depth (ft)
0
10
20
30
40
60
80
Approx.
Tilt Angle(Deg)
0
5
5-10
10
10
15
20
The sonar’s steep tilt-angle in this figure
produces imagery of a narrow strip of the
bottom.
The sonar’s shallow tilt-angle in this figure
produces an image of the bottom over a broad
area. In general, shallower tilt-angles, which
give larger areas of bottom imaging, are
preferred.
Recommended tilt angles.
