Manual – Starflow QSD Model 6527B and 6537A
Unidata Manual - 6527B and 6537A Starflow QSD User Manual 08 05 2023.docx
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Where possible, the cable to the instrument should be run back behind the instrument for
several meters to minimise the effect of debris caught in the cable on the measurement.
Appropriate shielding or conduit should be installed to protect the cable from damage.
Care should be taken when selecting the site. Choose a location where the water flow is
uninterrupted and there are no obstructions. The photo on the above right is perhaps the
most ideal site with the Starflow QSD looking into the direction of flow.
It is not always possible to prepare the site, such as shown in the above photo examples.
If mounting in a stream bed, look for a site free from rocks, fallen tree branches and
sharp bends in the channel. Also, beware of areas where the water is turbulent and
choose a site that is free from standing waves and whirlpools. These will reduce the
effectiveness of the Starflow QSD and may return poor data.
If the stream bed is continually moving, there is a chance of the Instrument being
covered by silt. The Starflow QSD will not work if it is covered by silt or sand. If this is a
problem, then the Starflow QSD must be raised above the stream bed and a depth offset
introduced.
The use of the Doppler Spectrum utility is useful when selecting a suitable site. This
Doppler Spectrum utility can assist during the installation of the Starflow QSD to
determine the suitability of a potential site. It can show the operator the quality of the
data being returned by the instrument in Real-Time. By changing the location of the
instrument, real-time information is fed back to the operator to assist in locating the
instrument in the best possible location.
