Sub Bottom Profiler

Sub-Bottom Profilers are one of the most effective tools used to identify and characterize layers of sediment or rock under the seafloor. The sub-bottom profiler is similar to a simple echo sounder. A transducer releases a sound pulse vertically downwards towards the seafloor, and a receiver records the return of the pulse once it has been reflected off the seafloor. Unlike a simple echo sounder, parts of the sound pulse will penetrate the seafloor and be reflected off the different sub-bottom or strata layers. This will show any density disturbance, indicating to the user that something foreign is beneath the surface.

Fishers' SBP-1 has an advantage over most other competitors as this unit is either pole-mountable for shallow water searches or boat-towable for searches in deeper areas, allowing superior versatility for the end user.

The SBP-1 system includes the sonar towfish constructed of corrosion-proof, high-impact PVC, 150’ of cable (additional lengths are available up to 1,000 feet), the topside sonar processor box, and laptop computer pre-loaded with the JW Fishers SONAR VIEW for Sub Bottom Profiler software. The 36-inch-long by 24-inch-wide towfish provides a stable platform for the sonar transducer, allowing the best possible images. The SBP-1 is capable of penetrating up to 130 feet into the seabed. The sonar beam reflects off any solid objects below the seafloor and is sent topside for display and storage on the computer. An image of any target of a different density than the surrounding substrate is produced.

The included laptop computer is fully equipped with Fishers' SONAR VIEW for Sub Bottom Profiler software. The SONAR VIEW software gives the sub-bottom operator complete control of all system functions with easy-to-use pull-down menus and icons on the screen. Size measurement tool annotation and auto bottom tracking are all standard. With a mouse click, the operator can change colors, ranges, amplifier gain, and other controls. With the computer, sub-bottom images can be stored in memory for playback and post-processing at any time in the future. Small file sections, including screenshots, can be copied for emailing. With the GPS connected to the computer, the position coordinates are captured with the data. When a GPS is connected, the mouse cursor can be placed on any object on the screen, and its position coordinates will be displayed. Sonar files can be stored on the computer's hard drive.

The Sub Bottom Profiler is ideal for cable and route surveys, dredge and hazard surveys, sediment classification, and detection of buried objects, including pipes and cables

An optional GETAC S410 Semi-Rugged Laptop is available for small, open-boat operations. Raising the bar on the semi-rugged notebook class, the new S410 is MIL-STD-810G certified, more rugged, slimmer and lighter than ever. The all-new S410 boasts the latest computing innovations, including a significant CPU performance boost, massive graphics enhancements, and many game-changing capabilities and options. The S410 puts unmatched power and adaptability into the hands of professionals in field service, manufacturing, and public safety sectors.

The optional Sonar Coverage Mapping software (boat tracking software) shows the boat's path as it travels over the search area. It’s all displayed on a grid with latitude and longitude as the X and Y axis. This option makes it easy to search even large areas and ensures no part of the area is missed. The map can be shown in a separate window on the same screen as the sub-bottom image or the map can be displayed on a separate monitor. The user can also control the size of the map. The map can be exported as an image with a KML file to allow it to be easily overlaid on other mapping programs (as shown at the right). All data can be stored on the PC hard drive or USB drive.

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