Applications
EEZ resource development
Geo-technical surveys
Hazard surveys
Environmental site investigations
Geological studies
Sediment classification
Buried object location
Locate and map buried pipelines and cables
Mining and dredging surveys
Bridge and shoreline scour surveys

Features
Unequalled images 
20-30 dB improved SNR over conventional sub-bottom profilers
SEG-Y and/or native JSF data file formats

Description
This sub-bottom profiler is EdgeTech's long running success story in providing Full Spectrum (“chirp”) imaging. Under any conditions when compared to other sub-bottom profilers, the SB-512i provides better images more deployment options, and interface flexibility.

The SB-512i has a frequency range from 500 Hz to 12 kHz. This system uses special design transmitters with low Q widesband characteristics best suited for “chirp” transmissions. If conventional off-the-shelf transducers are used then there is a need to compensate in software for the narrow band characteristics of the transmitters. The result is visible in the images created. At least two hydrophones are installed in the tow vehicle to reduce acoustic scattering from the sides. This results in a narrower across track beam pattern. Preserved in the output of the Full Spectrum chirp processing in the signal phase.

This phase information is also recorded to the mass storage device. This phase information is required for sub-surface sediment classification. Phase is used to determine if the impedance is increasing or decreasing. EdgeTech separates the Full Spectrum signal processing and the signal amplifier out into separate housings. This lets a user interface to his own or a 3 rd party topside display processor or command, control, display, printing and d ata storage.

Sonographics offers all three towfish options for the 3200-XS: SB-512i, SB-216S, and SB-424 tow vehicles that chirp over different frequency ranges. The same topside Full Spectrum signal processor, linear amplifier and tow cable are compatible with each of the vehicles. Use different tow vehicles for desired penetration and resolution. The FM pulse is user selected based on the sub-bottom conditions at the survey site and the type of sub-bottom features that need to be imaged.