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DT-X Series
Digital Transducer
Scientific Echosounders


The BioSonics DT-X echosounder represents the ultimate in digital design for acoustic data collection. BioSonics engineers have developed revolutionary technology to digitize the acoustic signal within the transducer itself, virtually eliminating the noisy analog component of older technology systems. This process allows the high-speed transmission of low noise, high-resolution acoustic data from one or more transducers simultaneously, over a single digital cable. The DT-X series is designed for the serious field scientist, with rugged, weatherproof construction and easy operation in a variety of fixed and mobile survey applications. Computer controlled and scientifically calibrated, the DT-X series has sufficient resolution and dynamic range to process signals ranging from zooplankton to whales and can accurately assess aquatic vegetation, bottom classification and bathymetry from depths as little as ˝ meter, up to 800 meters, depending on transducer selection. Systems feature a full color, real time echogram display, while storing all data directly to the computer hard disk for later review and analysis.

Users can choose between six transducer operating frequencies; 38, 70, 120, 200, 420, and 1000 kHz. All transducers are available in either single or split beam architecture and can be combined to operate in a multiplexed configuration from a single surface unit, allowing researchers to acquire simultaneous acoustic data from a variety of ranges and targets. Files generated from the BioSonics DT-X series echosounder can be processed for fish and plankton counting, distribution, density and target strength, using Visual Analyzer, submerged aquatic vegetation assessment using EcoSAV, and bottom classification and bathymetry using VBT. BioSonics software engineers maintain a close working relationship with other acoustic processing vendors, which allows users to easily utilize additional analysis tools such as the Echoview line of products offered by Sonar Data. The files produced by DT-X Series echosounders can be fully integrated with industry standard GPS inputs, providing accurate, defendable data for GIS representation of aquatic environments.

Users work closely with BioSonics’ experienced scientists to select the right combination of components when choosing the DT-X Series system that will best suit their needs. All systems are delivered as complete, integrated packages, including a surface unit, choice of one or more transducers, cables, laptop computer with Visual Acquisition software and free training. Please search the BioSonics Applications Page to learn more about the many uses of this powerful tool, or contact BioSonics to discuss the specifications of your DT-X series system.



Technology Advantages

  • Low Side-Lobe Transducers
    BioSonics designs and manufactures transducers specifically for the high performance requirements of accurate biological and physical feature assessment. Frequencies include; 38, 70, 120, 200, 420, and 1000 kHz. All are available in single beam architecture for general survey use or in split beam architecture, which provides exact target locations within the beam, allowing target strength correction and target tracking, for behavioral studies.

  • Simple Data Collection
    Designed to eliminate errors in data collection, the DT-X can be operated successfully by technicians with a minimum of experience.

  • Lower System Noise
    The acoustic noise floor of a DT-X transducer is typically lower than -140dB, and can reach as low as -170dB. The digital architecture eliminates coupled and induced noise problems.

  • Wider System Range
    Superior noise rejection and lack of signal loss result in usable instantaneous dynamic range of greater than 126dB continuous.

  • Higher Accuracy
    The high rates of digitization and quantization enable DT-X Series transducers to return digital samples of greater than 0.013% accuracy every 1.8 centimeters or less. Because it has no full gain analog receiver, the DT-X is not subject to receiver gain distortion.

  • Easy System Expansion
    Changing or adding future DT-X transducers is simple. System information is stored in each transducer, allowing transducers of different frequencies, sensitivities or beam widths to be used with the same cable and surface unit.

  • Multiplexing DT-X Systems
    DT-X transducers can work in a multiplexed system providing the scientist with the ability to gather data of different frequencies, beam widths, and beam types, single or spilt beam, simultaneously.

  • Software Platforms
    The DT-X Series is designed to operate under Windows 2000/XP. A wide variety of processing software is available.

  • Free Lifetime Technical Support
    BioSonics provides free expert technical support to the original owner for the life of the product.

  • Free Training
    BioSonics provides free training at their manufacturing and testing facility in Seattle, Washington, with the purchase of a DT-X Series system.
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