Bathymetry survey activities are activities to collect data on the depth or topography of the bottom of a waterway, including the location and objects in it. The data obtained is then processed, evaluated, and presented in the form of files that can be read easily by others. The processed data can be used for development purposes, marine resource processing, and so on. One of the instruments that can retrieve bathymetry data is echomap, echomap is a marine instrumentation device produced by Garmin and is equipped with features such as reading realtime fish displays.
Echomap and echosunder are two devices used in maritime navigation, but they have different functions and features. Echosounder, also known as a water depth gauge, is a navigation tool commonly used in measuring the depth of a body of water. It uses sonar technology to transmit sound waves in a special frequency and capture the reflected waves (echo) of the medium, so as to measure the depth of the water and assist in finding objects in the water. Meanwhile, echomap is a series of maritime navigation devices manufactured by Garmin. This tool is equipped with several features such as realtime fish display, NMEA 2000 network compatibility, bright combo screen, GARMIN CHRIP traditional sonar, and this tool is connected to the ActivateCaptain application. ActivateCaptain is an application that can be used to perform various tasks such as sharing data, updating software, and receiving mobile notifications such as calls and text messages on the chartplotter screen when connected. What differentiates Echomap from an echosounder is that the echomap has additional features such as CHIRP (Compressed High-Intensity Radiated Pulse) technology, SideVü (side sonar), and ClearVü (high depth sonar), GPS mapping, and Live Mapping. These features enhance the sonar’s ability to better detect objects and structures.
Here are some of the components in the echomap, among others, combo screen; screen with a size of 6 inches that is bright and readable under sunlight. Sonar; the sonar in this tool is the Garmin CHRIP sonar type plur sonar (CHRIP ClearVU) the function of this component is to provide clear target definition and sonar support for Minn city trolling motors and Guide motors with integrated transducers. Garmin Qucikdraw contours mapping device; this component allows the creation of personalized fishing maps on screen with 1foot contours while fishing. Built-in Wifi; this component is paired with the ActivateCaptain app which serves to access free onecharts, smart notifications, garmin quickdraw community data, and more. MicroSD card slot; to increase the data storage slot.
Here are some of the functions of echomap such as Live Visualization Imagery; this tool visualizes directly what is happening underwater such as fish and underwater structures. Charting; echomap can be used to create fishing charts. Navigation; it provides accurate positional information via GPS, which helps users to know their location. One type of echomap device is the Garmin Echomap Plus 65CV Combo GT20 Transducer Package which is a product from Garmin that includes a GT20 type transducer, which can also function as an echosounder.
How Echomap Work
Here is the general workings of the Echomap marine instrumentation tool: Sonar Transducer; ECHOMAP comes with a sonar transducer that is mounted on the bottom of your boat or watercraft. This transducer produces sound waves (sonar) and receives reflections from underwater. Sonar Wave Delivery; When ECHOMAP delivers sonar waves, they travel through the water and bounce off when they encounter underwater objects or structures, such as fish, rocks or the seafloor. Sonar Reflection Reception: The transducer receives the sonar reflection from the underwater object or structure and converts it into an electrical signal. Signal Processing: The electrical signals received by ECHOMAP are then processed electronically. This processing includes analyzing the time it takes for the sonar waves to return after being emitted. This information is used to measure water depth and identify underwater structures. Display Screen: The results of the sonar processing are displayed on the ECHOMAP screen. This screen usually has a graphic display showing the seafloor, underwater objects and fish. Users can view this information to navigate, track fish or locate underwater structures. Mapping: Some ECHOMAP models can be used to create underwater bottom maps. This is done by collecting sonar data during a trip and compiling it to create a customizable map. These maps can help fishermen or sailors to plan routes and identify potential fishing areas.
Echomap Visualization Result
Writer : Galuh Pramudya
