A lightweight transducer platform for use in stationary shallow water horizontal-aspect acoustic surveys

A robust, remotely controlled transducer platform has been designed for use in stationary shallow water acoustic surveys. The transducer array platform is integrated with a weatherized top-side box allowing for collection of acoustic data at remote stations. The platform allows for vertical placement of the transducer array in the water column and for remotely manipulating the transducer pitch. Both a dual-frequency identification sonar (DIDSON) and a BioSonics split-beam transducer were mounted to the platform for simultaneous data collection over a variety of estuarine habitats. The platform is quickly deployed and retrieved by a single user from a small vessel. Effective water depths for optimal use range from 1 to 3.5 m; however, the equipment can be easily deployed at greater depths. The array platform has been in service for 2 years and the performance level and data quality remain high.