YSI SonTek ADVField Guide

A YSI Environmental Company
SonTek/YSI ADVField/Hydra
Acoustic Doppler Velocimeter (Field)
Technical Documentation

SonTek/YSI
Getting Started with the ADVField/Hydra System (September 1, 2001) 1
SonTek/YSI, Inc.
6837 Nancy Ridge Drive, Suite A, San Diego, CA 92121-3217 USA
Telephone [phone] •
••
•Fax [phone]
E-mail: [email protected] •
••
•Internet: http://www.sontek.com
A YSI Environmental Company
Getting Started with the ADVField/Hydra System
Thank you for purchasing a SonTek/YSI Acoustic Doppler Velocimeter (ADV). We are confi-
dent you will find it powerful, accurate, reliable, and easy to use. If you have questions, com-
ments, or suggestions, please let us know.
Please Note: The documentation in this binder applies primarily to our ADV “Field” and “Hy-
dra” units (used primarily in outdoor applications) and not to our ADV “Lab” units (used primar-
ily in laboratory experiments).
1) Suggested Reading
• We encourage you to read the ADVField Principles of Operation. It provides valuable
background for using the instrument and analyzing data.
• Refer to the ADVField Operation Manual and the ADVField Software Manual as needed
for specific information about using the ADVField/Hydra system.
• See the ADVField Operation Manual (Section 2) for more “Getting Started” instructions.
2) Software Installation
• To install the DOS and Windows software on a Windows-based computer:
○Insert the distribution CD in your computer.
○An installation menu should automatically appear after the CD has been inserted. If not,
click
Start | Run and type d:\install.exe where d:\ is your CD-ROM drive.
○Click the programs that you would like to install on your computer. Follow the on-
screen instructions. If prompted, insert the Probe Definition disk in your floppy drive.
○See the ADVField Software Manual for details about the DOS and Windows programs.
• To install the DOS software on a DOS-only computer:
○Insert the CD in your computer.
○List the files/directories contained on the CD (e.g.,
dir d: , where d: is the CD drive).
○Copy all files/subdirectories from the
d:\ADF-DOS directory to an appropriate directory
on your computer. For example:
XCOPY D:\ADF-DOS\*.* C:\SONTEK\ADVF-770\ /s
○Using the above syntax will copy all DOS program files from the CD to:
C:\SONTEK\ADVF-770\DEPLOY\*.* and C:\SONTEK\ADVF-770\REALTIME\*.*

SonTek/YSI
Getting Started with the ADVField/Hydra System (September 1, 2001) 2
3) ADVField System Interconnection
• Refer to Sections 2 and 5 of the ADVField Operation Manual for details.
• Connect the cable from the probe to the processor.
• Connect the power and communications cables – use the DC power supply included with
the system and connect the serial cable to COM1of your computer.
• Place the probe in a bucket or tank of water for testing.
4) Real-Time Data Acquisition Software
• Refer to Section 2 of the ADVField Operation Manual and to Section 2 of the ADVField
Software Manual for details.
• To run the data acquisition software, type
ADF (ADVField) at the DOS prompt.
• The first screen allows you to set ADV operating parameters. Highlight the
Start Data Ac-
quisition
option and press <Enter>.
• The second screen displays the distance from the probe to the boundary; press <F10> to
complete this screen.
• At the third screen, press <Enter> to start data collection.
• Move the probe, or set up motion in the water, and watch the velocity traces on the screen.
• Use the active keys listed at the bottom of the screen to modify display parameters.
5) Real-Time Data Conversion Software
• Refer to Section 3 of the ADVField Software Manual for details.
• Store ADV velocity data to the computer hard disk using the data acquisition software.
• Use the
GET___ programs to convert the binary data to an easily-read ASCII format.
• Analyze these files using a text editor or data processing software.
6) Autonomous Data Collection
• Refer to Section 2 of the ADVField Operation Manual for details.
• This applies to ADVField systems with the optional internal recorder and battery power.
• Establish direct communication with the ADV using
SONTERM . Follow the instructions in
the manual to set deployment parameters and perform a test deployment.
• Use the autonomous data extraction and conversion software (Section 9 of the ADVField
Software Manual) to retrieve the data from the recorder and view the output data files.
7) Diagnostic Software
• Refer to Section 4 of the ADVField Software Manual for details.
• Mount the ADV probe in a small tank of water with a little seeding material, ideally with
the probe (20-30 cm / 8-12 in) from a boundary.
• Run the
ADFCHECK program.

SonTek/YSI
SonTek/YSI, Inc.
6837 Nancy Ridge Drive, Suite A, San Diego, CA 92121-3217 USA
Telephone [phone] •
••
•Fax [phone]
E-mail: [email protected] •
••
•Internet: http://www.sontek.com
A YSI Environmental Company
SonTek/YSI
ADVField/Hydra
Operation Manual
(Firmware version 7.9 and later)
Copyright 2002 by SonTek/YSI, Inc. All rights reserved. This document may not, in whole or in part, be copied, photocopied, reproduced,
translated, or reduced to any electronic medium or machine-readable form without prior consent in writing from SonTek. Every effort has been
made to ensure the accuracy of this manual. However, SonTek makes no warranties with respect to this documentation and disclaims any
implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. SonTek shall not be liable for any errors or for incidental or
consequential damages in connection with the furnishing, performance, or use of this manual or the examples herein. The information in this
document is subject to change without notice.

SonTek/YSI
ii ADVField/Hydra Operation Manual (September 1, 2001)
RECORD OF CHANGES
Effective Description
01 SEP 1999 Base document: ADVField firmware version 4.0
01 SEP 2001 ADVField firmware version 7.9
11 OCT 2001 CTD command and data output corrections

SonTek/YSI
ADVField/Hydra Operation Manual (September 1, 2001) iii
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing a SonTek Acoustic Doppler Velocimeter (ADV). Your instrument was
thoroughly tested at the factory and was found to be in excellent working condition. If the ship-
ping crate appears to have been damaged in transit, or if the ADV is not operating properly,
please contact us immediately.
This Operation Manual contains the following chapters and appendices:
• Section 1. ADV Components, Terminology, and Sampling – Definition of terms used in this
manual and a description of ADV sampling strategies
• Section 2. Getting Started – Installation/Configuration/Operation – Instructions for install-
ing, operating, and collecting data with the ADV in a variety of configurations
• Section 3. Direct Command Interface for ADVField – Direct communication with the AD-
VField processor using a terminal or terminal emulator including command format and options
• Section 4. ADVField System Hardware – Detailed description of hardware components in-
cluding processing modules, cables, probes, options, and special configurations
• Section 5. Operational Considerations – Concerns and procedures relating to coordinate sys-
tems, communication protocol, multiple system operation, analog output data, external syn-
chronization, mounting, optional sensors, seeding requirements, anti-fouling protection, main-
tenance, and troubleshooting
• Section 6. Additional Support – SonTek contact information for customer support, general
inquiries, and how to send a system back to the factory
• Appendix 1. ADVField Real-Time Data Output Formats
• Appendix 2. ADVField Autonomous Data Output Formats
WARRANTY
The ADV is covered under a one-year limited warranty that extends to all parts and labor, and
covers any malfunction due to poor workmanship or errors in the manufacturing process. The
warranty does not cover shortcomings that are due to the design, nor does it cover any form of
consequential damage as a result of errors in the measurements.
If there is a problem with your ADV, first try to identify the problem by following the procedures
outlined in this manual. Contact SonTek immediately if you detect a hardware problem or if you
need additional help in identifying a problem with your ADV. Please obtain a Return Merchan-
dise Authorization (RMA) number before returning the system to the factory (see Section 6).
We encourage you to contact us immediately if a problem is detected and we will do our best to
minimize any downtime.

SonTek/YSI
iv ADVField/Hydra Operation Manual (September 1, 2001)
NOTES

SonTek/YSI
ADVField/Hydra Operation Manual (September 1, 2001) v
TABLE OF CONTENTS
RECORD OF CHANGES ..........................................................................................................ii
INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................iii
Section 1. ADV Components, Terminology, and Sampling................................................. 1
1.1. ADV Components......................................................................................................... 1
1.1.1. Signal Processing Hardware...................................................................................... 1
1.1.2. 16-MHz MicroADV Probe and 10-MHz ADV Probe .............................................. 2
1.1.3. 5-MHz ADVOcean Probe ......................................................................................... 5
1.2. Definitions and Terminology ........................................................................................ 8
1.3. ADV Sampling Strategies ........................................................................................... 10
Section 2. Getting Started – Installation/Configuration/Operation.................................. 13
2.1. Software Installation.................................................................................................... 13
2.2. System Preparation, Interconnection, and Setup......................................................... 13
2.3. ADVField Real-Time Data Collection Setup.............................................................. 14
2.3.1. Preparing the ADVField for Real-Time Operation................................................. 14
2.3.2. Real-Time Operation Using SonTek Software ....................................................... 15
2.4. ADVField Autonomous Data Collection Setup .......................................................... 16
2.4.1. Calculating Power Requirements ............................................................................ 16
2.4.2. Calculating Memory Requirements......................................................................... 16
2.4.3. Preparing the ADVField for Autonomous Operation ............................................. 17
2.4.4. Autonomous Operation Using SonTek Software.................................................... 18
2.5. Operating the ADVField Using the Direct Command Interface ................................. 19
Section 3. Direct Command Interface for ADVField Systems........................................... 21
3.1. Modes of Operation..................................................................................................... 21
3.1.1. Command Mode...................................................................................................... 21
3.1.2. Data Acquisition Mode ........................................................................................... 22
3.1.3. Deployment Mode................................................................................................... 22
3.1.4. Sleep Mode.............................................................................................................. 22
3.1.5. System Responses to Power Application and Break Signals .................................. 22
3.2. Command Syntax ........................................................................................................ 24
3.3. Direct Command Summary......................................................................................... 24
3.4. Help Commands.......................................................................................................... 28
3.5. System Commands...................................................................................................... 29
3.6. Setup Commands ........................................................................................................ 32
3.7. Deployment Commands .............................................................................................. 35
3.8. Recorder Commands ................................................................................................... 40
3.9. Sensor Commands....................................................................................................... 41
3.9.1. Internal Sensor Commands ..................................................................................... 41
3.9.2. External Sensor Commands – Overall Control ....................................................... 41
3.9.3. External Sensor Commands – SeaBird MicroCat CTD .......................................... 41
3.9.4. External Sensor Commands – Resonance Pressure Sensors................................... 42
3.9.5. External Sensor Commands – LISST-100 Sensor .................................................. 43
3.10. Compass Commands .................................................................................................. 44

SonTek/YSI
vi ADVField/Hydra Operation Manual (September 1, 2001)
3.11. Show Commands........................................................................................................ 45
3.12. Run Time Commands................................................................................................. 46
Section 4. ADVField System Hardware............................................................................... 47
4.1. ADVField Processing Module Overview.................................................................... 47
4.2. ADVField Hardware Switches and Jumpers............................................................... 51
4.3. Input / Output Signals, Cables, and Connectors.......................................................... 53
4.3.1. ADVField Splash-Proof Housing............................................................................ 53
4.3.2. ADVField Underwater Canister.............................................................................. 54
4.3.3. External Sensor Connector...................................................................................... 55
4.4. Accessing the ADVField Processing Module ............................................................. 56
4.4.1. Accessing the ADVField Splash-Proof Housing .................................................... 56
4.4.2. Accessing the ADVField Round Underwater Canister........................................... 57
4.4.3. Accessing the ADVField Rectangular Underwater Canister [Discontinued] ......... 59
4.4.4. Changing Batteries in the ADVField Round Underwater Canister......................... 62
4.4.5. Accessing the Hardware Switches and Jumpers ..................................................... 63
4.4.6. Testing the Input Power Fuse.................................................................................. 63
4.4.7. Replacing the CPU or DSP EPROM....................................................................... 63
4.5. ADVField Splash-Proof with Rechargeable Batteries ................................................ 64
4.6. Accessing the Signal Conditioning Module................................................................ 65
4.7. Optional Compass/Tilt Sensor for the ADVField ....................................................... 67
4.7.1. Testing Compass Operation .................................................................................... 67
4.7.2. Compass Installation and Instrument Mounting ..................................................... 68
4.7.3. Compass Mounted in ADV Probe Signal Conditioning Module............................ 68
4.7.4. ENU Coordinate System ......................................................................................... 72
4.7.5. Compass Calibration ............................................................................................... 72
4.7.6. Communicating Directly with the Compass ........................................................... 73
4.8. Optional Sensors (Internal): Temperature and Pressure.............................................. 74
4.9. Optional Sensors (External): Resonance/Frequency Pressure Sensors ....................... 76
4.9.1. Overview ................................................................................................................. 76
4.9.2. Serial External Pressure Sensors (PAROS) ............................................................ 76
4.9.3. Druck RPT External Frequency Pressure Sensor (DRUCK) .................................. 76
4.9.4. Paroscientific Digiquartz Ext. Freq. Pressure Sensor (PAROSFREQ)................... 77
4.9.5. Direct Command Interface for External Pressure Sensors ...................................... 78
4.9.6. External Pressure Sensor Software ......................................................................... 78
4.10. Optional Sensors (External): CTD.............................................................................. 79
4.11. Optional Sensors (External): Analog Sensors ............................................................ 79
4.12. Optional Sensors (External): LISST-100 Sensors ...................................................... 79
4.12.1. Download LISST Control Program......................................................................... 79
4.12.2. Connect LISST to ADVField/Hydra ....................................................................... 79
4.12.3. Set Up ADVField/Hydra for use with LISST ......................................................... 80
Section 5. Operational Considerations ................................................................................ 81
5.1. Velocity Data Coordinate System ............................................................................... 81
5.1.1. 16-MHz MicroADV and 10-MHz ADV Probe....................................................... 81
5.1.2. 5-MHz ADVOcean Probe ....................................................................................... 82
5.2. Serial Communication Protocol .................................................................................. 82

SonTek/YSI
ADVField/Hydra Operation Manual (September 1, 2001) vii
5.3. Multiple System Operation Using RS485................................................................... 82
5.4. Analog Output Data .................................................................................................... 83
5.5. External Synchronization ............................................................................................ 84
5.6. Mounting and Handling the Sensor............................................................................. 85
5.7. Optional Integrated Sensors ........................................................................................ 85
5.8. Seeding Requirements................................................................................................. 86
5.9. Anti-Fouling Protection............................................................................................... 86
5.10. Routine Maintenance .................................................................................................. 87
5.11. Troubleshooting.......................................................................................................... 88
5.11.1. ADVField Setup and Configuration........................................................................ 88
5.11.2. General Diagnostics Software................................................................................. 88
5.11.3. Excessive Noise in Velocity Data ........................................................................... 89
5.11.4. Low Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) .......................................................................... 89
5.11.5. Low Correlation ...................................................................................................... 89
Section 6. Additional Support / Repair Information.......................................................... 91
Appendix 1.ADVField Real-Time Data Output Formats...................................................... 93
A1.1. Real-Time Output Data – ASCII Format (to Serial Port) ........................................... 93
A1.2. Real-Time Output Data – Binary Format (to Serial Port)........................................... 94
A1.2.1 Block Structures ...................................................................................................... 94
A1.2.2 Checksum Calculation............................................................................................. 96
Appendix 2.ADVField Autonomous Data Output Formats.................................................. 97
A2.1. Autonomous Output Data – ASCII Format (to Serial Port) ....................................... 97
A2.2. Autonomous Output Data – Binary Format (to Internal Recorder) ............................ 97
A2.2.1 Recorded Data Files ................................................................................................ 98
A2.2.2 Data Block Description ........................................................................................... 98
A2.2.3 Data Block Structures............................................................................................ 102
Appendix 3.Multiple ADVField/Hydra Operation using RS485........................................ 107
A3.1. Overview................................................................................................................... 107
A3.2. Setting System Address ............................................................................................ 108
A3.3. Cables and Connections............................................................................................ 108
A3.4. RS485 Software – General ....................................................................................... 108
A3.5. SonTerm – RS485 Operation.................................................................................... 108
A3.6. Real-Time Data Acquisition Software – RS485....................................................... 109
A3.7. ADFCheck and SonRec – RS485............................................................................. 109
INDEX...................................................................................................................................... 111

SonTek/YSI
ADVField/Hydra Operation Manual (September 1, 2001) 1
Section 1. ADV Components, Terminology, and Sampling
1.1. ADV Components
SonTek Acoustic Doppler Velocimeter (ADV) systems can be of two types – “Field” systems or
“Lab” systems. This manual applies only to our ADVField systems. Throughout this manual, the
terms ADV and ADVField can be considered synonymous (unless specifically noted otherwise).
ADVField systems can be of three types – splash-proof, underwater, or autonomous (Hydra) sys-
tems. The hardware for these systems is composed of two main components: signal processing
hardware and probe hardware. Note: The term Hydra refers to an ADVField system that has a
recorder and optional sensors installed.
The signal processing hardware (Figure 1) can be contained in a splash-proof housing or an un-
derwater canister. The probe hardware (Figure 2 through Figure 6) can be of three basic types: a
16-MHz MicroADV probe, a 10-MHz ADV probe, or a 5-MHz ADVOcean probe.
1.1.1. Signal Processing Hardware
The signal processing hardware performs the signal generation and processing required for the
ADV to make velocity measurements. This includes generating the electrical signals that are
converted to acoustic energy at the transducers, digitizing the return signal, performing Doppler
processing to calculate velocity, and averaging samples together before data output.
Figure 1 shows two configurations of the ADVField signal processing hardware (also known as
the processor or processing module) – the splash-proof housing and the underwater canister.
The electronics are configured to operate at either 16 MHz, 10 MHz, or 5 MHz for use with ei-
ther a 16-MHz MicroADV probe, a 10-MHz ADV probe, or a 5-MHz ADVOcean probe, respec-
tively. Any probe of a given frequency can be used with a processing module of that frequency, if
the cables and connectors are compatible, and if the appropriate probe configuration has been
loaded into the processor.
Figure 1 – ADVField Processors
Underwater Caniste
r
DC Power, Serial
Communication
To probe
Serial Com-
munication
To probe
A
uxiliary I/O
DC Power
Auxiliary I/O
(optional)
Pressure re-
lease valve
Splash-Proof Housing
Note: Canister length
can be increased to
accommodate battery
packs for autonomous
deployments.
Power switch

SonTek/YSI
2 ADVField Operation Manual (September 1, 2001)
• Splash-Proof Housing: The typical ADVField processor in this configuration consists of three
printed circuit (PC) cards enclosed in a splash-proof container (22x11x7 cm; 8.5x4.5x2.8 in).
The housing is safe from incidental water contact, but should not be submerged. There are
four external connectors on the housing: one to the probe, one for serial communication with
the controlling computer, one for DC power input, and one for auxiliary input/output functions
(analog output voltages and external synchronization).
Splash-proof systems can also be equipped with an optional rechargeable battery (§4.5), which
provides 8 hours of operating power. The size of the splash-proof container for this option is
32x11x7 cm (12.5x4.5x2.8 in).
• Underwater Canister: The typical ADVField processor in this configuration consists of three
printed circuit (PC) cards enclosed in a submergible housing. In the underwater canister, the
processor may include an optional card for internal data recording and internal battery packs
for autonomous operation. Three housings are available for different system configurations – a
rectangular housing for real-time systems (15x15x25 cm; 5.8x5.8x9.8 in), a cylindrical hous-
ing for real-time systems (17-cm dia. x 32-cm tall; 6.6x12.5 in), and a cylindrical housing with
batteries for autonomous deployment (17-cm dia. x 72-cm tall; 6.6x28.5 in).
Underwater canister systems, including all cables and connectors, can be operated when fully
submerged. There are two or three (depending on external sensors) external connectors on the
underwater canister: one to the probe, and the other to a multi-purpose cable for DC power
(e.g., to an external battery canister), serial communication, and auxiliary input/output func-
tions (analog output voltages and external synchronization). The ADVField processor in the
underwater canister can include a compass/tilt sensor mounted inside the canister; this sensor
may also be mounted in the probe housing as described in the following paragraphs.
1.1.2. 16-MHz MicroADV Probe and 10-MHz ADV Probe
Note: The 16-MHz MicroADV Probe (Figure 2) is identical in both form and function to the 10-
MHz ADV Probe. The difference between the two is the acoustic frequency, the sampling rate,
and the sampling volume. Table 1 compares the three major ADV models. Unless specifically
identified, the descriptions in this section apply to both the 16-MHz MicroADV Probe and the
10-MHz ADV Probe.
The 16/10-MHz ADV probe configurations are divided into two groups: with or without optional
sensors (compass/tilt, pressure, and temperature). Within these groups are several sensor configu-
rations. The 16/10-MHz ADV probe is used for field measurements where shallow-water opera-
tion or high spatial resolution is required. Figure 2 shows the standard 16/10-MHz ADV probe.
Fi
g
ure 2 – T
yp
ical ADVField Probe
(
both 16-MHz and 10-MHz
)
Acoustic
Sensor Stem Signal Conditioning Module Underwater
Connector
Sampling
Volume
Transmitter (1)
Receivers (3)

SonTek/YSI
ADVField/Hydra Operation Manual (September 1, 2001) 3
Parameter 16-MHz MicroADV 10-MHz ADV 5-MHz ADVOcean
Sampling rate (Hz) 0.1 to 50 0.1 to 25 0.1 to 25
Sampling volume (cc) 0.09 0.25 2.0
Distance to sampling volume (cm) 5 5 or 10 18
Resolution (cm/s) 0.01 0.01 0.01
Programmable velocity range (cm/s) 3, 10, 30, 100, 250 3, 10, 30, 100, 250 5, 20, 50, 200, 500
Accuracy 1% of measured velocity, ±0.25 cm/s
16/10-MHz Probe Configuration without Optional Sensors:
• The acoustic sensor (Figure 3) consists of two or three acoustic receivers (for 2D or 3D
probes) and one acoustic transmitter. The sensor can be mounted on a stainless steel stem (25
or 40-cm long) or on a 100-cm flexible cable. The acoustic sensor can be oriented looking
down, to the side (mounted on a 90° adapter), or up (with a bent stem and a 90° adapter).
• The sampling volume is the volume of water (≈0.3 cm3) in which the ADV makes velocity
measurements. Depending on probe configuration, this volume is nominally located either
5 cm or 10 cm (10-MHz systems only) from the acoustic transmitter.
• The standard 16/10-MHz ADV probe consists of the acoustic sensor, the stem (or cable), and
the end cap attached to the signal-conditioning module. The probe serial number is stamped
on the end cap. For probes that will be deployed in saline environments, a sacrificial zinc an-
ode is attached to the stem for corrosion protection.
• The probe coordinate system (§5.1) depends on the probe configuration.
• The signal-conditioning module is a cylindrical Delrin housing with internal receiver electron-
ics. The probe is mounted at one end of the Delrin housing, while the other end cap is con-
nected to a high-frequency cable using a 16-pin wet-mateable connector. The signal condition-
ing module is 5.3 cm (2.09 in) in diameter by 28.5 cm (11.2 in) long. The dimensions of the
probe vary with 2D and 3D probes, distance to the sampling volume, stem or cable length, and
sensor orientation.
• The high-frequency cable to the processing module carries analog signals from the probe to
the digital processing electronics. This cable is highly sensitive to noise and should not be
modified without instruction from SonTek. The cable is connected to the signal-conditioning
module using a 16-pin wet-mateable connector.
Table 1. ADVField Processing Comparison (based on acoustic frequency)
Figure 3 – Probes: (a) Down-looking 3D, (b) Side-looking 3D, (c) Up-looking 3D,
(d) Side-Looking 2D, (e) Cable-Mounted

SonTek/YSI
4 ADVField Operation Manual (September 1, 2001)
16/10-MHz Probe Configuration with Optional Sensors: For field applications, the 16/10-MHz
ADV probe can include up to three internal optional sensors (compass/tilt, pressure, temperature)
mounted in a modified signal-processing module (Figure 4). The compass/tilt sensor allows the
ADV to report velocity data in Earth coordinates (East-North-Up or ENU), regardless of instru-
ment orientation. The pressure sensor provides simultaneous pressure and 3D velocity measure-
ments (PUVW for directional wave spectra). The temperature sensor is used for sound speed cor-
rections in long deployments with large temperature fluctuations.
• The acoustic sensor contains two or three acoustic receivers (for 2D or 3D probes) and one
acoustic transmitter. The sensor can be mounted on a stainless steel stem 25 or 40-cm long.
The acoustic sensor can be oriented looking down, to the side (mounted on a 90° adapter), or
up (with a bent stem and a 90° adapter).
• The sampling volume is the volume of water (≈0.3 cm3) in which the ADV makes velocity
measurements. Depending on probe configuration, this volume is nominally located either 5
cm or 10 cm (10-MHz systems only) from the acoustic transmitter. Note: The 10-cm probes
are only available in the standard down-looking configuration or on side-looking cables.
• The 16/10-MHz ADV probe with optional sensors includes the acoustic sensor, the mounting
stem, the end cap, and the signal-conditioning module with optional sensors. The probe serial
number is stamped on the end cap closest to the acoustic transducers. Sacrificial zinc anodes
are attached to the stem and the end cap for corrosion protection. If the processor end of the
high-frequency cable is compatible, 16/10-MHz ADV probes with and without the optional
sensors can be used from the same ADVField processor.
• The probe X-axis is defined by the direction of the arm of receiver #1, which is painted red.
When looking from the sampling volume towards the acoustic transmitter, the receivers are
numbered 1, 2, and 3 moving clockwise from #1. The probe’s X-axis is also stamped on the
end cap next to the cable connector. (See §5.1 for coordinate system details.)
• The signal-conditioning module is a Delrin housing with internal receiver electronics and op-
tional sensors. The ADV mounting stem is permanently fixed to the lower end cap and the
high-frequency cable to the processing module is connected to the larger end cap using an un-
derwater mateable connector.
Fi
g
ure 4 – 10-MHz ADV Probe with O
p
tional Sensors
Probe
Acoustic
Sensor
Sampling
Volume
Zinc
Anode
Stem
Acoustic
Receiver
Acoustic
Transmitter
Signal Conditioning
Module
Underwater Mateable
Connector
High-frequency
Cable to Processor
End Cap
Temperature Sensor
(only in systems with
5-cm sampling distance)
Pressure
Sensor
Underwater Mateable
Connector

SonTek/YSI
ADVField/Hydra Operation Manual (September 1, 2001) 5
• The optional pressure sensor is installed on the upper end cap of the conditioning module,
near the underwater cable connector. Note that because the pressure sensor is mounted some
distance from the sampling volume, this distance may need to be taken into account when
processing the combined pressure and velocity data.
• The optional temperature sensor (a thermistor) is mounted inside the upper end cap of the con-
ditioning module, next to the underwater cable connector on probes that have a sampling dis-
tance of 5 cm. When using this type of temperature sensor, be certain that the conditioning
module is completely submerged. On probes that have a sampling distance of 10 cm, the tem-
perature sensor is potted inside the acoustic sensor head.
• The high-frequency cable to the processing module carries analog signals from the probe to
the digital processing electronics. This cable is highly sensitive to noise and should not be
modified without instruction from SonTek.
• The signal-conditioning module has a maximum diameter of 10.1 cm (4.0 in) and is 33.0 cm
(13.0 in) long. The outside of the housing is ribbed for easier handling and more secure
mounting. The overall dimensions of the probe vary with 2D and 3D probes, distance to the
sampling volume, stem length, and sensor orientation.
1.1.3. 5-MHz ADVOcean Probe
The 5-MHz ADVOcean probe configurations are divided into two groups: with or without op-
tional sensors (compass/tilt, pressure). The 5-MHz ADVOcean probe is used for field applica-
tions where a rugged probe that is resistant to physical damage is needed. Figure 5 shows the
standard ADVOcean probe. The ADVOcean probe is made of stainless steel. However, the con-
ditioning module can be made of stainless steel or plastic if weight is a concern.
5-MHz ADVOcean Probe Configuration without Optional Sensors:
• The ADVOcean probe consists of an acoustic sensor head (which includes a temperature sens-
ing thermistor), a signal conditioning module, and an underwater mateable connector to a
high-frequency cable. The probe serial number is engraved on the housing near the acoustic
transmitter. All ADVOcean probes having a stainless steel conditioning module include a sac-
rificial zinc anode attached to the signal-conditioning module for corrosion protection. Probes
with plastic conditioning modules require you to provide appropriate protection, if applicable.
• The acoustic sensor head contains three acoustic receivers and one acoustic transmitter. The
sensor head is mounted directly to the end of the signal-conditioning module.
Figure 5 – Standard 5-MHz ADVOcean Probe
Acoustic receivers (3)
A
coustic transmitter
Acoustic sensor
head assembly
Sampling
volume
Signal
conditioning
module Underwater
mateable
connector
High-frequency cable
(to Processor)

SonTek/YSI
6 ADVField Operation Manual (September 1, 2001)
• The sampling volume is the volume of water (≈2 cm3) in which the ADV makes velocity
measurements. This volume is nominally located 18 cm from the acoustic transmitter.
• The probe X-axis is defined by the direction of receiver #1, which is marked with a small in-
dentation on the sensor head. When looking from the sampling volume towards the acoustic
transmitter, the receivers are numbered 1, 2, and 3 moving clockwise from #1. (See §5.1 for
coordinate system details.)
• The signal-conditioning module is a cylindrical housing with internal receiver electronics. The
acoustic sensor head is mounted at one end of the housing, while the other end cap is con-
nected to a high-frequency cable using a 16-pin wet-mateable connector. The temperature sen-
sor potted inside the sensor head is used for sound speed corrections in long deployments with
large temperature fluctuations.
• The high-frequency cable to the processing module carries analog signals from the probe to
the digital processing electronics. This cable is highly sensitive to noise and should not be
modified, extended, or shortened without instruction from SonTek. The cable is connected to
the signal-conditioning module using an underwater mateable connector.
• The stainless steel ADVOcean probe has a total length of 33 cm (13.1 in), a housing diameter
of 4.5 cm (1.8 in), and a maximum arm diameter of 20 cm (7.8 in) for the circle about the ends
of the three receiver arms. The ADVOcean probe with the plastic conditioning module hous-
ing has the same dimensions, except the housing diameter is 5.3 cm (2.1 in).
5-MHz ADVOcean Probe Configuration with Optional Sensors: The 5-MHz ADVOcean probe
can include up to two optional built-in sensors: compass/tilt and pressure. These sensors are
mounted in a modified signal-conditioning module (Figure 6). The compass/tilt sensor allows the
ADV to report velocity data in Earth coordinates (East-North-Up or ENU), regardless of instru-
ment orientation. The pressure sensor with optional depth ranges and accessories gives simulta-
neous pressure and 3D velocity measurements (PUVW for directional wave spectra).
• The ADVOcean probe consists of an acoustic sensor head (which includes a temperature sens-
ing thermistor), a signal-conditioning module with the optional sensors, and an underwater
mateable connector to a high-frequency cable. The probe serial number is engraved on the
housing near the acoustic transmitter.
Figure 6 – 5-MHz ADVOcean Probe with Optional Sensors
A
coustic receivers
(
3
)
A
coustic transmitter
Acoustic
sensor
assembly
Sampling
volume
Signal
conditioning
module High-frequency cable (to Processor)
End Ca
p
Anode
Underwater mate-
able connecto
r
Pressure
senso
r
Probe’s X-axis
(aligned with
Receiver #1)

SonTek/YSI
ADVField/Hydra Operation Manual (September 1, 2001) 7
• The acoustic sensor head contains three acoustic receivers and one acoustic transmitter. The
sensor head is mounted directly to the end of the signal-conditioning module.
• The sampling volume is the volume of water (≈2 cm3) in which the ADV makes velocity
measurements. This volume is nominally located 18 cm from the acoustic transmitter.
• The probe X-axis is defined by the direction of receiver #1, which is marked with a small in-
dentation on the sensor head. When looking from the sampling volume towards the acoustic
transmitter, the receivers are numbered 1, 2, and 3 moving clockwise from #1. The probe’s
X-axis is also stamped on the end cap next to the cable connector. (See §5.1 for coordinate
system details.)
• The signal-conditioning module is a plastic housing with internal receiver electronics and op-
tional sensors. The acoustic sensor is permanently mounted to the lower end cap. The other
end has an underwater mateable connector for the high-frequency cable.
• The optional pressure sensor is installed in the upper end cap (made of stainless steel) of the
conditioning module near the underwater connector to the high-frequency cable. Note that
since the pressure sensor is mounted away from the sampling volume, you may need to ac-
count for this distance when processing the combined pressure and velocity data.
• The high-frequency cable to the processing module carries analog signals from the probe to
the digital processing electronics. This cable is highly sensitive to noise and should not be
modified, extended, or shortened without instruction from SonTek. The cable is connected to
the signal-conditioning module using an underwater mateable connector.
• The ADVOcean probe with optional sensors has a total length of 39 cm (15.3 in), a maximum
housing diameter of 10 cm (4.0 in), and a maximum arm diameter of 20 cm (7.8 in) for the
circle about the ends of the three receiver arms.
• The probe housing has mounting grooves to allow for easier and more secure mounting.

SonTek/YSI
8 ADVField Operation Manual (September 1, 2001)
1.2. Definitions and Terminology
This section defines terms commonly used with the SonTek ADV.
• Ping - A single estimate of water velocity.
• Sample - A sample refers to the collection of several pings to produce a mean estimate of the
water velocity. This mean value is output for storage and analysis. In addition to velocity, sig-
nal amplitude and correlation coefficient are output with each sample.
• Pinging rate - The number of pings per second in Hz. The ADV is designed to ping as quickly
as possible. The pinging rate for the ADV under normal operating conditions ranges from 80
to 500 Hz, depending on acoustic frequency and velocity range (see §1.3).
• Sampling rate - The output rate for mean velocity data. This rate is user-programmable in the
range from 0.1 to 50.0 Hz, depending on the acoustic frequency of the ADV.
• Sampling interval - The period, in seconds, over which the ADV averages data before com-
puting the mean velocity. This is the inverse of the sampling rate (a sampling rate of 25 Hz
gives a sampling interval of 0.040 second). The number of pings averaged per sample is a
function of the sampling interval and pinging rate (a sampling interval of 0.040 s and a ping-
ing rate of 250 Hz gives 10 pings for each sample). Decreasing the sampling rate (and hence
increasing the sampling interval) increases the number of pings averaged and reduces the
noise in each sample.
• Temperature - Water temperature in °C; used for sound speed calculations. It can be either a
manual input or measured automatically by the temperature sensor (option on some systems).
• Salinity - Water salinity in parts per thousand (ppt). This manual entry is used for sound speed
calculations.
• Sound speed - Speed of sound in water in m/s; calculated from temperature and salinity. This
is used to convert the Doppler shift to velocity. See the ADV Principles of Operation for in-
formation on how sound speed affects ADV velocity measurements.
• Probe configuration file - A binary file loaded by the ADV data acquisition software (and
stored in EEPROM memory by the ADVField processor) used to specify all probe-specific pa-
rameters. This includes probe geometry, sampling volume location, sampling volume size, and
velocity range settings. See the ADVField Software Manual for details.
CAUTION: If an incor-
rect probe configuration file is specified, velocity data will be invalid.
• Sampling volume - The volume of water in which the ADV makes velocity measurements.
The center of the sampling volume (in terms of its vertical extent along the axis of the acoustic
transmitter) is nominally located a fixed distance from the probe tip: 5 cm for 10-MHz and
16-MHz ADV probes; 10 cm for 10-MHz ADV probes; or 18 cm for 5-MHz ADVOcean
probes. The exact distance from the probe tip to the center of the sampling volume is encoded
in the probe configuration file. The sampling volume is cylindrical shaped, with the axis along
the axis of the acoustic transmitter. For the 10-MHz and 16-MHz ADV probes, the cylinder is
about 6 mm in diameter and 9 mm long. For the 5-MHz ADVOcean, the diameter of this cyl-
inder is about 12 mm and the height is 18 mm. See ADV Principles of Operation for details.
• Direct command interface - Direct serial communication with the ADVField processor using
a terminal or terminal emulator (e.g.,
SONTERM [DOS] or Terminal [Windows]).