New Kongsberg Multibeam Sounder
EM 2040C, a new compact shallow water multibeam echosounder for high resolution mapping and inspection applications aboard small boats and launches, has been developed by Kongsberg Maritime.
A derivative of the Norwegian company’s EM 2040 system, its introduction is complemented by a companion model designed for use on AUVs, ROVs and other vessels of opportunity, the EM 2040CX.
Available in single or dual head configurations, the 2040C is claimed to provide a significantly improved performance over earlier models with much reduced requirements for post-processing due to improved quality of available data. Featuring high resolution and a wide frequency range from 200 to 400kHz with frequency selection in steps of 10kHz, it has a maximum depth capability of 490m. In a dual configuration mode, with two sonar heads tilted to each side, 200° coverage is possible, enabling surveying to a water surface or up to ten times water depth on flat bottoms.
With post-processing of data reliant upon Caris HIPS and SIPS programmes, typical applications include port and harbour surveys, post-dredging surveys, shipwreck exploration, habitat mapping, pipeline inspection and general hydrographic operations. There are also limited discounted upgrade options for earlier EM 2002 users.
