Transducer

The cylindrical SX90 transducer allows the sonar beam to provide a full 360 degrees coverage of the water volume. The transducer is large and heavy. It contains 256 individual elements.

The transducer is mounted at the bottom end of the hull unit’s transducer shaft. This location allows the transducer to be lowered into the water for operational use and retracted for protection when you turn off the sonar. By lowering the transducer into the water, you can also reduce the noise created by the laminar flow of water along the hull.

The transducer converts the electric energy generated by the Transceiver Unit to physical vibrations. These vibrations alter the water pressure and create an acoustic pulse sent into the water. The acoustic signal is transmitted as a beam. The duration of the acoustic pulse, as well as its frequency and shape, are controlled by the Transceiver Unit. The Transceiver Unit and the transducer's physical properties control the beam's direction and opening angle. After the transmission, the transducer works as a "microphone". It converts the water pressure created by the acoustic echoes to electric energy. These weak echo signals are sent to the amplifiers in the Transceiver Unit.

Note: The red (or black) protective coating is a vital part of the transducer. It is essential that neither this coating nor the internal parts of the transducer are damaged during the handling, installation or cleaning. Any holes or scratches in the transducer surface will allow water to penetrate the transducer. If a leak occurs, you must replace the transducer.

The transducer must always be handled as a delicate item. Wrongful actions may damage the transducer beyond repair. Observe these transducer handling rules:

  • Do not activate the transducer when it is out of the water.
  • Do not lift the transducer by the cables.
  • Do not step on the transducer cables.
  • Do not damage the transducer cables; avoid sharp objects.
  • Do not handle the transducer roughly; avoid impacts.
  • Do not expose the transducer to direct sunlight or excessive heat.
  • Do not use high-pressure water, sandblasting, metal tools or strong solvents to clean the transducer face.
  • Do not damage the outer protective skin on the transducer.

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[ Simrad SX90 ]