Tow Vehicle Deployment - Edgetech 3200-XS User Manual

7.
Close the Options dialog box.
Do not allow the transducers on the tow vehicle to continuously transmit in
air for an extended period as damage to the transducers could occur.
8.
From the Sonar menu, choose Sonar On. When the sonar is on, a check mark
appears next to the menu item.
The transducers on the tow vehicle should begin transmitting and data should begin
scrolling on the display in the DISCOVER 3200SB Main window.
9.
Listen for transmissions from the transducers and verify that they are present.
10.
Tap the underside of the tow vehicle near the hydrophones with the handle of a screw
driver while observing the Sonar display in the DISCOVER 3200SB Main window.
You should observe streaks or noise spikes in the waterfall display.
3.9

Tow Vehicle Deployment

The SB-424, SB-216S and SB-512i Tow Vehicles can be towed using the 75-Meter Kevlar
Reinforced Tow Cable that is available separately with the 3200-XS Sub-Bottom Profiling
System. However, it is recommended that a steel cable with a minimum 500 Kg (1100 lb)
working strength be used instead of this tow cable to tow the larger SB-0512i vehicle. The
steel cable can be secured to the tow cable using electrical tape, making sure there is
enough built in slack in the tow cable so that all the load is supported by the steel cable. A
steel cable could also be used in the same manner with the two smaller SB-424 and
SB-216S Tow Vehicles to increase the life of the tow cable. For towing in deep water, a
single armored tow cable is required.
Do not tow the tow vehicle too close to the survey vessel. Towing in this
manner can cause the tow vehicle to be pulled in against the hull of the ship
due to the low pressure of the propeller wash and the effect of the water
flowing by the hull. In addition, sonar reflections from the hull may be
evident in the records.
The tow vehicle may be towed at speeds of up to 10 knots. However, to optimize
performance and minimize flow noise, it is recommended that the tow vehicle be towed at
speeds of less than 5 knots. Lead ballast in the nose of the tow vehicle provides towing
stability by allowing the tow point to be placed as far forward as possible and by making the
Tow Vehicle Deployment
CAUTION!
CAUTION!
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