HYDROTRAC II

USER MANUAL
Version: 0.9

Teledyne Odom Hydrographic

1450 Seaboard Avenue
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
USA
70810-6261

Telephone: (225) 769-3051 Fax: (225) 766-5122

email@odomhydrographic.com
http://www.odomhydrographic.com

Number of pages: 43
Date: April 11, 2012
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

Revision History
Version Date Author Remarks
0.1 03-01-2011 S. Apsey Initial version – draft
0.2 03-15-2011 S. Apsey Added firmware revision list
Added Annotation Parameter
0.3 03-23-2011 S. Apsey Revisions for firmware 0.7
Added appendix on interfacing Ethernet with Hypack
Added explanation on exiting the maintenance menu
0.4 06-10-2011 S. Apsey Revision for firmware 0.8 (see appendix)
0.5 06-17-2011 R. Zheng Revision for firmware 0.9 (see appendix)
0.6 06-21-2011 S. Apsey Revision for firmware 0.10 (see appendix)
0.7 08-11-2011 S. Apsey Revision for firmware 0.11 (see appendix)
0.8 11-17-2011 C. Myer Correction to Appendix C for External GPS jumper
configuration. Also added a reference note in section
3.2.3 to Appendix C.
0.9 04-11-2012 R. Zheng Revision for firmware 0.13 (see appendix)

© ODOM HYDROGRAPHIC SYSTEMS, INC. 2012

All rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without the prior written consent of the copy-
right owner.
The information presented in this document does not form part of any quotation or contract, is believed to be
accurate and reliable and may be subject to change without notice. The publisher will not accept any liability for
any consequence of its use. Publication thereof does not convey nor imply any license under patent- or other
industrial or intellectual property rights.

Page 2 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

CONTENTS

1  Introduction ...................................................................................................................................................... 5 
1.1  Purpose ....................................................................................................................................................... 5 
1.2  Scope .......................................................................................................................................................... 5 
1.3  Glossary ...................................................................................................................................................... 6 
2  Product description ......................................................................................................................................... 7 
2.1  Hydrotrac II General Specifications ............................................................................................................ 7 
2.2  Scope of Material Included.......................................................................................................................... 7 
3  Installation ........................................................................................................................................................ 8 
3.1  Transducer Installation ................................................................................................................................ 8 
3.1.1  General Rules ...................................................................................................................................... 8 
3.1.2  "THROUGH HULL" Installation ............................................................................................................ 8 
3.1.3  "SEA CHEST" Installation .................................................................................................................... 8 
3.1.4  Over The Side Transducer Installation ................................................................................................ 8 
3.1.5  “HULL MOUNT” Installation ................................................................................................................. 9 
3.2  Hydrotrac II Cable Connections .................................................................................................................. 9 
3.2.1  Serial 1 ................................................................................................................................................. 9 
3.2.2  Serial 2 ................................................................................................................................................. 9 
3.2.3  GPS I/O .............................................................................................................................................. 10 
3.2.4  LAN .................................................................................................................................................... 10 
3.2.5  Transducer ......................................................................................................................................... 10 
3.2.6  12-24 VDC ......................................................................................................................................... 10 
3.2.7  FUSE.................................................................................................................................................. 10 
3.3  Hydrotrac II Recorder Buttons and Knobs ................................................................................................ 11 
3.3.1  Power/Transmit Power Knob ............................................................................................................. 11 
3.3.2  Sensitivity Knob ................................................................................................................................. 11 
3.3.3  Keypad ............................................................................................................................................... 11 
3.3.4  LCD .................................................................................................................................................... 11 
3.3.5  Printer On/Off button .......................................................................................................................... 11 
3.3.6  Printer Take-Up button....................................................................................................................... 11 
3.3.7  Printer Feed button ............................................................................................................................ 11 
3.3.8  Printer Mark button ............................................................................................................................ 11 
3.3.9  Printer Mechanism ............................................................................................................................. 12 
3.4  Chart Paper ............................................................................................................................................... 12 
3.4.1  PAPER LOADING.............................................................................................................................. 13 
3.4.2  Installing a fresh Paper Supply Roll ................................................................................................... 14 
3.4.3  Loading the Paper Take-Up Spool .................................................................................................... 14 
4  Operation ........................................................................................................................................................ 16 
4.1  Hydrotrac II Parameters ............................................................................................................................ 16 
4.1.1  Changing Parameters ........................................................................................................................ 16 
4.1.2  Depth.................................................................................................................................................. 16 
4.1.3  Setup .................................................................................................................................................. 16 
4.1.3.1  Blanking ...................................................................................................................................... 17 
4.1.3.2  Units ............................................................................................................................................ 18 
4.1.3.3  Range ......................................................................................................................................... 18 
4.1.3.4  Serial1 ......................................................................................................................................... 18 
4.1.3.5  Serial2 ......................................................................................................................................... 18 
4.1.3.6  Time ............................................................................................................................................ 18 
4.1.3.7  Date ............................................................................................................................................ 18 
Page 3 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

4.1.3.8  Serial1 Baud, Serial2 Baud ........................................................................................................ 19 

4.1.3.9  TVG Curve .................................................................................................................................. 19 
4.1.3.10  Frequency ................................................................................................................................... 19 
4.1.3.11  Pulse Length ............................................................................................................................... 19 
4.1.3.12  Alarm .......................................................................................................................................... 20 
4.1.3.13  Minimum Depth .......................................................................................................................... 20 
4.1.4  Chart .................................................................................................................................................. 20 
4.1.4.1  Scale End ................................................................................................................................... 20 
4.1.4.2  Scale Width ................................................................................................................................. 20 
4.1.4.3  Chart Speed................................................................................................................................ 20 
4.1.4.4  Phasing ....................................................................................................................................... 20 
4.1.4.5  Annotation ................................................................................................................................... 20 
4.1.4.6  Print Parameters ......................................................................................................................... 21 
4.1.5  Cal. ..................................................................................................................................................... 21 
4.1.5.1  Bar Depth .................................................................................................................................... 22 
4.1.5.2  Draft & Index ............................................................................................................................... 22 
4.1.5.3  Velocity ....................................................................................................................................... 23 
4.1.5.4  Simulator ..................................................................................................................................... 23 
4.1.6  Start up Menu .................................................................................................................................... 23 
4.1.6.1  Use current setup ....................................................................................................................... 23 
4.1.6.2  Use default setup ........................................................................................................................ 23 
4.1.6.3  Maintenance Menu ..................................................................................................................... 23 
4.2  Interfacing.................................................................................................................................................. 24 
4.2.1  Serial Output Strings – Serial1 .......................................................................................................... 24 
4.2.1.1  Echotrac I/O ................................................................................................................................ 24 
4.2.1.2  Heave ......................................................................................................................................... 25 
4.2.1.3  DESO 25 ..................................................................................................................................... 25 
4.2.1.4  NMEA String (DBS) .................................................................................................................... 26 
4.2.1.5  ET Mark1 I/O .............................................................................................................................. 26 
4.2.2  Serial Data Input and Annotation ....................................................................................................... 26 
4.2.2.1  Event Line (Fix Mark).................................................................................................................. 27 
Event Annotation ......................................................................................................................................... 27 
4.2.3  Ethernet Output.................................................................................................................................. 27 
5  Calibration ...................................................................................................................................................... 28 
5.1  BAR CHECK CALIBRATION .................................................................................................................... 28 
Appendix A. POWER Cable Conn. (DC only) ...................................................................................................... 30 
Appendix B. Motion Reference Unit output string ............................................................................................. 31 
Appendix C. Internal Jumper configurations ..................................................................................................... 32 
Appendix D. Upgrading Hydrotrac II FPGA and Firmware ................................................................................ 33 
Appendix E. Hypack Ethernet Interfacing with the Hydrotrac II ....................................................................... 34 
Appendix F. Firmware Revisions ......................................................................................................................... 42 

Page 4 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose
The purpose of this document is to explain the features and operation of the Hydrotrac II.

1.2 Scope
The scope and content of this document is focused on providing useful information to the end-user.

Page 5 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

1.3 Glossary
DGPS Differential Global Positioning System
NMEA National Marine Electronics Association
VDC Volts Direct Current
TOH Teledyne Odom Hydrographic
PPS Pulse Per Second

Page 6 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

2 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Hydrotrac II General Specifications

Frequency Agile Weight • Time (PPS): +/_62ns synchronized to UTC time
• Operator selectable through menu – 24, 28, • 22.5 lbs (10.2 kg) • Standard NMEA0183 output message
33, 40, 100, 120, 200, 210 and 340 kHz Display Panel Layout Features
Output Power • 4 Line x 20 Character display • 8.5 in / 216mm thermal printer (fax paper)
• 600 watts • OFF/STBY/LOW/MED/HI Power Settings • Annotation printed on chart
Power Requirement • Chart ON/OFF with LED inside • LCD display (1 in. high)
• 11-28 V DC • Chart Advance • Sealed keypad controls
Resolution • Sensitivity • Manual/remote mark command
• 0.1 ft / 0.01m • Chart Feed • Auto scale change (phasing)
• Separate Panel Overlays for • Separate adjustment for power and
Accuracy pulse width
• 200 kHz – 1cm (0.1% of depth value (corrected • Display and Chart controls
• Keypad (arrow keys) • External GPS input
for sound velocity) • Heave input from motion sensor
• 33 kHz – 10cm 0.1% of depth value (corrected • Power
• Gain • Integrated OEM DGPS receiver
for sound velocity) • UTC time stamp capability
Maximum Depth Range Sensor I/O
• GPS • TVG curve for side scan and bathymetry
• 600m or 1800 ft. • Output: NMEA, ECHOTRAC, DESO 25, etc.
• Annotates chart
Environmental Operating Conditions • Embeds position in Ethernet packet • Waterproof (with front cover in place)
• 0° - 50° C • PPS • Fix mark annotation: date, time, fix no., depth
Communication • Embeds UTC time in output string and GPS (if input)
• 2 RS232 ports or 1 RS232 and 1 RS422 • MRU • Flash memory upgradeable
• Ethernet port • Heave corrects data • Waterproof DB9 connector serial ports
• 8 bit data • Outputs MRU data in Ethernet packet (standard serial interface cables)
• 1600 samples/ping • Remote Display • Built-in simulator
Printer • RS 422 interface • Serial port function test
• High resolution 8 dot/mm (203 dpi), Internal GPS with WAAS differential • Robust firmware upgrades by SD Card
16 gray shades • E-chart Software included
corrections and PPS reference signal • Operation and installation manuals provided
• 216mm (8.5 in) wide thermal paper • 16-Channel, L1(1575.42 MHz) GPS receiver
• External ON/OFF switch on CD
• SBAS (WAAS and EGNOS) supported
• Paper advance control • Position Accuracy: 0.63 meters, CEP 50%
Options
Dimensions (24hr static) • 200 kHz or 340 kHz side scan transducer
• 368 mm (14.5 in) H x 419 mm (16.5 in) • 1.31 meters, 95% (24hr static) • Remote display
W x 203 mm (8 in) D • Typical dynamic accuracy 3-5 meters

2.2 Scope of Material Included

 Hydrotrac II Recorder
 2 Serial cables
 1 Crossover Ethernet cable
 1 DC power cable
 1 GPS antenna
 2 rolls thermal paper

Page 7 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

3 INSTALLATION

3.1 Transducer Installation

Proper mounting of the transducer is a crucial part of the installation of any "survey" echo sounder. An improperly
mounted transducer will result in poor system operation and unacceptable data quality.

3.1.1 General Rules

In the case of temporary installations, the transducer may be mounted over-the-side. In permanent installations
and “class 1 surveys", hull mounts are generally preferred and often required. In either case, transducers should
be mounted at least 0.3 meters below the waterline. In cases where "over-the-side" mounts are exposed to wave
action, ensure that the transducer is mounted sufficiently deep so that it does not break the surface during vessel
roll motions.

A preferred mounting location is near the keel of the vessel, in an area where the planning attitude of the hull at
speed, and the pitch and roll angles of the vessel in seas, have the least effect. The transducer should be
mounted far enough aft of the bow so that bubbles generated by the bow wave will not pass over the face of the
unit. Transducers should be located away from sources of turbulence and cavitation bubbles such as propellers,
bow thrusters and hull protrusions. Considerations should also be given to sources of mechanical noise
generated within the vessel (engines, props, pumps, generators, etc.). In some severe cases of mechanically
coupled noise, vibration-isolating mounts may be required to decouple the transducer from the hull.

Transducer mounting can be accomplished in many different ways. To follow is a list of common configurations:

3.1.2 "THROUGH HULL" Installation

The topside of the transducer is accessible from inside the vessel while the transducer face is directly exposed to
the water. Care should be taken to protect the transducer from damage and turbulence by installing a faring with
a sloping forward edge ahead of the unit. The faring has the dual effect of both minimizing possible strike
damage and smoothing the flow of water over the face of the transducer.

3.1.3 "SEA CHEST" Installation

In a "sea chest" mount, a fluid-filled enclosure, large enough to contain the entire transducer, is attached to the
outer hull of the vessel. The outer hull is removed within the area of the chest and replaced with an acoustically
clear "window", which is mounted flush with the hull immediately below the chest. Depending on construction, the
material selected for the acoustic window, and the draft of the vessel, access can often be gained to the
transducer from inside the hull without putting the vessel in dry-dock. In most installations, a water-filled
standpipe is incorporated into the "sea chest" design in order to provide hydrostatic pressure equalization.
Transducer cables generally leave these assemblies through “stuffing tubes” that are designed to maintain the
watertight integrity of the chest.

3.1.4 Over The Side Transducer Installation

A mount of this type is frequently constructed from a length of pipe. This fixture should be sized to position the
transducer well below the waterline and the pipe then fixed to a sturdy support on the vessel. Lines generally are
attached at the mounting pipe and tied off fore and aft in order to maintain a stable, horizontal head attitude. Care
Page 8 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

should be taken to assure adequate protection for the transducer cable, particularly at the point where the cable
leaves the transducer body. The position of the mounting assembly relative to other peripherals is critical for
accurate data collection.

Particular care should be taken to assure that the transducer radiating face remains as parallel to the water
surface as much as possible while the vessel is moving.

3.1.5 “HULL MOUNT” Installation

Transducers which are “streamlined” and can be mounted directly to the outside of the hull or transducers which
are fitted into a streamlined fairings that are welded or otherwise attached to the outside of the hull, often make for
excellent installations. The advantage here is that the radiating face of the transducer is generally below the
“bubble stream” in clear water and no acoustic window or transducer tank is involved to create extra reverberation
(ringing). This type of installation requires a stuffing tube to be installed in the hull in order to allow the transducer
cable to penetrate the hull.

In all of the above installations particular care should be taken to assure that the transducers radiating
face remains as nearly parallel to the water surface as possible while the vessel is underway.

3.2 Hydrotrac II Cable Connections

3.2.1 Serial 1
Serial 1 is the main communication port to and from the Hydrotrac II. Use this port to receive depth values, send
annotation information and change parameters.

Connector PN: Pin Number Signal Description

DB9 Female 2 Transmitted data from Hydrotrac II
3 Received data to Hydrotrac II
5 GND

3.2.2 Serial 2
Serial 2 is used for connecting a remote display or motion sensor to the Echotrac MKIII. Serial 2 is the only port
that can be configured as either RS232 or RS422.

Connector PN: Pin Number Signal Description

DB9 Female 2 Transmitted data from Hydrotrac II
Page 9 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

3 Received data to Hydrotrac II

5 GND

3.2.3 GPS I/O

The Hydrotrac II has a built in GPS that main functions is to give the Hydrotrac II the UTC time which is used to
time stamp the soundings. The GPS I/O port also outputs the NMEA GGA string at 9,600 baud. The internal
GPS is not a survey grade GPS.

Connector PN: Pin Number Signal Description

DB9 Female 2 Transmitted data from Hydrotrac II
3 Received data to Hydrotrac II
5 GND
Note: For external GPS use see Appendix C Internal Jumper Configuration. The use of an external GPS device
may require a null modem adaptor. Keep port and string configurations the same as the internal GPS settings.

3.2.4 LAN
The LAN connection is the Ethernet port for the Hydrotrac II.

Connector PN: Pin Number Signal Description

10BASE-T 1 TX +
2 TX -
3 RX +
6 RX -

3.2.5 Transducer
TX1 is the main transducer connection port for the Hydrotrac II

Connector PN: Pin Number Signal Description

MS3116J14-5P A Shield
B High Frequency
C Low Frequency
D Low Frequency
E High Frequency

3.2.6 12-24 VDC

The DC connector is used to supply DC input power. The range of the DC power is 18-30 VDC.

Connector PN: Pin Number Signal Description

MS3116J12-3S A + 24 Volt DC
C GND

3.2.7 FUSE

This 5 Amp fuse protects against the Hydrotrac II drawing too much current from and external power supply.

Page 10 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

3.3 Hydrotrac II Recorder Buttons and Knobs

3.3.1 Power/Transmit Power Knob

This knob controls the power to the Hydrotrac II and controls the transmit power to the Hydrotrac II transmitter.
When the knob is turned from Off to Stby the LCD will prompt the operator to press a key. Once the key has
been pressed the chart will print a initialization message and the LCD will prompt the operator to select current
setting, default settings or the maintenance menu. Selecting the current menu will load the last used parameters
into the Hydrotrac II. Select the default setting to bring the Hydrotrac II to the original parameter settings. This is
equivalent to a reset.

3.3.2 Sensitivity Knob

This knob adjusts the amplification of the signal received from the transducer. Increase the knob in areas with a
softer seafloor or less reflectivity of the seafloor.

3.3.3 Keypad

The 10 raised micro-switches are part of the sealed display panel. The keys have excellent tactile feel and high
moisture resistance. The keypad is used by the operator for direct parameter entry and functional control of the
unit from the front panel. There are four keys under the LCD that control the menus of the Hydrotrac II. These
menus are described in a later section of this manual.

3.3.4 LCD

The 4 line, by 20 character Transflective LCD Module with LED Back Lighting was chosen for it’s excellent
visibility in all light conditions from bright sun to darkened wheel house.

3.3.5 Printer On/Off button

Turns the printer On or Off. The LCD inside the button indicates whether the printer is on (LED ON) or off.

3.3.6 Printer Take-Up button

The Hydrotrac II printer has a slipping clutch that allows the operator to pull chart record that has been wound up.
The Take-Up button allows the operator to take up the slack paper. The take-up button is also useful when
changing the paper. Note: the Take-Up and Feed buttons work independently to each stepper motor. Pressing
the feed button will not trigger the take-up motor.

3.3.7 Printer Feed button

This button can be used to feed blank paper through the print head. This is useful should the operator wish to
write information on the chart paper on a blank section of paper. This button is also useful when changing paper.

3.3.8 Printer Mark button

When the Mark button pressed the Hydrotrac II printer will print a line across the chart along with date, time and
depth along that line.

Page 11 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

3.3.9 Printer Mechanism

The high-resolution thin-film thermal print head (216mm (8.5”) wide, 8 dots per mm (203/in.)) is capable of printing
up to 8 gray shades on high quality thermal film. Due to its thin-film construction, it is very energy efficient and
produces little excess heat. The paper delivery and re-winding mechanisms contain few moving parts and are
built to stand up to the rigors of marine use.

3.4 Chart Paper

General Paper Description: The Hydrotrac uses either thermal film or high quality thermal paper as the
recording medium for the analog chart. The rolls are 216mm (8.5”) wide and contain approximately 50m (170’) of
paper or film. The inside diameter of the core is 12.7mm (½”); the outside diameter of the roll is approximately
64mm (2.5”).

Paper loading is a multi-step process, but it need not be a difficult one if care is taken in assuring that each step is
accomplished properly. As in almost any thermal recorder (including FAX machines), paper is sourced from a
supply roll, where it passes between alignment posts, and over a rubber roller fig 3.1, which moves the paper past
the thermal printhead. Attached to the printhead is a mechanical pressure lever, which when moved to the left,
lifts the head away from the roller to assist in the initial loading. In the Hydrotrac, printed chart paper is taken-up
on an empty core installed at the far left of the chart panel. A precision stepper motor attached to the printhead
assembly drive roller pulls paper off the supply roll and moves it past the printhead. The motor that drives the
take-up spool does not advance the paper, as is the case in many echo sounders. Since paper drive and take-up
are driven by separate mechanisms, previously printed chart can be pulled from the take-up assembly for review
and simply re-wound without disturbing the recording process.

Figure 3.1 Paper Figure 3.2

Supply & Take-Up Rolls Panel Release
Page 12 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

3.4.1 PAPER LOADING

Step 1: In order to gain access to the paper supply and re-wind areas, open the chart panel by unscrewing the
two black captive fasteners at the extreme left of the front panel (Figure 3.2). Open the panel by pulling the
handle at the left side of the front panel until the support arm engages a stop.
Step 2: If paper has been previously installed in the unit, place the power switch in the STBY position and press
the CHART FEED switch (upper right) until sufficient paper has been advanced to clear any previously recorded
data. Cut the paper at a convenient point past the recorded data and remove the old chart.
Step 3: Swing the panels completely open to the last stop point on the support arm (Figure 3.3). This will allow
access to the paper supply and take-up assemblies located at the rear of the panel.
Step 4: Locate the printhead release lever located below the printhead on the front side of the panel (Figure 3.4).
Push the lever all the way to the left in order to raise the printhead away from the paper and roller.
Step 5: Remove any remaining paper from the paper path and remove the spent supply roll from the holder
mechanism. Grasp the core and lift it upward and outward at the bottom. The upward motion compresses the
upper pressure spring and the outward motion clears the bottom of the core from the lower core-centering stud.
Step 6: Use the same motion in order to remove the take-up roll from its holder mechanism.

Page 13 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

3.4.2 Installing a fresh Paper Supply Roll

Step 1: On the paper supply side (side closest to
the printhead), raise the upper paper guide until
the spring is fully compressed.
Step 2:Insert the fresh roll of paper so that the
core engages the top paper-centering stud and so
that the paper comes off the roll at the rear (as
viewed from the front panel side of the unit) and
the outside surface of the paper faces the
printhead.
Step 3: Align the roll so that it engages the lower
centering stud, as it is set onto the lower paper
guide.

Feeding Paper past the Printhead

Step 4: Feed paper off the supply roll from the

rear and over the paper drive roller (between the Figure 3.3
printhead and the roller) with the outside surface Front Panel Extended
of the roll toward the printhead. Only the outside
surface of the paper will produce an image.
Note: the printhead release lever must be in the
released position (far left position) in order to accomplish this task.
Step 5: Once a small amount of paper is fed across the roller past the printhead, pull approximately 450mm (18”)
through the printer. This can be done easily if the paper is not allowed to engage the rubber paper drive roller
with too much tension. Feeding paper manually off the supply roll while pulling it past the printhead will assist in
this task. Once sufficient paper is fed past the print head, center the paper manually and return the printhead
release lever to the engaged position (head locked down on the paper supply roller).

3.4.3 Loading the Paper Take-Up Spool

Step1: Guide the end of the paper through the
paper entry slot and over the take-up roller bar. Pull
the excess paper through the slot.
Step 2: Using a small piece of tape, attach the end
of the paper to an empty paper core being sure to
align the top and bottom edges of the paper with the
ends of the core. Wind the extra paper up tightly
onto the core. Note: As shipped from the factory,
paper is re-wound on the spent core in the same
direction as it is fed off the paper supply roll. This
means that the printed image is wound on the
outside surface of the recorded roll.
Please note! Best results are derived when a new
core is installed on the Take-up spool with each new
roll of paper. Repeated use of the same Take-up
core will result in the unit’s failing to re-wind paper
reliably. Figure 3.4
Printhead Release Lever

Page 14 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

Step 3: Employing the same method used in loading the supply roll, install the core (with paper attached) in the
Take-up Spool assembly.
Step 4: Close the paper access panel by first releasing the support arm, closing the panel, and then re-tightening
the two captive screws. Press the FEED switch (upper right) and observe that paper moves smoothly past the
printhead across the paper access panel, and is wound onto the take-up core. At this point the recorder should
be ready for normal operation.

TOP VIEW

PAPER TRANSPORT
DIAGRAM

Page 15 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

4 OPERATION

4.1 Hydrotrac II Parameters

In the Hydrotrac, parameters which control the way the echo sounder works—digitizing, printing, or
communicating to the outside world, are manipulated using a system of menus and front panel mounted sealed
keys. The display is a four line by twenty-character alpha numeric, transflective LCD module. The display is
backlighted for nighttime viewing LED’s. The keys are made up of 10 embossed micro-switches
molded into the display panel overlay. Each key is labeled with its function and provides positive tactile feedback
upon actuation. The four keys located directly below the display provide immediate access to the four main
menus for which they are labeled (DEPTH, SETUP, CHART, CAL.). The UP, DOWN, LEFT, and RIGHT arrow
keys are used to navigate through the individual parameters and to change their associated values. The ENTER
key is used to select a parameter who’s value is to be changed. Pressing the HELP key provides the operator
with an immediate printed explanation of the purpose and use of the selected parameter.

4.1.1 Changing Parameters

The method used to change any parameter value is common to all parameters in the system. To follow is a
description and typical example of the procedure: For instance, should we wish to change the internal time
of day clock: First press the Setup Key, to access to the menu containing the Time parameter. Second, Select
the Time parameter by moving the arrows (using the UP and Down arrow keys) to the Time line and then
pressing Enter. Once the value for Time is selected (the blinking block cursor appears behind one of the
digits), use the LEFT or RIGHT arrow keys to choose Hours, Minutes, or Seconds by moving the Cursor to
the appropriate digit. Using the UP or DOWN arrow keys, slew in the new value. If necessary, move the
cursor to the next digit (using the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys again) and slew the correct digit into place.
Once the displayed Time parameter is correct, press Enter again. This will cause the new value to become
the current time. This method of entering data is common to all parameters.

4.1.2 Depth

Pressing the DEPTH key on the front panel results in immediate display of the digitized depth. The large
characters incorporate segments from all four lines of the display. This is done in order to achieve the size
needed for distant viewing. While DEPTH is the Menu most often displayed, it is not necessary to select the
DEPTH menu in order for the unit to operate normally. The Hydrotrac II continues to sound, digitize and display
the depth (in the upper right corner of the display) in all of the menus except Maintenance. If the Depth button is
pressed twice the Hydrotrac II will display the Latitude and Longitude of the GPS position along with the depth.

4.1.3 Setup

Pressing the SETUP key initiates the display of the basic parameters of the unit, which include the following:

Setup 10.01
Blanking 0.0
Units Meters
 Range 100
Serial1 Echotrac I/O
Nmea DBS Out
Page 16 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

DESO 25 I/O
Heave Out
Serial2 OFF
Heave IN
Remote Disp
Time 15:32:15
Date 10/20/97
Serial1 Baud 19200, 9600, 4800
Serial2 Baud 19200, 9600, 4800
TVG Curve 10,20,40 Log
Frequency 24,28,33,38,40,100,
120,200,210,340
Pulse Length Short, Medium,Long

4.1.3.1 Blanking

A Blanking feature is used to “mask” the transmit pulse, transducer ringing, or other unwanted acoustic returns in
the upper water column (such as boat wakes), from the digitizer. It is applied when these acoustic events could
be mistaken for returns from the seabed or when the operator needs to force the sounder to “look” below an
interference layer. The value for Blanking is entered as a distance from the water surface and is indicated on the
chart by a solid black line printed at the input depth. Blanking is one of the “Key Parameters” printed at sign-on
and each time the parameter is changed.

Note: Alarm activated

when depth is
less than
Blanking “Blanking”
(set at 4.5
)

Figure 3.3

Blanking Feature

Page 17 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

4.1.3.2 Units

Sets the operating units of the Hydrotrac II. When units are set to meters the Hydrotrac will have centimeter
resolution, when set to feet will have 0.1 foot resolution.

4.1.3.3 Range

As the name indicates, the Range parameter limits the maximum range of the digitizer. For example, should a
Range value of 100m be input as a value, then the unit’s digitizer will never look deeper than 100m for a valid
bottom return. This speeds up the digitizer since it no longer has to expand the tracking gate to include depths
greater than 100m. The feature is often used in conditions where the time needed to reacquire the bottom (after a
loss of signal) must be minimized. However, care should be taken not to set the Range at a value which is too
shallow, since it will also inhibit tracking of valid returns deeper than the Range value as well.

4.1.3.4 Serial1

This is the primary serial port interface for the Hydrotrac II and should be used to receive depth information. The
Hydrotrac II outputs the following strings:

 Echotrac I/O
 Deso25
 NMEA DBS
 Heave
 ET Mark1I/O

When any of the first three formats are output and the Hydrotrac II is receiving data from a motion sensor, these
strings will reflect a heave corrected depth. When the Heave string is selected and the Hydrotrac II is receiving
data from a motion sensor the depth and heave values will be uncorrected. Details of the formatting of each string
can be found under a different section of this manual.

4.1.3.5 Serial2

This port is used by the Hydrotrac to receive data from a motion sensor or output data to a TOH remote display.
When the TOH remote display is selected the Hydrotrac II serial port should be set to RS422.

4.1.3.6 Time

An internal real-time clock is used for time and date information even when power is removed from the unit. The
correct time of day (or reference time) is entered via this parameter. First Time is made the current selection by
moving the brackets to the Time line and then pressing Enter. Once the value for time is selected, use the LEFT
or RIGHT arrow keys to chose the appropriate Hour, Minute, or Second digit. The selected digit will be noted by
the presence of the blinking Block Cursor. Use the UP or DOWN arrow keys to slew to a new value. Pressing
Enter again will cause the new value to become the current time.

4.1.3.7 Date

The current Date is entered in much the same manner as Time. Begin by selecting the proper line and then
choose the digit to be changed. Use the UP or DOWN arrow keys to slew to a new value. Pressing Enter again
will cause the new value to become the current Date.

Page 18 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

4.1.3.8 Serial1 Baud, Serial2 Baud

Set the baud rate for com 1 and com 2 from 4800 baud to 19,200 baud.

4.1.3.9 TVG Curve

Multiple TVG curves are programmed into unit’s transceivers. The 20Log Time Varied Gain curve is the generally
accepted standard in single beam vertical echo sounders and the default value for the Hydrotrac II. The 20Log
curve includes compensation for both spherical spreading loss and absorption losses. The 40Log curve is the
standard for use with the Side Scan option. The 10Log scale is intended for use in shallow water.

4.1.3.10 Frequency
Sets the operating frequency of the Hydrotrac II. This setting should match the frequency used with the Hydrotrac
II. The available frequencies are:

 24 kHz
 28 kHz
 33 kHz
 38 kHz
 40 kHz
 100 kHz
 120 kHz
 200 kHz
 210 kHz
 340 kHz

When using 24kHz – 40kHz the low frequency pin connections should be used and when using 100 kHz and
above the high frequency pin connections.

4.1.3.11 Pulse Length

Sets the pulse length of the transmit signal to the transmitter. A rule of thumb is, in shallow water use as few
cycles as you can get by with, while in deep water use as many as it takes! Taken together with the Tx Power
control setting, pulse width directly influences the total amount of acoustic energy generated.

Frequency(kHz) Short Pulse Length(usec) Medium Length(usec) Large Length(usec)

24 250 500 1000
28 214 428 856
33 189 364 727
38 150 300 600
40 150 300 600
100 100 200 400
120 80 160 320
200 50 100 200
210 94 188 376
340 94 188 376

Page 19 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

4.1.3.12 Alarm
When the alarm is turned on and the echo sounder does not detect a valid bottom the Hydrotrac will turn on its
sonic alarm.

4.1.3.13 Minimum Depth

The Hydrotrac will turn on the sonic alarm when the depth detected goes below the value entered for this
parameter.

4.1.4 Chart

Chart 10.1
Scale End 20
Scale Width 20
Phasing Auto

4.1.4.1 Scale End

The Scale End refers to the depth value at the center of the printed chart. In the Manual Phasing mode, Scale
End is used most often to move the beginning and ending scale values to two points which force the known depth
to fall between them. When the Phasing parameter is in AUTO mode, the Scale End value is recomputed each
time the digitized depth approaches either scale limit. The Scale End can be incremented by any of the displayed
whole digits (hundreds, tens, or units in meters).

4.1.4.2 Scale Width

Scale width printed on chart. Scale End value computes listening time and repetition rate. Values: 10,20,40,80
meters; 30,60,120,240 feet.

4.1.4.3 Chart Speed

This parameter is used to control the chart speed of the thermal printer. In SYNC mode the Hydrotrac will
advance the paper chart once per sounding period. On the other setting the Hydrotrac will advance the paper
chart in centimetres per min.

4.1.4.4 Phasing

The Phasing control determines whether or not the sounder will be allowed to automatically recompute the Scale
End value to avoid losing the bottom off the chart. Two selections are possible; Auto and Manual. In Manual,
the Phase does not change as the depth changes. It remains fixed at the Scale End value selected. However, in
Auto, as the bottom approaches the chart limits, a new Scale End is recomputed automatically and the Phase is
adjusted so that the bottom is always plotted on the chart.

4.1.4.5 Annotation

Page 20 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

When the Mark button is pressed the Hydrotrac II will either print annotation information with the fix line on not
depending on whether this parameter is turned ON or OFF.

4.1.4.6 Print Parameters

When the Enter button is pressed while the menu selection is on PrintParams the Hydrotrac will printout all its
parameter settings on the paper chart.

4.1.5 Cal.

Pressing the CAL. key initiates the display of the parameters required to accomplish a standard “Bar Check”
calibration procedure. Included are the following:
Calibrate 10.01
Bar Depth 10
Draft 1.6
Index .7
Velocity 1500

Please note that the current depth is displayed in the upper right hand corner of all of the menus as long as the
Hydrotrac is actively sounding. In the Cal menu, it is provided in order to allow the operator to immediately see
the effect of changing either Draft or Velocity. It also makes it easy to confirm that the digitizer is locked either
on the “Check Bar”, during the calibration process, or on the bottom when no value for Bar Depth is selected. The
digitizer gate limits are also printed on the chart.

Page 21 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

Figure 3.5 Bar Check Calibration

4.1.5.1 Bar Depth

Entering a value other than “0” in the Bar Depth parameter puts the Hydrotrac in the “Bar Check Calibration
Mode”. If, for example, the operator enters a value of 5.00m as the Bar Depth parameter, then immediately upon
pressing enter, the Digitizer will expect to see a target at that 5.00 meter depth (± 0.5m) while rejecting all other
returns (including those from the bottom). At the same time, the printer will begin to print the tracking gate at a
total width of 1.00m centered about the Bar Depth.

4.1.5.2 Draft & Index

Draft is the correction value added to the measured depth to adjust for the difference between the depth of the
transducer and the water’s surface (a + dr – k) where: “a” is the measured depth and “dr” equals the draft (depth
of the transducer below the water surface). Index constant “k” is system delays originating in both transducer and
echo sounder circuitry. In the accompanying illustration, “d” is equal to the depth of the seabed below the water’s
surface.

Note: Many users may not be familiar with the parameter “Index” or “k”, although it is likely that they have seen
the results of combining transducer draft and index constant into one draft figure. If you have noticed that the
measured draft, or the distance from the face of the transducer to the water’s surface is not the same as the draft
value entered into the sounder, then you have seen the result of lumping both together. This phenomenon is
most evident when using dual frequency transducers where both high and low elements are in the same housing.
Often, the draft values are very different for the two frequencies if no adjustable “k” parameter is incorporated.
The difference in “k” or electronic delay between a 200 kHz element and a 24 kHz array is substantial, and is the
reason behind the difference between the two “Calculated Drafts”.

Once the “k” value is determined, it will not change until either the sounder or the transducer is changed. The
Index parameter should be adjusted to make the measured draft and the calculated draft equal. Depth is
computed according to the General Formula shown below:

d = ½ (v * t) - k + dr

Page 22 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

d = depth from water’s surface

v = average speed of sound in the water column
t = measured elapsed time of signal travel from transducer to seabed and back to the transducer
k = system index constant
dr= difference from referenced water surface to transducer (draft)

4.1.5.3 Velocity

This parameter allows the operator to change the speed of sound variable in the depth equation. Having the
ability to change the speed of sound increases the accuracy of the system by allowing the sounder to adapt to
changing local conditions that affect the propagation speed of sound in the water. Whether derived as a result of
the “Bar Check” method of calibration, or taken directly from a velocimeter, Velocity is critical to measurement
accuracy.

4.1.5.4 Simulator

The simulator is a way of testing the Hydrotrac’s interface with the data acquisition computer and also a way for
the surveyor to familiarize themselves with the parameter of the Hydrotrac. To use the Simulator, turn this
parameter on and then use the sensitivity knob to adjust the depth. Make sure to turn the simulator off before
starting a survey.

4.1.6 Start up Menu

When the Hydrotrac II is first powered up the following start up screen shows up in the LCD:

System Startup
Use current setup
Use default setup
Maintenance

This menu allows the operator to choose which parameters are loaded into the Hydrotrac or enter the
maintenance menu.

The startup menu is also available when the Hydrotrac II power knob is set to Standby and the operator presses
the left arrow key.

4.1.6.1 Use current setup

When current setup is selected the Hydrotrac II will load the last values used by the operator for all the
parameters.

4.1.6.2 Use default setup

When default setup is used the Hydrotrac II will load the default parameter list. This is useful to load a know set
of parameters if the Hydrotrac II is performing unpredictably.

4.1.6.3 Maintenance Menu

The maintenance menu is used to test the serial ports of print a grey shade test of the printer. When Serial 1 or
Page 23 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

Serial 2 is selected the Hydrotrac II will output either the string “Serial 1” or “Serial 2” through the corresponding
port. If pins 2 and 3 of either serial port are shorted together the “Serial 1” or “Serial 2” string will display on the
LCD. When the Chart test is selected the Hydrotrac II will print a chart test pattern of grey shades. Make sure the
Printer ON/OFF button is turned on to use this test.

To exit the Maintenance menu and return to configuration menu press the left arrow key.

4.2 Interfacing

4.2.1 Serial Output Strings – Serial1

4.2.1.1 Echotrac I/O

ECHOTRAC I/O is the standard serial output string first introduced in the Echotrac DF 3200 MKI in 1985. Due to
the wide acceptance of this string and the availability of the format in a number of data acquisition systems, the
string has been maintained in order to assure continued compatibility.
Please note that characters 2 & 3 are lower case whenever the Units parameter selected is Meters (centimeter
resolution). The foot serial output string varies from the metric string in that characters 2 & 3 are always upper
case (tenths of feet).

Char. # Description
1 Normally Space “F” Indicates
Fix Mark
2 “E” foot units, tenths res.
“e” metric units cm. Resolution
3 “T” foot units, tenths res.
“t” metric units cm. Resolution
4 Normally a Space “E” indicates
Error
5 Always a space
6 Depth Data (MSD)
7 Depth Data
8 Depth Data
9 Depth Data
10 Depth Data (LSD)
11 Carriage Return

Page 24 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

4.2.1.2 Heave
Note that upon selection of Heave IN on Comm 2, and Echotrac I/O on Com 1, the depth output from Comm 1 is
automatically corrected for the received Heave value.
Selection of Heave Out on Comm 1 (see Section 3-18) results in an output string containing the raw (uncorrected
depth) and the most appropriate heave value. Note this string is identical to the Echotrac DBT string with one
channel selected and Heave enabled.

Char. # Description
1 Normally Space “F” indicates Fix Mark
2 “E” decimeter resolution “e” centimeter
3 “T” decimeter resolution “t” centimeter
4 Normally Space, “E” Indicates Error
5 Frequency Indicator Fixed “H”
6 Always Space
7 - 11 Depth data
12 “+ or –“
13-16 Heave Data
17 Carriage Return

4.2.1.3 DESO 25
The following description applies when DESO25 I/O is selected as the preferred output string under Comm 1.

Char. # Description
1 Always “D”
2 Always “A” Channel 1
3 Depth Data (MSD)
4 Depth Data
5 Depth Data
6 Depth Data
7 Depth Data
8 Decimal Place (.)
9 Depth Data
10 Depth Data (LSD)
11 Space meters “F” Feet units
12 “m” meters “t” feet units
13 Carriage Return
14 Line Feed

Page 25 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

4.2.1.4 NMEA String (DBS)

Included in the choices of serial output formats, is the DBS string. This string is included in order to provide a
standard global format. It is widely accepted and therefore more easily interfaced to software suites written for
applications outside of the Hydrographic community.

The NMEA String as transmitted by the Hydrotrac has the following parameters:
Baud Rate: 9600
Stop Bit: 1
Parity: None
Data Bits: 8
Terminator: Cr/Lf

Char. # Description
1 Always a “$” Sign
2-6 Always SDDBS
7 Always a comma “,”
Next Field Depth in feet (may be no
chars)
Next Char Always a comma
Next Char “f” for feet (may be no chars)
Next Char Always a comma
Next Field Depth in Meters (may be no
chars)
Next Char Always a comma
Next Char “M” for meters (may be no
chars)
Next Char Always a comma
Next Field Depth in fathoms (may be no
chars)
Next Char Always a comma
Next Char “F” for fathoms (may be no
chars)
Next Char “*hh” numeric checksum char
<CR><LF>

4.2.1.5 ET Mark1 I/O

This output format is exactly like the Echotrac I/O format. The only difference between the ET Mark1 I/O format
and the Echotrac I/O selection is in how the annotation control is processed. When ET Mark1 I/O is selected the
Hydrotrac II will send a Hex 02 after it has received the Hex 1 indicating it is ready to receive the annotation
characters. The Hydrotrac II will also reply with a Hex 02 when it has received a “CR”.

4.2.2 Serial Data Input and Annotation

Page 26 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

Information, which in the past had to be handwritten on the chart record, can now be transmitted to the Echotrac
via the RS232 input line. Up to 80 ASCII characters per line can be printed on the chart.

4.2.2.1 Event Line (Fix Mark)

A single line across the chart is produced by sending a HEX 06 (ASCII “ACK” or “Control F”). An event line will be
printed across the chart at the end of the current sounding cycle. Event lines do not delay or interfere with normal
operation of the unit.

Event Annotation

When required, the event line can be annotated with up to 80 characters of information. This is achieved by
following the HEX 06 (Fix Mark) with HEX 01 (ASCII “SOH” or “Control A”). As in the earlier models of the
Echotrac, the sounder will respond to the “Control A” with a HEX 02 (ASCII “STX” or “Control B”). However, it is
no longer necessary to wait for the “Control B” before sending annotation data. Data may be sent to the
Echotrac immediately after transmission of the “Control A”. The “Control B” was retained in order to remain
“downwardly compatible”.

4.2.3 Ethernet Output

The Hydrotrac II has an Ethernet port that outputs the time series of the acoustic data sampled by the analog to
digital converter. Each packet from the Hydrotrac II contains 1600 samples if set to meters or 1590 samples if set
to feet of 8 bit data. The data output from the Hydrotrac II is UDP and is output on UDP port 1600.

Page 27 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

5 CALIBRATION

The principle of echo sounding is based on measuring the time of arrival of an acoustic return (echo) referenced
to the time of transmission. The time required for sound to travel from a source (the transducer) to the seafloor or
bottom, and back can be measured and multiplied by the velocity of sound in water in order to arrive at the
distance the pulse has traveled. Since the transmitted pulse has traveled from the transducer to the bottom and
back again, then the distance must be halved in order to obtain the water depth. As shown in the general depth
formula below, other factors enter into the equation as well.

d = v x t -k +dr
2

Where:
d - Depth from referenced water surface.
v - Average velocity of sound in the water column.
t - Measured elapsed time from the transducer to the bottom and back to the transducer.
k - System index constant.
dr - Distance from reference water surface to the transducer (draft)

Since depth measurement accuracy is dependent on the value used for the velocity of sound in water (along with
the other factors shown above) it is important that a realistic value for sound velocity be determined. In water,
velocity is a function of temperature, salinity and pressure. Understandably then, the local sound velocity may
vary widely, thereby resulting in the need to calibrate any type of echo sounder, in order to provide the most
accurate depth data at a given location.

The most common calibration technique is the bar check method. This method, when employed properly, has the
advantage of correcting for velocity variations, draft variations, and system index errors (all of the constants in the
above formula). When calibrating using the bar check method, acoustic returns are generated by a suspended
target which is lowered to a known depth between the transducer and the bottom. In this circumstance it
becomes desirable to have a method whereby the digitizer will see only the Bar (the target) and be prevented
from locking on to actual bottom returns. Since the Hydrotrac employs a dynamic tracking gate or window
through which the digitizer looks for echoes from the seabed, manual control of the position and width of the gate
is necessary in order to force it to remain fixed around the Bar. This is achieved by using the Bar Depth function.

5.1 BAR CHECK CALIBRATION

As indicated in paragraphs 3-23 through 3-24, the Calibrate Menu brings all of the parameters necessary to
calibrate the sounder together in one display group. By pressing the Cal key, the operator is presented with the
following menu:
Calibrate 10.01
Bar Depth 10
Draft 1.6
 Index .7
Velocity 1500

NOTE: HEAVE IN must be OFF and the unit’s power and sensitivity adjusted to levels which provide reliable
depth information from the project depth and bottom material.

Page 28 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

1. With Bar Depth parameter bracketed, press the Enter key. Enter the first calibration depth. That is, the
measured depth of the “Check Bar” at its shallowest calibration depth.

2. Deploy the Check Bar below the transducer to the first calibration depth (for example 2 meters or 10 ft.).
Confirm that a return is printed on the chart between the two Bar Depth lines, and that the digitizer is locked to
the Bar.
Select the Draft parameter (bracket it and press ENTER). Slew the Draft value to the depth of the transducer
from the water surface.

3. Slew the Index value until the Calibrate Depth equals the depth of the Check Bar (determined from the
suspension chain).

4. Lower the Check Bar to the deepest calibration depth, for example 15 meters (40 ft.) and adjust the Bar Depth
value to equal the depth of the Check Bar.

5. Select Velocity. Slew the Velocity up or down to the point at which the Calibrate Depth equals the measured
depth of the Check Bar.

6. Repeat Steps 4 to 5 until the Calibrate Depth equal the Check Bar depth at the shallow and deep checks.

7. IMPORTANT! Adjust Index only when the BAR is at the shallowest depth (where velocity has minimum
effect) and VELOCITY only when the BAR is lowered to greater depths (where velocity becomes
predominant).

Page 29 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

Appendix A. POWER Cable Conn. (DC only)

P/N: MS3114E12-3P
Pin # Description
A -------------------- +12 or 24 VDC
B -------------------- No Connection
C -------------------- Return

Power Connector

C A

Page 30 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

Appendix B. Motion Reference Unit output string

The Hydrotrac II will only read the TSS1 output string. The format of the string is:

The TSS1 data string contains 27 characters in five data fields.

The acceleration fields contain ASCII-coded hexadecimal values. Horizontal acceleration

uses units of 3.83cm/s² in the range zero to 9.81m/s². Vertical acceleration uses units of
0.0625cm/s² in the range –20.48 to +20.48m/s².

The motion measurements contained in the data string will be in real time, valid for the
instant when the system begins to transmit the string.

Motion measurements include ASCII-coded decimal values.

Heave measurements are in cm in the range –99.99 to +99.99 meters. Positive heave is
above datum.

Roll and pitch measurements are in degrees in the range –90.99° to +90.99°. Positive roll
is port-side up, starboard down. Positive pitch is bow up, stern down.

Page 31 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

Appendix C. Internal Jumper configurations

The communication board inside the Hydrotrac II has a number of jumper settings that can be moved to change
the configuration of Com2 from RS232 to RS422 and whether the Hydrotrac II uses the internal GPS or gets data
from an external GPS. To change these jumpers remove the four nuts securing the cover over the internal circuit
boards. The communication board is the one labeled 2420-0005-REV#.

Jumper Default Jumper setting Optional Jumper setting

Name
JP1 1-2 (Serial2 set for RS232) 2-3 (Serial2 set for RS422)
JP2 1-2 (Serial2 set for RS232) 2-3 (Serial2 set for RS422)
JP3 Open none
JP4 2-3 (Serial2 set for RS232) 1-2 (Serial2 set for RS422)
JP5 1-2 (422 120 ohm termination)
JP6 2-3 (Serial2 set for RS232) 1-2 (Serial2 set for RS422)
JP7 Short (Active GPS antenna) none
JP8 1-2 (Internal GPS PPS into Hydrotrac II) 2-3 (External GPS PPS into Hydrotrac II)
JP9 1-2 (Internal GPS data into Hydrotrac II) (External GPS data into Hydrotrac II, see JP10)
JP10 1-2 (Internal GPS data into Hydrotrac II) JP9 pin 2 – JP10 pin 3 (jumper wire included)
JP11 2-3 (Internal GPS to output through GPS I/O port) 1-2 (External GPS to input through GPS I/O port)
JP12 2-3 (Internal GPS to output through GPS I/O port) 1-2 (External GPS to input through GPS I/O port)

Hydrotrac II serial numbers 004806 or above have been fitted with a internal Hemisphere P100 GPS receiver.
The P100 will deliver survey grade accuracy without the need of an external GPS receiver. Therefore the
external GPS input is no longer an option.

The P100 is set from the factory to connect to the survey computer via the Hydrotrac II GPS IO port at a baud rate
of 19200 N,8,1. Changes can be made to the P100, through this port, using Hemisphere’s program, PocketMAX
PC control software. The PocketMAX software can be found on the product CD that is included with every
Hydrotrac II. It can also be downloaded from our website at www.odomhydrographic.com.
Internal communications board jumper settings are changed for this new board and are reflected in the table
below.

Jumper Default Jumper setting Com 2 Optional Jumper setting Com 2

Name
JP1 1-2 (Standard RS232 Configuration) 2-3 (Remote Display Configuration)
JP2 1-2 (Standard RS232 Configuration) 2-3 (Remote Display Configuration)
JP3 Open (Input port uses to convey link status) Open
JP4 2-3 (Standard RS232 Configuration) 1-2 (Remote Display Configuration)
JP5 1-2 (Enable 120 ohm termination) 2-3 (Disable 120 ohm termination)
JP6 2-3 (Standard RS232 Configuration) 1-2 (Remote Display Configuration)
 

Page 32 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

Appendix D. Upgrading Hydrotrac II FPGA and Firmware

The Hydrotrac II is upgradable through a SD card which is located inside the Hydrotrac II next to the connector
side of the case. Remove the thumb screw securing the red cover over the SD card socket. There should be a
blank SD card in the socket. TOH will send a file with a _sw.flash and _hw.flash extention. Copy the upgraded
files received to the SD card. A SD card adaptor might be necessary to transfer the files from the computer to the
SD card. Most laptop computers will have a SD card slot to plug the card.

Plug the SD card into the Hydrotrac SD card slot and power up the Hydrotrac II. The LCD screen on the
Hydrotrac will stay blank until the upgrade is complete. The upgrade might take up to 30 seconds depending on
how much is being upgraded. Once the upgrade is complete the Hydrotrac II LCD menu will start up normally.

To complete the upgrade, delete the files on the SD card and replace the empty card in the socket. Make sure to
put back the cover on the socket. Leaving a SD card with the upgraded firmware in the Hydrotrac II to delay
starting up as it will always load the firmware from the SD card socket.

Page 33 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

Appendix E. Hypack Ethernet Interfacing with the Hydrotrac II

INTRODUCTION
The Hydrotrac II has an Ethernet port that outputs the digitized samples to 8 bits of the acoustic signal from the
unit's receivers. This data has normally always been printed on the chart and only the digitized values have been
input into the hydrographic software that is logging and editing the data. To fully leverage the power of having all
this acoustic data available Teledyne Odom Hydrographic and Hypack have developed an Ethernet driver that will
read in the acoustic data into Hypack as well as the digitized values. All the normal fix marks are still printed on
the chart. The real power of having the data available in Hypack comes into play when the surveyor goes to
review and edit the data. Instead of only having a digitized line on the screen and then having to refer back to the
chart for reference, all the acoustic data is in the background. The surveyor can now edit the digitized data with
much more precision and confidence. The raw acoustic data is never altered during the editing process.

If the Hydrotrac II is going to be connected directly to the computer then a cross over Ethernet cable is required.
This is the red Ethernet cable supplied with the Hydrotrac II. If there is a network hub between the computer and
the Hydrotrac II then a straight network cable is required from the Hydrotrac II and the network hub.

SETTING UP THE HYPACK DRIVER FOR NORMAL SURVEYING

1 - In the Hypack Max menu select Preparation->Hardware->Hypack Hardware.
2- In the Edit menu select Insert->Device.
3- Scroll down the list and select Odom CV3/MK3.
4- Give the driver a name like Hydrotrac.
5- Select Connect and then Network Port.
6- Select UDP for Protocol, Client for Role and under Port put 1600. For Write Port put 1601.
This is what the Hypack Hardware setup should look like at this point

Page 34 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

Next click on the Setup… button but make sure the Hydrotrac device is highlighted under the Hypack
Configuration menu. Make sure Channel 1 under the setup menu is set to Bathy and all other channels are turned
Off.

Testing driver: After starting the Hydrotrac II highlight the Hydrotrac device in the Hypack Hardware setup and
right click with the mouse, select test.

Page 35 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

Initially when starting the test only the window labeled Hydrotrac will open up. Click on the 1 button to display
the signal from channel. Click anywhere on the Odom Sonar Channel 1 window and select beam to display the
actual signal. Once the data is verified close the window and start Hypack survey.

Page 36 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

VIEWING THE RAW DATA IN THE SURVEY WINDOW

Once the Survey program is started the operator can select the Hydrotrac window and view the data. Below is an
example of what the data should look like.

VIEWING AND EDITING THE ECHOTRAC DATA IN THE SINGLE BEAM

EDITOR
1- In the Hypack Max menu select Processing->Single Beam Editor.
2- In the Single Beam Editor Max menu select Open and the log file name you created in the survey program.
3- Once you have loaded the lines go to View->Other windows->Echogram in the Single Beam Max window. The
echogram data should show up on the screen.
4- You can select whether the data in the echogram window is the high frequency data, low frequency data or
both combined. To do this select View->Options in the Single Beam Max menu. See picture below.

Page 37 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

Editing the Data in the Echogram Window

Below is a screen shot of some high frequency data in the Echogram window. If you look closely there is a black
line on top of the red trace. This is the digitized value from the Hydrotrac. You can move the mouse and click
along the record to show exactly where the digitized values are. You can click on the zoom button and then
select the area you want to view better.

Page 38 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

This screen is a zoomed in portion of the above screen. You will notice there appears to be an object on the
bottom that we will edit out of the final data.

Page 39 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

To edit the data click on the Digitize button and then click with the mouse along where you want the digitizer to
go. Black dots will appear along where you clicked with the mouse. When you have finished editing and you meet
the original digitized line release the digitize button. The digitizer line will merge with the original line. See the
screens below.

Page 40 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

Line re-digitized

Page 41 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

Appendix F. Firmware Revisions

FGPA firmware
Version Description
0.05  Added heave correction to Serial 2 input
 Added remote display output to Serial 2 input
 Added data and time to annotation information
 Enabled chart test on maintenance menu
 Enabled Serial 1 and Serial 2 to maintenance menu
 Printer Help menu implemented
 Bar depth width adjusted from 2m to 1m and 6ft to 3ft
 Changed Com1 and Com1 menu to Serial1 and Serial2
 Remapping of printer intensity
 Internal GPS configured to NMEA GGA 9600 baud
0.06  Fixed bug that was causing menu to lock up
 Added Annotation string ON/OFF parameter
o When Annotation is on and Mark button pressed fix line and annotation is printed
o When Annotation is off and Mark button is pressed only fix line is printed
 Added leading 0 to Blanking, Draft and Index Parameters
0.07  Serial1 and Serial2 port test now outputs data through the port and displays received data
on the LCD screen
 Fixed fix mark command through the serial port to print fix line
 Added display of GPS Lat and Long to the display when depth key is pressed twice
 Added GPS Lat and Long to the annotation string when mark is pressed and annotation is
enabled.
 Fixed bug that was causing stored parameters to get reset to default under certain
conditions.
 Reduced minimum gate size to 0.5 meter and 2 ft.
0.08  Added Minimum depth alarm
 Added Manual Chart Speed
 Added Print Parameters
 Added printout of key parameters when they change
 Added Sonic Alarm
 Changed Parameter storage from Flash to battery backup on RTC
 Added more help context in printouts
 Changed Ethernet packet size
 Fixed bug where scale end could be set less than scale width
 Changed auto scale adjustment so scale change happens before depth reaching end of
scale value.
 Fixed serial annotation so that it would work with GLDD driver
 Fixed serial annotation so that it would recognize Carriage Returns that advance the chart.
 Change print head burn mapping
 Fixed serial annotation to buffer multiple lines of annotation
 Added Simulator
0.09  Fixed take-up button
0.10  Fixed bug that would cause the bottom record not to print correctly at certain sound velocity
settings.
0.11  Added ET Mark1 I/O to the Serial 1 selections.
0.13  Added Ethernet functionality to interface with Echart, Hypack, internal and external GPS,
and heave motion sensor
Page 42 of 43
Hydrotrac II
User Manual

 Keypad decoder changed to VHDL generated hardware

Transceiver firmware
Version Description
1  Initial version
2  Changed IF to 100 Mhz

Transceiver hardware
Version Description
1  Initial version

Page 43 of 43