EchoNIMBUS-MBES multibeam echosounder payload
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The EchoNIMBUS-MBES is a drone-based multibeam echosounder from SPH Engineering. Integrated with the UgCS SkyHub system, it turns a drone into a bathymetric survey tool that captures precise 3D data over shallow and hard-to-reach waters. HobiTech supplies it in India as an Official Partner of SPH Engineering.
Main parameters
| Sensor | Surveyor 240-16 |
| Type | MBES (multibeam) |
| Acoustic frequency | 240 kHz |
| Measurement range | 0.5 … 50 m |
| Along track TX beam width | 4° |
| Cross track TX beam width | 80° |
| RX array # elements | 16 |
| Cross track beam width | 7° (conventional beamforming) |
| Cross track angular resolution | 1° (angle of arrival) |
| Range resolution | 0.5% of range setting |
| Weight of the echo sounder (in the air, including foldable mounting) | 1.8 kg |
| Weight of all components (in the air) | 2.4 kg (sensor, SkyHub, altimeter, housing, cables, mountings) |
Documentation & data sets
What is the EchoNIMBUS-MBES used for?
The EchoNIMBUS-MBES is mounted beneath a drone and operated from the air. It captures precise 3D bathymetric data over shallow and difficult-to-access waters, such as reservoirs, rivers, ponds or flooded areas. It removes the need for manned boats, which gives a safer and faster workflow. Each flight collects dense bathymetric coverage for high-fidelity bottom modelling.
SPH Engineering lists these applications: inland water bathymetry (reservoirs, rivers, ponds), tailings pond and mine water surveys, sediment volume and erosion assessment, environmental and hydro-engineering projects, and flood mapping and infrastructure monitoring. It suits tailings ponds, stormwater basins, hard-to-access sites, small reservoirs and coastal areas where mobilising a survey boat costs too much.
Main features
- 240 kHz multibeam sonar with 16 beams for high-definition bathymetry.
- Fully integrated with the SkyHub drone onboard computer.
- Real-time depth measurements through UgCS Custom Payload Monitor.
- Compact and lightweight design, optimised for drone operations.
- Automated data logging and geotagging.
- Rapid deployment.
What does the EchoNIMBUS-MBES system include?
SPH Engineering lists these system components:
- Surveyor 240/16 MBES sensor.
- SkyHub onboard computer.
- UgCS EXPERT software licence.
- BeamworX software for data processing and point cloud generation.
- Power and data cables, mounting kit and user manual.
- A set of trainings.
How does the survey workflow run?
- Plan and execute the flight using UgCS and True Terrain Following.
- Collect bathymetric data with the EchoNIMBUS-MBES.
- Process and visualise results in BeamworX and DroneGIS.
- Export results as CSV, GeoTIFF, LAZ and many other formats for GIS import.
What are the best conditions for operation?
- Still and slow-moving waters.
- Stable conditions are required for accurate readings.
- Fast-flowing rivers and creeks can be surveyed using the Zig-Zag flight pattern.
Why buy EchoNIMBUS-MBES from HobiTech?
HobiTech is an Official Partner of SPH Engineering based in Bengaluru, India. Every order comes with a GST invoice, and you have a local team for the sensor, the drone and the software. We also offer SPH's bathymetry training courses, including MBES data collection (MBES-1), MBES data processing in BeamworX (MBES-2) and an MBES Bathymetry certification exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sensor does the EchoNIMBUS-MBES use?
The Surveyor 240-16, a multibeam (MBES) sensor working at 240 kHz with 16 beams.
What depth range does it measure?
The measurement range is 0.5 … 50 m, with a range resolution of 0.5% of the range setting.
How much does the system weigh?
The echo sounder weighs 1.8 kg in the air, including its foldable mounting. All components together weigh 2.4 kg in the air (sensor, SkyHub, altimeter, housing, cables and mountings).
Which software is part of the system?
A UgCS EXPERT software licence for flight planning and BeamworX for data processing and point cloud generation. Real-time depth readings are shown in UgCS Custom Payload Monitor, and results can also be visualised in DroneGIS.
Can it survey fast-flowing rivers?
It works best on still and slow-moving waters. Fast-flowing rivers and creeks can be surveyed using the Zig-Zag flight pattern.
Which export formats are available?
CSV, GeoTIFF, LAZ and many other formats for GIS import.
How do I buy EchoNIMBUS-MBES in India?
Use Request a quote on this page, or call HobiTech on +91 70225 26509. We confirm the price and configuration, and every order comes with a GST invoice.