Echosounder USB converter
Enterprise and agriculture models are quoted per configuration — payload, training and AMC included. We reply the same working day.
Not sure it's the right one? WhatsApp a drone expert or call +91 70225 26509
The echosounder USB converter connects an EchoLogger echo sounder's Switchcraft connector to a computer's USB port for testing, set-up, firmware updates and boat use. HobiTech supplies it in India.
Compatibility
| Compatible sensors | EchoLogger ECT D24S, ECT D052S, ECT 400S, ETF 400S |
What is the echosounder USB converter used for?
On a drone, an EchoLogger single-beam echo sounder is wired to the SkyHub on-board computer, which logs the depth data. On the bench, or on a boat, you need a different connection. This converter (adapter) links the sounder's Switchcraft connector to a standard USB port on a laptop or PC.
SPH Engineering lists four uses:
- Testing: check the echo sounder works before a flight.
- Configuration: change the sounder's settings from a computer.
- Firmware updates: install new firmware on the sounder.
- Vessel use: run the same echo sounder on a manned boat or an unmanned surface vessel (USV), as well as on the drone.
This means one EchoLogger sounder can be used for both drone bathymetry and survey work from a boat.
Which echo sounders does the USB converter work with?
| Echo sounder | Frequency | Depth range | Works with converter |
|---|---|---|---|
| EchoLogger ECT 400S | 450 kHz | 0.15–100 m | Yes |
| EchoLogger ECT D24S | 200/450 kHz | 0.50–200 m / 0.15–100 m | Yes |
| EchoLogger ECT D052S | 50/200 kHz | 1.00–200 m / 0.50–200 m | Yes |
| EchoLogger ETF 400S | 450 kHz | 0.15–50 m | Yes |
The converter weighs 200 g (SPH Engineering listing). It is not listed for the EchoNIMBUS-MBES multibeam sounder, which uses an Ethernet connection rather than RS232.
What else do you need for a drone bathymetry system?
The converter is an accessory. SPH Engineering's echo sounder system for drones is built from these parts:
- An echo sounder in its protective housing, from our bathymetry collection.
- The SkyHub on-board computer, which acts as the data logger, with the SkyHub echo sounder software package.
- An altimeter for height control over water, such as the Ainstein US-D1 radar altimeter.
- A heavy-payload mount to hang the sounder below the drone: DJI M350/M300 RTK or DJI M400 version.
- UgCS flight planning software, and processing software such as Eye4Software Hydromagic Survey or BeamworX.
The SkyHub echo sounder package supports the ECT 400, D24 and D052 sounders. It sends real-time depth data to the ground station and logs it in CSV, NMEA-0183 and SEG-Y formats. SPH Engineering lists the DJI M350 RTK, M300 RTK and M400, Inspired Flight IF1200A and IF800, Wispr Ranger Pro and Harris Aerial H6 as supported drones for its echo sounder system.
Read more on SPH's echo sounder integration page.
Why buy the echosounder USB converter from HobiTech?
HobiTech is an authorised SPH Engineering partner based in Bengaluru, India. Every order comes with a GST invoice, and our local team supports the sensor, the drone and the software together. SPH's bathymetry training courses cover echo sounder data collection (BATHY-1) and processing (BATHY-2).
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the echosounder USB converter do?
It adapts an echo sounder's Switchcraft connector to a computer's USB port, so you can test, configure and update the sounder from a laptop.
Which EchoLogger models are compatible?
SPH Engineering lists four: ECT D24S, ECT D052S, ECT 400S and ETF 400S.
Can I use my drone echo sounder on a boat?
Yes. SPH Engineering states that the converter lets you run the same echo sounder on manned and unmanned surface vessels.
Do I need the converter to fly the echo sounder on a drone?
No. On the drone, the sounder connects to SkyHub through its RS232 data cable. The converter is for computer and vessel use.
Does it work with the EchoNIMBUS-MBES?
It is not listed as compatible. SPH lists only the four EchoLogger single-beam sounders above.
How do I buy the echosounder USB converter 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.