GPR system: Radar Systems Zond Aero 500 "NG"
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Zond Aero 500 NG is a 500 MHz ground penetrating radar from Radar Systems for drone, cart and tow-rope surveys, used for utility search and geotechnical work. HobiTech supplies it in India as part of SPH Engineering's Integrated Systems range.
Technical
| Type | Single-channel with shielded antenna |
| Central Frequency | 500 MHz |
| Operating Bandwidth | 200-900 MHz (-12 dB) |
| Sample rate | Up to 1,280,000 samples/second |
| Depth | Up to 4 m in average soil |
| Data | Standard Geophysical SEGY (.sgy) with geotagging |
Environmental
| Temperature | -20°C to 60°C internal |
| Ingress Protection | IP68 boxed; IP52 airborne |
Mechanical
| Size | 41 x 31 x 16 cm airborne |
| Weight | 2.1 kg airborne; 7.1 kg boxed |
What's in the kit
- Zond Aero 500 NG GPR system with 500 MHz antenna
- Prism 2 software
- Protective case (also for ground surveys)
- 99 Wh Li-Ion battery + Wi-Fi router in case
- Charger
- Tow rope
- Mounting kit for DJI M300/M350 RTK
Documentation & data sets
What is the Zond Aero 500 NG used for?
The Zond Aero 500 NG is a universal, shielded single-channel GPR. It works in three ways: on a GPR cart for streets and confined spaces, dragged on a tow rope over soft ground, or mounted on a drone for large open areas. SPH Engineering describes 500 MHz as deep enough for many engineering geophysics jobs.
- Depth: up to 4 m from the ground in average normal soil, and up to 2 m with the antenna 0.6 m above the ground.
- Flying height: SPH recommends 1 to 1.5 m or less for 500 to 600 MHz antennas.
- Data: 256 to 8192 selectable samples per scan, up to 2,500 scans/s, 32-bit raw data.
- Ground surveys: the case holds a 99 Wh Li-Ion battery with up to 12 hours of operating time, plus a Wi-Fi router. In the air, the GPR runs from the drone's main battery.
How does it integrate with SkyHub, UgCS and your drone?
On the drone, the GPR connects to the SkyHub on-board computer, which logs each trace with GNSS and altimeter readings so it is time-stamped and geo-referenced. The SkyHub software package for GPR supports Radar Systems Zond Aero and adds a companion application for UgCS, where you plan and fly the mission. UgCS EXPERT adds Smart AGL terrain following. The kit includes a mount for the DJI M300/M350 RTK. SPH Engineering states that the Zond Aero 500 NG is not compatible with the DJI M400; for that drone, see the Zond Aero 600 NG. Mounting kits for other drones are available on request.
What do you need to run it?
SPH Engineering notes that extra components and software are needed for drone use:
- Zond Aero 500 NG (this product) with Prism 2 software
- SkyHub hardware and the SkyHub GPR software package
- A UgCS licence for mission planning
- GeoHammer Pro or other GPR software for processing
Compare the full ground penetrating radar range or read SPH Engineering's GPR technology page.
Why buy the Zond Aero 500 NG from HobiTech?
HobiTech is an Official Partner of SPH Engineering based in Bengaluru, India. Every order comes with a GST invoice, and our local team supports the sensor, the drone and the software. SPH's GPR training courses are also available through HobiTech.
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep can the Zond Aero 500 NG see?
Up to 4 m in average normal soil, and up to 2 m with the antenna 0.6 m above the ground. Soil conductivity has a large effect on depth.
Can I use it without a drone?
Yes. It can be pushed on a cart or pulled on a tow rope. The case has a 99 Wh battery for up to 12 hours of ground surveying.
Does the Zond Aero 500 NG fit the DJI M400?
No. SPH Engineering lists it as not compatible with the DJI M400. The included mount is for the DJI M300/M350 RTK.
How much does it weigh?
2.1 kg in the airborne configuration, and 7.1 kg in its protective case.
What is the difference between the 500 NG and 600 NG?
The 500 NG has a 500 MHz antenna (200–900 MHz bandwidth). The 600 NG is lighter at 1.5–1.7 kg airborne and fits the DJI M400 as well as the M300/M350.
How do I buy the Zond Aero 500 NG 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.