Higher Performance and New Functionality for Surveyors in New Generation Multibeam Echo Sounder
We have released the EM 304, the third generation of our de facto industry standard 30 kHz Multibeam Echo Sounder System, which is used for high resolution seabed mapping from depths of 10 metres to beyond the continental rises – deeper than 8000 metres. Developed as a low noise echo sounder with state-of-the-art electronics, the EM 304 delivers superior data that requires minimal post-processing.
In addition to offering increased range and resolution performance, the EM 304 introduces a broad range of functionality and cutting-edge new features that serve as a significant upgrade to the current generation EM 302 system.
As part of a new EM technology platform designed for future challenges, the EM 304 is compatible with a new KONGSBERG developed datagram format, which supports several new features, such as extended backscatter calibration, with more features already in development. The new format is supported by Kognifai, KONGSBERG’s open digital ecosystem which brings opportunities to transform survey operations through digitalisation.
“The EM 304 provides state-of-the-art survey vessel operators with the highest performance, most accurate mapping capability. The system replaces the EM 302 which has been the de facto industry standard since it was launched in 2006,” says Helge Uhlen, Director Sales Subsea. “The unparalleled performance of the EM 302 has resulted in a record number of medium-to-deep water systems being delivered for operations around the world, so we are pleased to introduce the next generation of our leading technology, which offers even more functionality and higher performance.”
Considering the extensive EM 302 global user-base, KONGSBERG has developed the EM 304 to utilise the same transducers as its current generation system. This simplifies upgrading from the EM 302 to the new EM 304 platform. Installation is optimised thanks to a highly, modular and flexible system with compact electronics. The EM 304 also accommodates easier installation through the use of a sub-bottom profiler. The KONGSBERG SBP 300 can be fully integrated, by sharing the same receiver transducer as the EM 304.
The EM 304 is a highly scalable mapping system that takes advantage of features and benefits achieved in the development of the EM 2040 family and the EM 712. It joins Kongsberg Maritime’s unmatched range of leading Multibeam Echo Sounder Systems, from very shallow water to full ocean depth, all with proven superior performance and reliability.
For operations in artic waters, the system can be delivered with ice windows for protection of the transducers, enabling light ice-class vessels to heavy ice breakers operating in the toughest ice conditions to enjoy the benefits of our new solution. And like all Kongsberg EM multibeam echo sounders, the EM 304 ensures the best operating environment to safeguard marine life inhabiting the survey area, through decreased emitted sound levels.
High resolution seabed mapping from 10 to more than 8000 meters
The EM 304 succeeds the EM 302. Its broad range of functionality supports simultaneous collection of multiple data types, saving time in the planning, execution and analysis phase. The low noise echo sounder delivers superior data which requiring minimal post-processing.
Modular and flexible design
The EM 304 uses state-of-the-art electronics and separate transmit and receive transducers in a Mills Cross configuration. It utilises field-proven transducers from the EM 302 making for an easy upgrade.
The design is highly, modular and flexible with compact electronics for easier and faster installation. The flexible transducer design make it possible to tailor the system to almost any required size.
Ultimate system performance – resolution and range – is achieved with the largest standard size, 0.5 x 0.5 degrees. The smaller 4 x 4 degrees solution can be installed on any vessel of opportunity.
Full seabed coverage
The transmit fan can be divided into >16 individual sectors (dual swath mode). This gives a unique control and enables active real-time stabilisation to correct for yaw and pitch vessel movement. Roll stabilisation is applied on the receiving beams. The result is a stabilised system, full ensonification of the seabed with an equally distributed footprint in all types of weather conditions leaving no gaps or holes in the mapped area.
Beams are maintained and automatically adjusted according to achievable coverage or operator defined limits. Up to 1600 individual beams are available in dual swath mode.
The two individual transmitting fans are generated with a small difference in tilt to provide a constant sounding separation along track. The result is a dense sounding pattern on the seafloor.
Clean and high resolution data
The system produces a strong dampening of multi-bounce interference from false echo, resulting in significantly cleaner data. Near field beam focus is applied in real time during transmission and reception. The result is a much higher resolution representation of the seabed.
The KONGSBERG EM systems
The EM 304 is part of the new EM platform designed for future challenges and uses the new datagram format. The format supports several new features, such as extended backscatter calibration, with more features already in development.
The new platform is supported by Kognifai, KONGSBERG’s open digital ecosystem bringing opportunities to transform survey operations through digitalisation.
Like all KONGSBERG EM multibeam echo sounders, the EM 304 ensures the best operating environment to safeguard marine life inhabiting the survey area, through decreased emitted sound levels.
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