Scientific multibeam echo sounder · 2019-12-16 · Operator manual Simrad ME70 Scientific...

Operator manual

Simrad ME70Scientific multibeam echo sounder

T E C H N O L O G Y F O R S U S T A I N A B L E F I S H E R I E S

www.simrad.com

(CD016018A)

Simrad ME70

Operator manualRelease 1.2.6

This manual provides you with the basic informationrequired to operate the Simrad ME70 Multibeam scientificecho sounder. For a more detailed description of theoperation and functionality, including menus and allparameters, refer to the Simrad ME70 Reference manual.

378945/B2014-02-04 © Kongsberg Maritime AS

Revision status

Document number: 378945 / Revision B

Rev.A 2012-12-21 First version of manual.

Rev.B 2014-02-04 Released for SW version 1.2.6.

Copyright©2014 Kongsberg Maritime ASThe information contained in this document remains the sole property of Kongsberg Maritime AS. No partof this document may be copied or reproduced in any form or by any means, and the information containedwithin it is not to be communicated to a third party, without the prior written consent of KongsbergMaritime AS. The document, or any part of it, may not be translated to any other language without thewritten approval from Kongsberg Maritime AS.

DisclaimerKongsberg Maritime AS endeavours to ensure that all information in this document is correct and fairlystated, but does not accept liability for any errors or omissions.

WarningThe equipment to which this manual applies must only be used for the purpose for which it wasdesigned. Improper use or maintenance may cause damage to the equipment and/or injuryto personnel. All users must be familiar with the contents of the appropriate manuals beforeattempting to install, operate, maintain or in any other way work on the equipment.Kongsberg Maritime AS disclaims any responsibility for damage or injury caused by improperinstallation, use or maintenance of the equipment.

Support informationIf you require maintenance or repair, contact your local dealer. You can also contact us using the followingaddress: [email protected]. If you need information about our other products, visit http://www.simrad.com. On this website you will also find a list of our dealers and distributors.See also Support information on page 15.

Kongsberg Maritime ASwww.kongsberg.com

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.simrad.com


Operator manual

Table of contents

ABOUT THIS MANUAL ....................................................... 7SIMRAD ME70................................................................... 9Important ................................................................................................................10

When the ME70 is not used ......................................................................... 10If something breaks down............................................................................ 10Transducer handling.................................................................................... 10

System description .................................................................................................11System diagram ......................................................................................................13System units ...........................................................................................................14

Colour display ............................................................................................ 14Processor Unit ............................................................................................ 14Transceiver Unit ......................................................................................... 14Power Supply Unit...................................................................................... 15Transducer ................................................................................................. 15

Support information ...............................................................................................15GETTING STARTED.......................................................... 17Power on/off procedures.........................................................................................18

Powering up the ME70................................................................................ 18Powering off the ME70 ............................................................................... 18Restarting the ME70 ................................................................................... 19

Operating principles ...............................................................................................20Cursor........................................................................................................ 20Mouse........................................................................................................ 20Trackball .................................................................................................... 21

Presentation overview ............................................................................................21Display organization ................................................................................... 22Title Bar..................................................................................................... 24The menu system........................................................................................ 25Button types ............................................................................................... 26

Starting normal operation.......................................................................................26Saving raw data .......................................................................................... 27Selecting beam mode .................................................................................. 28Selecting operational mode.......................................................................... 29Selecting ping mode.................................................................................... 29Selecting transmission mode and power ....................................................... 31Selecting the vertical range.......................................................................... 32Selecting start depth.................................................................................... 32Defining the gain settings ............................................................................ 33Saving the current user settings.................................................................... 34

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Context sensitive on-line help ................................................................................35OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES .......................................... 36Saving and retrieving users settings .......................................................................37

Saving the current user settings.................................................................... 37Using previously saved settings ................................................................... 38Choosing ME70 factory default settings ....................................................... 38

User preference procedures ....................................................................................39Choosing colour presentation theme (palette)................................................ 39Changing the number of colours in the ME70 presentation ............................ 39Changing the echo colours in the ME70 presentation .................................... 40Verifying or changing the environmental parameters ..................................... 40Opening the context sensitive on-line help.................................................... 41

Save and recall raw data .........................................................................................42Defining the parameters for raw data recording ............................................. 42Saving raw data .......................................................................................... 44Replaying raw data ..................................................................................... 45Accessing the raw data files to delete, move or copy ..................................... 46

Presentation procedures..........................................................................................47Enabling and disabling information fields in the channel and swathviews ......................................................................................................... 48Changing the size of the channel views and fields ......................................... 49Selecting which beams to see in the channel views........................................ 49Opening a selected beam in a separate window ............................................. 50Selecting presentation colours...................................................................... 50

Echogram procedures .............................................................................................52Changing the ‘ping’ parameters ................................................................... 52Selecting echogram reference and backscatter............................................... 53Adding horizontal markers to the echogram.................................................. 54Adding vertical markers and annotations to the echogram.............................. 55Selecting TVG gain (Backscatter) in the Echogram dialog box ...................... 56Making it easier to see the bottom using White Line or Bottom Line .............. 57

Range procedures ...................................................................................................58Choosing start depth ................................................................................... 59Choosing the vertical range ......................................................................... 59

Gain procedures......................................................................................................60Adjusting the gain....................................................................................... 60Adjusting the TVG gain (backscatter) on the Active menu............................. 62

Beam mode procedures ..........................................................................................63Selecting beam mode for operational use...................................................... 63Creating a new beam mode.......................................................................... 64Editing a new or existing beam mode ........................................................... 65Deleting a beam mode that is no longer required ........................................... 66

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Operator manual

Exporting and importing beam mode XML files............................................ 66

DISPLAY VIEWS.............................................................. 68Display organization...............................................................................................69Title Bar..................................................................................................................71

Purpose and description............................................................................... 71Logo and product name............................................................................... 72Operational buttons..................................................................................... 72Navigation Field ......................................................................................... 73Function buttons ......................................................................................... 74

Replay bar...............................................................................................................76Menu system...........................................................................................................77Swath and channel views .......................................................................................78

Swath view................................................................................................. 79Channel views ............................................................................................ 80Echogram field ........................................................................................... 81Colour scale field ........................................................................................ 82Depth field ................................................................................................. 83Single Target Position field.......................................................................... 84Single target histogram field ........................................................................ 85Numerical field ........................................................................................... 85Scope field ................................................................................................. 86Echogram markers ...................................................................................... 86

MENU SYSTEM ................................................................ 89About menus and buttons .......................................................................................90Button types............................................................................................................91Main menu..............................................................................................................92Operation menu ......................................................................................................93Display menu..........................................................................................................94Setup menu .............................................................................................................95Active menu ...........................................................................................................97Extras menu............................................................................................................98Shortcut menus .......................................................................................................99

Depth short-cut menu.................................................................................. 99Single Target Position short-cut menu ........................................................ 100Single Target Histogram short-cut menu..................................................... 100Echogram short-cut menu.......................................................................... 101Colour Scale short-cut menu...................................................................... 102Numerical short-cut menu ......................................................................... 102Scope short-cut menu................................................................................ 103Swath short-cut menu................................................................................ 103

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About this manual

About this manual

Purpose

The purpose of this reference manual is to provide the descriptions, procedures anddetailed parameter explanations required to allow for safe and efficient use of the SimradME70, as well as a thorough understanding of the system parameters and adjustments.

A good understanding of system functions and controls is essential to fully takeadvantage of the functionality provided. Sea conditions vary, sometimes drastically,and it is not possible to identify settings that will provide the best data at all times.Careful study of the information in this manual is highly recommended, preferablywhile exploring the system’s functionality.

Target audience

The manual is intended for all users of the Simrad ME70. Due to the nature of thedescriptions and the level of detail provided by this manual, it is well suited for thosewho are – or wish to be – expert users.

We assume that you are familiar with the basic acoustic principles of sound in water, andthat you have some experience with scientific use of sonars and echo sounders.

Click “Help”!

Installed on your Simrad ME70 you will find a comprehensive on-line help system.You may not find it in your language, but everything you can read in the Simrad ME70Reference manual can also be found in the context sensitive on-line help.

To access this information click [?] on the Title Bar, or the [?] button in one of thedialog boxes.

Note that when you open the help system it will place itself on the top of the displaypresentation!

Software version

This manual complies to software version 1.2.6.

Registered trademarks

Windows®, Windows XP®, and Windows® 7 are either registered trademarks, ortrademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

Simrad®, SIMRAD® and the Simrad® logo are either registered trademarks, ortrademarks of Kongsberg Maritime AS in Norway and other countries.

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Record of changesA 21.12.2012: First version of manual.

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Simrad ME70

Study this chapter to familiarize yourself with the Simrad ME70.

Topics• Important on page 10• System description on page 11• System diagram on page 13• System units on page 14• Support information on page 15

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ImportantAs with all other advanced instruments, there are a few important things that you must beaware of.

Topics• When the ME70 is not used on page 10• If something breaks down on page 10• Transducer handling on page 10

When the ME70 is not usedWhen you do not use the ME70, switch off the entire system.

Related topics• Powering off the ME70 on page 18

If something breaks downIf you believe that something has broken down, contact your local dealer. He will beable to assist.

A list of all our dealers is provided on http://www.simrad.com. If you are unable tocontact a dealer, observe the support information in this chapter.

Related topics• Support information on page 15

Transducer handlingNote

All transducers must be handled as delicate items. Any wrongful handling may damagethe transducer beyond repair.

Do not activate the transducer when it is out of the water.

Do not handle the transducer roughly, avoid impacts.

Do not expose the transducer to direct sunlight or excessive heat.

Do not use high pressure water, sand blasting or metal tools to clean the transducer face.

Do not use strong solvents to clean the transducer face.

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System descriptionThe Simrad ME70was the world’s firstquantitative multibeamecho sounder for fisheryresearch applications.The Simrad ME70 is ahigh resolution scientificmultibeam echo sounderwith very low sidelobelevels. It is dedicated forcollection of data in thewater column. The ME70combines the large andflexible sampling volumeof the multibeam swathwith the accuracy ofthe quantitative scientificecho sounder. It operatesin the frequency range of70 to 120 kHz using 800 transmitting and receiving channels.By adding bathymetry functionality to the standard system, the ME70 also provideshigh resolution seabed mapping.The Simrad ME70 is designed for fishery research applications, and provides thefollowing primary features:• Transceiver operation control• Sensor input control• Information display• Data output and record control• Replay of previously recorded data• Remote control and data subscription• Calibration programThe Simrad ME70 scientific multibeam echo sounder is looking downwards, and it isdesigned for high operating flexibility. The system includes a wide fan of stabilizedbeams for fish behaviour studies, fish school characterization and other purposes. Asector of these beams can be set up as split beams providing data for single target analysissuch as target strength measurements and target tracking. The sector of calibrated narrowsplit beams with low side lobe levels and short pulse lengths allow for accurate biomassestimation very close to bottom. The ability to adjust the athwartship centre angle ofthe fan allows you to use the system for studying fish close to ridges. The design alsoallows you to use all the beams over the full frequency range pointing in one directionfor frequency comparison.

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Simrad ME70

Within the bandwidth of the transducer, the limits for beam steering, and the minimumachievable beam opening, you can select the directions, frequencies, and opening anglesfor the beams in the Simrad ME70. You will be able to set up the system to fit yourrequirements, and the system will provide you with a real-time display for quality controlof the current data acquisition. The system configuration can be tailored to any userrequirements, allowing for choice of beamwidths as well as transmission modes.

Two systems are available to expand the utility value of the Simrad ME70 Multibeamscientific echo sounder system:• Bathymetric processor system for high resolution seabed mapping.• Element Data Logger for collection of high volume element data.

The bathymetry option provided for the Simrad ME70 allows you to use the ME70 notonly as a scientific multibeam echo sounder for fishery research applications, but also asa multibeam echo sounder for seabed mapping. Additional hardware items are added tothe basic ME70 system to provide this functionality, and the Seafloor Information System(SIS) software is applied as user interface.

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System diagramA basic ME70 system diagram is provided. Interface capabilities, uninterrupted powersupplies and power cables are not shown.

(CD016019-010)

PWR

MENU

SIMRAD

SIMRAD ME70

A Processor Unit withcolour display

B Transceiver UnitC Power Supply UnitsD Transducer

The following maininterfaces are required:1 Two high quality

Ethernet cablesbetween theTransceiver Unit andthe Processor Unit

2 Ethernet cablebetween theProcessor Unit andship's local areanetwork

3 Ethernet cable toexternal data logger(optional)

4 Ethernet cable to bathymetric system (optional)5 Serial line communication with external sensors; motion reference unit, global

positioning system, course gyro and sound velocity sensor

The cables from the transducer are connected to the rear side of the three transceiverracks in the Transceiver Unit.

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Simrad ME70

System unitsThe Simrad ME70 comprises the following main units.

Topics• Colour display on page 14• Processor Unit on page 14• Transceiver Unit on page 14• Power Supply Unit on page 15• Transducer on page 15

Colour displayA commercial colour display is used with the Simrad ME70 system.

Note that the colour display is not a standard part of the ME70 delivery.

Processor UnitThe ME70 Processor Unit is a high performancemarine table top computer. The computer is based ona commercial design, but the software and hardwarehas been specified and assembled by Simrad to suitthe ME70 requirements.

The computer is supplied with Microsoft® Windows® 7 operating system. It providesmultiple interfaces for communication with relevant pheripheral devices.

The Processor Unit communicates with the Ethernet switch in the Transceiver Unit bymeans of two high speed Ethernet cables.

Transceiver UnitThe Simrad ME70 Transceiver Unit is housed in a 19” instrument rack. In order toreduce the loss in the transducer cables, the transceiver is physically located as close aspossible to the transducer. The transceiver computes and generates the electric signalssent to the transducer to form a transmission - a ‘ping’. Following the transmission, thetransceiver receives the echoes. These are filtered and amplified, and then converted todigital format.

The main components in the transceiver are:• Three transceiver subracks with a total of 25 transceiver circuit boards• One Ethernet switch• One cabinet fan unit

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Power Supply UnitEach Simrad ME70 Power Supply Unit provides operational and transmission powerto one of the three transceiver racks in the Transceiver Unit. External analogue powersupplies have been chosen to ensure minimum electric noise. In order to reduce thevoltage drop in the power cables, these must be kept as short as possible.Caution

The Power Supply Unit contains high voltages. Do not open the cabinetdoor while power is applied.

TransducerThe Simrad ME70 Transducer is plane, and consistsof a ceramic-polymer composite matrix. The matchingtransformer for each transducer element is located inthe transducer, this allows a low impedance connectionto the Transceiver Unit. The array is connected tothe rear side of the three transceiver racks in theTransceiver Unit using 25 cables.

Support informationIf you need technical support for your Simrad ME70 you must contact your localdealer, or one of our support departments. A list of all our dealers is provided onhttp://www.simrad.com.Norway (Main office)• Company name: Kongsberg Maritime AS / Simrad• Address: Strandpromenaden 50, 3190 Horten, Norway• Telephone: +47 33 03 40 00• Telefax: +47 33 04 29 87• E-mail address: [email protected]• Website: http://www.simrad.noSpain• Company name: Simrad Spain• Address: Poligono Partida Torres 38, 03570 Villajoyosa, Spain• Telephone: +34 966 810 149• Telefax: +34 966 852 304• E-mail address: [email protected]• Website: http://www.simrad.es

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http://www.simrad.no


http://www.simrad.es

Simrad ME70

USA• Company name: Kongsberg Underwater Technology Inc / Simrad Fisheries• Address: 19210 33rd Ave W, Lynnwood, WA 98036, USA• Telephone: +1 425 712 1136• Telefax: +1 425 712 1193• E-mail address: [email protected]• Website: http://www.simrad.com

Malaysia• Company name: Kongsberg Maritime Malaysia Sdn. Bhd• Address: Unit 27-5 Signature Offices, The Boulevard, Mid Valley City, Lingkaran

Syed Putra, 59200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia• Telephone: +65 6411 7488• Telefax: +60 3 2201 3359• E-mail address: [email protected]• Website: http://www.simrad.com

Support on the Bathymetric system

If you need technical support on the bathymetric units or the Seafloor Information System(SIS) software you can contact a Kongsberg Maritime office. A list of all our supportoffices is provided on http://www.km.kongsberg.com.

You can also contact the main support office in Norway.• Address: Strandpromenaden 50, 3190 Horten, Norway• Telephone: +47 33 02 38 00• Telephone, 24h: +47 815 35 355• Telefax: +47 33 04 76 19• E-mail address: [email protected]• Website: http://www.km.kongsberg.com

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http://www.km.kongsberg.com


http://www.km.kongsberg.com

Getting started

Getting started

This chapter describes how to get started with the basic operation of the ME70.

It contains a brief overview of the basic system operation and procedures. If you are afirst time user, we recommend that you read through this chapter while operating theME70 so that you can familiarize yourself with the menus, dialog boxes and displaypresentations.

Important

In this manual, the phrase “click” means that you shall place the cursor over the specifiedbutton, field or function, and press the left mouse (or trackball) button once. The phrase“double-click” means that you shall press the mouse button twice rapidly.

The phrase “press” means that you shall press a physical button with your finger, forexample a character button or the Enter key on the keyboard.

Topics• Power on/off procedures on page 18• Operating principles on page 20• Presentation overview on page 21• Starting normal operation on page 26• Context sensitive on-line help on page 35

Related topics• Operational procedures on page 36

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Simrad ME70

Power on/off proceduresThese procedures explain how to switch the ME70 system on and off.Topics• Powering up the ME70 on page 18• Powering off the ME70 on page 18• Restarting the ME70 on page 19

Powering up the ME70PurposeThis procedure explains how to power up the Simrad ME70 system.

Note

If the ambient temperature in the sonar room is low, the system may need time to warmup. If this is the case, leave the system idle for approximately 30 minutes, then do theRestart procedure.

Prerequisitesa The ME70 Transceiver Unit is connected to the ship’s mains and set up for

operational use.b All the circuit breakers in the Transceiver Unit are engaged.c The air conditioning system in the sonar room is operational.Procedure1 Power up the colour display.

If required, refer to the instructions provided by the display manufacturer.2 Power up the Processor Unit (computer).

Wait for the operating system to start up.3 Double-click the ME70 icon on the desktop to start the program.4 Wait while the program starts on the computer.5 Open the Setup menu in the ME70 application, and click the TRU On/Off button.6 Observe that the TRU StartUp dialog box opens.7 Click the Start button in the TRU StartUp dialog box.8 Allow the transceiver to start, and observe the status reported by the TRU StartUp

dialog box.

Powering off the ME70PurposeThis procedure explains how to power off the Simrad ME70.

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Getting started

Note

You must never switch off the ME70 only by means of the on/off switch on the computer.This may damage the software or the interface parameters for external devices. Youmust ALWAYS use this procedure.

Powering off the computer will not automatically power down the Transceiver Unit.

If the ME70 will remain unused for a longer period of time, disengage all the circuitbreakers in the Transceiver Unit, and check that the ventilation fans are stopped. Thewill prevent dust from entering the cabinet.

Procedure1 Open the Setup menu in the ME70 application, and click the TRU On/Off button.2 Observe that the TRU StartUp dialog box opens.3 Click the Shutdown button in the TRU StartUp dialog box.4 Allow the transceiver to shut down, and observe the status reported by the TRU

StartUp dialog box.5 Click the Exit button in the program.

It is located on the Title Bar in the top right corner of the display presentation.6 Observe that the program closes down.7 If the computer does not switch itself off automatically, use the functionality

provided by the operating system to switch it off manually.8 Switch off the colour display.

If required, refer to the instructions provided by the display manufacturer.

Restarting the ME70Purpose

This procedure explains how to restart the Simrad ME70.

Prerequisitesa The ME70 system is powered up and running.

Procedure1 Open the Setup menu in the ME70 application, and click the TRU On/Off button.2 Observe that the TRU On/Off dialog box opens.3 Click the Restart button in the TRU On/Off dialog box.4 Allow the transceiver to restart, and observe the status reported by the TRU On/Off

dialog box.

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Operating principlesLike most computerized applications, the ME70 is operated using a mouse (or trackball)and a keyboard.

Important

In this manual, the phrase “click” means that you shall place the cursor over the specifiedbutton, field or function, and press the left mouse (or trackball) button once. The phrase“double-click” means that you shall press the mouse button twice rapidly.

The phrase “press” means that you shall press a physical button with your finger, forexample a character button or the Enter key on the keyboard.

Topics• Cursor on page 20• Mouse on page 20• Trackball on page 21

Related topics• Button types on page 26

CursorTip

If you are left-handed, the Windows operating system allows you to redefine the mousebuttons. You can then choose to click with the right button.

The shape and purpose of the cursor change depending on its location.• Move the cursor over the Title Bar at the top of the presentation and Status Bar at the

bottom, and left-click the icons and buttons to access the functionality provided.• Move the cursor over the echogram, and observe the tooltip that provides detailed

information about the echo information at the depth indicated by the cursor location.• Move the cursor over the menu and menu buttons, and click to alter the operational

parameters and open dialog boxes. Observe that the shape of the cursor changes overthe menu buttons to indicates which choices you have to control these parameters.

MouseThe computer mouse can be used to control the functionality provided by the ME70.The mouse controls the movements of the cursor, and the buttons are used to click onbuttons and select parameters.

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Getting started

Trackball

C

D

A

B

(CD010216A)

All ME70 functions can be controlled with thetrackball. The ball controls the movementsof the cursor, and the buttons are used to clickon buttons and select parameters. Trackballscome in several shapes and sizes. A genericversion is shown as an example only.A Control wheel, use this to select range

and gainB Trackball, use this to control the cursor's

location on the screenC Right mouse button, use this to open context sensitive short-cut menus.D Left mouse button, use this to make selections in the menu system and in the dialog

boxes.

Presentation overviewTopics• Display organization on page 22• Title Bar on page 24• The menu system on page 25• Button types on page 26

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Display organization

A typical ME70 display presentation is shown.

Note that the presentation is shown in Replay mode.A Title Bar

The Title Bar identifies Simrad as the manufacturer, and the name of the product(ME70). It also provides several information fields and buttons. These are used tohide or retrieve the menu system, provide navigational information, and to enablebasic system functions.

B Echogram(s)

Each echogram is presented in its own Channel view. There are five channels views,and these will by default take up the largest part of the ME70 display presentation.

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Getting started

By default, you will have five channel views open. Each of these views provide oneechogram that can be surface related and bottom related.

If you click in a channel view, the echogram is selected to be “active”. The “active”echogram is identified with a thick red border. If you change parameters related tothe echograms, these are by default only applied to the “active” echogram.

Tip

You can modify the size of the channel views by moving the boundary linesbetween them. Click on a boundary line, hold the button depressed, and move theline horizontally or vertically.

Each channel view can provide five additional fields; Colour Scale, Depth, SingleTarget Position, Single Target Histogram, Scope and Numerical. These fields can beenabled in the Configure Window dialog box, and opened by dragging the borderlines in vertical and/or horizontal directions.

C Menu system

The menu system is by default located on the right hand side of the presentation.To open any of the submenus, click the buttons under the Main menu. To hide orretrieve the entire menu system, click the Menu button on the Title Bar.

D Swath view

This view provides the swath field, an overview of the acoustic data from all thebeams in the fan.

The Swath view can provide two additional fields; the Colour Scale field and theDepth field. These fields are identical to those provided in the five channel views.

E Replay Bar

During replay a dedicated Replay Bar is provided below the Title Bar. The ReplayBar allows you to retrieve saved files, and to control the playback.

F Submenus

The submenus are opened and closed by clickingthe buttons at the bottom of theMain menu.

Related topics

→ Title Bar on page 71→ Replay bar on page 76→ Menu system on page 77→ Swath and channel views on page 78

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Title BarThe ME70 Title Bar is located on the top of the display presentation, and it is stretchedfrom the far left to the far right side.The purpose of the Title Bar is to give you fast access to key functionality andnavigational information.It provides buttons to hide or show the menu, to start and stop data recording, to open theMessages dialog box, and to open the context sensitive on-line help. It also provides afew buttons related to operating system features.

A Function buttonsThese buttons are used to control basic system functions.• Exit: Click this button to close down the ME70 application.• Minimize and Resize: Click these buttons to adjust the size of the ME70

presentation.• Help: Click this button to open the context sensitive on-line help.• Alarm: Click this button to open the Messages dialog box. This button will flash

to indicate that a message is posted.• Record: Click this button to start and stop recording.

B Date and time.This element shows the current date and time. The prefix “R:” identifies that thecurrent data is replayed from a previously recorded session.

C PositionThese are not buttons, but information fields providing current geographical position.

D HeadingThis is not a button, it is an information field providing the ship’s current heading.

E SpeedThis is not a button, it is an information field providing the ship’s current speed.

F Logo and product nameClick the right mouse button on the SIMRAD logo to open the About dialog box.

G MenuClick this button to hide and show the menu system.

Related topics• Powering up the ME70 on page 18• Powering off the ME70 on page 18• Logo and product name on page 72• Menu button on page 72

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Getting started

• Record button on page 73• Navigation Field on page 73• Function buttons on page 74

The menu systemThe menu system is by default located on the righthand side of the ME70 presentation.The selection of operational parameters on the ME70is done using a tree structure with a main menu, aset of submenus, and several menu buttons. Some ofthe menu buttons open dialog boxes or submenus tooffer additional choices.The Main menu provides the parameters mostfrequently used during normal operation.

Below the main menu, dedicated buttons are used toopen the submenus. These are (from left):A The Operation menu controls the main operational

parameters.B The Display menu controls the visual aspects of the

system, such as parameters related to the displaypresentation.

C The Setup menu allows you to control theconfiguration of the signal processing, as wellas system installation and maintenance, and theinterfaces to peripheral devices.

D The Active menu has its content linked to thecurrent active item (view or object). Use it toaccess special features available for the selectedview or object.

E The Extras menu is not a menu. It provides a listof numerical data for the selected view.

Tip

A detailed breakdown of the commands and parameters available in the menu systemis provided in the Menu system chapter.Related topics• Menu system on page 89

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Button typesEach menu contains several menu buttons. Each button shows the function of the button,some of them also display the current parameter setting. The majority of the buttons ineach menu provide one or more of these functions.a You can increase and decrease parameter values by clicking the [+] and [–] fields

on the button.b You can change parameter values by clicking on the button, holding the mouse

depressed, and then moving the cursor sideways.c You can change parameter values by means of the scroll wheel on the mouse or

trackball.d You can enter parameter values from the keyboard (if you have one).e You can select parameter value from the button's submenu.f You can open a dedicated dialog box.

How to select a numerical parameter using the +/- buttons1 Move the cursor to either side of the button, and

observe that the background colour changes.a Click on the left side of the button to decrease the numerical value.b Click on the right side of the button to increase the numerical value.

How to select parameters using a dialog box1 Click anywhere on the button to open a separate

dialog box.

Starting normal operationOnce you have powered up the complete ME70 system, you are ready to start the actualoperation.When started up, the ME70 will automatically apply its previous setup parameters.Topics• Saving raw data on page 27• Selecting beam mode on page 28• Selecting operational mode on page 29• Selecting ping mode on page 29• Selecting transmission mode and power on page 31• Selecting the vertical range on page 32• Selecting start depth on page 32• Defining the gain settings on page 33• Saving the current user settings on page 34

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Getting started

Saving raw dataPurposeThis procedure explains how to store raw ME70 data.Each sequence of raw data – often regarded as a “line”during a survey – contains a set of acoustic data savedon digital format.Once saved, you can play back this data just as if itwas “normal” ME70 data, or use it for post-processingpurposes by third party programs.DescriptionThe ME70 allows you to record raw data directly onto the processor unit’s hard disk,or onto a peripheral disk in the same local area network. The recording is switched onand off by means of the Record command on the Operation menu, or by means of thededicated button on the Title bar.Where to place the recorded data files, as well as other recording parameters, iscontrolled in the File Output dialog box.Note

Raw data files will normally become very large. If you wish to record large amounts ofME70 raw data, make sure that you have enough space on you hard disk. Unless yourcomputer is equipped with a very large disk capacity, we recommend that you save theraw data to an external storage device.

Related topics• Defining the parameters for raw data recording on page 42• Saving raw data on page 44• Replaying raw data on page 45• Replay bar on page 76Procedure1 Make sure that the relevant recording parameters have been defined in the File

Output dialog box.2 To start recording, you have two choices:

a In the Record button, select On.b On the Title Bar, click the Record button.

When activated, the Record button is red.3 To stop recording, you have two choices:

a In the Record button, select Off.b On the Title Bar, click the Record button.

When not activated, the Record button is black.

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4 During recording, click Split on the Record submenu.This will close down the current data file being recorded, and start a new. Thisfeature allows you to limit the file sizes manually.

5 To play back the raw data files, see Replaying raw data on page 45.

Selecting beam modePurpose

The ME70 allows you to create and edit beam modes. Each beam mode contains specificparameters that define the properties of the mode; number of beam sectors, meancharacteristics, frequencies etc.

Description

The currently selected beam mode is identified in themiddle of the button, while the four buttons (two oneach side, identified with the numbers 1 through 4)allow you to select the top four beam modes that have been defined.

To select from the whole range of beam modes, click on the middle button and selectfrom the context menu that appears.

To create and edit beam modes, see the Beam Mode Administration dialog box.

Related topics• Beam mode procedures on page 63• Selecting beam mode for operational use on page 63• Creating a new beam mode on page 64• Editing a new or existing beam mode on page 65• Deleting a beam mode that is no longer required on page 66• Exporting and importing beam mode XML files on page 66

Procedure1 Observe the Main menu. It is located on the right hand side of the ME70

presentation.2 Observe the large Beam Mode button at the top of the Main menu.3 Click one of the numbers to select one of the four most recent beam modes.

Tip

The four numbers in the Beam Mode button at the top of the Main menu will selectthe four beam modes listed at the top of the Beam Modes list in the Beam ModeAdministration dialog box. This list is sorted alphabetically. To control whichmodes to choose using the four numbers, name your beam modes accordingly, forexample by means of prefixes.

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4 Click the centre button to select a new beam mode from a submenu.Note

When a new mode is selected, the program will terminate the current normaloperation and return to inactive. Normal operation must then be selected to usethe new mode.

Selecting operational modePurposeThis procedure explains how to set up the ME70 for normal operation and start ‘pinging’.DescriptionThe ME70 allows you to choose between these operational modes:• Inactive: The ME70 is paused. Neither transmission nor reception takes place.• Normal: The ME70 operates normally. Transmission and reception take place

provided that ‘pinging’ is activated.• Replay: The ME70 will be paused. Neither transmission nor reception takes place.

However, you are able to play back prerecorded data files.Procedure1 Observe the Main menu. It is located on the right hand side of the ME70

presentation.2 Click the Operation icon.

This icon is located under the Main menu. It isused to open the Operation menu.

3 Click the Operation button, and select Normal.

The ME70 will now start transmission into the water.4 On the Ping button, click the symbol on the right hand side to start ‘pinging’.

Selecting ping modePurposeThis procedure explains how to control how often theME70 transmits acoustic energy into the water. Thisis normally referred to as ‘pinging’.DescriptionThe “ping rate” is the parameter that controls how often the echo sounder shall transmitacoustic energy (a “ping”) into the water.

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When transmission is enabled, you can choose from these ping modes:1 Single step

This option allows the ME70 to transmit single pings.

To transmit a single ping, click the Ping button.2 Interval

This option allows the ME70 to transmit once every chosen time interval.

The time interval (in milliseconds) is chosen with the Ping Interval function.3 Maximum

This option allows the ME70 to transmit at maximum speed.

The maximum rate is defined by the current depth range, the selected beam mode,and the range selected for the data storage.

Procedure1 Click the Operation icon.


2 Click Ping, and select On.

The two icons provided by this button can also be used to enable or disabletransmission.• The left icon (rectangle) is “Off”.• The right icon is “On”. It is also used to initiate single pings when Single Step

mode is selected.3 Choosing maximum ping rate:

a Click Ping Mode, and select Maximum.This will make the ME70 ping with maximum speed. The time between eachping is automatically determined by a number of parameters, including thecurrent depth, the pulse duration and the chosen range.

4 Defining a ping interval:a Click Ping Mode, and select Interval.b Click Ping Interval, and select the time (in milliseconds) between each ping.

5 Transmitting single pings:a Click Ping Mode, and select Single Step.b To transmit a single ping, click once on the right hand icon on the Ping button.

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Selecting transmission mode and powerPurpose

The ME70 allows you to disable or enable pingingby means of the Ping command on the Operationmenu. It will also allow you to select active or passivetransmission mode by means of the Tx Mode commandon the same menu.

Observe the following procedure to set up transmit power and mode.

Description

When pinging is enabled, you can select between two different transmission (Tx) modes.1 Passive

The ME70 transmissions of acoustic energy into the water is paused.• If the pinging has been enabled (Ping set to On) the system will however listen

(receive echo data) in the same manner as during normal operation. You can usethis mode to detect and investigate background noise.

• If the pinging has been disabled (Ping set to Off) the system will neither transmitnor receive.

2 Active

The ME70 transmissions of acoustic energy into the water is active according tothe parameters defined.• If the pinging has been enabled (Ping set to On) the system will perform its

normal operation.• If the pinging has been disabled (Ping set to Off) the system will neither transmit

nor receive.

Whenever active transmission takes place, you can adjust the power output by means ofthe Tx Power command on the Operation menu.



2 Click the Tx Mode button.3 Select Active on the submenu.

4 Click the Tx Power command.

5 Select the requested transmission power on the submenu: –6 dB, –12 dB orMax.

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Selecting the vertical rangePurposeThis procedure explains how to set the vertical range;the distance from the sea surface and down to thebottom. This vertical range is controlled by Range on the Main menu.

Example 1 Start Range and Range in bottom related echogramIn a bottom echogram, set the Start Range value to –5 meters. This will make theechogram start from 5 meters above the bottom. Set Range to the 5 meters plus10 = 15 meters. The echogram will now show the area from 5 meters above thedepth, and down to 10 meters “below” the bottom. The bottom contour will appearas a flat line.

ProcedureThe following methods can be used.1 Method 1:

a Click [+] or [-] to adjust the range manually.2 Method 2:

a Click the middle of the button to open it.b Type any range value.c Click Apply to all if you wish to implement your chosen depth chosen depth

value to all the current echograms of the same type. This choice will also applyto the other methods.

3 Method 3a Click the middle of the button, hold the mouse button depressed, and drag

sideways.4 Method 4

a Place the cursor over the middle part of the button, and use the control wheelon the mouse (or trackball) to choose range value.

Selecting start depthPurposeThis procedure explains how to control the vertical startrange (start depth) in the echogram. The start rangeis controlled by Start Range on the Main menu.

Example 2 Start Range in a surface related echogramIn a surface echogram, set the Start Range value to 0 meters. This will make theechogram start from the sea surface (provided that the transducer offset has beendefined). Set Range to the current depth plus 20 meters. The echogram will nowshow the area from the sea surface and down to 20 meters “below” the bottom.The bottom contour is easily detected when the depth changes.

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ProcedureThe following methods may be used.1 Method 1

a Click [+] or [-] to adjust the start range manually.2 Method 2

a Click the middle of the button, hold the mouse button depressed, and dragsideways.

3 Method 3

a Click the middle of the button to open it.b Type any depth value from the keyboard.c Click Apply to all if you wish to implement your chosen depth value to all

current echograms of the same type. This choice will also apply to the othermethods.

4 Method 4


Defining the gain settingsPurposeThis procedure explains how to change the gain.DescriptionThe Gain function controls the display gain.The value controlled by the Gain button is the same as the Minimum Level of the ColourScale dialog box.Changing the colour scale with the Gain button implies that the Minimum Level andMaximum Level are shifted with the same value, and the colour step is kept constant.Tip

Do not confuse this Gain function with the TVG function.


presentation.2 Observe the Gain button on the Main menu.

Note that there are two Gain buttons. This allows you to define individual gainsettings for the two TVG settings.

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3 Method 1

a Click [+] or [-] to choose gain.4 Method 2

a Click the middle of the Gain button, hold the mouse button depressed.b Drag the cursor left or right to increase or decrease the gain.

5 Method 3

a Click the middle of the Gain button to open the submenu.b Type the requested gain value.c Check the Apply to all box to apply the new gain setting to all current echograms

of the same type. This choice will also apply to the other methods.6 Method 4

a Place the cursor over the middle part of the button, and use the control wheelon the mouse (or trackball) to choose gain value.

Saving the current user settingsPurpose

This procedure explains how to save the current configuration and parameter settings.


presentation.2 On the Main menu, click User Settings to open the User Settings dialog box.

The User Settings dialog box allows you to save the current user settings (parameterselections), and to retrieve factory or previously saved user settings.

3 In the Factory Settings list, click the requested factory setting.45 In the Setting Name dialog box, type the requested name, and click OK.6 Observe that the name you have chosen appears on the Saved Settings list.7 Click OK to save the current settings and close the dialog box.

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Context sensitive on-line helpThe ME70 is provided with an extensive context sensitive on-line help system. Allinformation of the ME70 Reference manual is also provided in the on-line help. Theon-line help is located in a single proprietary Microsoft CHM file. This CHM file willalso run on any other computer provided that the computer runs a Microsoft operatingsystem.

To open the help system, click the Help button in any dialog box. This will provideinstantaneous information about the relevant dialog box with links to related proceduresand other topics.

You can also click the Help button (A) on the Title Bar. That will open the help file onits start page.

Navigation in the on-line help file is made by means of the menu system on the left side,as well as the interactive links in the document.

Related topics• Opening the context sensitive on-line help on page 41

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Operational procedures

This chapter contains several operational procedures explaining how you can put yourME70 to use.

Menu navigation employed by Simrad ME70 is similar to the other Simrad applicationswhich follow the user interface standards developed by Simrad. The main menu isnormally located at the right side of the screen, and by means of dedicated icons at thebottom of the main menu, you can open the relevant submenus or dialog boxes. Menuchoices shown in dark colours are not available for the current operation or operationalmode.

Are there any procedures missing? Are you doing an operation that we have notexplained? Write an e-mail to [email protected] and let us know. We maythen include the procedure in the next version of this manual.

Topics• Saving and retrieving users settings on page 37• User preference procedures on page 39• Save and recall raw data on page 42• Presentation procedures on page 47• Echogram procedures on page 52• Range procedures on page 58• Gain procedures on page 60• Beam mode procedures on page 63

Related topics• Powering up the ME70 on page 18• Powering off the ME70 on page 18• Starting normal operation on page 26

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Saving and retrieving users settingsThe ME70 allows you to save usersettings. You can save as manysettings as you like, the number isonly limited by the size of your harddisk.

All parameters you have chosen to setup the ME70 to suit your preferencesare saved. You can use any name -including your own - to identify thesaved settings. Whenever required,you can retrieve any saved setting,and continue your work.

To reset the entire ME70, you can alsoretrieve the factory default settings.

Topics• Saving the current user settings

on page 37• Using previously saved settings

on page 38• Choosing ME70 factory defaultsettings on page 38

Saving the current user settingsPurposeThis procedure explains how to save the current configuration and parameter settings.




3 In the Factory Settings list, click the requested factory setting.45 In the Setting Name dialog box, type the requested name, and click OK.6 Observe that the name you have chosen appears on the Saved Settings list.7 Click OK to save the current settings and close the dialog box.

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Using previously saved settingsPurpose

If you have saved operational parameters and/or configurations dedicated for differentgears or tasks, you can retrieve these for fast and efficient parameter setup.




3 In the User Setting dialog box, click once on the requested saved setting in theSaved Settings list.

4 Click Apply.5 Click OK to save the current settings and close the dialog box.

Choosing ME70 factory default settingsPurpose

This procedure explains how to choose the factory or saved parameter settings. Use thisif you need to reset the ME70 to known settings.

Procedure1 Observe the Main menu. It is normally located on the right hand side of the ME70

presentation.2 On the Main menu, click User Settings to open the User Settings dialog.


3 In the Factory Settings list, click the requested factory setting.4 Click Activate Selected Setting.5 Click Close to exit.

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User preference proceduresThis section provides procedures related to user preferences and individual customizing.Topics• Choosing colour presentation theme (palette) on page 39• Changing the number of colours in the ME70 presentation on page 39• Changing the echo colours in the ME70 presentation on page 40• Verifying or changing the environmental parameters on page 40• Opening the context sensitive on-line help on page 41

Choosing colour presentation theme (palette)PurposeThe ME70 presentation may be set up using one ofseveral colour themes. In the menu system, these arecalled palettes.DescriptionThe Palette function provides you with options for thecolour scheme used on the ME70 display presentation.Select the background colour and brightness to suit theambient light conditions and your preferences.The choice you make here does not have any effect on the ME70 performance.Related topics• Display menu on page 94Procedure1 Click the Display button to open the menu.

This button is located under the Main menu. It isused to open the Display submenu.

2 Observe the Palette button.

3 Click the palette you wish to use.

Changing the number of colours in the ME70 presentationPurposeThis procedure explains how to change the number ofcolours used in the ME70 presentations.Set the number of colours to use in the displaypresentations, 12 or 64.

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presentation.2 Click the Display button to open the menu.


3 Observe the No Of Colours button.

The No of Colours functions allows you to choose the number of colours to be usedon the ME70 presentation.

4 Select the number of colours to suit your requirements

Changing the echo colours in the ME70 presentationPurpose

This procedure explains how to change the echocolours used in the ME70 presentations.

The echo colour selection is only available when youhave used the No.of Colours function and chosen to use64 colours.




3 Observe the Echo Colours button.

The Echo Colours function allows you to choose which colour scale to use on theME70 presentations.

4 Select the number of colours to suit your requirements

Verifying or changing the environmental parametersPurpose

This procedure explains how to check and - if necessary - change the environmentalparameters related to salinity, sound speed and water temperature.

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Procedure1 Click the Setup icon.

This icon is located under the Main menu. It isused to open the Setup menu.

2 Click the Installation button to open the Installationsubmenu.

On the menu provided, click Environment to open the Environment dialog box.

The Environment dialog box is used to adjust the environmental parameters. Theseparameters are used for estimating range, propagation loss and spreading loss, all ofwhich are essential concepts in the ME70.

The dialog box also allows you to define the source for sound velocity data, and tosee the current profile.

3 Make the necessary adjustments.4 Click OK to save the current settings and close the dialog box.

Opening the context sensitive on-line helpPurpose

This procedure explains how to access the contextsensitive on-line help.

Description

The ME70 is provided with an extensive context sensitive on-line help system. Allinformation of the ME70 Reference manual is also provided in the on-line help. Theon-line help is located in a single proprietary Microsoft CHM file. This CHM file willalso run on any other computer provided that the computer runs a Microsoft operatingsystem.

To open the help system, click the Help button in any dialog box. This will provideinstantaneous information about the relevant dialog box with links to related proceduresand other topics.

You can also click the Help button (A) on the Title Bar. That will open the help file onits start page.

Navigation in the on-line help file is made by means of the menu system on the left side,as well as the interactive links in the document.

Related topics• Context sensitive on-line help on page 35

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Procedure1 Method 1:

Click the [?] icon on the Title bar. This will open the on-line help file on its startpage.

2 Method 2:

Click the Help button in any dialog box. The description of the related dialog boxwill appear in the help window.

Save and recall raw dataThese procedures explain how to save and recall raw data.

Topics• Defining the parameters for raw data recording on page 42• Saving raw data on page 44• Replaying raw data on page 45• Accessing the raw data files to delete, move or copy on page 46

Defining the parameters for raw data recordingPurpose

This procedure explains how to set up the parametersfor raw data recording.

Description

The ME70 allows you to record raw data directly ontothe processor unit’s hard disk, or onto a peripheraldisk in the same local area network. The recording is switched on and off by means ofthe Record command on the Operation menu, or by means of the dedicated button onthe Title bar.

Where to place the recorded data files, as well as other recording parameters, iscontrolled in the File Output dialog box.

Related topics• Defining the parameters for raw data recording on page 42• Saving raw data on page 44• Replaying raw data on page 45• Replay bar on page 76

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2 Click the Record button to open the menu.3 Ensure that the recording mode is set to Off.4 Click File Output, and observe that the File Output dialog box opens.

5 On the Directory tab, click Browse, and select a target directory for the raw data files.6 On the Raw Data tab,

a Click Save raw data, and select a prefix on the file names recorded during thesession.

b Select the maximum depth for the data collection.The range defined is from 0 m (surface) down to the depth you enter.

c In order to control the geographic content of each file, enter a maximumdistance in the Max vessel distance [nmi] field.The content of the recorded file will be limited to the data collected whilesailing the defined distance. Set the value to 0 nautical miles if you do not wishto limit the distance.

7 To limit the size of the recorded files, enter a maximum value for each file in theMax file size [Mb] field.Tip

Set the value to 0 Mb if you do not wish to limit the file sizes.You can combine the vessel distance and maximum file size parameters. Forexample, you can define that each file shall contain the data from 60 nautical miles,and at the same time be limited to 20 Mb. Examine the file sizes for various saileddistances, and define a size limitation suitable for the chosen distance.

If the file size limitation is too small, and does not match the sailed distance value,the ME70 will place the raw data for each sailed distance in several individual files.The current size of the file being recorded is displayed in the appropriate Currentfile size text field.

8 If you wish to postpone the start of the recording, enter a distance in the Automaticstart field.The recording will start automatically when the vessel has sailed the requesteddistance.

9 On the Processed Data tab:a Click Save EK500 if you wish the data to be recorded on EK500 format.b If required, click the EK500 Datagram button to define which data that shall

be contained.

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10 Click OK to save the current settings and close the dialog box.

Saving raw dataPurpose

This procedure explains how to store raw ME70 data.Each sequence of raw data – often regarded as a “line”during a survey – contains a set of acoustic data savedon digital format.

Once saved, you can play back this data just as if itwas “normal” ME70 data, or use it for post-processingpurposes by third party programs.

Description

The ME70 allows you to record raw data directly onto the processor unit’s hard disk,or onto a peripheral disk in the same local area network. The recording is switched onand off by means of the Record command on the Operation menu, or by means of thededicated button on the Title bar.

Where to place the recorded data files, as well as other recording parameters, iscontrolled in the File Output dialog box.

Note



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Procedure1 Make sure that the relevant recording parameters have been defined in the File

Output dialog box.2 To start recording, you have two choices:

a In the Record button, select On.b On the Title Bar, click the Record button.

When activated, the Record button is red.3 To stop recording, you have two choices:

a In the Record button, select Off.b On the Title Bar, click the Record button.

When not activated, the Record button is black.4 During recording, click Split on the Record submenu.

This will close down the current data file being recorded, and start a new. Thisfeature allows you to limit the file sizes manually.

5 To play back the raw data files, see Replaying raw data on page 45.

Replaying raw dataPurpose

This procedure explains how you can play back (recall) raw data.

Important

The system is not operational when you have chosen Replay mode: the ME70 is thennot able transmit.




2 Click the Operation button to open the menuchoices.

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3 Click Replay File to open the Replay File dialog box.

The purpose of the Replay File dialog box is to choose the file(s) to be used forplayback. The file names listed have been generated automatically during recording,and each file is identified with the time and date it was made.

4 In the Replay File dialog box:a Click Add to select new files using operating system functionality.

If you wish to remove files from the playback list, click on the file name andthen click Remove.

b If you wish to run the replay file continuously, click Loop in the Replay Filedialog box.

c Click OK to save the current settings and close the dialog box.5 Click the Operation button to open the menu choices.6 Click Replay to select this function.

Observe that the Replay bar opens.7 Click the start button in the Replay bar to start the playback.8 To stop the playback, you have two choices:

a Click the stop button in the Replay barb Return to normal operational mode using the Operation button.

Accessing the raw data files to delete, move or copyPurpose

Once raw data files have been recorded, you may also wish to delete them, or copy ormove them from the computer's harddisk to a separate storage media. This procedureexplains how to access the files, and how to copy or move them to a separate storagedevice.

Important

This procedure assumes that you are familiar with the Microsoft® XP® and/or Microsoft®7 operating system utilities for file handling.

Related topics• Defining the parameters for raw data recording on page 42

Procedure1 Minimize the ME70 window, and start a file manager program.

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2 Use the functionality provided by the operating system to navigate to the file folderwith the raw data files.This is the folder you selected in the File Output dialog box.

Important

This is the default directory for raw data:

Windows 7: c:\programdata\\simrad\ME70\data

3 Prepare a separate data storage deviceThis is typically a large capacity USB memory device or a harddisk. You can alsoconnect the ME70 computer to a network, and copy the files to a server.

4 Use the functionality provided by the operating system to delete the files, or to copyor move them to the separate storage device.

5 Close the file manager program.

Presentation proceduresThese procedures explain how to control the presentations on the ME70 display.

Topics• Enabling and disabling information fields in the channel and swath views on page 48• Changing the size of the channel views and fields on page 49• Selecting which beams to see in the channel views on page 49• Opening a selected beam in a separate window on page 50• Selecting presentation colours on page 50

Related topics• Swath view on page 79• Channel views on page 80• Echogram field on page 81• Colour scale field on page 82• Depth field on page 83• Single Target Position field on page 84• Single target histogram field on page 85• Numerical field on page 85• Scope field on page 86• Echogram markers on page 86

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Enabling and disabling information fields in the channel andswath viewsPurposeObserve this procedure to enable and disable the various information fields offered bythe channels and swath views.DescriptionEach channel and swath view will by default present the echogram for the chosen beamand swath, as well as information about the beam parameters. In addition to this, youcan enable one or more information fields.The following optional fields are available for the channel views:• Depth• Colour Scale• Single Target Detection• Single Target Position• Scope• NumericalThe following fields are offered by the Swath view:• Depth• Colour ScaleRelated topics• Display organization on page 69• Channel views on page 80• Display menu on page 94Procedure1 Place the cursor in the view.2 Right-click, and observe the short-cut menu.

There are different short-cut menus for each view andfield, and these offer options related to the informationprovided by the field.

3 Click Configure Window on the short-cut menu to openthe Configure Window dialog box.Observe that the dialog box that opens is contextsensitive. It will only provide the options relevant for the current view or field.

4 Click the fields that you wish to see.5 Click OK to save the current settings and close the dialog box.6 In the relevant view, observe that additional boundary lines have been added to

the presentation.7 Click an drag the boundary lines in horizontal and/or vertical direction to see the

field(s).

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Changing the size of the channel views and fieldsPurpose

This procedure explains how you can modify the size of each individual view and fieldin the ME70 presentation. The content in a field that changes size will automaticallyadjust to take full advantage of the space available.

Procedure1 Move the cursor to the border line between two views or fields.

Observe that the marker changes form; it now appears as two parallel lines witharrows pointing out.

2 Click on the left mouse button, and keep it depressed.3 Move the mouse – or roll the control wheel – and observe that the border line moves.4 Release the mouse button when the border line has been moved to desired position.

Selecting which beams to see in the channel viewsPurpose

This procedure explains how to choose which beams to see in the five channel views.

Description

Five channel views are provided in the ME70 presentation. There are three views next toeach other in the top “row”, and one on each side of the Swath view. Each channel viewprovides the echogram for the chosen beam. In addition, a a number of optional fieldsale available to offer additional information related to the echogram.

The beam displayed in the top centre view is chosenusing the Beam Selection button on the Display menu.The chosen beams are indicated in the Swath view usinga yellow triangle. Once the beam for the top centrechannel view is selected, the other channel views willautomatically show you the two or three beams “before” and “after” the chosen beam.

Related topics• Display organization on page 69• Channel views on page 80• Display menu on page 94


presentation.

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2 Click the Display button to open the menu.This button is located under the Main menu. It isused to open the Display submenu.

3 Observe the Beam Selection button.

4 Select the beam you wish to see in the top centre channel view.

Opening a selected beam in a separate windowPurposeObserve this procedure to open a channel view for adedicated beam in a separate window.DescriptionThe five channel views provided by the ME70presentation may some time prove to be to small for anin-depth study of the information. You can then openthe view in a separate window.Related topics• Display organization on page 69• Channel views on page 80• Display menu on page 94Procedure1 Observe the Main menu. It is located on the right hand side of the ME70



3 Observe the Open Window button.

4 Click the button, and select beam on the menu.5 Observe that a separate window opens with the channel view. Drag the window to

the size you need.

Selecting presentation coloursPurposeThis procedure explains how to change the presentation colours on the ME70presentation.

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Description

By default you have 64 or 12 colours available to present the echograms, a selection ofpalettes, and several echogram colours. The colour scale is shown in each channelwindow provided that you make the necessary adjustments to the fields in the view.

To change the colour scale parameters, place the cursor on top of the colours scale, andright-click. The Colour Scale dialog box can then be opened from the short-cut menuprovided.

Procedure1 Click the Display button to open the menu.


2 Select palette to suit your requirements.

3 Select the number of colours you wish to use in your presentation.

4 Select echogram colours to suit your requirements

Which colour scale to use is mainly a personal preference based on ambient lightconditions, the nature of the echoes and your own experience.

Keep in mind that in the basic scale with 12 colours, each discrete colour representsa 3 dB range of echo signal strength. This implies that the next colour is selectedevery time the echo strength is doubled.

However, as the number of colours can differ, and dedicated colour schemes can beused, this is not necessarily correct. A high numeric TVG value displays weak echosignals properly while the stronger signals saturate into the darker colours. A lownumeric value displays strong echo signals properly. Weak signals below the lowerlimit of the colour scale are not displayed (the display background colour is used).

If you choose to use many colours, the resolution of the ME70 presentation isgreatly improved. It is then easier to distinguish the difference between the variousechoes of different size and/or target strength.

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Echogram proceduresThese procedures explain the various parameters controlling the ME70 echogram.Topics• Changing the ‘ping’ parameters on page 52• Selecting echogram reference and backscatter on page 53• Adding horizontal markers to the echogram on page 54• Adding vertical markers and annotations to the echogram on page 55• Selecting TVG gain (Backscatter) in the Echogram dialog box on page 56• Making it easier to see the bottom using White Line or Bottom Line on page 57

Changing the ‘ping’ parametersPurposeThis procedure explains how to control how often theME70 transmits acoustic energy into the water. Thisis normally referred to as ‘pinging’.DescriptionThe “ping rate” is the parameter that controls how often the echo sounder shall transmitacoustic energy (a “ping”) into the water.When transmission is enabled, you can choose from these ping modes:1 Single step

This option allows the ME70 to transmit single pings.To transmit a single ping, click the Ping button.

2 Interval

This option allows the ME70 to transmit once every chosen time interval.The time interval (in milliseconds) is chosen with the Ping Interval function.

3 Maximum

This option allows the ME70 to transmit at maximum speed.The maximum rate is defined by the current depth range, the selected beam mode,and the range selected for the data storage.



2 Click Ping, and select On.

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The two icons provided by this button can also be used to enable or disabletransmission.• The left icon (rectangle) is “Off”.• The right icon is “On”. It is also used to initiate single pings when Single Step

mode is selected.3 Choosing maximum ping rate:

a Click Ping Mode, and select Maximum.This will make the ME70 ping with maximum speed. The time between eachping is automatically determined by a number of parameters, including thecurrent depth, the pulse duration and the chosen range.

4 Defining a ping interval:a Click Ping Mode, and select Interval.b Click Ping Interval, and select the time (in milliseconds) between each ping.

5 Transmitting single pings:a Click Ping Mode, and select Single Step.b To transmit a single ping, click once on the right hand icon on the Ping button.

Selecting echogram reference and backscatterPurpose

This procedure explains how to choose the echogram type you wish to see.

Description

On the ME70 you can define the echogram type with the following parameters:1 Reference

These selections define the range reference. All ranges in the Echogram view canbe referenced to either the surface or the bottom depth detected by the echo sounder.The current depth range is specified in the Surface Range and Bottom Range dialogs.

2 Backscatter

These selections define the type of acoustic backscatter data to be displayed inthe Echogram view.

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a Pr (No TVG): Power.b Sv (20 log TVG): Volume backscattering strength.c Sp (40 log TVG): Point backscattering strength.d TS (40 log TVG): Target strength. Only signals accepted as single targets are

displayed. These values are beam compensated.e Sp & TS (40 log TVG): Point backscattering strength overlaid with target

strength data.Note

The TS (40 log TVG) and Sp & TS (40 log TVG) values can not be selected usingthe TVG button on the Active menu. To change to these settings, you must use theEchogram dialog.

Procedure1 Click in one of the Echogram views to make it active.2 Click the Active icon.

This icon is located under the Main menu. It isused to open the Active menu.

3 Click Echogram to open the Echogram dialog box.

The Echogram dialog box allows you to set up the parameters controlling theechogram presentation. The three tabs control the horizontal lines, the echogramtype with applied TVG, and how sample data are converted to pixel data.

Tip

You can also open this dialog box from the short-cut menu in the Echogram view.

4 On the Echogram tab, choose Echogram Type.

Note

The chosen echogram type will only apply to the currently selected “active”echogram. If you wish the changes to apply to all similar echograms, click ApplyTo All.

5 Click to choose Reference and Backscatter parameters to suit your preferences.6 Click OK to save the current settings and close the dialog box.

Adding horizontal markers to the echogramPurposeThis procedure explains how you can enable one or more horizontal markers in thecurrent echogram.

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Description

The echograms provided by the ME70 may be set up to contain additional information.The following lines, markers and annotations can be enabled:• Bottom line on page 87• White line on page 87• Trawl line on page 87• Vertical ticks on page 87

Procedure1 Click the Active icon.




Tip


3 On the Lines tab, observe the various markers that can be enabled.4 Enable the lines you wish to see.5 Click OK to save the current settings and close the dialog box.

Adding vertical markers and annotations to the echogramPurpose

This procedure explains how you can enable one or more vertical markers in the currentechogram.

Description

The echograms provided by the ME70 may be set up to contain additional information.The following lines, markers and annotations can be enabled:• Bottom line on page 87• White line on page 87• Trawl line on page 87• Vertical ticks on page 87

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Tip


3 On the Lines tab, observe the various vertical markers that can be enabled.

Note

The annotations are controlled on the Annotation dialog box, but to place theannotations in the echogram, you must enable them in the Echogram dialog box.

4 Enable the vertical markers you wish to see.5 Click OK to save the current settings and close the dialog box.

Selecting TVG gain (Backscatter) in the Echogram dialog boxPurposeThe TVG can be chosen using the Echogram dialog box (described here), or with theTVG button on the Active menu.DescriptionTVG means Time Varied Gain.The whole idea with TVG is that echoes from fish shall have the same echo level (colour)independent of their depths.The ME70 has a TVG range down to 15 000 meters, which for all practical purposes isunlimited. The ME70 does not have a TVG compensated receiver like most other echosounders. In the ME70 the TVG is made in software after the echoes from the receiver(s)have been converted to digital format. In order to make this work the receiver musthave very large dynamic range.The following TVG settings are available:1 Pr (No TVG): Power.2 Sv (20 log TVG): Volume backscattering strength.3 Sp (40 log TVG): Point backscattering strength.

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4 TS (40 log TVG): Target strength. Only signals accepted as single targets aredisplayed. These values are beam compensated.

5 Sp & TS (40 log TVG): Point backscattering strength overlaid with target strengthdata.

Note

The TS (40 log TVG) and Sp & TS (40 log TVG) values can not be selected using the TVGbutton on the Active menu. To change to these settings, you must use the Echogram dialog.




The Echogram dialog box allows you to set up the parameters controlling theechogram presentation. The three tabs control the horizontal lines, the echogramtype with applied TVG, and how sample data are converted to pixel data.Tip


3 On the Type tab, observe the various TVG settings that can be applied.4 Choose your TVG setting.

Tip

The changes made here will by default only be applied to the currently selected“active” echogram (identified with a thick border). If you wish to apply thechanges to all the other echograms of the same type (for example all bottom relatedechograms), use the TVG button on the Active menu.

5 Click OK to save the current settings and close the dialog box.

Making it easier to see the bottom using White Line orBottom LinePurposeThe Echogram dialog box allows you to enable a Bottom line or a White line to easieridentify the bottom. This procedure explains how to enable these features.DescriptionThe marker lines enabled here are explained in section Echogram markers in chapterDisplay view.

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Related topics• Echogram markers on page 86• Active menu on page 97





Tip


3 On the Lines tab, observe the various lines that can be applied.4 Click either Bottom line orWhite line to select which line to show.5 Click OK to save the current settings and close the dialog box.

Range proceduresThese procedures explain how to change the vertical range, that is how to control thedepth to be shown by the echogram.

Topics• Choosing start depth on page 59• Choosing the vertical range on page 59

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Choosing start depthPurposeThis procedure explains how to control the vertical startrange (start depth) in the echogram. The start rangeis controlled by Start Range on the Main menu.

Example 3 Start Range in a surface related echogramIn a surface echogram, set the Start Range value to 0 meters. This will make theechogram start from the sea surface (provided that the transducer offset has beendefined). Set Range to the current depth plus 20 meters. The echogram will nowshow the area from the sea surface and down to 20 meters “below” the bottom.The bottom contour is easily detected when the depth changes.

ProcedureThe following methods may be used.1 Method 1

a Click [+] or [-] to adjust the start range manually.2 Method 2


3 Method 3a Click the middle of the button to open it.b Type any depth value from the keyboard.c Click Apply to all if you wish to implement your chosen depth value to all

current echograms of the same type. This choice will also apply to the othermethods.

4 Method 4a Place the cursor over the middle part of the button, and use the control wheel

on the mouse (or trackball) to choose range value.

Choosing the vertical rangePurposeThis procedure explains how to set the vertical range;the distance from the sea surface and down to thebottom. This vertical range is controlled by Range on the Main menu.

Example 4 Start Range and Range in bottom related echogramIn a bottom echogram, set the Start Range value to –5 meters. This will make theechogram start from 5 meters above the bottom. Set Range to the 5 meters plus10 = 15 meters. The echogram will now show the area from 5 meters above thedepth, and down to 10 meters “below” the bottom. The bottom contour will appearas a flat line.

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Procedure

The following methods can be used.1 Method 1:

a Click [+] or [-] to adjust the range manually.2 Method 2:

a Click the middle of the button to open it.b Type any range value.c Click Apply to all if you wish to implement your chosen depth chosen depth

value to all the current echograms of the same type. This choice will also applyto the other methods.

3 Method 3


4 Method 4


Gain proceduresThese procedures explain how you can adjust the gain in the ME70. This controlshow “powerful” the echoes are shown in the echo presentations. The ME70 uses twoprinciples for gain; signal amplification and time varied gain (TVG).

Topics• Adjusting the gain on page 60• Adjusting the TVG gain (backscatter) on the Active menu on page 62

Adjusting the gainPurpose

This procedure explains how to change the gain.

Description

The Gain function controls the display gain.

The value controlled by the Gain button is the same as the Minimum Level of the ColourScale dialog box.

Changing the colour scale with the Gain button implies that the Minimum Level andMaximum Level are shifted with the same value, and the colour step is kept constant.

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Tip

Do not confuse this Gain function with the TVG function.


presentation.2 Observe the Gain button on the Main menu.

Note that there are two Gain buttons. This allows you to define individual gainsettings for the two TVG settings.

3 Method 1

a Click [+] or [-] to choose gain.4 Method 2

a Click the middle of the Gain button, hold the mouse button depressed.b Drag the cursor left or right to increase or decrease the gain.

5 Method 3

a Click the middle of the Gain button to open the submenu.b Type the requested gain value.c Check the Apply to all box to apply the new gain setting to all current echograms

of the same type. This choice will also apply to the other methods.6 Method 4

a Place the cursor over the middle part of the button, and use the control wheelon the mouse (or trackball) to choose gain value.

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Adjusting the TVG gain (backscatter) on the Active menuPurposeThis procedure explains how to change the Time VariedGain (TVG).The TVG can be chosen using the Echogram dialogbox, or with the TVG button on the Active menu. Thissecond method is described in this procedure.Description

TVG means Time Varied Gain.The whole idea with TVG is that echoes from fish shall have the same echo level (colour)independent of their depths.The ME70 has a TVG range down to 15 000 meters, which for all practical purposes isunlimited. The ME70 does not have a TVG compensated receiver like most other echosounders. In the ME70 the TVG is made in software after the echoes from the receiver(s)have been converted to digital format. In order to make this work the receiver musthave very large dynamic range.The following TVG settings are available:1 Pr (No TVG): Power.2 Sv (20 log TVG): Volume backscattering strength.3 Sp (40 log TVG): Point backscattering strength.4 TS (40 log TVG): Target strength. Only signals accepted as single targets are

displayed. These values are beam compensated.5 Sp & TS (40 log TVG): Point backscattering strength overlaid with target strength

data.Note

The TS (40 log TVG) and Sp & TS (40 log TVG) values can not be selected using the TVGbutton on the Active menu. To change to these settings, you must use the Echogram dialog.

Related topics• Selecting TVG gain (Backscatter) in the Echogram dialog box on page 56• Active menu on page 97Procedure1 Click the Active icon.


2 Locate the TVG button.3 Method 1:

a Click [+] or [-] to choose TVG setting.

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4 Method 2:

a Click the middle of the TVG button to open the submenu.b Click on any TVG setting to select it.

Beam mode proceduresThis section describes how to choose, administer and edit beam modes on the ME70.Topics• Selecting beam mode for operational use on page 63• Creating a new beam mode on page 64• Editing a new or existing beam mode on page 65• Deleting a beam mode that is no longer required on page 66

Selecting beam mode for operational usePurposeThe ME70 allows you to create and edit beam modes. Each beam mode contains specificparameters that define the properties of the mode; number of beam sectors, meancharacteristics, frequencies etc.DescriptionThe currently selected beam mode is identified in themiddle of the button, while the four buttons (two oneach side, identified with the numbers 1 through 4)allow you to select the top four beam modes that have been defined.To select from the whole range of beam modes, click on the middle button and selectfrom the context menu that appears.To create and edit beam modes, see the Beam Mode Administration dialog box.Related topics• Beam mode procedures on page 63• Selecting beam mode for operational use on page 63• Creating a new beam mode on page 64• Editing a new or existing beam mode on page 65• Deleting a beam mode that is no longer required on page 66• Exporting and importing beam mode XML files on page 66Procedure1 Observe the Main menu. It is located on the right hand side of the ME70

presentation.2 Observe the large Beam Mode button at the top of the Main menu.

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3 Click one of the numbers to select one of the four most recent beam modes.

Tip

The four numbers in the Beam Mode button at the top of the Main menu will selectthe four beam modes listed at the top of the Beam Modes list in the Beam ModeAdministration dialog box. This list is sorted alphabetically. To control whichmodes to choose using the four numbers, name your beam modes accordingly, forexample by means of prefixes.

4 Click the centre button to select a new beam mode from a submenu.

Note

When a new mode is selected, the program will terminate the current normaloperation and return to inactive. Normal operation must then be selected to usethe new mode.

Creating a new beam modePurposeThis procedure explains how to create a new beam mode.Related topics• Beam mode procedures on page 63• Selecting beam mode for operational use on page 63• Creating a new beam mode on page 64• Editing a new or existing beam mode on page 65• Deleting a beam mode that is no longer required on page 66• Exporting and importing beam mode XML files on page 66Procedure1 Observe the Main menu. It is located on the right hand side of the ME70

presentation.2 Click the Setup icon.


3 Click Beam Mode Adm to open the Beam ModeAdministration dialog box.

The Beam Mode Administration dialog box allows you to create and delete beammodes for the ME70 system. By means of the Beam Mode dialog box you can alsoview and edit the beam modes.

4 In the Beam Mode Administration dialog box, click New.

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5 In the New Beam Mode dialog box, type the requested name, and click OK.6 Observe that the name you have chosen appears on the list of beam modes. You

now have a new beam mode. By default, it contains all the factory settings.7 Click OK to save the current settings and close the dialog box.8 Alternatively, click once on the new beam name to select it, and then Edit to alter

the parameters.

Editing a new or existing beam modePurposeThis procedure explains how to edit a beam mode. This may be a new beam modethat you have just created with default parameters, or an “old” beam mode that youwish to alter.Related topics• Beam mode procedures on page 63• Selecting beam mode for operational use on page 63• Creating a new beam mode on page 64• Editing a new or existing beam mode on page 65• Deleting a beam mode that is no longer required on page 66• Exporting and importing beam mode XML files on page 66Procedure1 Observe the Main menu. It is located on the right hand side of the ME70





4 In the Beam Mode Administration dialog box, click once on the name of the beammode that you wish to edit.

5 Click Edit, observe that the Beam Mode dialog box opens with the parameters.6 In the Beam Mode dialog box, use the different tab pages to create the beam mode

you want.Click Apply whenever you wish to have your parameter selection evaluated. If youhave chosen parameters that do not match, relevant messages will be provided.Use the different plot pages to observe the effect of the parameters you have chosen.

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7 Click OK to save the current settings and close the dialog box.8 Observe that you have returned to the Beam Mode Administration dialog box.9 Click OK to save the current settings and close the dialog box.

Deleting a beam mode that is no longer requiredPurposeThis procedure explains how to delete a beam mode.Related topics• Beam mode procedures on page 63• Selecting beam mode for operational use on page 63• Creating a new beam mode on page 64• Editing a new or existing beam mode on page 65• Deleting a beam mode that is no longer required on page 66• Exporting and importing beam mode XML files on page 66Procedure1 Observe the Main menu. It is located on the right hand side of the ME70





4 In the Beam Mode Administration dialog box, click once on the name of the beammode that you wish to delete.

5 Click Delete.6 Acknowledge your action in the dialog box that opens.7 Observe that you have returned to the Beam Mode Administration dialog box. The

beam mode you deleted is no longer listed.8 Click OK to save the current settings and close the dialog box.

Exporting and importing beam mode XML filesPurposeThis procedure explains how to “export” and “import” beam modes by moving theirfiles between computers.

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Related topics• Beam mode procedures on page 63• Selecting beam mode for operational use on page 63• Creating a new beam mode on page 64• Editing a new or existing beam mode on page 65• Deleting a beam mode that is no longer required on page 66• Exporting and importing beam mode XML files on page 66

Procedure1 If you plan to import new beam mode files, stop the ME70.2 Start a file manager program on the computer.3 Access the program folders on the computer’s hard disk.4 Prepare a separate data storage device

This is typically a large capacity USB memory device or a harddisk. You can alsoconnect the ME70 computer to a network, and copy the files to a server.

5 Locate the beam mode description files. They are all on XML format, and they arelocated in the following folder:

Windows XP

C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Simrad\ME70\BeamConfigurations

Windows 7

C:\ProgramData\Simrad\ME70\BeamConfigurations

6 Use the functionality provided by the operating system to copy or move the filesto or from the separate storage device.

Important

If you have copied new beam mode file onto the ME70 Processor Unit, you willneed to restart the ME70 software for the files to be detected.

7 Close the file manager program.8 Start the ME70.

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Display views

This chapter provides a brief overview of the information displayed by the SimradME70, and how the information is organized.

You will see six views. One is the main Swath view that shows the entire multibeampresentation. The other five views present individual channels, and these are referredto as “channel views”. Each channel view provides up to six different fields withadditional information.

Topics• Display organization on page 69• Title Bar on page 71• Replay bar on page 76• Menu system on page 77• Swath and channel views on page 78

– Swath view on page 79– Channel views on page 80– Echogram field on page 81– Colour scale field on page 82– Depth field on page 83– Single Target Position field on page 84– Single target histogram field on page 85– Numerical field on page 85– Scope field on page 86– Echogram markers on page 86

• Display organization on page 69• Title Bar on page 71• Menu system on page 77• Swath and channel views on page 78

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Display organizationBy default, the ME70 display presentation covers the entire screen view.

A typical ME70 display presentation is shown.

Note that the presentation is shown in Replay mode.A Title Bar

The Title Bar identifies Simrad as the manufacturer, and the name of the product(ME70). It also provides several information fields and buttons. These are used tohide or retrieve the menu system, provide navigational information, and to enablebasic system functions.

B Echogram(s)

Each echogram is presented in its own Channel view. There are five channels views,and these will by default take up the largest part of the ME70 display presentation.

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By default, you will have five channel views open. Each of these views provide oneechogram that can be surface related and bottom related.

If you click in a channel view, the echogram is selected to be “active”. The “active”echogram is identified with a thick red border. If you change parameters related tothe echograms, these are by default only applied to the “active” echogram.

Tip

You can modify the size of the channel views by moving the boundary linesbetween them. Click on a boundary line, hold the button depressed, and move theline horizontally or vertically.

Each channel view can provide five additional fields; Colour Scale, Depth, SingleTarget Position, Single Target Histogram, Scope and Numerical. These fields can beenabled in the Configure Window dialog box, and opened by dragging the borderlines in vertical and/or horizontal directions.

C Menu system

The menu system is by default located on the right hand side of the presentation.To open any of the submenus, click the buttons under the Main menu. To hide orretrieve the entire menu system, click the Menu button on the Title Bar.

D Swath view

This view provides the swath field, an overview of the acoustic data from all thebeams in the fan.

The Swath view can provide two additional fields; the Colour Scale field and theDepth field. These fields are identical to those provided in the five channel views.

E Replay Bar

During replay a dedicated Replay Bar is provided below the Title Bar. The ReplayBar allows you to retrieve saved files, and to control the playback.

F Submenus

The submenus are opened and closed by clickingthe buttons at the bottom of theMain menu.

Related topics

→ Title Bar on page 71→ Replay bar on page 76→ Menu system on page 77→ Swath and channel views on page 78

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Title BarThe ME70 Title Bar is located on the top of the display presentation, and it is stretchedfrom the far left to the far right side.Topics• Purpose and description on page 71• Logo and product name on page 72• Operational buttons on page 72

– Menu button on page 72– Record button on page 73

• Navigation Field on page 73– Geographical location (latitude and longitude) on page 73– Heading on page 74– Speed on page 74

• Function buttons on page 74

Purpose and descriptionThe ME70 Title Bar is located on the top of the display presentation, and it is stretchedfrom the far left to the far right side.The purpose of the Title Bar is to give you fast access to key functionality andnavigational information.It provides buttons to hide or show the menu, to start and stop data recording, to open theMessages dialog box, and to open the context sensitive on-line help. It also provides afew buttons related to operating system features.

A Function buttonsThese buttons are used to control basic system functions.• Exit: Click this button to close down the ME70 application.• Minimize and Resize: Click these buttons to adjust the size of the ME70

presentation.• Help: Click this button to open the context sensitive on-line help.• Alarm: Click this button to open the Messages dialog box. This button will flash

to indicate that a message is posted.• Record: Click this button to start and stop recording.

B Date and time.This element shows the current date and time. The prefix “R:” identifies that thecurrent data is replayed from a previously recorded session.

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C Position

These are not buttons, but information fields providing current geographical position.D Heading

This is not a button, it is an information field providing the ship’s current heading.E Speed

This is not a button, it is an information field providing the ship’s current speed.F Logo and product name

Click the right mouse button on the SIMRAD logo to open the About dialog box.G Menu

Click this button to hide and show the menu system.

Related topics• Logo and product name on page 72• Operational buttons on page 72• Navigation Field on page 73• Function buttons on page 74

Logo and product nameThe Logo and Product name is located on the right sideof the Title Bar at the top of the ME70 presentation.

The Simrad logo and the product name (ME70) isshown.

Right-click the Simrad logo to open the About dialog box with information about thecurrent software version.

Operational buttonsA number of operational buttons are available on the Title Bar.

Topics• Menu button on page 72• Record button on page 73

Menu button

The Menu button is located on the right side of the Title Bar at the top of the ME70presentation.

Click once on theMenu button to hide the menu, and one more time to bring it back again.

Related topics• Menu system on page 89

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Record button

The Record button is located on the left side of the TitleBar at the top of the ME70 presentation.

Click this button to start and stop recording.

The recording function is set up using the parametersavailable on the Record button on the Operation menu.

Remember to stop the recording when you have finished the job! If you forget, yourhard disk may be filled!

Note


Related topics• Saving raw data on page 44• Replaying raw data on page 45

Navigation FieldThe navigational information is located on the Title Bar at the top of the ME70 displaypresentation.

These are not buttons, but fields providing useful information related to the vesselmovements.

Note

This information on the Title Bar must not be used for vessel navigation!

Geographical location (latitude and longitude)

The Geographical location information isprovided in the Navigation Field on the Title Barat the top of the ME70 display presentation.

Provided that a GPS system is connected to the ME70, this field on the Title Bar willdisplay the vessel's geographical position in longitude and latitude.

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Heading

The Heading information is provided in the Navigation Field onthe Title Bar at the top of the ME70 display presentation.

Provided that the relevant sensor is connected to the ME70, this field on the Title Barwill display the vessel's current heading.

The communication with the external GPS system is set up using the Navigation buttonon the Setup menu.

Speed

The Speed information is provided in the Navigation Field onthe Title Bar at the top of the ME70 display presentation.

Provided that a GPS or speed log system is connected to the ME70, this field on the TitleBar will display the vessel's current speed.

The communication with the external GPS system or speed sensor is set up using theNavigation button on the Setup menu.

Function buttonsThe Function buttons are located on the right side ofthe Title Bar at the top of the ME70 presentation.

Message button

The Message button is located at the left side of the Title Bar at the top ofthe ME70 presentation.

Click the button to open the Messages dialog box.

By flashing, thisMessage button indicates that the ME70 system has issued amessage.

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Help button

The Help button is located at the left side of the Title Bar at the top of theME70 presentation.

Click this button to open the ME70 context sensitive on-line help. The buttonopens the help system’s start page.

Context sensitive on-line help is also available from the various dialog boxes in theME70. Click any Help button [?] in the top right corner of any dialog box to openthe help system.

Related topics

Minimize button

The Minimize button is located at the left side of the Title Bar at the top ofthe ME70 presentation.

Click this button to minimize the ME70 display presentation. This is anoperating system function.

To restore the presentation to its previous size, click the ME70 button on the operatingsystem's Status Bar.

Resize button

The Resize button is located at the right side of the Title Bar at the top of theME70 presentation.

Click this button to change the size of the ME70 display presentation. Thisis an operating system function.

To restore the presentation to its previous size, click the Resize button again.

Exit button

The Exit button is located at the left side of the Title Bar at the top of theME70 presentation.

Click this button to close the ME70 program.

Observe the dedicated procedure to power down the ME70 system.

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Replay barThe Replay Bar is positioned directly below the Title Bar. It is automatically opened onceyou select Replay mode.

A Stop

Click this button to stop the playback.Tip

The Replay Bar will not be removed from the presentation until you select anotheroperational mode.

B Play/Pause

Click this button to start the playback, or to pause it.C Replay speed

Click this slider and move it sideways to adjust the replay speed.D File select

This button shows which file you are currently playing, Click the button to open theReplay File dialog box.

E Progress

This bar shows you the replay progress of the current file. If you have chosen toloop the replay file(s), the indicator bar will start from left every time the startof the file appears.

Tip

To start Replay mode, use the Operation button on the Operation menu.

If you wish your playback file to run continuously, click to activate Loop in the ReplayFile dialog box.

Related topics• Operation menu on page 93

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Menu systemThe menu system is by default located on the righthand side of the ME70 presentation.

The selection of operational parameters on the ME70is done using a tree structure with a main menu, aset of submenus, and several menu buttons. Some ofthe menu buttons open dialog boxes or submenus tooffer additional choices.

The Main menu provides the parameters mostfrequently used during normal operation.

Below the main menu, dedicated buttons are used toopen the submenus. These are (from left):A The Operation menu controls the main operational

parameters.B The Display menu controls the visual aspects of the

system, such as parameters related to the displaypresentation.

C The Setup menu allows you to control theconfiguration of the signal processing, as wellas system installation and maintenance, and theinterfaces to peripheral devices.

D The Active menu has its content linked to the current active item (view or object).Use it to access special features available for the selected view or object.

E The Extras menu is not a menu. It provides a list of numerical data for the selectedview.

Tip

A detailed breakdown of the commands and parameters available in the menu systemis provided in the Menu system chapter.

Related topics• Menu system on page 89

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Swath and channel viewsThe information provided by the ME70 is presented as a number of views; five channelviews and one swath view.Topics• Swath view on page 79• Channel views on page 80• Echogram field on page 81• Colour scale field on page 82• Depth field on page 83• Single Target Position field on page 84• Single target histogram field on page 85• Numerical field on page 85• Scope field on page 86• Echogram markers on page 86Related topics• Display organization on page 69• Enabling and disabling information fields in the channel and swath views on page 48• Changing the size of the channel views and fields on page 49• Selecting which beams to see in the channel views on page 49• Opening a selected beam in a separate window on page 50• Selecting presentation colours on page 50

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Swath viewThe ME70 swath view represents an imageconstructed from the echogram data of allbeams in the fan. It is a two-dimensionalsonar-like image that is built up for eachping. It contains no history.

The beams currently described in thechannel views are identified between thetwo yellow lines. The depth value at thetop of the swath view is measured by thecentre beam.A The total width of the swath is shown

between the two black lines. Theswath width depends on the currentbeam configuration.

B The two lines indicating a subsectionof the swath shows the currentlyselected beams in the channel views.If you have defined and activated the two reference beams, the width of this sectionis three beams. These are the beams shown in the top three channel views.If the two reference beams are not activated, the width of this section is five beams.

Which beams to be included in this section is defined using the Beam Selectionbutton on the Display menu.

C This vertical line on the left side indicates that the Colour Scale field has beenenabled in the Configure Window dialog box. To see the colour scale, click on thegrey line and drag it towards right.

D This is the Depth field. It has been enabled in the Configure Window dialog box. Tochange the size of the Depth field, or to minimize it, click on the grey line and dragit up or down. The size of the characters will change automatically.

If you right-click with the cursor positioned inside the swathview, a small short-cut menu will appear to provide relatedoptions. The Configure window option on the short-cut menuallows you to access the Colour Scale and Depth fields.These fields are identical to those used in the channel views.

Related topics• Colour scale field on page 82• Depth field on page 83• Swath short-cut menu on page 103

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Channel viewsFive channel views are provided in the ME70 presentation. There are three views next toeach other in the top “row”, and one on each side of the Swath view. Each channel viewprovides the echogram for the chosen beam. In addition, a a number of optional fieldsale available to offer additional information related to the echogram.

The beam displayed in the top centre view is chosenusing the Beam Selection button on the Display menu.The chosen beams are indicated in the Swath view usinga yellow triangle. Once the beam for the top centrechannel view is selected, the other channel views willautomatically show you the two or three beams “before” and “after” the chosen beam.• Top left: Chosen beam –1• Top right: Chosen beam +1• Bottom left: Chosen beam –2• Bottom right: Chosen beam +2Important

If you have selected and enabled two reference beams using the Reference Beams tabin the Beam Mode dialog box, the two bottom channel views will always present thesereference beams.

Example 5 Choosing beams for the channel views

If you choose beam 7 with the Beam Selection button, the top channel windows willshow you beams 6, 7 and 8, while the bottom channel views will show you beams5 and 9 – unless you have selected and enabled two reference beams.

Each channel view will by default presentthe echogram for the chosen beam, aswell as information fields presentingbeam parameters. Each field – includingthe echogram field – can be enabled ordisabled.A The top of the channel view may offer

the Depth field. To change the sizeof the Depth field, or to minimize it,click on the grey line and drag it upor down. The size of the characterswill change automatically.

B On the left side of the view, you canenable and retrieve the Colour Scale, Single Target Detection and Single TargetPosition fields. To change the size of each field, or to minimize it, click on thegrey line and drag it sideways.

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C On the right side of the view, you can enable and retrieve the Scope and Numericalfields. To change the size of each field, or to minimize it, click on the grey line anddrag it sideways.

D The bottom of the Echogram field contains a text string with the followinginformation:• Current beam shown in the channel view• Frequency of the chosen beam• X and Y values indicating the steering angle – in degrees – in the alongship

(X) and athwarthship directions (Y).Tip

If you right-click with the cursor positioned inside theechogram field in a channel view, a small short-cut menuwill appear to provide related options. The Configure windowoption on the short-cut menu allows you to enable the variousfields.

Each field has a similar short-cut menu to provide access tothe relevant parameter dialog boxes.

Related topics• Swath view on page 79• Echogram short-cut menu on page 101

Echogram fieldThe Echogram field will normally dominate each channel view in the ME70 presentation.

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Description

The Echogram field containsinformation about the acousticalvalues. The settings made in theEchogram dialog box specifiesdisplayed information type, while thesettings in the Colour Scale dialog boxis used to control the presentation.

You can add a selection of markers tothe echogram presentation to enhanceand/or add information.

Tip

If you place the cursor inside thefield, a small yellow label will appearto give you a detailed read-out ofcertain information. The Tooltip dialog box defines which information that will be shown.

If you press the right mouse button with the cursor position within this field, a dedicatedshort-cut menu will appear.

Related topics• Echogram markers on page 86• Echogram short-cut menu on page 101

Colour scale fieldThe Colour Scale field is located next to the Echogram field in the five channel views,and next to the Swath field in the Swath view. To open the field, click on the grey borderline and drag it sideways.

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Description

The Colour scale field visualizes the mapping of echo strength intoone out of 12 colours, light blue for weak signals and dark brown forstrong signals. Basically, each discrete colour represents a 3 dB rangeof echo signal strength implying that the next colour is selected everytime the echo strength doubles. However, as the number of colourscan differ, and dedicated colour schemes can be used, this is subjectto change with specific settings. By changing the Gain 20Log (or Gain40Log), the limits of the colour scale are changed.

A high numeric TVG value (= high gain) displays weak echo signalsproperly while the stronger signals saturate into dark brown colour.A low numeric value displays strong echo signals properly. Weaksignals below the lower limit of the colour scale are not displayed(the display background colour is used).

Tip

If you place the cursor inside the view, a small yellow label will appear to give youa detailed read-out of certain information. The Tooltip dialog box defines whichinformation that will be shown.


Related topics• Colour Scale short-cut menu on page 102

Depth fieldThe Depth field is located on the top of each channel view, and on top of the Swath view.To open the field, click on the grey border line and drag it down.

Description

The Depth field displays the current depth.

Tip

If you click the right mouse button with the cursor position within this view, a dedicatedshort-cut menu will appear.

Related topics• Depth short-cut menu on page 99

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Single Target Position fieldThe Single Target Position field is normally located in the top left corner of the channelview. To open the field, click on the grey border line and drag it sideways.

Description

This field shows the position within the beam of thedetected single echoes for the current ping (largestcircles) and the three previous pings (smaller circles),all in the active layer. The colours used to display thisinformation are determined from current target strength(TS) value and the settings in the Colour Scale dialog box.

Tip

If you place the cursor inside the field, a small yellow label will appear to give youa detailed read-out of certain information. The Tooltip dialog box defines whichinformation that will be shown.


Related topics• Single Target Position short-cut menu on page 100

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Single target histogram fieldThe Single Target Histogram field is normally located in the bottom left corner of thechannel view. To open the field, click on the grey border line and drag it sideways.

Description

The histogram plot shows a visualizationof the target strength (TS) distribution forthe single echoes detected in the Echogramfield. The colours used to display thisinformation are determined from thecurrent target strength (TS) value and thesettings in the Colour Scale dialog box. Thestatistics are based on the active layer andthe current calculation interval.

Tip

If you place the cursor inside the field, asmall yellow label will appear to give youa detailed read-out of certain information.The Tooltip dialog box defines whichinformation that will be shown.

If you press the right mouse button withthe cursor position within this field, a dedicated short-cut menu will appear.

Related topics• Single Target Histogram short-cut menu on page 100

Numerical fieldThe Numerical field is located on the right side of the channel view. To open the field,click on the grey border line and drag it sideways.

Description

The Numerical field provides listing with all the various parametersapplicable for the current mode and operation. The following lists areavailable:

• Transducer: Typical specifications for the active transducer

• Transceiver: Typical specifications for the transceiver

• Environment displays the current read-out from the active sensors and the noisefigures for the selected beam.

• Layers: Current parameters from the active layers

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Tip

If you press the right mouse button with the cursor position within this field, a dedicatedshort-cut menu will appear. On the short-cut menu, you can open the Numerical Viewdialog box, which allows you to define the contents of the Numerical field.

Related topics• Numerical short-cut menu on page 102

Scope fieldThe Scope field is normally located on the right side of the Echogram field. To open thefield, click on the grey border line and drag it sideways.

Description

The Scope field provides a logarithmic oscilloscopevisualization of the last ping. The presentationcorresponds to the current settings in the Echogram field.The field draws a range of horizontal symmetrical colourlines. The distance from the vertical centre axis and theline colour reflects the received echo scatter.

Tip

If you place the cursor inside the field, a small yellowlabel will appear to give you a detailed read-out ofcertain information. The Tooltip dialog box defines whichinformation that will be shown.

If you press the right mouse button with the cursor positionwithin this view, a dedicated short-cut menu will appear.

Related topics• Scope short-cut menu on page 103

Echogram markersThe echograms provided by the ME70 may containadditional information. The following lines, markers and annotations can be enabled.

Topics• Bottom line on page 87• White line on page 87• Trawl line on page 87• Vertical ticks on page 87

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Bottom line

This line marker is enabled in the Echogram dialogbox on the Active menu.

The bottom contour may be enhanced by adding a bottom line.

The bottom line appears as a black line, and follows the bottom contour.Related topics• Adding horizontal markers to the echogram on page 54

White line

This line marker is enabled in the Echogram dialogbox on the Active menu.

The bottom contour may also be enhanced by addinga white line.The white line is an extra thick white line that is added to just below the bottom. Thewhite line will not remove information, it will simply “push” the information furtherdown in order to make the bottom easier to see.Related topics• Adding horizontal markers to the echogram on page 54

Trawl line

This line marker is enabled in the Echogram dialog box on the Active menu.

Whenever available and connected, trawl systems (PI and ITI) communicate headropedepth and/or headrope-to-footrope distance to the ME70 at regular intervals. Theinformation from these sensors are drawn as horizontal lines on the ME70 echogram.Related topics• Adding horizontal markers to the echogram on page 54

Vertical ticks

Vertical ticks in the echogram can be enabled in the Echogram dialog box on the Activemenu.

The following types of vertical ticks are available in the Echogram dialog box.

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a None

No vertical markers are shown.b Ping

If you select this option, a short vertical line is drawn in the upper part of theechogram once every specified number of pings.

c Time

This option places a short vertical line in the upper part of the echogram once everyspecified number of seconds.

d Distance

This option inserts a short vertical line is drawn in the upper part of the echogramonce every specified number of nautical miles.

e Annotations

Select Text or Line to allow annotations to be displayed in the echogram view.If you select Line, the text annotation will be followed by a vertical line forimproved visibility.

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Menu system

The menu navigation employed by the ME70 is similar to the other Simrad applicationswhich follow the new user interface standards developed by Simrad.

The main menu is by default located at the right side of the screen. By means ofdedicated icons at the bottom of the main menu, you can open and close the relevantsubmenus. Menu choices shown in dark colours are not available for the currentoperation or operational mode.

Tip

This chapter only provides the purpose of each function and dialog box. If you wish tolearn more about the functionality and the parameters offered, refer to the Simrad ME70Reference manual or the context sensitive online help.

Topics• About menus and buttons on page 90• Main menu on page 92• Operation menu on page 93• Display menu on page 94• Setup menu on page 95• Active menu on page 97• Extras menu on page 98• Shortcut menus on page 99

– Depth short-cut menu on page 99– Single Target Position short-cut menu on page 100– Single Target Histogram short-cut menu on page 100– Echogram short-cut menu on page 101– Colour Scale short-cut menu on page 102– Numerical short-cut menu on page 102– Scope short-cut menu on page 103– Swath short-cut menu on page 103

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About menus and buttonsThe selection of operational parameters on the ME70 is done using a tree structure with amain menu, a set of submenus, and several menu buttons. Some of the menu buttonsopen dialog boxes or submenus to offer additional choices.

TheMain menu provides the parameters most frequently used during normal operation.

Below the main menu, dedicated buttons are used to open the submenus. These are(from left):A The Operation menu controls the main operational parameters.B The Display menu controls the visual aspects of the system, such as parameters

related to the display presentation.C The Setup menu allows you to control the configuration of the signal processing, as

well as system installation and maintenance, and the interfaces to peripheral devices.D The Active menu has its content linked to the current active item (view or object).

Use it to access special features available for the selected view or object.E The Extras menu is not a menu. It provides a list of numerical data for the selected

view.

Tip

Menu button

On the Title bar, click once on theMenu button to hide the menu. Click one more time tobring the menu back again.

Tip

For detailed information about every function, button and dialog box, refer to the ME70Reference manual or to the context sensitive on-line help.

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Button typesEach menu contains several menu buttons. Each button shows the function of the button,some of them also display the current parameter setting. The majority of the buttons ineach menu provide one or more of these functions.a You can increase and decrease parameter values by clicking the [+] and [–] fields

on the button.b You can change parameter values by clicking on the button, holding the mouse

depressed, and then moving the cursor sideways.c You can change parameter values by means of the scroll wheel on the mouse or

trackball.d You can enter parameter values from the keyboard (if you have one).e You can select parameter value from the button's submenu.f You can open a dedicated dialog box.

How to select a numerical parameter using the +/- buttons1 Move the cursor to either side of the button, and

observe that the background colour changes.a Click on the left side of the button to decrease the numerical value.b Click on the right side of the button to increase the numerical value.

How to select a numerical parameter by moving the cursor horizontally1 Place the cursor on the middle of the button.2 Click and hold the left mouse button depressed.3 Move the cursor horizontally: left to decrease the value, or right to increase it.4 Release the mouse button when the requested value is shown.

How to select a numerical parameter by means of the scroll wheel1 Place the cursor on the middle of the button.2 Spin the scroll wheel in either direction to increase

or decrease the value.3 Release the scroll wheel when the requested value is shown.

How to select a numerical parameter using the keyboard1 Click the middle section of the button to open a

text field.2 Type the numerical value into the text field.

If the numerical value exceeds the permitted rangefor the parameter, the frame in the text field willbe red.You will then not be able to keep that value.

3 Press the Enter key.

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How to select a parameter using a submenu1 Click the middle section of the button to open

a submenu, then click the requested command,option or button.The chosen value is applied, and the submenu isautomatically closed.

2 Whenever applicable, you can also access the submenu by clicking the left and rightside of the button. This method will not show you the choices on the submenu.a Click on the left side of the button to select a 'lower' submenu choice.b Click on the right side of the button to select a 'higher' submenu choice.

How to select parameters using a dialog box1 Click anywhere on the button to open a separate

dialog box.

Main menuThe following functions and parameters are available from the Main menu.1 User Settings

The User Settings dialog box allows you to save thecurrent user settings (parameter selections), and toretrieve factory or previously saved user settings.

2 Beam Mode Selection

The Beam Mode Selection function allows you toactivate one of the pre-defined beam modes.

3 Range

The Range function allows you to specify thevertical range of the water column covered by theechogram. The range is defined from a selectedstart range, and down to a value beneath thecurrent bottom depth. The value shown andselected is by default applied only to the currentlyselected echogram.

4 Start Range

The Start Range function allows you to specify the start depth of the echogram, thatis from which depth in the water column the presentation shall start. The valueshown and selected is applied to the currently selected echogram type.

5 Gain

The purpose of the Gain function is to adjust the minimum colour scale thresholdthe echogram presentations, and thus creating a display gain effect.

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Submenus

The bottom of the Main menu holds the icons for the submenus. Click on one of theseicons to open the requested submenu.

Menu button

On the Title bar, click once on theMenu button to hidethe menu. Click one more time to bring the menu back again.

Tip


Operation menuThe following functions and parameters are available from the Operation menu.

Click once on the icon under the Main menu to open the Operation menu. Click onemore time on the icon to close the menu.1 Operation

The purpose of the Operation function is to controlthe operational mode of the ME70. You can setit to Normal, Replay or Inactive.

2 Ping

The purpose of the Ping function is to enable ordisable the ME70 audio transmissions into thewater (“pinging”).

3 Ping Mode

Provided that the ME70 TX Mode is set to Active,the Ping Mode function controls how often theME70 shall transmit its energy into the water. InActive mode, the setting determines how often theME70 will “listen”.

4 Ping Interval

Use the Ping Interval function to choose the time (in milliseconds) between eachtransmission (ping) when Ping Mode is set to Interval.

5 Record

The Record function allows you to record the echogram information, and save thison the Processor Unit’s hard disk. The raw data files can later be copied or moved toother recordable media, or to another computer on the network.

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6 TX Power

The TX Power function allows you to increase or decrease the transmission power.7 TX Mode

The TX Mode function allows you to define the transmit mode for the acoustictransmission.

8 View Beam Mode

The View Beam Mode function opens the Beam Mode dialog box. It allows you toobserve the current parameter settings and curves.

Tip


Display menuThe following functions and parameters are available from the Display menu.

Click once on the icon under the Main menu to open the Display menu. Click one moretime on the icon to close the menu.1 Palette

The purpose of the Palette function is to choosewhich colour theme to be used by the ME70presentations.

2 No of Colours

The No of Colours functions allows you to choosethe number of colours to be used on the ME70presentation.

3 Echo Colours

The Echo Colours function allows you tochoose which colour scale to use on the ME70presentations.

4 Gain Power

The Gain Power function allows you to increaseor decrease the colour strength on the displaypresentation.

5 Expansion

The Expansion function allows you to compensate when the number of samples islower than the number of pixels, and the sample values are expanded to pixel values.

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6 Beam Selection

The Beam Selection function allows you to select the beams to be displayed in theechogram views.

7 Open Window

The Open Window function allows you to open a dedicated window for the selectedchannel view.

8 Tooltip

The Tooltip dialog box allows you to specify which tool tips (information displayednext to the cursor) to be shown in the different views.

Tip


Setup menuThe following functions and parameters are available from the Setup menu.

Click once on the icon under the Main menu to open the Setup menu. Click one moretime on the icon to close the menu.1 Beam Mode Adm(inistration)

The Beam Mode Administration dialog box allowsyou to create and delete beam modes for the ME70system. By means of the Beam Mode dialog boxyou can also view and edit the beam modes.

2 Calibration

The purpose of the Calibration button is to startthe Calibration program.

3 BITE

The purpose of the BITE button is to a start anduse control a test and diagnose program thatchecks the performance of the ME70

4 Calculation Interval

The Calculation Interval dialog box allows youto define the time, number of pings, or partof the echogram view used to perform certaincalculations. It will further calculate integrationvalues and build up target strength histograms.

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5 Vessel Distance

The Vessel Distance function allows you to monitor the vessel’s sailed distance.6 Synchronization

The purpose of the Synchronization dialog box is to set up the ME70 to operatealone, or as a master or slave in a synchronized system. Synchronization is requiredin order to avoid interference if the ME70 is used simultaneously with otherhydroacoustic instruments within the same frequency range.

7 Motion Compensation

The Motion Compensation dialog box allows you to monitor the motion values incurrent use, both in Normal and Replay modes. You can also enable or disableheave, roll and pitch compensation.

8 TRU On/Off

The TRU On/Off dialog box permits you to start, stop and restart the ME70Transceiver Unit. You can also use the dialog box to monitor the power-on sequence.

9 Data Output

The Data Output function provides you with access to all the key parameters relatedto data export and storage.

10 Install(ation)

The Installation function opens a small submenu with access to the functions anddialog boxes required to set up the ME70 for operational use.

Tip


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Active menuThe Active menu is context sensitive. This means that it is empty until you click in aview on the ME70 presentation. The chosen view will appear with a thicker frame toindicate that it is “active”. The Active menu will then offer a selection of functionsrelative to the active view. The Active menu will thus change from different viewsand different presentation formatsWhile the illustration shown here only provides a limited amount of choices, the listholds all the options.Click once on the icon under the Main menu to open the Active menu. Click one moretime on the icon to close the menu.The menu buttons provided on the Active menu are shown or hidden according to thecurrent activity. While the illustration shown here only provides a limited amount ofchoices, the list holds all the options.1 TVG

The TVG (Time Variable Gain) function allowsyou to compensate the received data for loss dueto geometric spread.

2 Bottom Detection

The purpose of the Bottom Detection dialog boxis to define the upper and lower depth limits mostlikely to be used during the ME70 operation. Inthis dialog box, you can also modify the settingfor Backstep Min. Level to change the bottomdetection relative to the bottom echo.

3 Colour Scale

The purpose of the Colour Scale dialog box is tochange the dynamic range of the colour scale.

4 Configure Window

The Configure Window dialog box is used to setwhich views to show in the active window.

5 Delete Layer

The Delete Layer function is used to delete the active (selected) layer in the view.The layer is identified with red text in the Numerical view.

6 Echogram


7 Horizontal Axis

This Horizontal Axis dialog box is used to set the horizontal display span of theEchogram view.

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8 Layer Properties

The Layer Properties dialog box is used to edit the properties for the active layer.9 New Layer

The New Layer dialog box is used to insert and define a new active layer.10 Single Target Detection

The Single Target Detection dialog box is used to set the operational parameters fordetecting single targets within the active layer.

11 Histogram

This Histogram dialog box is used to set parameters for the histogram displayedin the Single Target Histogram view.

12 Ping-Ping Filter

The Ping-Ping Filter removes unwanted noise and echoes from the ME70presentation.

13 Maximize Window

TheMaximize Window function allows you to enlarge the currently selected view.

Tip


Extras menuThis menu provides a list of numerical data for the selected view.

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Shortcut menusThe following functions and parameters are available from the short-cut menus.The short-cut menus are opened by clicking the right mouse button when the cursor islocated in any of the views. Various menus are provided depending on the current view.To make a choice, right-click in a view and observe the drop-down menu. Select a newitem on the drop-down menu by clicking the relevant option.The menu appears in the sonar presentation views, and offers functionality related to thecurrent view.Topics• Depth short-cut menu on page 99• Single Target Position short-cut menu on page 100• Single Target Histogram short-cut menu on page 100• Echogram short-cut menu on page 101• Colour Scale short-cut menu on page 102• Numerical short-cut menu on page 102• Scope short-cut menu on page 103• Swath short-cut menu on page 103Tip


Depth short-cut menuThe Depth short-cut menu allows you to control theproperties of the Depth presentation. It opens when youright-click in the Depth presentation.1 Bottom Detection

The purpose of the Bottom Detection dialog box is todefine the upper and lower depth limits most likely to be used during the ME70operation. In this dialog box, you can also modify the setting for Backstep Min.Level to change the bottom detection relative to the bottom echo.

2 Configure Window

The Configure Window dialog box is used to set which views to show in the activewindow.

3 Hide ViewThe Hide View function hides the view from which the command was chosen.

4 Maximize (Window)


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Single Target Position short-cut menuThe Single Target Position short-cut menu allows youto control the properties of the Single Target Positionpresentation. It opens when you right-click in the SingleTarget Position presentation.1 Single Target Detection


2 Colour Scale

The purpose of the Colour Scale dialog box is to change the dynamic range of thecolour scale.

3 Configure Window


4 Hide View

The Hide View function hides the view from which the command was chosen.5 Maximize (Window)


Single Target Histogram short-cut menuThe Single Target Histogram short-cut menu allows youto control the properties of the Single Target Histogrampresentation. It opens when you right-click in the SingleTarget Histogram presentation.1 Histogram

This Histogram dialog box is used to set parameters forthe histogram displayed in the Single Target Histogram view.

2 Single Target Detection


3 Colour Scale

The purpose of the Colour Scale dialog box is to change the dynamic range of thecolour scale.

4 Configure Window


5 Hide View

The Hide View function hides the view from which the command was chosen.

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6 Maximize (Window)


Echogram short-cut menuThe Echogram short-cut menu allows you to control theproperties of the Echogram presentation. It opens when youright-click in the Echogram presentation.1 Echogram

The Echogram dialog box allows you to set up theparameters controlling the echogram presentation. Thethree tabs control the horizontal lines, the echogram typewith applied TVG, and how sample data are convertedto pixel data.

2 Horizontal Axis

This Horizontal Axis dialog box is used to set the horizontal display span of theEchogram view.

3 Range

The Bottom Range dialog box is used to specify the vertical depth range for theEchogram view in bottom related echograms.

The Surface Range dialog box is used to specify the vertical depth range for theEchogram view in surface related echograms.

You will also access these parameters from the File Output dialog box when youset up EK500 datagram output.

4 New layer

The New Layer dialog box is used to insert and define a new active layer.5 Layer Properties

The Layer Properties dialog box is used to edit the properties for the active layer.6 Delete Layer


7 Configure Window


8 Hide View



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Colour Scale short-cut menuThe Colour Scale short-cut menu allows you to control theproperties of the Colour Scale presentation. It opens whenyou right-click in the Colour Scale presentation.1 Colour Scale

The purpose of the Colour Scale dialog box is to changethe dynamic range of the colour scale.

2 Configure Window


3 Hide View



Numerical short-cut menuThe Numerical short-cut menu allows you to control theproperties of the Numerical presentation and the currentlayers. It opens when you right-click in the Numericalpresentation.1 Numerical View

The Numerical View dialog box is used to select whichinformation is displayed in the Numerical view.

2 New layer

The New Layer dialog box is used to insert and define a new active layer.3 Layer Properties

The Layer Properties dialog box is used to edit the properties for the active layer.4 Delete Layer


5 Configure Window


6 Hide View



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Scope short-cut menuThe Scope short-cut menu allows you to control the propertiesof the Scope presentation and the current layers. It openswhen you right-click in the Scope presentation.1 Configure Window


2 Hide View



Swath short-cut menuThe Swath short-cut menu allows you to control theproperties of the Swath presentation and the current layers.It opens when you right-click in the Swath presentation.1 Configure Window


2 Hide View



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Index12colours, 39

64colours, 39

AAboutSimrad ME70, 11

Acoustic datarecording, 27, 44

Activetransmission, 31

Active menuoptions, 97

Adjustgain, 33, 60

Annotationsenable, 88

Apply user settingsprocedure, 38

Audiencethis manual, 7

BBasic descriptionProcessor Unit, 14

Bathymetric systemprocedures, 63

Beam modecreate new, 64delete, 66edit, 65export, 66import, 66selecting, 28, 63

BITE dialog boxpurpose, 95

Bottomreference, 53

Bottom contourenhance, 57

Bottom linedescription, 87enable, 57

Boundary lineschange, 49

ButtonMessage, 74

Button descriptionMenu, 72Record, 73

ButtonsActive menu, 97

Colour Scale short-cutmenu, 102Depth short-cut menu, 99Display menu, 94Echogram short-cutmenu, 101how to use the menubuttons, 26, 91Main menu, 92Numerical short-cutmenu, 102Operation menu, 93Scope short-cut menu, 103Setup menu, 95Shortcut menus, 99Single Target Histogramshort-cut menu, 100Single Target Positionshort-cut menu, 100Swath short-cut menu, 103

CChangeping rate, 29, 52TVG setting, 56, 62

Channel view, 22, 69Colour scale, 82depth, 83Echogram field, 81Numerical, 85Scope, 86Single target histogram, 85Single target position, 84

Channel viewsdescriptions, 78location, 49, 80

ChoicesActive menu, 97Colour Scale short-cutmenu, 102Depth short-cut menu, 99Display menu, 94Echogram short-cutmenu, 101Main menu, 92Numerical short-cutmenu, 102Operation menu, 93Scope short-cut menu, 103Setup menu, 95Shortcut menus, 99Single Target Histogramshort-cut menu, 100Single Target Positionshort-cut menu, 100

Swath short-cut menu, 103Clickdefinition, 17, 20

Colour displaydescription, 14minimum specifications, 14

Colour palette, 39change, 50

Colour scale, 40field, 82

Colour Scaleprinciples, 51purpose, 97, 100, 102

Colour Scale short-cutmenuoptions, 102

Colourschange echo, 40change number, 39

CommandsActive menu, 97Colour Scale short-cutmenu, 102Depth short-cut menu, 99Display menu, 94Echogram short-cutmenu, 101Main menu, 92Numerical short-cutmenu, 102Operation menu, 93Scope short-cut menu, 103Setup menu, 95Shortcut menus, 99Single Target Histogramshort-cut menu, 100Single Target Positionshort-cut menu, 100Swath short-cut menu, 103

Computer mousedescription, 20

Context sensitive on-linehelp, 7Control wheeltrackball, 21

Copyechogram sequence files, 46raw data files, 46

Createnew beam mode, 64

Current headingdescription, 74

Current speeddescription, 74

Cursormovement, 20

104 378945/B

Index

Customizinguser preferences, 39

DDefault directoryfor raw data, 47

Deletea beam mode, 66echogram sequence files, 46raw data files, 46

Depthfield, 83references, 53

Depth short-cut menuoptions, 99

Descriptionbottom line, 87channel views, 78display views, 68Exit Button, 75Function buttons, 74geographical location, 73heading, 74Help Button, 75Logo and Product name, 72Main Menu, 25, 77Menu button, 72menu system, 89Message Button, 74Minimize Button, 75Navigation Field, 73Operating principles, 20Power Supply Unit, 15Processor Unit, 14Record button, 73Resize Button, 75system, 11system menus, 25, 77Title Bar, 24, 71trackball, 21Transceiver Unit, 14Transducer, 15Trawl line, 87Vertical ticks, 87Vessel speed, 74White line, 87

Diagramsystem, 13

Directorydefault for raw data, 47

Displaychange field size, 49colour scale, 40colours, 39number of colours, 39skin, 39view procedures, 47

Display fieldschange size, 49

Display menuoptions, 94

Display Viewsdescriptions, 68

Distance markerechogram, 88

Double-clickdefinition, 17, 20

Drawingsystem, 13

EEcho colourschange, 40

Echogramannotations enable, 88choose type, 53colour palette, 50colours, 50distance marker, 88field, 81ping marker, 88presentations, 52time marker, 88

Echogram colours, 39Echogram linebottom line, 87Trawl line, 87Vertical ticks, 87White line, 87

Echogram sequenceaccess files, 46

Echogram sequencesplay back, 45recall, 45saving, 27, 44

Echogram short-cut menuoptions, 101

Echogram(s), 22, 69Edita beam mode, 65

Environmental parametersadjust, 40

Erasea beam mode, 66

Exit Buttondescription, 75

Exporta beam mode, 66

Export dataaccess files, 46

FFactory settingshow to choose, 38

FamiliarizationME70, 9

FieldColour scale, 82depth, 83Echogram, 81Numerical, 85Scope, 86Single target histogram, 85Single target position, 84

Folderdefault for raw data, 47

Function buttonsdescription, 74

FunctionsDisplay menu, 94Operation menu, 93

GGainadjust, 33, 60adjust TVG, 62description, 33, 60purpose, 92

Geographical locationdescription, 73

Getting started, 17

HHandling rulestransducer, 10

Headingdescription, 74

Heat, excessivedo NOT exposetransducer, 10

Helpaccessing, 41on-line, 7

Help Buttondescription, 75

Horizontalmarker lines, 54

Horizontal linesbottom line, 87Trawl line, 87White line, 87

How toaccess echogramsequence files, 46access on-line help, 41access raw data, 46adjust gain, 33, 60adjust salinity, 40adjust sound speed, 40adjust TVG gain, 62beam mode select, 28, 63

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Simrad ME70

change echo colours, 40change echogram colourpalette, 50change number ofcolours, 39change palette, 39change ping rate, 29, 52change presentationcolours, 50change size of displayfields, 49change TVG setting, 56choose echogram type, 53choose Normaloperational mode,29create new beam mode, 64delete a beam mode, 66edit a beam mode, 65enable bottom line, 57enable horizontal markerlines, 54enable vertical markerlines, 55enable white line, 57export a beam mode, 66import a beam mode, 66introduction toprocedures, 36move boundary lines, 49open on-line help, 41play back echogramsequences, 45play back raw data, 45power off ME70, 18power on ME70, 18recall echogramsequences, 45recall raw data, 45restart ME70, 19retrieve factory settings, 38save ME70 data, 27, 44save raw data, 27, 44saving user settings, 34, 37select beam mode, 28, 63select start range, 32, 59select tx mode, 31select vertical range, 32, 59trackball, 21tx mode select, 31use previously saveduser settings, 38use the menu buttons,26, 91

IIcon description

Logo and Product name, 72Importa beam mode, 66

Importantif something breaksdown, 10information, 10transducer handling, 10when the ME70 is notused, 10

Intervalping, 30, 52

IntroductionME70, 9

Lleft-handedRedefine mouse buttons, 20

Liftingtransducer, 10

Linesbottom line, 87Trawl line, 87Vertical ticks, 87White line, 87

Locationchannel views, 49, 80description, 73

Logo and Product nameicon description, 72

MMain menuoptions, 92

Main Menudescription, 25, 77

Main units, 14Marker lineshorisontal, 54vertical, 55

Maximumping rate, 30, 52

ME70basic information, 11familiarization, 9introduction, 9main units, 14Software version, 7

ME70 datarecording, 27, 44

Menu buttondescription, 72

Menu buttonshow to use, 26, 91

Menu system, 89description, 25, 77

Message Button

description, 74Minimize Buttondescription, 75

Modechoose Normal, 29

Modufyping rate, 29, 52

Mousedescription, 20

Mouse buttonsredefine for left-handed, 20

Movea beam mode from onecomputer to another, 66echogram sequence files, 46raw data files, 46

MovementCursor, 20

NNavigation Fielddescription, 73

Normal operational modechoose, 29

Number of colours, 39change, 39

Numericalfield, 85

Numerical short-cut menuoptions, 102

OOff (power)procedure, 18

Off/onprocedures, 18

On (power)procedure, 18

On-line help, 7accessing, 41

On/offprocedures, 18

Operating principles, 20Operating systemProcessor Unit, 14

Operationpurpose, 93

Operation menuoptions, 93

Operational modechoose Normal, 29

Operational proceduresintroduction, 36

OptionsActive menu, 97Colour Scale short-cutmenu, 102

106 378945/B

Index

Depth short-cut menu, 99Display menu, 94Echogram short-cutmenu, 101Main menu, 92Numerical short-cutmenu, 102Operation menu, 93Scope short-cut menu, 103Setup menu, 95Shortcut menus, 99Single Target Histogramshort-cut menu, 100Single Target Positionshort-cut menu, 100Swath short-cut menu, 103

PPalette, 39change, 50procedure, 39

Passivetransmission, 31

Pinginterval, 30, 52maximum speed, 30, 52single step, 30, 52

Ping functionpurpose, 93

Ping Interval functionpurpose, 93

Ping markerechogram, 88

Ping Mode functionpurpose, 93

Ping ratechange, 29, 52description, 29, 52

Play backechogram sequences, 45raw data, 45

Power offprocedure, 18

Power onprocedure, 18

Power on/offprocedures, 18

Power recycleprocedure, 19

Power Supply Unitdescription, 15

Presentationchannel views, 49, 80choose echogram type, 53colour scale, 40colours, 39echogram procedures, 52

number of colours, 39procedures, 47

Presentation colourschange, 39, 50change echo colours, 40

Presentation palettechange, 50

Presentation themeprocedure, 39

Pressdefinition, 17, 20

Principlesoperation, 20

Procedureaccess echogramsequence files, 46access on-line help, 41access raw data, 46adjust gain, 33, 60adjust salinity, 40adjust sound speed, 40adjust TVG gain, 62change echo colours, 40change echogram colourpalette, 50change number ofcolours, 39change palette, 39change ping rate, 29, 52change presentationcolours, 50change size of displayfields, 49change TVG setting, 56choose echogram type, 53choose Normaloperational mode,29create new beam mode, 64delete a beam mode, 66edit a beam mode, 65enable bottom line, 57enable horizontal markerlines, 54enable vertical markerlines, 55enable white line, 57export a beam mode, 66import a beam mode, 66move boundary lines, 49open on-line help, 41play back echogramsequences, 45play back raw data, 45power off ME70, 18power on ME70, 18recall echogramsequences, 45

recall raw data, 45recording setup, 42restart ME70, 19retrieve factory settings, 38save ME70 data, 27, 44save raw data, 27, 44saving user settings, 34, 37select beam mode, 28, 63select start range, 32, 59select tx mode, 31select vertical range, 32, 59trackball, 21use previously saveduser settings, 38

Proceduresbathymeric system, 63display presentations, 47echogram presentations, 52gain, 60introduction, 36power on/off, 18range, 58recall raw data, 42save raw data, 42signal amplification, 60start depth, 58TVG, 60user preferences, 39user settings, 37view, 47

Processor Unitdescription, 14

Product nameicon description, 72

PurposeBITE dialog box, 95this manual, 7

RRangeprocedures, 58select, 32, 59select start, 32, 59

Range functionpurpose, 92

Raw dataaccess files, 46default directory, 47play back, 45recall, 45save and recallprocedures, 42saving, 27, 44

Readerthis manual, 7

Recallechogram sequences, 45

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raw data, 45RecordME70 data, 27, 44raw data, 27, 44

Record buttondescription, 73

Record functionpurpose, 93

Recordingsetup procedure, 42

Recycle powerprocedure, 19

Redefine mouse buttonsleft-handed, 20

Registered trademarks, 7Removea beam mode, 66

Replay Bar, 23, 70, 76Resize Buttondescription, 75

Restartprocedure, 19

SSalinityadjust, 40

SaveME70 data, 27, 44raw data, 27, 44

Saving user settingsprocedure, 34, 37

Scopefield, 86

Scope short-cut menuoptions, 103

Settingssaving, 34, 37

Setup menuoptions, 95

Ship’s headingdescription, 74

Ship’s speeddescription, 74

Shortcut menusoptions, 99

Simrad ME70basic information, 11familiarization, 9introduction, 9main units, 14

Single stepping, 30, 52

Single target histogramfield, 85

Single Target Histogramshort-cut menuoptions, 100

Single target positionfield, 84

Single Target Positionshort-cut menuoptions, 100

Skin, 39Software version, 7Sound speedadjust, 40

Sounder dataaccess files, 46

Speeddescription, 74

Start depthprocedures, 58select, 32, 59

Start rangeprocedures, 58select, 32, 59

StoreME70 data, 27, 44raw data, 27, 44

Submenus, 23, 70Sunlightdo NOT exposetransducer, 10

Surfacereference, 53

Swathview, 79

Swath short-cut menuoptions, 103

Switch power onprocedure, 18

Systemdescription, 11diagram, 13

System units, 14

TTarget audiencethis manual, 7

Temperatureread, 40

This manualpurpose, 7target audience, 7

Time markerechogram, 88

Title Bar, 22, 69description, 24, 71Logo and Product name, 72

Trackballdescription, 21

Trademarks, 7Transceiver Unitdescription, 14

Transducerdescription, 15handling, 10lifting, 10

Transducer handling, 10Transmission modeabout, 31selecting, 31

Transmission powerpurpose, 94

Transmit powerpurpose, 94

Trawl linedescription, 87

TVGavailable settings, 56, 62change setting, 56, 62

Tx modeabout, 31selecting, 31

TX ModeActive, 31Passive, 31

TX Powerpurpose, 94

Typechoose echogrampresentation, 53

UUnitsmain, 14

User preferencesprocedures, 39

User settingsprocedure, 38procedures, 37saving, 34, 37

User Settings dialog boxpurpose, 34, 37–38, 92

VVersionsoftware, 7

Verticalmarker lines, 55

Vertical linesdistance marker, 87time marker, 87

Vertical rangeselect, 32, 59

Vertical ticksdescription, 87

Vessel headingdescription, 74

Vessel Speeddescription, 74

108 378945/B

Index

Viewprocedures, 47swath, 79

Visual presentationprocedure, 39

WWater temperatureread, 40

White linedescription, 87enable, 57

378945/B 109

Scientific multibeam echo sounder · 2019-12-16 · Operator manual Simrad ME70 Scientific...

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Transcript of Scientific multibeam echo sounder · 2019-12-16 · Operator manual Simrad ME70 Scientific...