Search Results

Sonotronics proudly introduces the picoTag family. They represents the smallest acoustic transmitters in the Sonotronics product line, beginning at .6g in weight in water. These tiny transmitters will allow researchers to gain valuable information on small species never possible before. PT SERIES SUBMINIATURE TRANSMITTERS Range 300m – 750m+ Sonotronics proudly introduces the picoTag family. They represents the smallest acoustic transmitters in the Sonotronics product line, beginning at .6g in weight in water. These tiny transmitters will allow researchers to gain valuable information on small species never possible before. The PicoTags come standard in bullet shaped packaged shown in the photo. This packaging is more commonly used for internal implant or in cases where gluing the transmitter is appropriate. Slightly elongated packages are available that can contain small drill holes for external mount. Packaging changes result in changes in the weight and dimension specifications. Note that quoted ranges are when manual tracking. Notes The typical rule of thumb is to use transmitters that have a weight in water that is 1.5 – 2% of the fish weight in air. Weight in O2 (air) is put only as additional reference. -E is the extension denoting external mount, -I denotes internal implant. You must specify internal or external when ordering transmitters. Links: VIDEOS

Frequently Asked Questions | How do I uniquely identify Sonotronics’ transmitters? | What are the source levels for Sonotronics’ transmitters? | What range should I expect when manual tracking? FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS How do I uniquely identify Sonotronics’ transmitters? Sonotronics uses multiple methods to identify its transmitters. First, the combination of Pulse Interval (PI) and frequency uniquely defines a particular transmitter. Given the availability of over 25 different frequencies, and the allowing 10mS spacing to allow unique intervals from 870mS to 1500mS, this allows for over 1500 simple combinations, and custom intervals and frequencies are available to allow for more than double this amount. In addition, Sonotronics transmitters employ a unique aural code that sounds as a distinct pattern of pings when listening via a receivers’ speaker or headphone. This feature is similar in concept to the use of Morse code in radio communications, allowing for detection and identification under adverse conditions or at extreme ranges. What are the source levels for Sonotronics’ transmitters? Because source level is only a portion of information necessary to evaluate the performance of an acoustic system, Sonotronics quotes achievable ranges rather than source level in most publications. The combination of very narrow band receivers (500Hz total) and directional hydrophones provide for excellent detection ranges with even modest power transmitters. An expression used to predict range is: NL-DI = SL-TL, where NL is the noise level, and is bandwidth dependant, DI is the directivity index of the hydrophone, TL is the transmission loss between transmitter and hydrophone due to range and absorption, and SL is the source level of the transmitter: range is inferred by the distance component of TL. Note that NL is a function of bandwidth (10*logBW) – the difference between an SUR with a bandwidth of 500Hz and a receiver with a 6000Hz bandwidth is over 10db, With that said, the normal source levels (ref 1uPascal @ 1m) of Sonotronics' transmitters are as follows: PT-1 128-132db PT-2,3; IBT96-1,2 134-136db CT-82-2, CT-05-36, EMT-01-1 142-144db CHP87, DT97, EMT01-2 146-149db EMT-01-3 161-167db What detection range should I expect from my SUR? As mentioned in the FAQ above, this depends on several factors, including the losses in between transmitter and receiver, and the transmitter source level. Some real life examples follow: St. Claire River Near Detroit, MI. 6/23/2005: SUR deployed in 5 feet of water near the shore, depth increases to 50m, CT-05 suspended at 1m. Reliable detections at 400m. Lake Pleasant at Cave Creek, AZ: CHP transmitters detected regularly between 400m and 500m with an array of 6 SUR's. What range should I expect when manual tracking? Ranges stated in the Product Guide (up to 1km, up to 3km, etc.) are stated for manual tracking, using a narrow band receiver such as USR-23, and a directional hydrophone such as the DH-4, under ‘reasonable conditions’. These include calm sea states, and waters favorable to acoustic propagation. A few factors that reduce range include: Shallow environments - Environments in less than 10m of water can reduce the range you can achieve from acoustic transmitters. For example, transmitters with a range of up to 3km were detected at around 500m in 3m depth water. Temperature or Salinity stratified environments - When there is a temperature or salinity gradient in the water column where a transmitter is located, there is an effect called ray bending that occurs. Because the speed of sound in water is a function of temperature and salinity, you can end up with "layers" in which the speed of sound is different. Due to Snell's law, the sound signal is bent at the interface between each layer. The end result of this is that sound can be warped downward, reducing range. Additionally, a thermocline (distinct division between two temperature layers) may reduce ranges significantly: under extreme cases, sound may not reach the surface at all. One technique to overcome this is the use of an omnidirectional hydrophone (such as a TH-2) with a long cable to penetrate the thermocline. What is the difference between ultrasonic (acoustic) transmitters and radio transmitters, and when do you use each? Ultrasonic (acoustic) transmitters emit high frequency sound which propagates mechanically, while radio transmitters emit electromagnetic energy. Generally acoustic transmitters are preferred in deep (>5m) and/or conductive waters. Radio transmitters are preferred in shallow water, especially ‘babbling’ waters. What size transmitter should I use on the animals in my study? Common rule of thumb is the weight of the transmitter measured in water should not exceed 1.25% of the weight of the animal measured in air. In other words, taking the published “water-weight” of a transmitter, then multiplying by 80, will indicate the smallest weight animal to be tagged. Do you have any citations to support this data? Please reference the following for supporting data, and for general information: THE LIMITATIOINS OF FISH TRACKING SYSTEMS: ACOUSTIC AND SATELLITE TECHNIQUES . By 1. G. Priede, NOAA Technical Memorandum, published May 1986 D.L. BRUMBAUGH: AFS PRESENTATION ON ACOUSTIC TRACKING SYSTEMS. By D. L. Brumbaugh FISHERIES TECHNIQUES , edited by Larry Nielsen and David Johnson, available from American Fisheries Society

The PT-Kit (Passive Tracking) contains all the tools necessary to start a passive tracking project: a receiver and 10 long life transmitters housed in a convenient carrying case. *NEW* PT-KIT (PASSIVE TRACKING) The PT-Kit (Passive Tracking) contains all the tools necessary to start a passive tracking project: a receiver and 10 long life transmitters housed in a convenient carrying case. The PT-kit includes: A miniSURT-Li receiver 10 CT-82-2 long life transmitters QR-code card for manual and PC based software Magnets for activating receiver and transmitters A hard case with protective foam Description of the tools: miniSURT Receiver The Li version of the miniSURT allows the use of common 18650 Li-ion batteries Scan multiple frequencies or focus on a single frequency as your project requires Scan multiple gain settings for detection range assessment Temperature logging and optional transponding Multiple detection protocols supported Compatible with SURsoftDPC for collaborating with multiple receiver arrays, or direct download to CSV Bluetooth Low Energy communication for configuration and data downloads CT-82-2 Transmitters Long life transmitter (>3yr with 20-40 sec burst) Open Protocol and multi-frequency ACT codes available Embedded LED confirms function without receiver Magnet sensor to switch transmitter on and off (magnets included) Long range detections Compatible with all Sonotronics receivers Links: Datasheets miniSURT Software Receiver Software VIDEOS

Sonotronics product manuals for acoustic receivers and transmitters. PRODUCT MANUALS Below are links for PDFs of the Product Manuals. All product downloads can be found on the individual product pages. Depth Transmitters Temperature Transmitters SURsms DH-4 Manual EMT-01-3 Manual SUR Manual miniSURT Manual RovR Manual Tilt Tracker Manual UDR Manual USR-23 Manual TH-2 Manual

The Manufacture of Underwater Ultrasonic Tracking Equipment Since 1971 - Providing Exceptional Products with Proven Results. COMPANY Marlin Gregor President of Sonotronics, Inc. Goodbye to our best friend, favorite employee, and Sonotronics mascot, Marcus. You will be missed! – RIP Marcus Gregor 2022 <3 The Manufacture of Underwater Ultrasonic Tracking Equipment Since 1971 - Providing Exceptional Products with Proven Results. Sonotronics is a leader in the manufacturing of ultrasonic tracking equipment related to the underwater tracking of marine animals, equipment marking, and other marine applications. Sonotronics offers high performance Active Tracking Systems for real time. Specializing in implementing the latest technologies and providing Simple solutions for customers tracking needs. Sonotronics products include a wide variety of ultrasonic transmitters with various combinations of lifetime, size, range, and telemetry options. Sonotronics offers high performance manual tracking systems for real time determination of animal behavior. Sonotronics also offers automated stations for logging animal detections, including cellular uplink and web technologies.

The USR-23 is an active tracking receiver with new features to locate ultrasonic transmitters manufactured by SONOTRONICS, Vemco or Lotek Wireless. USR-23 ULTRASONIC RECEIVER The USR-23 is an active tracking receiver with new features to locate ultrasonic transmitters manufactured by SONOTRONICS, Vemco or Lotek Wireless. USR-23 Features Include: Digital display Waterproof Pelican Case (1150) Internal detection audio alarm Compatible with passive data loggers Optional dual hydrophone input Optional GPS input with position logging ACT and Rcode decoding (thus being able to locate ultrasonic transmitters manufactured by SONOTRONICS, Vemco or Lotek Wireless.) Compatible with SURsoft data analysis tool for SONOTRONICS logging receivers. Links: USR-23 Manual Receiver Software VIDEOS

Coded transmitters generate a unique aural sequence, as well as unique combinations of frequency and ping interval allowing detection by both passive and active receivers. The CT series of transmitters offer an excellent value with a choice of long life, good range, and small size. CT CODED TRANSMITTERS Coded transmitters generate a unique aural sequence, as well as unique combinations of frequency and ping interval allowing detection by both passive and active receivers. The CT series of transmitters offer an excellent value with a choice of long life, good range, and small size. Coded Transmitters Notes Range is typical under good conditions, using a Sonotronics active receiver and directional hydrophone. Autonomy based on a ping rate of once per second. Extend lifetimes are available by cycling the transmitters, please contact Sonotronics for more details -E is the extension denoting external mount, -I denotes internal implant. Please specify internal or external when ordering transmitters. Links: CT Data Sheet VIDEOS

Sonotronics Video Gallery - Videos showing use of Sonotronics equipment in and out of water, fish surgery, active acoustic tracking, and passive acoustic tracking. All Videos All Categories Play Video Play Video 00:23 Equipment Marking Transmitters | Sonotronics, Inc. Play Video Play Video 21:04 Fish Surgery | Sonotronics, Inc. Play Video Play Video 06:06 Unboxing the MANTRAK Kit | Sonotronics, Inc. Play Video Play Video 01:58 Underwater Diver Receiver | Sonotronics, Inc. Play Video Play Video 01:55 Underwater Diver Receiver Direction | Sonotronics, Inc. Play Video Play Video 01:11 Turning On/Off Your Sonotronics Transmitter Play Video Play Video 02:02 Setting up Sonotronics DH-4 Hydrophone Play Video Play Video 01:54 Underwater Diver Receiver Operation | Sonotronics, Inc. Play Video Play Video 03:01 Tracking Equipment Underwater | Sonotronics, Inc. Load More

Acoustic telemetry resources, papers, and information on how to choose transmitters for your study. Resources Depth or Temperature Telemetry Product Comparison A datasheet which shows the comparison of Sonotronics products associated with Depth and Temperature Telemetry Understanding Sonotronics Unique Pinger ID Algorithm A document which explains the algorithm used by Sonotronics for the unique ID of transmitters. Custom transmitter labels Email us to customize the labels in your transmitters. This allows you to leave a visible message that shows through the clear wall of the transmitter telling anglers, etc. where they can send the transmitters if found How to choose transmitters for your study Consider the following when choosing the appropriate transmitter. Size – The commonly used rule is 1.5% – 2% of the animal weight in air is maximum allowable transmitter weight in water . Exceptions to this rule are sometimes made by biologists in the case of robust species, crustaceans, and other animals that are determined to be able to hold a larger transmitter. Lifetime – It is recommended that a lifetime that is 125% of the actual length of the study is used. This allows extra room at the end of the study, and helps guarantee a high output from the transmitters throughout the study. Range – It is recommended that the highest output transmitter available that fits in the necessary lifetime and size categories be used. This guarantees greatest ranges in both automatic and manual tracking. Keep in mind that a number of factors in the environment can limit range. Telemetry – There are a number of telemetry options available on Sonotronics transmitters. Temperature, acceleration (used for feeding and mortality), depth, and tilt. These options are chosen based upon the data desired in the study. The Don L. Brumbaugh Memorial Equipment Scholarship The Sonotronics’ Equipment Scholarship, established in 2005, commemorates Donald L. Brumbaugh’s pioneering work in the development of fisheries and wildlife biotelemetry technologies. The scholarship is designed to aid students in fisheries research projects. Read more…

Passive Underwater Acoustic Tracking - Submergible Ultrasonic Receivers and Transmitters. PASSIVE TRACKING Transmitters CHP High Powered Transmitters High powered transmitters function identically to the coded transmitters, but have a very high power output. This allows tracking of pelagic species and tracking in large or open water areas. More… CT Standard Coded Transmitters Standard coded transmitters ping an aural code for easy audible detection by researchers. These transmitters for unique identification of thousands of animals by varying combination of frequencies, codes, and pulse interval (time between pings). More… CTT Temperature Telemetry Transmitters Temperature telemetry transmitters allow for the telemetry of temperature in the vicinity of tagged animal in addition to location and identification. More… DT Depth Telemetry Transmitters Depth transmitters allow for telemetry of animals depth to arrive in real time, as well as location and identification via similar coding to the coded transmitters. More… IBT Miniature Transmitters Miniature transmitters function identically to the coded transmitters, but are very small in size. This allows tracking of very small species. More… PT PicoTag Subminiature Transmitters These new very small transmitters allow for attachment to smaller animals than every before. More… Receivers miniSUR Submersible Ultrasonic Receiver This small, inexpensive, long life unit allows for detection of fish passage within its detection area. More… SUR Submersible Ultrasonic Receiver This rugged, inexpensive, long life unit allows for detection of fish passage within its detection area. More… Hydrophones DH-4 Directional Hydrophone The DH-4 provides the greatest range and precision in locating transmitters from 30kHz to 100kHz. More… TH-2 Towed Omnidirectional Hydrophone The TH-2 provides a simple method for mobile active tracking: its small size and hydrodynamic shape allows for trolling at speeds up to 5 knots, while the long cable length minimizes the affect of engine and prop noise. More…