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Simrad ST90
System units
Transceiver Unit – description
The Transceiver Unit is provided to transmit acoustic energy through water. After each transmission, the transceiver receives the echoes from the seabed and/or the water column. These echoes are filtered, amplified and finally converted into digital format. This transmission and reception sequence is commonly referred to as a ping.

Purpose
Document information
About this manual
The purpose of this publication is to provide the descriptions and procedures required to allow for efficient use of the ST90 system. The manual does not contain detailed information about functions, dialog boxes and operating parameters.
Simrad ST90
- Important
  The ST90 is an advanced product. It is used with other advanced products. There is important information that you need to know.
- System description
  The Simrad ST90 is a low-frequency fish-finding sonar with 360-degree coverage and long range. The ST90 system is designed for medium and large sized fishing vessels.
- System diagram
  The system diagram identifies the main components of a basic ST90 system. Only the main connections between the units are shown. Detailed interface capabilities and power cables are not shown.
- System units
  - Display – description
    A display is a required part of the ST90 system. For best readability, the display must be protected from glare and have the correct height and angle.
  - Processor Unit – description
    A dedicated maritime computer is provided. In this publication, the computer can also be referred to as the Processor Unit, and vice versa.
  - Operating panel – description
    The optional Operating Panel contains all necessary control functions for normal operation of the ST90 system.
  - Transceiver Unit – description
    The Transceiver Unit is provided to transmit acoustic energy through water. After each transmission, the transceiver receives the echoes from the seabed and/or the water column. These echoes are filtered, amplified and finally converted into digital format. This transmission and reception sequence is commonly referred to as a ping.
  - Hull Unit – description
    The hull unit is used to lower the transducer down below the ship’s hull when the ST90 system shall be used. When the ST90 system is turned off, the transducer is hoisted for protection. The hull unit is large and crucial part of the sonar system.
  - Transducer – description
    The cylindrical transducer allows the sonar beam to provide a full 360 degrees coverage of the water volume.
- General safety rules
  Safety is important. Observe and follow these safety precautions during all installation and maintenance work.
- Network security
  If a ST90 system is connected to a local area network, data security is important.
- Support information
  If you need technical support for your ST90 system you must contact your local dealer, or one of our support offices. A list of all our offices and dealers is available on our website. You can also contact our main support office in Norway.
Operating procedures
User interface
Menu system
Functions and dialog boxes
The functions and dialog boxes provided in the ST90 user interface are not described in this publication.
Technical specifications
The technical specifications summarize the main functional and operational characteristics of the ST90 system. They also provide information related to power requirements, physical properties and environmental conditions.
Datagram formats
The ST90 system can send and receive information to and from several different peripherals. All transmissions take place as datagrams with data sentences. Each datagram has a defined format and length.
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Transceiver Unit – description

The Transceiver Unit is provided to transmit acoustic energy through water. After each transmission, the transceiver receives the echoes from the seabed and/or the water column. These echoes are filtered, amplified and finally converted into digital format. This transmission and reception sequence is commonly referred to as a ping.

The transceiver controls the transmission and reception made by the transmitters and receiver channels. 12 identical transceiver boards are used. These transceiver boards provide 384 individual transmit- and receiver channels. The Transceiver Unit also holds an Ethernet switch and a large capacitor bank. An internal power supply is provided to supply the required DC voltages to the Transceiver Unit.

Note:

To extend the lifetime of the Transceiver Unit, you must keep the sonar room dry and clean, and with sufficient ventilation.

Heat exchanger

The Transceiver Unit can be fitted with a commercial heat exchanger. The purpose of the heat exchanger is to provide a stable, clean and temperature-controlled environment for the electronic circuitry inside the Transceiver Unit. The heat exchanger also inhibits dust and dirt particles from entering the transceiver. The heat exchanger is powered from 230 VAC using a separate outlet.