3 Selecting synchronization mode

If you want to use the EK80 system as a master or slave in a synchronized system, you must set it up for such operation. To do this, you must select which communication port to use for the synchronization interface, and you must select the requested synchronization mode.

Prerequisites

Neither tools nor instruments are required. The EK80 system is turned on and operates normally.

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For "slave" operation, a remote system (for example K-Sync or Simrad TU40) must be available to provide trigger pulses.

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For "master" operation, a remote hydroacoustic system (sonar, echo sounder) is connected. This remote system must be set up in "slave" mode.

The communication port on the Processor Unit is selected.

Context

Whenever more than one hydroacoustic system is installed on a vessel, interference may occur. To avoid interference, you have these options:

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The systems are all connected to a common synchronization system.

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One of the acoustic systems is set up as "master", and controls the transmissions on the other systems.

The EK80 system offers functionality for remote transmit synchronization. It can be set up to operate in either Master or Slave mode.

Procedure

On the Setup menu, select Installation.

Select Synchronization.

Select synchronization mode.

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Stand-alone

This synchronization mode is used when the EK80 system is working by itself. Synchronization is turned off. It is the default setting. The EK80 system operates using the current settings for ping interval. The operation is independent of any trigger signals arriving at the synchronization port.

The Synchronization Delay setting is not applicable when synchronization is switched off.

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Master

Master mode is used if the EK80 system shall operate as the controlling unit in a synchronized system. Any peripheral hydroacoustic system(s) are only permitted to transmit when enabled by the EK80 system. The EK80 system operates using the current settings for ping interval. It also sends trigger signals to the peripheral system(s).

This mode is unavailable if you set Synchronization Port to Transceiver Auxiliary Port.

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Slave

The Slave mode is used if the EK80 system shall transmit only when permitted by a peripheral system. When the Slave mode is selected, the EK80 system will not transmit ("ping") unless an external trigger appears on the chosen synchronization port. The peripheral system may be any other hydroacoustic product (for example an echo sounder or sonar), or even a dedicated synchronization system.

Select the synchronization delay.

In Master mode, the EK80 system waits for the delay time after the external trigger signal has been sent to the slaves before transmitting the ping. This is often referred to as a pre-trigger.

This mode is unavailable if you set Synchronization Port to Transceiver Auxiliary Port.

In Slave mode, the EK80 system waits for the delay time after the external trigger signal has arrived before transmitting the ping. This is often referred to as a post-trigger.

The Delay setting is not applicable when synchronization is turned off.

Select Apply and then Close to save all the parameters and close the Installation dialog box.