Echo Sounder
| Echo Sounder | |
|---|---|
| Type | Sensory Aid |
| Tech Level | TL–6 |
| Cost | Cr300 |
| Size | 2.5 liters |
| Weight | 1 kg |
| Also see | Sensor |
| Echo Sounder | |
|---|---|
| Type | Sensory Aid |
| Tech Level | TL–10 |
| Cost | Cr150 |
| Size | 0.4 liters |
| Weight | 0.3kg |
| Also see | Sensor |
The Echo Sounder sends out a pulse of high frequency sound and then reads returning echoes to give a range between the sounder and any obstruction.
Low cost models are usually effective to no more than 80 meters, and at ranges of over 40 meters they have little accuracy. More sophisticated models (available at TL–7) are capable of showing a fairly detailed display of the area at which they are aimed, including animal life and other details.
Echo sounders are usually mounted aboard boats and submersibles, where they serve as depth finders. Portable models, however, can be mounted in waterproof camera housings and used by divers. They not only determine depth but also can be used to find horizontal ranges or to navigate in water obscured by silt.
All portable echo sounders have a battery good for a hundred hours of use, or are normally hooked into a vehicle power supply.
- Marc Miller. Imperial Encyclopedia (Game Designers Workshop, 1987), 57.
- Frank Chadwick, Dave Nilsen. Traveller: The New Era (Game Designers Workshop, 1993), 346-347.
- Greg Porter. Central Supply Catalog (Imperium Games, 1996), 24,33.