DISCOVER 4125i/4125

USER SOFTWARE MANUAL

0016652_REV_G March 2023

EdgeTech
4 Little Brook Road
West Wareham, MA 02576

Tel: (508) 291-0057

Fax: (508) 291-2491
www.EdgeTech.com
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The information, figures, and specifications in this manual are proprietary. They are issued in strict
confidence on condition that they not be copied, reprinted, or disclosed to a third party, either wholly or
in part, without the prior written consent of EdgeTech. Any reproduction of EdgeTech supplied software
or file sharing is strictly prohibited.

EdgeTech © 2016-2023. All rights reserved.

Windows® is a registered trademark of the Microsoft Corporation.

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ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT

Thank you for purchasing our Discover 4125i/4125 survey software. At EdgeTech, our policy is to provide
high-quality, cost-effective products and support services that meet or exceed your requirements. We
also strive to deliver them on time and to continuously look for ways to improve them. We take pride in
the products we manufacture and want you to be entirely satisfied with your software.

Purpose of this Manual

The purpose of this manual is to provide the user with information on the setup and use of EdgeTech’s
4125i/4125 Discover survey software. Although this manual encompasses the latest operational features
of the product, some may be periodically upgraded. Therefore, the information in this manual is subject
to change and should be used for reference only.

Liability
In no event will EdgeTech be liable for any damages, claims, or costs whatsoever arising from this
agreement and/or your use of this document, or any component thereof, including and without limitation:
any consequential, indirect, incidental damages; or any lost profits or lost savings, even if a representative
has been advised of the possibility of such loss, damages, claims, or costs; or for any claim by any third
party. EdgeTech reserves the right to update the documentation without notice at any time.

Revision History
REV DESCRIPTION DATE APPROVAL
A Release to production 04/2016 HS
B New information for Coverage Mapper update 06/2016 HS
C Added sub-section 1.3 regarding display size 09/2016 NC
D Removed Coverage Mapper & Target Logger Sections 12/2016 CC
E Updated for Additional Features to Discover 10/2017 HS
Updated Layback, Shortcut Toolbar, and GGU and GXY
F 10/2020 HS
Sections
Overview, Key Features, Bottom Tracking, Recording,
G 04/2023 HS
Layback, Disk Sections, and GGA Updated.
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Cautions and Notes

Where applicable, cautions and notes are provided in this manual as follows:

CAUTION! Identifies a potential hazard that could damage equipment or

data.

NOTE: Recommendations or general information that is to the material

being presented.
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SOFTWARE SERVICE OVERVIEW

EdgeTech provides software services free of charge. This software agreement does not address customer
specified modifications or enhancements. These services may be ordered separately. Furthermore,
EdgeTech software upgrades are meant for the sole use of EdgeTech customers. Any reproduction of
EdgeTech-supplied software or file sharing is strictly prohibited.

Software Updates and Enhancements

EdgeTech customers can download new software releases with all modifications and enhancements from
the EDGETECH WEBSITE. Should major software issues occur, they will be reported directly to the customer.
New software releases consist of the following:

• Software enhancements that are not on the price list

• Software fixes and changes
• Product integration
• Documentation updates to online help
• Tests for compatibility with other modules

Software patches consist of software that has undergone the following:

• Minor software enhancements

• Software fixes and changes

EdgeTech customers are entitled to contact EDGETECH CUSTOMER SERVICE by telephone, fax, or e-mail to
report a difficulty, discuss a problem, or receive advice on the best way to perform a task. When
contacted, EdgeTech Customer Service will do the following:

• Respond within 24 hours via Telephone, Fax, and E-mail Support

• Immediately attend to serious problems affecting operations
• Attempt to find an immediate workaround
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CUSTOMER SERVICE
Customer service personnel at EdgeTech are always eager to hear from users of our products. Your
feedback is welcome and a valuable source of information that we use to continually improve our
products. Therefore, we encourage you to contact EdgeTech Customer Service to offer any suggestions
or to request technical support:

NOTE: Please have your system Serial Number available when contacting
Customer Service.

E-mail: [email protected]

Mail: 4 Little Brook Road

West Wareham, MA 02576

Telephone: (508) 291-0057

Facsimile: (508) 291-2491

24-Hour Emergency
Technical Support Line: (508) 942-8043

For more information, please go to WWW.EDGETECH.COM.

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COMPANY BACKGROUND
EdgeTech traces its history in underwater data acquisition and processing back to 1966, when it was then
called EG&G Marine Instruments. EdgeTech has designed, developed, and manufactured products,
instruments, and systems—for the acquisition of underwater data, including marine, estuarine, and
coastal applications—for over 50 years.

The company has responded to the needs of the scientific, naval, and offshore communities by providing
equipment—such as sub-bottom profilers, side scan sonar, acoustic releases, USBL positioning systems,
and bathymetric systems—that have become standards in the industry.

EdgeTech has also consistently anticipated and responded to future needs through an active research and
development program. Current efforts are focused on the application of innovative CHIRP and acoustic
technology.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT ...................................................................................................................iii
Purpose of this Manual ............................................................................................................................ iii
Liability ..................................................................................................................................................... iii
Revision History ....................................................................................................................................... iii
Cautions and Notes .................................................................................................................................. iv
SOFTWARE SERVICE OVERVIEW..........................................................................................................v
Software Updates and Enhancements...................................................................................................... v
CUSTOMER SERVICE ..........................................................................................................................vi
COMPANY BACKGROUND ................................................................................................................ vii
TABLE OF CONTENTS ....................................................................................................................... viii
LIST OF FIGURES............................................................................................................................... xii
LIST OF TABLES ................................................................................................................................ xv
1.0 OVERVIEW ..............................................................................................................................1-16
1.1 Key Features................................................................................................................................... 1-16
1.1.1 Dual-Simultaneous Sonar Display ........................................................................................... 1-16
1.1.2 Data Sources ........................................................................................................................... 1-16
1.1.3 The Flexibility of the JSF Format ............................................................................................. 1-17
1.1.4 XTF File Recording ................................................................................................................... 1-17
1.1.5 Record during Playback........................................................................................................... 1-17
1.1.6 Third-Party Interfacing ............................................................................................................ 1-18
1.2 Modules ......................................................................................................................................... 1-18
1.2.1 Discover Application ............................................................................................................... 1-18
1.2.2 Target Logger .......................................................................................................................... 1-18
1.2.3 Coverage Mapper.................................................................................................................... 1-18
2.0 DISCOVER USER INTERFACE .....................................................................................................2-20
2.1 Waterfall Displays .......................................................................................................................... 2-21
2.2 Shortcut Toolbar ............................................................................................................................ 2-23
2.3 A-Scan Panes .................................................................................................................................. 2-25
2.4 Using Discover Displays and Functions to Improve Waterfall Imagery ......................................... 2-26
2.4.1 Normalizing Gain and Time Varied Gain (TVG) ....................................................................... 2-26
2.4.1.1 Gain and TVG Normalization Example ............................................................................. 2-27
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2.5 Top Menu Bar................................................................................................................................. 2-29

2.5.1 File Menu ................................................................................................................................ 2-29
2.5.1.1 Load Configuration........................................................................................................... 2-29
2.5.1.2 Save Configuration ........................................................................................................... 2-29
2.5.1.3 Exit / Don’t Save Settings ................................................................................................. 2-29
2.5.1.4 Exit / Save Settings ........................................................................................................... 2-29
2.5.2 View Menu .............................................................................................................................. 2-30
2.5.2.1 Reset ................................................................................................................................ 2-30
2.5.2.2 Controls ............................................................................................................................ 2-30
2.5.2.3 Altitude............................................................................................................................. 2-30
2.5.2.4 Depth................................................................................................................................ 2-30
2.5.2.5 Pitch/Roll .......................................................................................................................... 2-31
2.5.2.6 Cable Counter .................................................................................................................. 2-31
2.5.2.7 Water Depth .................................................................................................................... 2-31
2.5.3 Configuration Menus .............................................................................................................. 2-32
2.5.3.1 Display Configuration ....................................................................................................... 2-32
2.5.3.2 Record Configuration ....................................................................................................... 2-34
2.5.3.3 Printer Configuration ....................................................................................................... 2-35
2.5.3.4 Image Capture Configuration SSH and SSL ...................................................................... 2-36
2.5.3.5 NMEA Navigation Configuration ...................................................................................... 2-37
2.5.3.6 Navigation Offsets............................................................................................................ 2-38
2.5.3.7 NMEA Navigation Outputs ............................................................................................... 2-39
2.5.3.8 Discover Apps................................................................................................................... 2-40
2.5.3.9 Sonar Port Configuration ................................................................................................. 2-40
2.5.3.10 System Time Set Configuration ...................................................................................... 2-41
2.5.3.11 Trigger Configuration ..................................................................................................... 2-41
2.5.3.12 Network Configuration .................................................................................................. 2-42
2.5.3.13 Serial Configuration ....................................................................................................... 2-42
2.5.3.14 Alert Configuration ........................................................................................................ 2-44
2.5.3.15 Layback Configuration.................................................................................................... 2-45
2.5.4 Control Menus ........................................................................................................................ 2-47
2.5.4.1 Advanced Sonar Controls ................................................................................................. 2-48
2.5.4.2 External Device Controls .................................................................................................. 2-48
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2.5.4.3 Diagnostic Information Window ...................................................................................... 2-48

2.5.4.4 Connection Information................................................................................................... 2-51
2.6 Help ................................................................................................................................................ 2-52
2.6.1 About Discover ........................................................................................................................ 2-52
2.7 Lower Control Panel....................................................................................................................... 2-52
2.7.1 Main Status Line Display ......................................................................................................... 2-53
2.7.2 Radio Indicator Tabs ............................................................................................................... 2-54
2.8 Control Tabs ................................................................................................................................... 2-55
2.8.1 Towfish Control Tab ................................................................................................................ 2-55
2.8.2 Video Gains Tab ...................................................................................................................... 2-55
2.8.3 Display Tab .............................................................................................................................. 2-56
2.8.4 Disk Tab ................................................................................................................................... 2-58
2.8.4.1 Recording a .jsf File in Discover ....................................................................................... 2-59
2.8.4.2 Loading and Viewing a .jsf File in Discover ...................................................................... 2-63
2.8.4.3 Recording Parts of a Recording ........................................................................................ 2-68
2.8.5 Bottom Tracking Tab ............................................................................................................... 2-68
2.8.6 Grids Tab ................................................................................................................................. 2-69
2.8.7 Image Capture ......................................................................................................................... 2-70
2.8.8 Printer ..................................................................................................................................... 2-71
2.8.9 Status ...................................................................................................................................... 2-71
3.0 Troubleshooting ......................................................................................................................3-73
4.0 Appendix ................................................................................................................................4-76
A.0 Navigation-Annotation............................................................................................................4-76
A.1.1 Port Parameters...................................................................................................................... 4-76
A.1.2 Port Selection ......................................................................................................................... 4-77
A.1.3 Inputs ...................................................................................................................................... 4-78
A.1.3.1 GLL: Geographic Position – Latitude / Longitude ........................................................... 4-78
A.1.3.2 GXY: Geographic Position – X / Y Coordinates ............................................................... 4-79
A.1.3.3 GGU: Geographic Position – X / Y Coordinates .............................................................. 4-79
A.1.3.4 GGA: Global Positioning System Fix Data ....................................................................... 4-80
A.1.3.5 RMA: Recommended Minimum Specific Loran-C Data .................................................. 4-80
A.1.3.6 RMC: Recommended Minimum Specific GNSS Data ...................................................... 4-81
A.1.3.7 VTG: Track Made Good & Ground Speed ....................................................................... 4-81
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A.1.3.8 ZDA: Time & Date ........................................................................................................... 4-81

A.1.3.9 HDG: Heading, Deviation & Variation............................................................................. 4-82
A.1.3.10 EVT: Event & Annotation (EdgeTech Custom) .............................................................. 4-83
A.1.3.11 EMA: Event, Set Mark & Annotation (EdgeTech Custom) ............................................ 4-84
A.1.4 Serial Port Connections .......................................................................................................... 4-85
B.0 CABLE COUNTERS ....................................................................................................................4-86
B.1 MacArtney MK2 ............................................................................................................................ 4-86
B.2 LCI-90 ............................................................................................................................................ 4-86
B.3 TCount ........................................................................................................................................... 4-87
B.4 USGS Custom 3PS SD-41 ............................................................................................................... 4-87
B.5 Hypack........................................................................................................................................... 4-87
B.6 XDR ................................................................................................................................................ 4-87
B.7 Hydrographic Smart Cable Counter .............................................................................................. 4-87
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 2-1: Discover UI ............................................................................................................................. 2-20
Figure 2-2: Discover Waterfall Displays ................................................................................................... 2-21
Figure 2-3: Waterfall Display Components and Tools ............................................................................. 2-22
Figure 2-4: Shortcut Toolbar .................................................................................................................... 2-23
Figure 2-5: Left-Side Low-Frequency Shortcut Toolbar Controls............................................................. 2-23
Figure 2-6: Shortcut Toolbar Recorder Buttons (Sonar Off) .................................................................... 2-23
Figure 2-7: Shortcut Toolbar Recorder Buttons (Sonar On) .................................................................... 2-23
Figure 2-8: Right Side High-Frequency Shortcut Toolbar Control............................................................ 2-23
Figure 2-9: Shortcut Toolbar Normalize Gain and TVG Buttons .............................................................. 2-26
Figure 2-10: Shortcut Toolbar Gain and TVG Values Grayed Out ............................................................ 2-26
Figure 2-11: Configure Displays Window-Turn Off Auto Normalize (Gain) and Auto TVG ...................... 2-26
Figure 2-12: Shortcut Toolbar Gain and TVG adjustment........................................................................ 2-26
Figure 2-13: Video Gains Control Tab in the Lower Control Panel .......................................................... 2-27
Figure 2-14: Discover Waterfalls without Normalized Gain and TVG...................................................... 2-27
Figure 2-15: High-Frequency A-Scan Pane Without Normalized Gain and TVG. Amplitudes Are Very High.
................................................................................................................................................................. 2-27
Figure 2-16: A Low-Frequency A-Scan Without Normalized Gain and TVG. Amplitudes Are Very Low.. 2-28
Figure 2-17: Discover Waterfalls Imagery with Normalized Gain and TVG. ............................................ 2-28
Figure 2-18: High-Frequency A-Scan with Normalized Gain and TVG ..................................................... 2-28
Figure 2-19: Low-Frequency A-Scan with Normalized Gain and TVG ...................................................... 2-29
Figure 2-20: File Menu ............................................................................................................................. 2-29
Figure 2-21: View Menu, with Altitude, Depth, Pitch/Roll ...................................................................... 2-30
Figure 2-22: Altitude Window .................................................................................................................. 2-30
Figure 2-23: Depth Window ..................................................................................................................... 2-31
Figure 2-24: Pitch/Roll Window ............................................................................................................... 2-31
Figure 2-25: Cable Counter Window........................................................................................................ 2-31
Figure 2-26: Water Depth Window.......................................................................................................... 2-31
Figure 2-27: Configuration Menu............................................................................................................. 2-32
Figure 2-28: Display Configuration .......................................................................................................... 2-32
Figure 2-29: Toolbar Normalize Gain and TVG Buttons ........................................................................... 2-33
Figure 2-30: Record Configuration Window ............................................................................................ 2-34
Figure 2-31: Printer Configuration Window ............................................................................................ 2-35
Figure 2-32: Printer IP and Port Input ...................................................................................................... 2-36
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Figure 2-33: Image Capture Configuration Window ................................................................................ 2-36

Figure 2-34: Navigation Configuration Window ...................................................................................... 2-37
Figure 2-35: Navigation Offsets Window ................................................................................................. 2-38
Figure 2-36: Navigation Output Popup .................................................................................................... 2-39
Figure 2-37: External Features Configuration .......................................................................................... 2-40
Figure 2-38: Sonar Port Setting ................................................................................................................ 2-41
Figure 2-39: System Time Set Configuration ........................................................................................... 2-41
Figure 2-40: Trigger Configuration ........................................................................................................... 2-41
Figure 2-41: Network Configuration Window.......................................................................................... 2-42
Figure 2-42: Serial Configuration Window............................................................................................... 2-43
Figure 2-43: Alarm Configuration and Display ......................................................................................... 2-44
Figure 2-44: Configure Alerts Window..................................................................................................... 2-44
Figure 2-45: Layback Window .................................................................................................................. 2-45
Figure 2-46: Layback Diagram .................................................................................................................. 2-47
Figure 2-47: Control Menu....................................................................................................................... 2-47
Figure 2-48: Advanced Sonar Controls Window ...................................................................................... 2-48
Figure 2-49: Zeroing Out the Pressure Sensor (screen cropped to show detail)..................................... 2-48
Figure 2-50: Diagnostic Information Window.......................................................................................... 2-48
Figure 2-51: Serial Port Fault Due to being Configured by Unused ......................................................... 2-49
Figure 2-52: Network Error ...................................................................................................................... 2-50
Figure 2-53: Cannot Ping Towfish Electronics Error................................................................................. 2-50
Figure 2-54: No Socket Connection Error ................................................................................................ 2-51
Figure 2-55: Connection Information ...................................................................................................... 2-51
Figure 2-56: Help Down-Down Menu Options......................................................................................... 2-52
Figure 2-57: About Discover Window ...................................................................................................... 2-52
Figure 2-58: The Lower Control Panel ..................................................................................................... 2-52
Figure 2-59: Main Status Line Display of the Lower Control Panel.......................................................... 2-53
Figure 2-60: The Radio Indicator Tabs when Sonar is on and not Recording .......................................... 2-54
Figure 2-61: Radio Indicator Tabs when Discover is Playing a Recording................................................ 2-54
Figure 2-62: Towfish Control Tab ............................................................................................................. 2-55
Figure 2-63: Video Gains Tab ................................................................................................................... 2-55
Figure 2-64: Display Tab ........................................................................................................................... 2-56
Figure 2-65: Palette Configuration........................................................................................................... 2-57
Figure 2-66: Disk Tab................................................................................................................................ 2-58
Figure 2-67: Configuration Drop-Down Menu Record Configuration Location ....................................... 2-59
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Figure 2-68: Configure Recording Window .............................................................................................. 2-59

Figure 2-69: Discover UI Disk Tab and Recorder Browse Button Locations ............................................ 2-60
Figure 2-70: Select Folder Window .......................................................................................................... 2-60
Figure 2-71: Cropped Lower Control Panel Recording Settings Check .................................................... 2-61
Figure 2-72: Discover UI-Locations of Record Buttons ............................................................................ 2-61
Figure 2-73: Discover UI- Recording Verification ..................................................................................... 2-62
Figure 2-74: Discover UI-Stop Recording Button Locations ..................................................................... 2-62
Figure 2-75: Saved .jsf Files ...................................................................................................................... 2-63
Figure 2-76: Discover UI- No Data Populated .......................................................................................... 2-63
Figure 2-77: Application Menu Icon......................................................................................................... 2-64
Figure 2-78: Taskbar Icon ......................................................................................................................... 2-64
Figure 2-79: Desktop Icon ........................................................................................................................ 2-64
Figure 2-80: Discover UI- Disk Tab Displayed........................................................................................... 2-64
Figure 2-81: Disk Tab Browse Button Select File Window ....................................................................... 2-64
Figure 2-82: Discover UI- 4 Quadrants and 2 A-Scan displays populated................................................ 2-65
Figure 2-83: Discover UI File Playback ..................................................................................................... 2-66
Figure 2-84: Shortcut Bar Playback Controls ........................................................................................... 2-66
Figure 2-85: Playback Control Buttons .................................................................................................... 2-67
Figure 2-86: Shortcut Toolbar Normalize Gain and Autoset TVG Buttons .............................................. 2-67
Figure 2-87: Shortcut Toolbar Gain and TVG Fields and Buttons. ........................................................... 2-67
Figure 2-88: Disk Control Tab-Recording A Recording ............................................................................. 2-68
Figure 2-89: High-Frequency Side Scan Bottom Tracker Indicator Lines ................................................. 2-68
Figure 2-90: Bottom Track Tab ................................................................................................................ 2-69
Figure 2-91: Grids Tab .............................................................................................................................. 2-69
Figure 2-92: Image Capture Tab............................................................................................................... 2-70
Figure 2-93: Printer Tab ........................................................................................................................... 2-71
Figure 2-94: Status Tab ............................................................................................................................ 2-71
Figure 3-1: Tera Term Error Message ...................................................................................................... 3-74
Figure 3-2: COM Port Not Receiving Data (Blinking Cursor) .................................................................... 3-74
Figure 3-3:Accurate GPS Data .................................................................................................................. 3-75
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LIST OF TABLES
Table 2-1: Shortcut Toolbar Sonar Control Button and Field Functions ................................................. 2-24
Table 2-2: Shortcut Toolbar Recorder and Playback Control Button and Field Functions ...................... 2-25
Table 2-3: A-Scan Display Components ................................................................................................... 2-25
Table 2-4: Disk Tab Playback and Recorder Controls............................................................................... 2-58
Table 2-5: Discover Playback Controls ..................................................................................................... 2-67
Table 4-1: Port Parameters ...................................................................................................................... 4-76
Table 4-2: Configure Serial Ports Window ............................................................................................... 4-77
Table 4-3: GLL – Geographic Position Latitude Longitude ....................................................................... 4-78
Table 4-4: GXY – Geographic Position-X and Y Coordinates .................................................................... 4-79
Table 4-5: GGU – Geographic Position – X and Y Coordinates ................................................................ 4-79
Table 4-6: GGA – Geographic Position – Latitude and Longitude Coordinates ....................................... 4-80
Table 4-7: VTG: Track Made Good & Ground Speed ............................................................................... 4-81
Table 4-8: ZDA: Time & Date.................................................................................................................... 4-81
Table 4-9: HDG: Heading, Deviation & Variation ..................................................................................... 4-82
Table 4-10: EVT: Event & Annotation ...................................................................................................... 4-83
Table 4-11: EMA: Event, Set Mark & Annotation .................................................................................... 4-84
Table 4-12: Pin Out Description ............................................................................................................... 4-85
Table 4-13: MacArtney MK2 .................................................................................................................... 4-86
Table 4-14: LCI-90 .................................................................................................................................... 4-86
Table 4-15: TCount ................................................................................................................................... 4-87
Table 4-16: Hydrographic Smart Cable Counter ...................................................................................... 4-87
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1.0 OVERVIEW
Discover is EdgeTech’s survey software that is provided with each new 4125i and legacy 4125 ultra-high
resolution, lightweight, portable side scan towfish system to process, observe, and record side scan survey
data and monitor and control towfish systems. Discover software is installed on a modern Windows®
computer that is connected to either an EdgeTech 4125i-RM (rack-mounted) or EdgeTech 4125i-P
(Portable) processor that is connected by tow cable to a 4125i/4125 towfish. The towfish includes identical
port and starboard transducer arrays available in 400/900 kHz or 600/1600 kHz dual linear FM chirp
operating frequency configurations and standard heading, pitch, roll, and depth sensors. Sonar data and
towfish positional data from these systems are viewed in real-time on Discover’s data and informational
displays to monitor and control towfish systems and sonar surveys. Survey data is recorded in EdgeTech’s
JSF format with other file type options for saving survey, target, and chart information, including XTF.

Discover sonar works by signaling the hardware to send out a linear CHIRP pulse and then interpreting the
received echoes. The echo signals are amplified and band-limited to encompass useable array bandwidth
and then digitized. The pulse compression and echo separation are achieved through CHIRP Matched
Filtering (MF). MF is implemented in digital signal processing (DSP) for each transmitted pulse, where the
echo data is digitally correlated with a replica of the transmit signal. The CHIRP waveform processing
provides both signal gain during the pulse compression and out-of-band noise rejection. The result is high-
quality seafloor images that can be viewed in real-time in the program’s waterfall displays and recorded
as a JSF file for later playback and analysis.

1.1 Key Features

Discover offers crisp images and ease of use that set it apart from other survey programs. Key features
include:

1.1.1 Dual-Simultaneous Sonar Display

The 4125i sonar system is dual-frequency (400/900 kHz or 600/1600 kHz), and Discover displays and
records both high and low frequencies simultaneously. In addition, the software provides A-scan
plotting, range, gain, and TVG controls and a significant toolset in both frequencies to find and mark
survey targets.

1.1.2 Data Sources

All data and command interfaces with the sonar subsystem are implemented using TCP/IP (Transport
Control Protocol/Internet Protocol). The source for navigation (and other auxiliary data) is via a USB port
on the processor. A USB-to-serial adaptor may be necessary if the third-party navigation system does not
offer direct USB-to-USB interfacing.
 1-17

1.1.3 The Flexibility of the JSF Format

Discover records data using EdgeTech’s native JSF file format, which has the advantage of not reflecting
run-time display settings, such as screen gain, software TVG settings, etc. This allows display settings to
be fine-tuned post-survey, allowing for the best imagery while accurately reflecting settings that affect
the sonar system’s operation, such as range and pulse power level.

1.1.4 XTF File Recording

Discover provides the ability to record Extended Triton Format (XTF) files (filename.xtf) along with JSF
files. This feature allows surveyors to analyze or display survey data in other applications. XTF file playback
is not available in Discover.
Discover records automatically in the JSF format with XTF as an option. The reason is XTF lacks some of
the flexibility offered by the JSF format. In addition, data recorded directly to XTF loses valuable system-
setting information that may prove useful for later error diagnosis. For these reasons, EdgeTech always
acquires data in the native JSF format. JSF files can then be converted to XTF later if needed, but the
reverse is impossible.

NOTE: Newer versions of XTF (V.34) do not record gain, lack valuable
system setting information, and cannot be played back in Discover.

NOTE: Please refer to the XTF standard documentation found at the ECA
GROUP WEBSITE for interfacing with xtf files. Sample data is stored as a
signed short integer.

1.1.5 Record during Playback

Discover’s JSF playback and record options work independently, allowing useful options, such as:

• The recording module may be started and stopped at any time.

• The playback module may be started, paused, and stopped at anytime. The data file source for
playback can also be changed.
• JSF playback files can be trimmed by recording a JSF file being played back and stopping the
recording where you would like to snip out unnecessary data.
• Multiple JSF files can be concatenated into one larger JSF file by playing each and recording them
in one JSF file.
 1-18

NOTE: During real-time data acquisition, only the record module is

available. This may be engaged to log data in JSF format or both JSF and
XTF format simultaneously. This may be started or stopped at any time
during acquisition.

1.1.6 Third-Party Interfacing

The system may be optionally controlled in a limited manner and have its data recorded by a third-party
program. This is accomplished using a second dedicated Ethernet port on the 4125 Topside processor, an
Ethernet switch that networks both topside processors, or running the third-party program on the 4125
topside processor. Please see the instructions in the third-party software and contact CUSTOMER SERVICE
for instructions on configuring this feature. Configuration and features vary depending on what third-
party software is used.

1.2 Modules
Discover 4125i/4125 consists of three primary modules, as described below.

1.2.1 Discover Application

The Discover Application is the primary module used during a survey. This window provides control of
towfish sonar subsystems, towfish status monitoring, real-time dual-frequency survey waterfall displays,
and survey recording of JSF and XTF files during surveys. This module is then used to observe and, if
necessary, modify the recorded survey files' display settings for the best results.

1.2.2 Target Logger

The Target Logger is a separate integrated module that provides target logging, mensuration, and recall.
A target is logged by right-clicking it on a Discover waterfall display. The target then appears in a full-
resolution window in the Target Logger, is saved to a Target Logger catalog, and is marked as a target in
the Coverage Mapper’s survey display. Targets can be measured and further assessed in the Target
Logger.

The enhanced Target Logger requires more than 4 GB of RAM and a 64-bit OS.

To enable Target Logger, select Discover Apps in the Configuration Drop Down Menu and select the Enable
Target Logger checkbox Discover APPS CONFIGURATION WINDOW.

1.2.3 Coverage Mapper

The Coverage Mapper is a separate integrated mapping module that provides survey planning and plotting
tools and displays and records real-time towfish sonar coverage and basic target information. Coverage
 1-19

Mapper supports S-57 Electronic Navigation Charts (ENC) and can display GeoTiff and BSB images. Surveys
are recorded in .enl files that store coverage, track, and basic target information. Enl files can be played
back later or loaded into an existing survey to targets marked in previous surveys.

The enhanced Coverage Mapper requires a minimum of 4 GB of RAM and a 64-bit OS.

To enable Target Logger, select Discover Apps in the Configuration Drop Down Menu and select the Enable
Coverage Mapper checkbox Discover APPS CONFIGURATION WINDOW.
 2-20

2.0 DISCOVER USER INTERFACE

Discover provides the 4125i/4125 system users the displays and controls to process, observe, and record
side scan survey data and monitor and control towfish systems. Towfish, sonar, and optional equipment
are monitored and controlled from the MAIN STATUS LINE DISPLAY, RADIO INDICATOR TABS, and STATUS CONTROL
TAB in the LOWER CONTROL PANEL and VIEW DROPDOWN MENU of the Discover UI. Surveys are observed, and
targets are located by viewing the sonar WATERFALL DISPLAYS in the Discover Application Window. Waterfall
display imagery can be adjusted by modifying range, gain, and TVG values using the waterfall displays, A-
SCAN PANES, SHORTCUT TOOLBAR, or Lower Control panel TOWFISH CONTROL TAB or VIDEO GAINS TAB. When a
target is discovered, it is marked and logged by right-clicking it in a waterfall display. A full-resolution
target image will appear in a TARGET LOGGER Catalog of survey targets, and an orange (x) target marker will
appear on the COVERAGE MAPPER, marking its position. Target imagery can then be examined and
measured in the Target Logger. If more towfish passes are required due to range, environmental
conditions, signal quality, or layback issues, better information for plotting is now available due to having
an approximate target location and sensor swath data on the Coverage Mapper.

This section explains the features and controls of the side scan sonar module. An image of the overall
window is shown below.

Top Menu Bar Shortcut Toolbar

High-Frequency A-Scan Pane

High-Frequency
Waterfall
Displays

Low-Frequency A-Scan Pane

Low-Frequency
Waterfall
Controls Tabs Displays

Lower Control Panel

Figure 2-1: Discover UI

Main Status Line Display Radio Indicator Tabs
 2-21

2.1 Waterfall Displays

Discover Waterfall Displays give a visual representation of the returning echo signal amplitude as
influenced by the environment, ping rate, and range. They are color-coded and split into quadrants, with
each including a waterfall display, A-Scan Pane, and distance scale. The top two quadrants are high-
frequency waterfall displays with yellow scales that correspond to the yellow high-frequency controls in
the shortcut toolbar. The bottom two quadrants are low-frequency waterfall displays with blue scales that
correspond to low-frequency controls in the shortcut toolbar. The left quadrants display port-side
transducer data, and the right quadrants display starboard-side transducer data. When only one
subsystem is active, the two quadrants for that system expand to take up the whole area, maximizing the
available screen area. Either display can be resized or hidden by clicking the top border and dragging to
the desired size or overlap.

A-Scan Panes (High Frequency)

High High Frequency Scales High

Frequency Frequency
Port Starboard
Waterfall Waterfall
Display Display

A-Scan Panes (Low Frequency)

Low Low Frequency Scales High

Frequency Frequency
Port Starboard
Waterfall Waterfall
Display Display

Figure 2-2: Discover Waterfall Displays

 2-22

Discover provides display tools, functions, and mouse actions that can modify waterfall displays in several
useful ways.

ZOOM-IN: Press and hold the left mouse button and drag to select a zoomed-in region of the data.

ZOOM-OUT: Double left-click the mouse and release to zoom out and display all data.

SCROLL BAR: Scroll left or right to shift the view inside the waterfall display.

SCALE BAR: Distance reference of the data collected for high (yellow) and low (blue) frequency displays.
They can be set to meters, feet, milliseconds, and yards in the GRIDS CONTROL TAB.

NOTE: Scale is for display only and not recorded in a .jsf file.

MARK: A yellow line crossing port and starboard waterfalls indicate an event mark or annotation is
present at that position. Marks are added by clicking the checkmark button on the SHORTCUT TOOLBAR.

VERTICAL & HORIZONTAL GRID LINES [Magenta]: A grid can be enabled to visualize data within a
customizable, controlled structure. Grid lines can be enabled, disabled, and have their distances set in the
GRIDS CONTROL TAB.

Mark Button
Shortcut Toolbar

Scale Scale

Mark Vertical Grid Line

Horizontal Grid
Line

Scroll Bar Scroll Bar

Port Side Waterfall Display Starboard Waterfall Display

Figure 2-3: Waterfall Display Components and Tools

 2-23

2.2 Shortcut Toolbar

The shortcut bar provides fast access to sonar range, gain, TVG (time-varied gain), and playback/recorder
feature controls. The bar is bisected and color-coded by sonar type. The right yellow section is high-
frequency, and the left blue section is low-frequency. If a sonar subsystem is activated, editable range text
fields are added, and the playback/recorder record function buttons are added to the shortcut bar. If Auto
Normalize On and Auto TVG On settings are turned on in the Display Configuration window, the text value
of the gain and TVG settings will be grey and uneditable by the + and – buttons and manual edits of the
text fields.

Figure 2-4: Shortcut Toolbar

On/Off Range Normalize Gain Normalize TVG Speed

Button Textbox Gain Textbox TVG Textbox Correction
Button Button Button

Decrease Increase Decrease Increase Decrease Increase

Range Range Gain Gain TVG TVG
Button Button Button Button Button Button

Figure 2-5: Left-Side Low-Frequency Shortcut Toolbar Controls

Stop New Mark Pause Stop Fast Forward

File

Record Play Mark

Figure 2-7: Shortcut Toolbar Recorder Figure 2-6: Shortcut Toolbar Recorder Buttons
Buttons (Sonar On) (Sonar Off)

On/Off Range Normalize Gain Normalize TVG Speed Correction

Button Textbox Gain Textbox TVG Textbox
Button Button Reset Display

Decrease Increase Decrease Increase Decrease Increase

Range Range Gain Gain TVG TVG
Button Button Button Button Button Button

Figure 2-8: Right Side High-Frequency Shortcut Toolbar Control

 2-24

BUTTON/FIELD NAME FUNCTION

Blue background buttons and fields are low-frequency
sonar controls. Yellow background buttons and fields are
Sonar Controls:
high-frequency sonar controls. Grey background buttons
and fields are general Discover controls.
Subtract or Add Press to increase or decrease adjacent gain, TVG, and
Range Buttons range values.
The range of signal propagation, in meters, on the port
and starboard sides. The field can be manually edited and
Range Field will automatically increment or decrement when
modified by the -/+ Range setting. This is only visible
when the sonar is on.
The gain field displays the gain value generated and
modified by the system, normalize gain button, and – and
+ gain buttons. The field can be manually edited and will
automatically increment or decrement when modified by
Gain Text Box the Normalize Gain or -/+ Gain settings. If Auto Normalize
Gain is activated in the Configure Displays window, the
value will be autogenerated, uneditable, and grayed out.
Gain values are frequency-dependent but in rare
instances. A negative gain can be used.
Time-Varying Gain in dB per 100 meters to apply to the
pixel data. TVG is applied beginning at the seafloor. The
bottom tracker must be enabled for this to work when
the seafloor is selected. In combined systems, side scan
TVG can be set at time zero (origin) or seafloor. The field
TVG Text Box
can be manually edited and will automatically increment
or decrement when modified by the Auto-Set TVG or -/+
TVG settings. If Auto TVG ON is activated in the Configure
Displays Window, the value will be autogenerated,
uneditable, and grayed out.
This button allows the user to toggle the speed
correction on/off. A speed-corrected image is adjusted in
the along-track dimension to make the vertical display
pixel cover the same length of ground as the CURRENT
across (horizontal) track pixel size to present a
Speed Correction
geometrically correct image (i.e., square objects should
Button
appear square in the image). Consequently, changing the
across-track ZOOM factor will automatically affect the
vertical display zoom. For the data to be speed corrected,
the system must receive a valid GPS (NMEA) input for
speed over the ground or use manual speed override.
Restores the waterfall displays to their original
Reset Display
configuration.

Table 2-1: Shortcut Toolbar Sonar Control Button and Field Functions
 2-25

BUTTON/FIELD NAME FUNCTION

Recorder Controls:
Start
Recording Starts a new JSF recording.
Button
Stop
Recording Stops a current JSF recording
Button
New File Creates a new JSF file. Clicking ends the recording of the current file,
Button creates a new file, and begins recording to that file.
Playback Controls:
Play Button Plays a JSF file. Pressing continuously slows the playback speed.
Pause Pauses the current recording. Pressing play after will resume from
Button the pause point.
Stops the current recording. Pressing play after restarts the
Stop Button
recording from the beginning.
Increase
Playback Increases playback speed by one increment every time it is pressed.
Speed
Mark Button Inserts a new mark and increments the mark number by one.

Table 2-2: Shortcut Toolbar Recorder and Playback Control Button and Field Functions

2.3 A-Scan Panes

The A-Scan panes plot the returning echo signal amplitude of the high and low-frequency sonar subsystem
waterfall displays as influenced by the environment, pings, and range. Bottom tracking indicator lines are
displayed as well.
Active Red or Recorded Green Bottom Tracking Indicator Lines

Waveform Plots

COMPONENT/MOUSE FUNCTION FUNCTION

WAVEFORM PLOT X-Y plot that displays data amplitudes.

A red tracking indicator line displays an active

calculated or set bottom track. A green line tracking
RED OR GREEN BOTTOM TRACKING INDICATOR LINES
indicator displays where the bottom was tracked in a
playback file or mirrored from another system.

Table 2-3: A-Scan Display Components

 2-26

2.4 Using Discover Displays and Functions to Improve Waterfall Imagery

Sonar imagery is raw and requires gain and time varied gain normalization to improve clarity. This is
accomplished in Discover by viewing waterfall and A-scan data and using the UI to make range, gain and
time-varied gain (TVG) adjustments in the SHORTCUT TOOLBAR, the TOWFISH CONTROL TAB, and VIDEO GAINS
CONTROL TAB. Discover also has auto-gain and auto-TVG adjustment settings in the DISPLAY CONFIGURATION
WINDOW which clears up imagery automatically with minimal adjustment.

2.4.1 Normalizing Gain and Time Varied Gain (TVG)

To Normalize Gain (N) and Autoset TVG (T) buttons, click the N and T buttons in the Shortcut Toolbar. A
high gain will be applied to weak signals and a low gain to strong signals.

Figure 2-9: Shortcut Toolbar Normalize Gain and TVG Buttons

Gain and TVG should be automatically adjusted if the auto feature is turned on in the DISPLAY
CONFIGURATION SETTINGS. Auto normalize gain and auto TVG settings are identified as on when the text
values in the gain and TVG text box values are gray and uneditable by +/- or manual text entry.

Figure 2-10: Shortcut Toolbar Gain and TVG Values Grayed Out

If manual adjustment is required, uncheck the Auto Normalize On and Auto TVG On checkboxes in the
CONFIGURE DISPLAYS WINDOW.

Figure 2-11: Configure Displays Window-Turn Off Auto Normalize (Gain) and Auto TVG

Use the Range, Gain, and TVG text boxes and corresponding + and – buttons next to each to adjust values
until the desired level of clarity is achieved. Further details can be found in the A-SCAN, WATERFALL DISPLAY,
and SHORTCUT TOOLBAR sections of this manual.

Figure 2-12: Shortcut Toolbar Gain and TVG adjustment

 2-27

Gain can also be set in the VIDEO GAINS TAB of the LOWER CONTROL PANEL. Normalize gain by pressing the
normalize gain (N) and normalize TVG (T) buttons. You change individual gain or TVG values by changing
the numeric values in the various text fields or incrementing them up or down with the + and - buttons
next to each text field. Current gains are displayed in the Video Gain section of the VIDEO GAINS TAB.

Figure 2-13: Video Gains Control Tab in the Lower Control Panel

2.4.1.1 Gain and TVG Normalization Example

FIGURE 2-14 shows Discover without normalized gain and TVG. Notice the bright, washed-out areas and
the dark, difficult-to-view image in both the high and low-frequency waterfalls Displays. Notice in the
cropped A-scans in FIGURE 2-15 and FIGURE 2-16 that the amplitudes are extremely high or low. The gain
values for the high-frequency sonar are a gain of 110 and a TVG of 8. The gain values for low-frequency
sonar are a gain of 35 and a TVG of 8. These values are unique to this example and are extreme.

Figure 2-14: Discover Waterfalls without Normalized Gain and TVG.

Figure 2-15: High-Frequency A-Scan Pane Without Normalized Gain and TVG. Amplitudes Are Very High.
 2-28

Figure 2-16: A Low-Frequency A-Scan Without Normalized Gain and TVG. Amplitudes Are Very Low.

The issues can be addressed by normalizing gain and TVG. In this case, the Normalize Gain (N) and Autoset
TVG (T) buttons are pressed in the toolbar to get the values close. Results are observed in the waterfall
displays and A-scan and then fine-tuned by incrementally modifying each value by pressing the + or -
buttons next to G and TVG or entering numeric values in the text fields. The final values are a high-
frequency sonar gain of 63, a TVG of 172, a low-frequency sonar gain of 39, and a TVG of 66. These values
are unique to this specific sonar dataset; others will be different.

The result is FIGURE 2-17, which shows the same imagery with normalized Gain and TVG. Notice the
waterfall imagery is much clearer than in FIGURE 2-14, and the detail is much more discernable. FIGURE 2-18
and FIGURE 2-19 show A-Scan signal amplitudes that are normalized as compared to FIGURE 2-15 and FIGURE
2-16.

Figure 2-17: Discover Waterfalls Imagery with Normalized Gain and TVG.

Figure 2-18: High-Frequency A-Scan with Normalized Gain and TVG

 2-29

Figure 2-19: Low-Frequency A-Scan with Normalized Gain and TVG

2.5 Top Menu Bar

Menus for the Side Scan Sonar module are described below.

FILE | VIEW | CONFIGURATION | CONTROL | HELP |

2.5.1 File Menu

In the File menu, the user can load configurations
or save a configuration.

2.5.1.1 Load Configuration

Discover configurations that have been saved can
be loaded by selecting Load Configuration from
the FILE MENU. The default file is
DiscoverLast4125D.Jni unless changed.

Figure 2-20: File Menu

2.5.1.2 Save Configuration
Discover configurations are automatically saved when the application is closed by clicking the red x on the
upper right side of the application window. Discover configurations can also be saved manually by
selecting Save Configuration or Exit/Save in the FILE MENU. This function saves the existing configuration
to a file named DiscoverLast4125D.Jni in the Edgetech file folder unless changed.

NOTE: The arrangement of Discover will be saved, but not all the default
value parameters will be saved.

2.5.1.3 Exit / Don’t Save Settings

Exits without saving settings

2.5.1.4 Exit / Save Settings

Exits and saves current settings in DiscoverLastUsed4125D.Jni in the Edgetech file folder unless changed.
 2-30

2.5.2 View Menu

Enable floating displays for the pitch/roll, altitude, depth,
cable counter, and water depth values.

2.5.2.1 Reset
The reset function restores changed or customized low
and high-frequency waterfall displays and A-scan pane
configurations to their default size and visibility.

2.5.2.2 Controls
The Controls function displays or hides the Control Tab
Section of the Lower Control Panel. If checked, the controls
are visible; if unchecked, the controls are not visible.
Altitude
Figure 2-21: View Menu, with Altitude,
Depth, Pitch/Roll
2.5.2.3 Altitude
The Altitude window displays the towfish altitude above the bottom, as determined by the bottom
tracker. The user can enable an audible and visual alert if a parameter is not met, as explained in the
ALERTS CONFIGURATION section of this manual. The alarm will trigger with the status blinking red if the
vehicle moves too close to the bottom or a set minimum value altitude alert.

Figure 2-22: Altitude Window

2.5.2.4 Depth
The Depth window displays depth if a pressure sensor option has been installed. The user can enable an
audible and visual alert if a parameter is not met, as explained in the ALERTS CONFIGURATION section of this
manual.
 2-31

Figure 2-23: Depth Window

2.5.2.5 Pitch/Roll
Vehicle pitch and roll are displayed in the Pitch/Roll
window. In addition, the user can enable an
audible and visual alert if a parameter is not met,
as explained in the ALERTS CONFIGURATION section of
this manual.

Figure 2-24: Pitch/Roll Window

2.5.2.6 Cable Counter
The Cable Counter Window displays cable
information if a cable counter is installed. A Cable
Counter is a valuable tool for estimating the
position of the sonar in the water and for safely
deploying or retrieving it. In addition, this Window
shows the cable length (paid-out) in meters and
the cable speed in meters per second. For more
information, see this manual’s CONFIGURE TOWFISH
LAYBACK and CABLE COUNTERS sections.
Figure 2-25: Cable Counter Window
2.5.2.7 Water Depth
The calculated water depth is displayed in the water depth window. The approximate depth displayed is
the sum of the depth of the towfish and the towfish altitude above the bottom, as determined by the
bottom tracker.

Figure 2-26: Water Depth Window

 2-32

2.5.3 Configuration Menus

Discover’s Configuration settings are accessible by Configuration from the top menu bar.

Figure 2-27: Configuration Menu

2.5.3.1 Display Configuration

The Display Configuration Window allows the user to change the various settings for how the data is
displayed in the Waterfall Displays. Manual Speed and Altitude are recorded in the JSF file when checked,
but the other settings in this window are not.

Figure 2-28: Display Configuration

Display Settings:

SLANT RANGE CORRECTION ON [Check Box]: This selection allows the user to toggle the slant range
correction on or off. The software must have a valid altitude measurement (bottom tracking active) to
correct the slant range. If checked, the seafloor altitude from the bottom tracking feature is used to
 2-33

convert the standard slant range side scan data to ground range data using a flat bottom assumption. The
bottom track data may be overridden using the Manual entry box and checking the Override option.

SPEED CORRECTION ON [Check Box]: This selection allows the user to toggle the speed correction on or
off. A speed-corrected image is adjusted in the along-track dimension to make the vertical display pixel
cover the same length of ground as the current across (horizontal) track pixel size to present a
geometrically correct image (i.e., square objects should appear square in the image). Consequently,
changing the across-track zoom factor will automatically affect the vertical display zoom. The system must
receive a valid GPS (NMEA) input for speed over the ground or a manual speed override to correct the
data.

SUBSAMPLE [Drop Down Selection]: This selection allows the user to choose a representative value when
multiple samples from a sonar ping fall on the same pixel. Functional choices are maximum, minimum,
and average, with the maximum being the preferred value. Select is a placeholder section that queues the
user to make a choice.

AUTO NORMALIZE ON / AUTO TVG ON [Check Box]:

To turn Auto Gain and Auto TVG on, start the Discover program and acquire data by checking the Sonar
ON boxes located in the Configure Displays Window, as shown in FIGURE 2-28.

NOTE: This display gain is applied to data recorded in the XTF format.
EdgeTech’s JSF format data is unaffected by this display scaling. The gain
set automatically may be manually modified to suit, using the Gain edit
box or spin buttons.

When set to AUTO, the Gain and TVG windows are grayed out on the Discover main window. The operator
can still click the N and T buttons in the Shortcut Bar. These buttons should be used the first time a few
seconds after the system starts acquiring sonar data to speed up the centering of the gains. The gains will
increase or decrease the numbers in the grayed-out boxes to achieve the proper values. Since the gains
are based on range, it will take a few minutes of recording for the system to gather enough data to
determine the correct values, so the N and T buttons should be pressed again for the best results.

Figure 2-29: Toolbar Normalize Gain and TVG Buttons

 2-34

STATUS DISPLAY [Radio Button]: This radio button selection allows the user to select what depth to
display in the Depth data block in the Status Bar and Status Display Tab. The choices are pressure, depth,
or none. If pressure calibration is necessary, see EXTERNAL DEVICE CONTROLS.

SOUND SPEED [Numeric Display, Entry]: This textbox allows the user to adjust the sound speed in water
based on variations in temperature, salinity, and depth. Changing the speed of sound will affect the
displayed range scale. Ping rates will remain unchanged. The default value is set to 1500m/sec.

MARK [Numeric Display, Entry]: Mark numbers increment by one each time they are added. This textbox
allows the user to set the mark starting number. Available values are 1 – 1048499, with the first event
marker added being one higher than the value entered in this field (e.g., 0 added to mark fields causes
mark field numeration to start at 1).

MANUAL ALTITUDE [In Meters, Entry, or Increment/Decrement Buttons]: This feature allows users to
override the slant range correction to a towfish altitude of their choice. You must enable the override
selection box to make the software accept the new value. This feature is not recommended for use during
real-time data acquisition. This feature is best used during playback in areas where it is difficult to
automatically bottom track due to soft seafloor materials or suspended sediments in the water.

MANUAL SPEED [In Knots, Entry, or Increment/Decrement Buttons]: This feature allows users to
override the towfish speed to a speed value of their choice. You must enable the override selection box
to make the software accept the new value. This feature is best used during playback of data that lacks
the proper speed input from the navigation system. This value affects the image only when speed
correction is enabled.

2.5.3.2 Record Configuration

The Configure Recording Window provides settings for recording JSF and XTF files.

Figure 2-30: Record Configuration Window

Configure Recording Settings:

• The default Maximum File Size and Free Space Warning values are estimated. Evaluate and
set after checking the available space on the device you are saving to.
• The XTF Output checkbox enables Discover to write XTF data files concurrently with the JSF.

NOTE: Please refer to the xtf standard documentation found at the ECA
GROUP WEBSITE for interfacing with xtf files. Sample data is stored as a
signed short integer.
 2-35

• The New File On Parameter File Change checkbox enables and disables a feature that on a
parameter change (currently range), discontinues and saves the current .jsf and starts a new
file. This feature only works if the XTF Output checkbox is also selected.
• If both the New File on Parameter Change and XTF Output checkboxes are selected, both
current JSF and XTF recordings will be discontinued, saved, and new recordings will be
initiated when a parameter change is detected.

2.5.3.3 Printer Configuration

The printer configuration window allows users to select one of the supported thermal printers. Currently,
the following printers are supported:

• iSys V8.5
• iSys V12
• EPC HSP 100
• EPC 1086-NT
• EPC 9206

Figure 2-31: Printer Configuration Window

NOTE: More or fewer printers may be supported depending on your

specific configuration. EdgeTech topsides do not support parallel
printers.

Printer Settings:
SELECT PRINTER [Drop-Down Selection]: Choose a printer model.
Formatting:
INVERT PRINT [Check Box]: Flips the port and starboard channel positions on the printout.
INVERT GRAYSCALE [Check Box]: Changes white to black and black to white.
SLANT RANGE CORRECTION ON [Check Box]: Toggle slant range correction on/off in printing.
 2-36

PING [Drop Down Selection]: Changes the number of lines printed for each ping.
Banner:
ACTIVE [Check Box]: Turns the banner on or off. It is checked by default.
REVERSE [Check Box]: Mirrors the banner at the data record footer on a printout. It is checked by default.
Depth Scale:
ACTIVE [Check Box]: Turns depth scale on or off. Checked by default.
LABELS [Check Box]: Enables or disables Labels in printouts. It is checked by default.
BACKGROUND [Check Box]: Turns the background on or off. Checked by default.
INVERT SHADE [Check Box]: Enables/disables inverted shading in printouts. Unchecked by default.
Annotation:
ACTIVE [Check Box]: Turns Annotations on or off. Checked by default.
TEXT [Check Box]: Enables or disables Text in printouts. It is checked by default.
EVENT NUMBER [Check Box]: Enables/disables Event numbers in printouts. It is checked by default.
BACKGROUND [Check Box]: Checked by default.
INVERT SHADE [Check Box]: Changes the color of shadows to black. Unchecked by default.
Printer Interface: This product supports network printing only. The IP address and port number will auto-
populate if a wireless printer is connected to your computer. If it does not, you can manually enter it.
IP Address [Text Box]: Enter the printer's IP address.
Port [Text Box]: Enter the port number to be used.

Figure 2-32: Printer IP and Port Input

2.5.3.4 Image Capture Configuration SSH and SSL

The image capture configuration SSH (Side Scan High) and SSL (Side Scan Low) window provide settings
for the image capture option.

Figure 2-33: Image Capture Configuration Window

 2-37

Configure the Image Capture feature by selecting formatting, depth scale, annotation, and the Banner
Active option checkboxes. Select the ping replication value by changing the value in the dropdown. Press
the Done button when complete.

Image Capture Setting Descriptions:

Formatting:
INVERT GRAY SCALE [Check Box]: Enables Invert Gray Scale.
SLANT RANGE CORRECTION ON [Check Box]: Toggle slant range correction on and off in Image Capture.
Other:
PING REPLICATION: Changes the number of lines printed for each ping
BANNER ACTIVE [Check Box]: Checked by default.
Depth Scale:
ACTIVE [Check Box]: Turns depth scale on or off. Checked by default.
LABELS [Check Box]: Enables or disables Labels in printouts. They are checked by default.
BACKGROUND [Check Box]: Enables a visible background. It is checked by default.
INVERT SHADE [Check Box]: Enables or disables invert shading in printouts. It is unchecked by default.
Annotation:
ACTIVE [Check Box]: Enables or disables special annotations or messages sent to a COM port in saved
images. Checked by default.
TEXT [Check Box]: Enables or disables Text in saved images. It is checked by default.
EVENT NUMBER [Check Box]: Enables or disables Event numbers in saved images. It is checked by default.
BACKGROUND [Check Box]: Enables or disables the background in saved images. It is checked by default.
INVERT SHADE [Check Box]: Changes the color of shadows to black in saved images. It is unchecked by
default.
2.5.3.5 NMEA Navigation Configuration
The NMEA navigation configuration window displays the last 12 message types at the baud rate received
by Discover. These are incoming messages to the Discover serial port. The default baud rate is 4800, but
be sure to check the navigation device manual for the appropriate baud rate, as the values must match.
A detailed explanation of messages can be found in the NAVIGATION-ANNOTATION INPUTS section of the
manual.

Figure 2-34: Navigation Configuration Window

 2-38

2.5.3.6 Navigation Offsets

Navigation offsets are used only for target location determination using the Target Logger. These values
are recorded in the JSF files.

There are three sets of fixed offsets, each used for the following scenarios:
• Determining the position of the towfish versus the GPS antenna (Sensor Displacement)
• Specifically for hull-mounted systems (Hull Mount Adjustments)
• For use with raw navigation information with known errors (Input Navigation Correction)

Figure 2-35: Navigation Offsets Window

Navigation offsets are used only for target location determination using the Target Logger module (for
more information, see provided addendum 0018974). These values are recorded in the JSF files.
There are three sets of fixed offsets, each used for the following scenarios:
• Sensor displacement for determining the position of the towfish versus the GPS antenna.
• Hull Mount Adjustments for hull-mounted systems.
• Input Navigation Correction for use with raw navigation information with known errors.

NOTE: The operator should log the Navigation Offsets and insert them
every time the data is being played back.

Configure Navigation Offset Settings:

Sensor Displacement:
AFT OFFSET [Meters, Entry]: This textbox allows users to enter a layback distance value from the GPS
antenna to the tow point. A low point in front of the GPS antenna will have a negative value. This info is
also recorded in the XTF.
STARBOARD OFFSET [Meters, Entry]: This textbox allows the user to enter a distance value from the GPS
antenna to the tow point. A low point on the port side of the GPS antenna will have a negative value.
HEADING OFFSET [Degrees, Entry]: This textbox allows the user to enter a fixed offset for heading
information coming from the towfish, such as to correct for a magnetic variation to get a true north
estimate.
 2-39

NOTE: All sensor displacement information is essential if the Discover

Coverage Mapper and Discover Target Logger applications are in use.

DEPTH OFFSET [Meters, Entry]: This textbox allows users to enter a fixed offset for the towfish depth.
Hull Mount Adjustments: The towfish pitch and roll information needs to be corrected to the pitch and
roll of the survey vessel to account for the lever effect.
PITCH OFFSET [Degrees, Entry]: This selection allows the user to enter a fixed offset for pitch information
coming from the towfish.
ROLL OFFSET [Degrees, Entry]: This selection allows the user to enter a fixed offset for roll information
coming from the towfish.
Input Navigation Corrections: Depending on the type of input navigation, UTM or Lat/Long, either the X
& Y field or the Lat/Long fields need adjustment for known errors in the raw navigation input.
X OFFSET [Meters, Entry]: This selection allows users to enter a fixed offset for the Easting information.
Y OFFSET [Meters, Entry]: This selection allows users to enter a fixed offset for the Northing information.
LATITUDE OFFSET [Degrees, Entry]: This selection allows users to enter a fixed offset for latitude
information.
LONGITUDE OFFSET [Degrees, Entry]: This selection allows users to enter a fixed offset for longitude
information.

2.5.3.7 NMEA Navigation Outputs

NMEA Navigation output can be configured in the Configure NMEA Navigation Output Window. This
window serves two functions. First, it allows the user to choose the NMEA message Discover will output
by selecting the desired checkboxes. Second, the user can configure the Navigation Output port by
manipulating the drop-down menus.

NOTE: The output rate is always 10 Hz regardless of the input rate.

Figure 2-36: Navigation Output Popup

 2-40

Configure NMEA Navigation Output Settings:

DEPTH– DPT [Check Box]: Standard water depth.
DEPTH – DCU [Check Box]: Custom water depth output format
HEADING – HDG [Check Box]: Standard Heading – deviation & variation
ALTITUDE – DBT [Check Box]: Standard Depth Below Transducer
ALTITUDE – 2p3 [Check Box]: Custom Depth Below Transducer output format
NAVIGATION OUTPUT PORT CONFIGURATION
PORT [Drop Down Selection]: The serial port on the topside computer that will output the navigation data
selected. If this setting is changed, Discover must be restarted for it to come into effect.
BAUD RATE [Drop Down Selection]: Default is set to 9600. Supported baud rates: 2400 –115200.

2.5.3.8 Discover Apps

The Discover Apps Window allows the activation and deactivation of the Target Logger and Coverage
Mapper modules.

NOTE: Both Target Logger and Coverage Mapper are enabled by default.

Figure 2-37: External Features Configuration

2.5.3.9 Sonar Port Configuration

The Sonar Port Settings dialog box, shown in FIGURE 2-38, provides a way to configure the RS-232 Serial or
TCP/UDP ports in the 4125 Towfish. The available RS-232 Serial and TCP/UDP ports can be configured
from this menu. To configure a port, enable the port by checking the Enable checkbox. Next, select the
baud rate and appropriate parser, allowing hardware to recognize incoming data strings.
 2-41

Figure 2-38: Sonar Port Setting

2.5.3.10 System Time Set Configuration

The system time set configuration allows the user to choose whether the topside computer should
synchronize with Discover’s time.

Figure 2-39: System Time Set Configuration

2.5.3.11 Trigger Configuration

From the trigger configuration window, the user can choose a Trigger Master.

Figure 2-40: Trigger Configuration

 2-42

The 4125 system supports either a single-frequency or simultaneous dual-frequency operation. In the
simultaneous dual-frequency mode, the two systems must be arranged to transmit at the same time to
minimize inter-system interference.

In all but extreme circumstances, when running in dual simultaneous mode, the 4125 should be run with
the SideScan High configured to be the master. If only one subsystem is active, the selection of Side Scan
High or Side Scan Low as the master has no effect, and the system will run at the supported range rate.

NOTE: If the trigger is divided, there will be a vertical transmit artifact in

the subsystem data that is being divided. This may or may not be suitable
based on survey requirements.

2.5.3.12 Network Configuration

The network configuration window allows the user to change the Sonar IP (Internet Protocol) address and
Sonar Port Number of the towfish.

Figure 2-41: Network Configuration Window

CAUTION! DO NOT change this parameter unless a corresponding

change has been made to the towfish subsystem. Expert users or
system administrators should only do this in truly exceptional
circumstances.

2.5.3.13 Serial Configuration

The 4125 system uses topside serial ports and towfish communication ports to connect to external
devices. These include topside-connected navigation systems, cable counters, pipeline kilometer length
tracking, timekeeping systems, and six possible Towfish serial device connections. See the 4125I
HARDWARE MANUAL for specific device and connection information. For more information on the
navigation system configuration, see the CONFIGURE NMEA NAVIGATION section of this manual.
These devices must be enabled and have their specific port, baud rate, and logic settings set in the SERIAL
PORTS CONFIGURATION WINDOW.
 2-43

Figure 2-42: Serial Configuration Window

Discover allows for two separate navigation devices to connect on different serial ports. In addition,
remote COM ports allow the user to link a serial device connected to the 4125i Tow Vehicle to Discover
via the telemetry link.

NOTE: The Baud Rate setting in both the Configure Serial Port Window
and NMEA Navigation Configuration window IMPACTS the same value, so
any change in one window is reflected in the other.

Serial Port Settings:

ENABLE PRIMARY NAVIGATION INPUT: Port configuration for the primary navigation device. See the
navigation device manual for the correct baud rate.

ENABLE SECONDARY NAVIGATION INPUT: Port configuration for the secondary navigation device. See
the navigation device manual for the correct baud rate.

TIME-ONLY PORT: This port is used to input Time-only messages (e.g., ZDA).
CABLE COUNTER PORT: This port is used to input a cable out value from a sheave. A list of cable counters
currently supported by Discover and an explanation of their formats are provided in the CABLE COUNTERS
section of this manual.
KP INPUT: This input is a means to enter a value for the number of kilometers of pipeline surveyed.
REMOTE COM PORT: Remote COM ports are the serial ports located on the towfish. The port, baud rate,
and logical dropdowns configure towfish serial port settings.
 2-44

2.5.3.14 Alert Configuration

Discover features an alerting function that provides audio and visual alerts when the system exceeds user-
set parameters for minimum altitude, minimum depth, maximum depth, maximum roll, and maximum
pitch. Active alarms display red text in their associated display windows, and audible beeps are played
when audible alarms are set.

Depth Alarm Set and

Audible Beep Heard Displayed When
When Audible Alarm Activated
Activated

Figure 2-43: Alarm Configuration and Display

Alerts are turned on and off, and options are configured in the Configure Alerts Window found by selecting
Alerts in the CONFIGURATION DROP DOWN MENU.

Figure 2-44: Configure Alerts Window

 2-45

Alert Settings:

ACTIVE [Check box]: Enables alert.

AUDIBLE ALARM [Check box]: Enables sound alarm.
MINIMUM ALTITUDE (M) [Numeric Display, Entry]: The minimum altitude in meters before the alarm.
This requires that bottom tracking is on and accurately tracking the bottom.
MAXIMUM DEPTH (M) [Numeric Display, Entry]: The maximum depth before the alarm.
MAXIMUM ROLL (degrees) [Numeric Display, Entry]: The maximum roll before the alarm.
MAXIMUM PITCH (degrees) [Numeric Display, Entry]: The maximum pitch before the alarm.

2.5.3.15 Layback Configuration

Figure 2-45: Layback Window

Layback is the horizontal distance (meters) from the tow point on the survey vessel to the towfish. The
layback function tracks the towfish by inputting or calculating the offsets of the towfish.

Depending on available sensors, the surveyor may choose one of three methods for calculating layback:
1. Manually
2. Using the Hypotenuse Equation
3. Using a Catenary Factor
Sonar data collected with layback will store the layback values in the JSF file. Layback information can be
modified during playback to generate corrected maps. However, layback values entered during playback
do not override the existing numbers. During playback, the software defaults to playback data without
layback. Users must select the playback from the drop-down menu under Layback Calculation in the
Configure Layback Window to use recorded layback values.
The Catenary factor is expected to be between 0 and 1, with 0 representing the Tow Fish directly below
the tow point and 1 representing the angle-of-attack to be zero degrees (horizontal). For exact layback
reading, a USBL (Ultra-short baseline) is required.

NOTE: All values entered in this menu are expected to be in meters.

The layback window is broken up into four sections, as described below:

 2-46

CABLE OUT DROPDOWN MENU: allows three options for determining the length of cable in the water:
• Manually entering the estimated amount of cable
• Data from a cable counter on the vessel’s winch that is input through a topside serial port.
The cable counter types supported appear in the dropdown menu.
• The originally calculated cable out value used during playback
TOW FISH DEPTH: contains three options for choosing the depth of the tow vehicle:
• Manually entering the estimated depth
• Calculating towfish depth with input from an optional pressure sensor (stored in JSF file during
recording and can be seen in PSI and depth in meters)
• $-DPT allows data to come in through a serial port from a pressure sensor. The expected
format for the NMEA pressure data string is:

$-- DPT, x.x,x.x,.x.*hh<CR><LF>

TOW POINT OFFSETS: Manually entered GPS-to-tow point aft and starboard offsets and GPS-to-waterline
height offset.

NOTE: Values are the same as the Aft Offset and Starboard Offset from
NAVIGATION OFFSETS.

LAYBACK CALCULATION: There are four options to choose from in calculating layback.

• Hypotenuse uses the equation that layback equals the square root of the difference between the
square of the cable out and the square of the sum of the depth and the tow point height, i.e.:

𝐿𝐿 = �[(𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐 𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜)2 − (𝑑𝑑 + ℎ)2 ]

• Catenary calculates the layback by using the line out times the catenary factor.

𝐿𝐿 = (𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐 𝑓𝑓𝑓𝑓𝑓𝑓𝑓𝑓𝑓𝑓𝑓𝑓)(𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐 𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜)

• Manual is a manually entered value.

• Playback uses the layback values used during recording.
 2-47

Figure 2-46: Layback Diagram

Example

�𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶 𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷2 − (𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇ℎ 𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷ℎ + 𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇ℎ 𝐻𝐻𝐻𝐻𝐻𝐻𝐻𝐻ℎ𝑡𝑡)2 = 𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿

For example, if 50m of Cable is Deployed, the Towfish Depth is 25m, and Towfish Height is 3m.

�50 𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀 2 − (25 𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀 + 3 𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀)2 = 𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿

√1716 = 41.4 𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀 = 𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿

2.5.4 Control Menus

The Control menus provide access to more advanced features not commonly used in the software.

Figure 2-47: Control Menu

 2-48

2.5.4.1 Advanced Sonar Controls

This pull-down menu option allows access to the transmit Power Level controls. Options are FULL or OFF.
Turning the power off on one or both subsystems can help when troubleshooting the system.

Figure 2-48: Advanced Sonar Controls Window

2.5.4.2 External Device Controls

The External Device Control available to the 4125i system is an option for zeroing out the pressure sensor
in the air, which, if necessary, should be done when the tow vehicle is at the water surface level.

Figure 2-49: Zeroing Out the Pressure Sensor (screen cropped to show detail)

NOTE: The pressure sensor is calibrated before shipping; however, some

customers may need to recalibrate theirs depending on the survey
location and other parameters. Contact EDGETECH CUSTOMER SERVICE for
more information.

2.5.4.3 Diagnostic Information Window

The diagnostic information window displays the state of the connection between the Discover application
and the sonar unit being controlled, as shown in FIGURE 2-50.

Figure 2-50: Diagnostic Information Window

 2-49

FIGURE 2-50 shows the system is fully operational with no problems, and the connection to towfish is good.

Other reported data are:

Power (V): Nominally 50 VDC. This is the primary internal supply voltage for towfish.

Ambient (C): This is the internal ambient temperature of the towfish. This should be
between 0 and 40 degrees C max. A value over this amount may prevent
correct towfish operation.

Error Count: A non-zero value is OK, as changing ranges can cause a small, normal
increase. But the Error count should NOT increase when not changing
ranges. If the error count increases during regular operation, it indicates
an internal software error or an inadequate telemetry uplink rate.

Activity: Shows pinging activity counter has no specific meaning but should be
changed when pinging.

Overflow Count: Reflects the sonar overflow, e.g., network overflow, matched filter
overflow, etc.

NOTE: Refer to the system’s hardware manual for recommended values.

FIGURE 2-51 shows an example of a serial port configured (red arrow) but not in use.

Figure 2-51: Serial Port Fault Due to being Configured by Unused

Significant problems are reported in red on the Diagnostic Information window's top-right section,
providing a vital clue for diagnosing connectivity issues. Examples of diagnostic displays with these kinds
of errors include:
 2-50

NETWORK ERROR
FIGURE 2-52 shown that the software communication between the topside and the towfish has been lost
(i.e., no TCP/IP PING 192.9.0.xxx connectivity). This indicates a network cable problem, possibly due to an
unplugged cable or a bad cable from the laptop to the towfish power supply, the tow cable, noise,
excessive length, signal attenuation, or a complete failure of the towfish computer to boot properly. A
Ping command to this connection will return the Windows message: Hardware Error

Figure 2-52: Network Error

Sometimes a power cycle of the topside interface unit will correct this error. Also, check the laptop
computer for the correct IP address (LAN connection, the IP is 192.9.0.99; Wireless IP is 192.9.0.99), and
refer to the 4125i User’s Hardware Manual PN 0004823 for additional hardware information.

CANNOT PING TOWFISH ELECTRONICS

The “Cannot Ping Towfish Electronics” error message, shown in FIGURE 2-53, indicates that the Ethernet
(laptop and or the towfish) is not established or the towfish computer has not booted. These can take
about 1 minute and 20 seconds after powering on to be established, so users are encouraged to wait a
few minutes to see if this issue resolves after a fresh power cycle.

Figure 2-53: Cannot Ping Towfish Electronics Error

 2-51

NO SOCKET CONNECTION

Should the system display a “No Socket Connection” error message, shown in FIGURE 2-54, check the
socket setting in the Discover Configuration Menu, under Network. This connection should be established
about 1 min 30 seconds after the towfish power is turned on.

Figure 2-54: No Socket Connection Error

2.5.4.4 Connection Information

The Connection Information popup, shown in FIGURE 2-55, displays the Discover external topside interface
to control the sonar subsystem for data acquisition and logging, including the number of connections and
disconnections, and messages in/out.

Figure 2-55: Connection Information

 2-52

2.6 Help

Figure 2-56: Help Down-Down Menu Options

2.6.1 About Discover

The About Discover Tab provides Copyright, Version, and EdgeTech Contact information (for support if
needed).

Figure 2-57: About Discover Window

2.7 Lower Control Panel

The Lower Control Panel is comprised of three sections: MAIN STATUS LINE DISPLAY, RADIO INDICATOR TAB,
and CONTROL TABS. These three are labeled by color in FIGURE 2-58.
Control Tabs

Main Status Line Display Radio Indicator Tabs

Figure 2-58: The Lower Control Panel

 2-53

2.7.1 Main Status Line Display

The Main Status Line Display is a read-only tool that displays current information about the system. This
bar sits below the lower control panel (see), and its features are described below:

Figure 2-59: Main Status Line Display of the Lower Control Panel
Main Status Line Displays:

Top Line of the Main Status Line Display

Ping: This section of the Lower Control Panel displays the current ping number since the towfish was
powered on.
LAT / LON, COURSE, SPEED, and ATD (ALONG TRACK DISTANCE): Displays current latitude/longitude,
course, speed data from the GPS, and along-track distance between pings.

HEADING, PITCH, AND ROLL: This section displays the towfish compass data.
HEAVE: This data block displays the towfish’s detected heave.
ALTITUDE: This section displays the current fish altitude as calculated from the Bottom Tracking function.
Bottom tracking must be on for this to work properly. See the BOTTOM TRACKING TAB section of this manual
for instructions on turning it on and configuring it properly.
DEPTH/PRESSURE: This section displays either the depth of the towfish in meters or PSI pressure. You can
change from depth to pressure or turn this off completely by changing your choice in the Status Display
section of the CONFIGURE DISPLAYS CONFIGURATION MENU.
SV: Sound Velocity is set to 1500 meters per second by default. Sound velocity is changeable by modifying
the Sound Speed value in the CONFIGURE DISPLAYS CONFIGURATION MENU.
Bottom Line of the Main Status Line Display

CURSOR PING: When the cursor is positioned over the waterfall display, the system ping number
associated with the position will be displayed in this area.
MARK: Displays the current event mark number.
DATE & TIME: Displays the current date and time.

NOTE: Information displayed in Date and Time depends on the following:

1. The message time is displayed when pinging and receiving NMEA
messages (e.g., RMC or ZDA).
2. If pinging but not receiving the NMEA message, Sonar time is
displayed.
3. If not pinging, time and date are N/A.
4. If in playback, the date and time recorded in the .jsf file are displayed.
 2-54

FREE SPACE/Record Dir: Not Found: This section of the Lower Control Panel displays the remaining data
storage space on the current drive in Megabytes.

NOTE If Record Dir: Not Found is displayed, it indicates the path in the
DiscoverLast3400.Jni file doesn’t exist or cannot be found. This issue can
be resolved by going to the Disk tab and selecting a directory to write to
by clicking the Browse button.

2.7.2 Radio Indicator Tabs

The Radio Indicator Tabs display the system status of the indicated feature and are key in monitoring and
troubleshooting.

Figure 2-60: The Radio Indicator Tabs when Sonar is on and not Recording

Figure 2-61: Radio Indicator Tabs when Discover is Playing a Recording

Radio Indicator Tab Displays:

SONAR: Displays the sonar status. “ON” means the sonar has been turned on, and “OFF” means it has not
been turned on. During Playback, this will be yellow and read “PLAYBACK.”
GPS: Displays the status of the GPS input. A status of GPS “ON” means GPS data is being received, and a
status of GPS “OFF” means no data is being received. A GPS “ERR” status means GPS data being received
has errors.

RECORD: Displays the status of the file recording. A status of “ON” means data is being recorded. A status
of “OFF” indicates data is not being recorded. An " ERROR " status means there was an error while
recording data.
NET [Network]: Displays the sonar TCP/IP link status. If the status is “ON,” Discover is connected to the
sonar. If the status is “OFF,” Discover is not receiving data from the sonar.
POWER: Displays the power status of the towfish. If the status is “ON,” the towfish is receiving power. If
the status is “OFF,” it is not. If the Status is “FULL,” the towfish is receiving full power. If the status is
“LOW,” the towfish is receiving low power. A yellow background indicates the power is not set to full. If
the status is “ERROR,” the towfish is reporting an error.
 2-55

2.8 Control Tabs

The top of the Discover Lower Control Panel consists of individual tab selection sheets that are activated
by clicking on the corresponding tab. The features of each of these control tabs are described below.

2.8.1 Towfish Control Tab

Figure 2-62: Towfish Control Tab

The 4125i system provides two basic modes of operation that are controlled via this tab:

• Single-mode operation – Only Side Scan high or Side Scan low

• Dual simultaneous mode – Both Side Scan high and Side Scan low are on

Towfish Control Tab Settings and Displays:

HIGH [Check Box]: Selecting this checkbox will turn the High-Frequency Sonar On. Deselecting this
checkbox will turn the sonar off.

LOW [Check Box]: Selecting this checkbox will turn the Low-Frequency Sonar On. Deselecting this
checkbox will turn the sonar off.

RANGE (M) [Numeric Display, Entry]: The range of signal propagation, in meters, on the port and
starboard sides. The range for each frequency can be altered from this tab.

SIGNAL METER [Numeric Display, Entry]: The Signal Meter table shows the maximum return signal level
reported by sonar.

FREQUENCIES: [Numeric Display, Entry]: The frequencies table represents the system's maximum and
minimum output frequencies (600/1600 kHz in this example). High-Frequency is represented on the top
of both tables, and low-frequency is on the bottom.

2.8.2 Video Gains Tab

Video Gains are displayed and can be adjusted in this control Tab. Gains can also be adjusted by using the
Discover Toolbar. If Auto Normalization (Gain) or Auto TVG is turned on in the DISPLAY CONFIGURATION, the
Gain and TVG textboxes will be uneditable with grey text.

Figure 2-63: Video Gains Tab

 2-56

Video Gains Settings and Displays:

NORMALIZE [Button]: This button sets the display gain of each channel to a value suitable for the current
maximum echo levels. A high gain will be applied for weak signals and a low gain for strong signals. The
value chosen is shown in the Gain box and may be adjusted manually by the user.

GAIN (dB) [Display, Entry]: This selection allows the user to adjust the overall video gain for both the port
and starboard signals. If grayed out and uneditable, Auto Normalization is turned on in THE DISPLAY
CONFIGURATION.

TVG (dB/100m) [Display, Entry]: This value is used to apply exponential time-varying gain (TVG) to the
displayed waterfall data for both the port and starboard signals. This gain is NOT applied to the recorded
data in any format nor to the data displayed in the top amplitude versus range display window. The origin
for the start of the gain may be selected as the time origin or the seafloor. If grayed out and uneditable,
Auto TVG is turned on in THE DISPLAY CONFIGURATION.

MAX TVG (dB) [Display, Entry]: To enter the slope or the limit of the TVG ramp, click on the value to be
changed and enter the new value. The time-varying gain slope is used to adjust the image gain with
increasing range to compensate for the signal loss with range. The TVG limit stops the gain from increasing
with range at the displayed limit.

COMPRESSION (dB) [Display, Entry]: This entry supports a value of 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 dB. A zero
value causes the display palette to be used linearly, mapping the input signal range to 256 shades of
color/grayscale. A value > 0 causes the palette to be warped progressively to emphasize small signals
while relatively reducing the intensity of stronger signals.

STARBOARD GAIN (dB) [Display, Entry]: This selection allows the user to adjust the starboard signal's gain
to correct the data display for any imbalance between the port and starboard channels.

2.8.3 Display Tab

The Display Tab provides controls and settings for the High and Low-Frequency Waterfall Displays.

Figure 2-64: Display Tab

Display Tab Settings and Displays:

HIGH and LOW ZOOM % [Percentage, Entry]: Two of these selection boxes are located in the control
panel, one for port and one for starboard. These selections allow users to adjust the Horizontal Zoom
factor for the port and starboard displays. When the “Link” box is checked off, the input applies to both
port and starboard.
 2-57

A factor of 100% maps one sonar sample to one screen pixel. A value of 10% maps ten sonar samples to
one screen pixel. On-screen zooming using the mouse is more efficient and affects these values. Zoom
can be set from 1.33 – 800%. 800 is 8x, meaning eight samples per pixel, and 1.33% is 75 sonar samples
per pixel.

To zoom into a target on the data display, press and hold down the left mouse button, drag across the
screen (Horizontal or Diagonal), and release. Double-clicking the left mouse button in the data area will
return the sonar data to full resolution.

NOTE: The user can use the scroll bars at the bottom of each data display
to scroll horizontally through the zoomed data

LINES/PING [Entry] and ZOOM % [Entry]: Two selection boxes are in the control panel. These selections
allow users to adjust the Vertical Zoom for the port and starboard displays. When the “Link” box is checked
off, the input applies to both port and starboard. If set to one, the one echo set is mapped to one line of
screen pixels. If set to 2, then the echo data is duplicated and written to 2 horizontal lines of screen pixels.
This feature is useful for seeing details in the echo data.

VIDEO DELAY (Entry, Samples): Two selection boxes are in the control panel. These selections allow users
to adjust the video delay from the centerline for the port and starboard displays. On-screen zooming using
the mouse is more efficient and affects these values.

PALETTE [Entry, Drop Down]: This pull-down menu allows the user to a pre-defined color palette for the
data that is being displayed. This feature also enables the user to inverse the image by selecting the
desired inverse color palette from the list.

Figure 2-65: Palette Configuration

LINK PORT AND STARBOARD [Entry, Checkbox]: This selection links both the port and starboard displays
so that all the changes made within this control panel affect both channels.
 2-58

2.8.4 Disk Tab

The Disk Tab provides controls for Discovered playback and recording functionality.

Figure 2-66: Disk Tab

Disk Tab Settings and Displays:

PLAYBACK CONTROLS [Entry, Buttons]: Playback controls allow users to playback JSF files using familiar
media playback controls. Files are loaded by pressing the Browse button and locating them within the
Windows file directory structure. They are then played, paused, stopped, sped up, or slowed down using
the playback controls in the Disk Tab or the mirrored buttons in the SHORTCUT TOOLBAR. Detailed playback
instructions can be found in the LOADING AND VIEWING A .JSF FILE IN DISCOVER section of this manual

RECORD FILE CONTROLS [Entry, Buttons]: Recording controls allow users to record JSF and XTF files using
familiar media recording controls. Files are created by first pressing the Browse button and locating a
storage location within the Windows file directory structure and then adding a file name in the Record
File field. Recording is started by pressing the record button and stopped by pressing the stop recording
button in the Disk Tab or the mirrored buttons in the SHORTCUT TOOLBAR. Detailed instructions on file
recording are found in the RECORDING A .JSF FILE IN DISCOVEr and RECORDING PARTS OF A RECORDING section of
this manual.

BUTTON NAME FUNCTION

Playback
Controls:
Plays a .jsf file. Pressing while playing a recording slows
Play Button
playback speed.
Pauses the current recording. Pressing play after will
Pause Button
resume from the pause point.
Stops the current recording. Pressing play after restarts
Stop Button
the recording from the beginning.
Increases playback speed by one increment every time it
Fast Forward
is pressed.
Rewind Reverses playback.
Recorder
Controls:
Start Recording
Starts a new .jsf recording.
Button
Stop Recording
Stops a current .jsf recording
Button
Table 2-4: Disk Tab Playback and Recorder Controls
 2-59

2.8.4.1 Recording a .jsf File in Discover

Recording a JSF file is Edgetech’s suggested method of
capturing survey data. To do so:

1. Ensure the computer or storage device that the

.jsf will be written to has sufficient storage.
2. Configure Discover’s recording settings in the
Configure Recording Window.

Discover’s recording settings are found in the

Configure Recording Window located by selecting Figure 2-67: Configuration Drop-Down Menu
Record in the CONFIGURATION DROP DOWN MENU. Record Configuration Location

Figure 2-68: Configure Recording Window

Settings:

• The default Maximum File Size and Free Space Warning values are estimated. Evaluate and
set after checking the available space on the device you are saving to (Step 1).
• The XTF Output checkbox enables Discover to write XTF data files concurrently with the JSF.

NOTE: Please refer to the xtf standard documentation found at the ECA
GROUP WEBSITE for interfacing with xtf files. Sample data is stored as a
signed short integer.

• The New File On Parameter File Change checkbox enables and disables a feature that on a
parameter change (currently range), discontinues and saves the current .jsf and starts a new
file. This feature only works if the XTF Output checkbox is also selected.
• If both the New File on Parameter Change and XTF Output checkboxes are selected, both
current JSF and XTF recordings will be discontinued, saved, and new recordings will be
initiated when a parameter change is detected.
3. Enter a file name in Record File Field and select a directory to write the file to in the DISK TAB of
the LOWER CONTROL PANEL.

First, enter a file name into the Record File: Field. No file extension is required. If no filename is
entered, Discover will auto name the file with a 13-digit name based on the date and time the
 2-60

file was created. If the name of an existing file is chosen, the current filename will automatically
be extended by adding a three-digit count to it.

Next, set the recording directory by clicking the right side Browse button to the right of the
Record File: field in the DISK CONTROL TAB.

NOTE: Setting the recording directory must be done the first time you run
Discover, or you will receive an ERROR, and no recording will occur.

Record File Field: Enter Browse Button: Press

file name here. to set File Directory to
Disk Tab be saved to.

Figure 2-69: Discover UI Disk Tab and Recorder Browse Button Locations

The Select Folder Window will launch. Use the Windows navigation bar at the top of the file menu
to navigate to the file directory to save to. When the folder is located, select it and press the Select
Folder button.

Figure 2-70: Select Folder Window

 2-61

Folder configuration can be verified by checking that the Free Space field in the Lower Control
Panel shows a numeric MB value, and the RECORD Radio Indicator Tab does not display ERROR.

Figure 2-71: Cropped Lower Control Panel Recording Settings Check

4. Start a recording by entering a file name into the Record File: field and pressing the Record button
on Shortcut Toolbar or Disk Tab.

Record
Button

Record
Button

Figure 2-72: Discover UI-Locations of Record Buttons

NOTE: A sonar must be turned on for the record button to be visible in the
SHORTCUT TOOLBAR. Turning a sonar off and on is done in the TOWFISH CONTROL
TAB in the Lower Control Panel. The Record Button in the Disk Control Tab is
always visible.
 2-62

A recording is verified as in progress by checking that Record Radio Indicator Tab is set to ON. A
file address line is visible under the Record File: Textbox, and a MB (megabyte) value is visible
and rising.

Figure 2-73: Discover UI- Recording Verification

5. Stop the recording by pressing the stop button on the Shortcut Toolbar or Disk Tab.

New File
Button

Stop
Button

Stop
Button

New File
Button

Figure 2-74: Discover UI-Stop Recording Button Locations

If a new recording is desired during a survey, click the New File button on the SHORTCUT TOOLBAR
or Recorder Controls of the DISK TAB. This will save and end the current and then start a new file.

Discover .jsf, and optional .xtf files will be found in the directory set in step 3 when the stop
recording button has been pressed. The files can be renamed as long as the .jsf extension is
retained.

JSF files are played back in Discover. Instructions on how to do this are found in the LOADING AND
VIEWING A .JSF PLAYBACK FILE section of this manual. XTF files are viewed in a separate application.
 2-63

Figure 2-75: Saved .jsf Files

The process for recording a .jsf file is complete.

2.8.4.2 Loading and Viewing a .jsf File in Discover

Instructions to load and view a .jsf file are as follows:

1. Ensure the application is running or launch the application if it is closed.

A Discover 4125 Application window without data is shown in the figure below. It is run by default
at Windows launch, may be minimized, and can be closed.

Figure 2-76: Discover UI- No Data Populated

Maximize or launch a minimized or closed Discover Application by clicking the Discover Icon in the
Windows Application Menu, icon on the Windows desktop, or Windows Taskbar shortcut.
 2-64

Discover

Figure 2-77: Application Menu Icon Figure 2-79: Figure 2-78: Taskbar Icon
Desktop Icon

2. Load a JSF file in the Disk Tab of the Lower Control Panel.
Disk Tab

Playback File Name Browse Button

Figure 2-80: Discover UI- Disk Tab Displayed

File loading controls are displayed by selecting the DISK CONTROL TAB in the LOWER CONTROL PANEL.
A selected or last played file will be preloaded and displayed in the Playback File field. The
placeholder text SonarData will appear in the Playback file field if this is the first time running the
application.

To choose a new file to view, press the Browse button to the right of the Playback File field. This
will launch a select file menu similar to the image below. Next, navigate to the file directory of the
file to be loaded using the windows navigation bar at the top of the file menu or folder listing to
the left to the left. When the JSF file is located, click it to select it and press the Open button.

Figure 2-81: Disk Tab Browse Button Select File Window

 2-65

The file should load, and data is displayed in the WATERFALL and A-SCAN displays of the UI. High-
frequency sonar data is displayed in the top two port and starboard quadrants and overlying A-
scan panes with yellow scales. Low-frequency sonar data is displayed in the lower two-port and
starboard quadrants and A-Scan Panes with blue scales. If only high-frequency or low-frequency
data is present rather than both, only two quadrants with overlying scales and A-Scan panes will
be displayed.

A-Scan Panes (High Frequency)

High High Frequency Scales High

Frequency Frequency
Port Starboard
Waterfall Waterfall
Display Display

A-Scan Panes (Low Frequency)

Low Low Frequency Scales High

Frequency Frequency
Port Starboard
Waterfall Waterfall
Display Display

Figure 2-82: Discover UI- 4 Quadrants and 2 A-Scan displays populated.

 2-66

3. Play and view a file using the Playback controls in the Disk Tab or Shortcut Bar.

Shortcut Bar Playback

Controls

Disk Tab Playback Controls

Playback Speed and Percent

Completed Values

Figure 2-83: Discover UI File Playback

Files are played, slowed, paused, stopped, and fast-forwarded in Discover by pressing the video playback
function buttons in the Disk Tab or at the UI's Top in the Shortcut Toolbar.

Figure 2-84: Shortcut Bar Playback Controls

 2-67

Figure 2-85: Playback Control Buttons

PLAYBACK
CONTROLS:
Play Buttons Plays a JSF file. Pressing again slows playback speed incrementally.
Pause Pauses the current recording. Pressing play after will resume from
Button the pause point.
Stops the current recording. Pressing the play button after restarts
Stop Button
the recording from the beginning.
Fast Increases playback speed by one increment every time it is
Forward pressed.
Rewind Rewinds playback. Currently Disabled.

Table 2-5: Discover Playback Controls

4. Normalize Discover Gain and Time Varied Gain (TVG) using the Shortcut Toolbar buttons to view
the survey's clearest results. First, click the Normalize Gain (N) and Autoset TVG (T) buttons after
starting the playback. In many cases, this will clear up washed out or weak imagery.

Figure 2-86: Shortcut Toolbar Normalize Gain and Autoset TVG Buttons

Next, view the clarity of the Waterfall displays and A-scan amplitudes. If further refinement is
required, disable Auto Normalize (gain) and Auto TVG settings in the DISPLAY CONFIGURATION
window and adjust Gain and TVG using the + and - buttons or manually edit the text values until
the desired quality is achieved. These values will be saved to the Discover UI until you change
them. Further details can be found in the A-SCAN, WATERFALL DISPLAY, and SHORTCUT TOOLBAR
sections of this manual.

Figure 2-87: Shortcut Toolbar Gain and TVG Fields and Buttons.

NOTE: If the gain and TVG textbox text values are gray and uneditable, go
to the Display Configuration Dialog in the Configuration dropdown menu
and uncheck Autonormalize On and Auto TVG On checkboxes.

The process of loading and viewing a Playback file in Discover is now complete.
 2-68

2.8.4.3 Recording Parts of a Recording

The Discover .jsf recording feature allows recording parts of an existing .jsf file in separate .jsf files. This
helps truncate large files and surveys into smaller, more focused, and manageable files. To record a part
of a recording, load a file in the left playback section of the Disk Control Tab and play it. When ready to
record, add a file name in the right-side Record File text field and press the record button. If you need
further instructions on playing a .jsf file, see the LOADING AND VIEWING A JSF FILE IN DISCOVER section of this
manual. If you need further instructions on recording a file, see the RECORDING A .JSF FILE IN DISCOVER section
of the manual.
Select Disk Control Tab
Add New File Recording
Name

Press Record Button Once

Load an Existing .jsf File and Play
JSF Played
It By Pressing The Play Button

Figure 2-88: Disk Control Tab-Recording A Recording

2.8.5 Bottom Tracking Tab

EdgeTech’s Discover provides a useful bottom-tracking function that helps surveyors collect data and
avoid striking the bottom and objects with the vehicle. Red and green bottom tracking indicator lines are
displayed in the side scan waterfall, and A-Scan displays marking the bottom’s set, calculated, or recorded
position. A red line will appear in the actively tracking system’s waterfall and waveform displays, marking
the bottom’s calculated or set position. Green tracking indicator lines appear in JSF recordings if bottom
tracking data is present in the file. Bottom tracking is always on in 4125 systems.

Red Bottom
Tracking Indicator
Lines

Figure 2-89: High-Frequency Side Scan Bottom Tracker Indicator Lines

 2-69

Bottom Tracking options are configured in the BOTTOM TRACK TAB in the LOWER CONTROL PANEL.

Figure 2-90: Bottom Track Tab

Bottom Tracking Settings:
TRACKING INDICATOR [Check Box]: This feature displays indicator lines in both the waterfall and A-Scan
displays to indicate where the software is tracking the bottom based on current bottom track settings or
what is recorded in a playback file. A red tracking indicator line indicates active tracking. A green tracking
indicator line indicates a mirrored or recorded bottom track.
INDICATOR OFFSET (pixels) [Numeric Display, Entry]: This selection allows the user to offset the Tracking
Indicator by a user-defined number of pixels to a maximum of 500 pixels. This feature is helpful when you
have a very hard bottom material, making it hard to see the tracking indicator.
MINIMUM ALTITUDE (M) [Numeric Display, Entry]: This selection allows the user to manually force the
tracking algorithm to exclude a region out to a certain distance from towfish from consideration in
choosing bottom candidates. The region extending from 0 meters out to the hold-off range is excluded
from the bottom tracker. This feature is beneficial when there is a large amount of clutter in the water
column below the towfish, making bottom tracking difficult. The operator must frequently monitor the
tracking indicator when this feature is used. If the water below the towfish gets shallower than the Hold
off setting, then the bottom tracking feature will be operating incorrectly
Bottom Tracking Suggestions and Notes:

• It is best to use Discover’s bottom tracking feature with nautical charts, surveyor area expertise,
and Discover software operating experience to make safe deployment decisions.
• Bottom tracking is always on in 4125 systems.

2.8.6 Grids Tab

The Grids Tab allows a user to add scaled vertical or horizontal line grids to the Waterfall Displays.

Figure 2-91: Grids Tab

 2-70

Grid Tab Settings:

HORIZONTAL [Meters, Entry]: This selection allows users to toggle the horizontal scale lines on or off.
Please note that you must have a navigation input with valid speed, or manual speed, to be displayed for
the horizontal scale lines.

INTERVAL [Meters, Entry]: This selection allows users to select the desired spacing between the
horizontal scale lines.

VERTICAL [Entry, Checkbox]: This selection allows the user to toggle the vertical scale lines on or off.
These scale lines will work with or without a navigation input.

INTERVAL [Meters, Entry]: This selection allows users to select the desired spacing between the vertical
scale lines.

SCALE [Selection]: This selection allows the user to select the horizontal and vertical scale lines in a choice
of meters, milliseconds, feet, or yards.

NOTE: Scale lines are for the video display of the data only and do not
affect the recorded data in any way. All other inputs, such as range and
offsets, remain in meters.

2.8.7 Image Capture

The image capture feature allows the user to have JPEG snapshots of the Waterfall Display taken at
intervals (in meters) set by the user. This tab gives the user the ability to set the file name and location to
save each image. The option can be enabled for high frequency, low frequency, or both simultaneously.

The image capture feature also allows the user to have a new file generated after ‘x’ number of meters.

Figure 2-92: Image Capture Tab

Image Capture Tab Settings:

HIGH FREQUENCY and LOW FREQUENCY [Entry, Checkbox]: Checking the box turns the image capture
feature on for each sonar subsystem. Unchecking the box turns the image capture feature off for each
sonar subsystem.

NEW FILE EVERY (0=>DISABLED)[Meters, Entry]: Adding a value other than 0 allows a new image to be
taken at the desired meter interval. When this feature is activated, new files are created and named by
appending three numeric characters to the file name that increments by 1 with every file (newfile001L.jpg,
newfile002L.jpg). This feature only works if there is a speed value in Discover.
 2-71

JPEG FILE NAME and THREE-DOT CHOOSE DIRECTORY BUTTON [Entry, Button]: Pressing the three-dot
choose directory button allows the user to select the directory to save the captured image to. Adding text
to the JPEG File Name allows the user to name the files. Discover automatically adds an L or H to the file
name to mark it as a low or high-frequency image. JPG file extensions are not required, as Discover adds
them automatically. Discover will create a 15-character name (14 digits date-based name plus L or H
designation) if no file name is entered.

2.8.8 Printer
The Printer Tab is used to print the desired frequency with gain settings. One frequency can be printed at
a time.

Figure 2-93: Printer Tab

Printer Settings:

PRINTER ON [Check Box]: Enables Printer.

GAIN (dB) [Numeric Display, Entry]: Adjusting this value adds to the printed record gain only and will not
affect data in the Waterfall Display. Increasing the gain will darken the data during printing, whereas
decreasing the gain will lighten the data during printing. The use of this is up to the discretion of the
surveyor. The present Gain and TVG displayed in the SHORTCUT TOOLBAR will not affect the intensity of the
printout.

FREQUENCY [Drop-down Selection]: The user can choose which frequency (High, Low) they want to print.

2.8.9 Status
The Status tab provides a quick view of system navigation and towfish sensor information. This tab is read-
only and requires no input from the user

Figure 2-94: Status Tab

 2-72

Status Tab Displays:

Navigation:

LATITUDE, LONGITUDE, COURSE, SPEED, DATE, TIME: These fields display position information that the
software receives from the navigation input.

Towfish Sensors:

HEADING: This field displays the heading received from the pitch/roll sensor in the towfish.

ALTITUDE: This field displays the towfish altitude in meters and requires the bottom tracking feature to
be activated. It is very important for the operator to periodically verify that the bottom tracking feature
is tracking the bottom reliably. If the bottom tracking feature is not properly tracking the bottom, it will
cause this display to indicate a false altitude value.

PITCH: This field displays the towfish Pitch from the pitch/roll sensor.

ROLL: This field displays the towfish roll from the pitch/roll sensor.

DEPTH: This field displays the towfish depth from either a pressure sensor in the towfish or a manual
depth that is applied. Depth configuration can be found in the Status Display radio button section of the
CONFIGURE DISPLAYS WINDOW.
 3-73

3.0 TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM: When connected to a GPS, the computer’s mouse acts erratically and seems to be 'jumping.'

SOLUTION: A Windows bug discovered by Microsoft where Windows detects a connected GPS as a mouse-
-this produces a jumping cursor problem. The following are directions supplied by Microsoft support to
correct the problem:

1. Turn off the GPS and close Discover Software.

2. Right-click on the My Computer icon and select Properties.

3. Select the Hardware tab, and click the Device Manager button.

4. Next to "Mice and other pointing devices," click the plus button to expand this list. You should see
at least two items listed. One is the mouse you normally use, and the other will probably be listed
as "Microsoft Serial Ball Point."

5. Highlight "Microsoft Serial Ball Point" and click the Disable button at the top of the window (it is
usually the second button from the right; hover the cursor over it and read the ToolTip to verify).

6. In the confirmation message window that appears, click Yes.

7. Close the Device Manager.

8. Power on your GPS.

9. Restart Discover software, or let Windows load before plugging in or turning on the GPS for a
quick fix.

PROBLEM: No communications between GPS and Discover Software

SOLUTION: When Discover is not receiving the GPS data, first verify Discover’s primary/secondary COM
ports and the baud rate matches those of the GPS. Then, using a terminal program such as Tera Term,
verify the information received by the COM port.

NOTE: Discover and all other programs, especially any that use COM
ports for other connections, should be closed while running Tera Term (a
terminal emulator program).

Follow the steps below for this procedure:

1. Set the GPS to its NMEA mode in its Interface Setup area for this test.

2. Set the GPS to its Simulator mode if indoors or have difficulty obtaining a GPS satellite fix.
 3-74

3. Run the Tera Term executable file at C:\Edgetech\Utilities.

4. Click on the Setup menu, and under the dropdown, select Serial Port. The Tera Term Serial port
setup window pops up.

5. Select the port number, baud rate, data 8 bits, parity to none, stop 1 bit, and set flow control to
none. Finally, set the transmit delay set to 0.

Repeat the procedure above for the other COM ports. If none of these are receiving GPS input, then the
problem lies in the physical serial port, the GPS receiver, or the connection between them.

At this point, one of three things can happen:

1. An error message appears. This means the COM port

you selected is unavailable or not functioning properly.
Close Tera Term and repeat the process, trying a
different COM port. If you are certain you are selecting
the proper COM port, contact EdgeTech for further
troubleshooting tips.

Figure 3-1: Tera Term Error Message

2. A blank screen with a flashing cursor appears, shown in FIGURE 3-2. This error occurs because the
COM port you chose is not receiving NMEA data. Close Tera Term and repeat the process, trying
a different COM port. If you are sure that you are selecting the proper COM port, check the output
settings on the GPS. If you are confident that the GPS is outputting NMEA strings, use a Null
Modem to swap pins 2 and 3 (TX & RX).

Figure 3-2: COM Port Not Receiving Data (Blinking Cursor)

 3-75

3. A screen with text scrolling upward appears. You are successfully connected to your GPS unit.
Good GPS data will look similar to FIGURE 3-3 below.

Figure 3-3:Accurate GPS Data

a. The scrolling data you see indicates your current position (among other things). Note which COM
port was used and exit Tera Term.
 4-76

4.0 APPENDIX

A.0 NAVIGATION-ANNOTATION
Discover 4125i/4125 can interface with any industry-standard NMEA 0183 GPS via the COM port on the
topside processor (COM 1 is the default). Most GPS receivers made in the past 5+ years output the NMEA
0183 (version 1.5, 2.0/2.1, or 2.3) data language. GPS receivers can be connected by a serial cable
(provided by the GPS manufacturers) to the EdgeTech topside through a standard 9- pin serial port. A USB
to serial adapter will also input NMEA data. Refer to SERIAL PORT CONNECTIONS for the pinout of the nine-
pin serial connector. Baud rates of 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 14400, 19200, and 38400 are supported.
Higher baud rates may not work.

The following information describes the serial port interface parameters for acquiring navigation strings
from a connected GPS unit or integrated navigation computer to the Discover processor serial port. The
system will also accept Annotation and Event mark strings in accordance with sub-section EVT: EVENT &
ANNOTATION (EDGETECH CUSTOM).

Several of the messages conform to the NMEA 0183 protocol. For additional information, refer to:
NATIONAL MARINE ELECTRONICS ASSOCIATION NMEA 0183
STANDARD FOR INTERFACING MARINE ELECTRONICS NAVIGATIONAL DEVICES
Version 2.00
January 1, 1992

A.1.1 Port Parameters

The following are the default port parameters that cannot be changed:

PARAMETER DESCRIPTION
Interface RS-232C
User choice is limited to installed serial ports. Baud
COM Port
Rate: 4800/9600
Data Bits 8
Start-Bits 1
Stop Bits 1
Parity None
Handshaking None

Table 4-1: Port Parameters

 4-77

A.1.2 Port Selection

Users can configure and assign ports to send and receive data via the CONFIGURE SERIAL PORTS WINDOW
found in the Configuration dropdown menu in the TOP MENU BAR.

Table 4-2: Configure Serial Ports Window

The user can set up the primary, secondary, or both navigation ports to receive Time and Positional
messages from the GPS. In addition, the secondary port can supply additional NMEA data such as Gyro
heading, Event Mark, etc.

Valid Baud rates are 2400-115200, depending on your NMEA source. Higher rates are not yet supported.

The Discover software will support up to two navigation input serial ports for connecting to any sources
of these NMEA serial data strings. The messages may come in on any of the two enabled ports, or they
may all be input via one port. No distinction or priority is given to any port over another. Therefore,
enabling those ports needed for supplying valid data is safest.

NOTES: Discover can receive navigation data on both ports

simultaneously, as long they are not the same. As an example, it is not
recommended to receive two ZDA on both ports.
The GPS information is displayed in the Discover status bar once the
Sonar is transmitting / water falling.
 4-78

A.1.3 Inputs
The following sub-sections are the approved NMEA sentences recommended for use with Discover-based
systems.

The list of discussed NMEA and Edge Tech messages are:

GLL, GXY, GGU, GGA, RMA, RMC, VTG, ZDA, HDG, EVT, and EMA.

The list of compatible but not discussed NMEA and Edge Tech messages are:

DBT, DPT, EMA, ETC, GDA, HDT, and MTW.

NOTE: ZDA is essential to correct system operation as this is used to set the correct time
in the data recorded by the Discover application or sent to 3rd Party Topsides and
correctly set the time of the sonar acquisition application running in the towfish.

A.1.3.1 GLL: Geographic Position – Latitude / Longitude

Latitude and Longitude of the present vessel position, time of position fix, and status.

$--GLL,xxxx.xxx,a,yyyyyy.yyy,b,hhmmss.ss,A*hh<CR><LF>
ASCII DESCRIPTION
Degrees|Minutes.decimal - 2 fixed digits of degrees, 2 fixed digits of minutes, and a
xxxx.xxx variable number of digits for decimal fractions of minutes. Leading zeros are always
included for degrees and minutes to maintain a fixed length.
a N for North Latitude or S for South Latitude
Degrees|Minutes.decimal - 3 fixed digits of degrees, 2 fixed digits of minutes, and a
yyyyy.yyy variable number of digits for decimal fractions of minutes. Leading zeros are always
included for degrees and minutes to maintain a fixed length.
b E for East Longitude or W for West Longitude
Time of position fix. Hours|Minutes|Seconds.decimal - 2 fixed digits of hours, 2 fixed digits
hhmmss.
of minutes, 2 fixed digits of seconds, and a variable number of digits for decimal fractions
ss
of seconds. Always pad with leading zeros. This field is optional.
Status. Single character field:
A
A = Yes, Data Valid, Warning Flag Clear V = No, Data Invalid, Warning Flag Set
Table 4-3: GLL – Geographic Position Latitude Longitude

NOTE: Other supported navigation strings for the position are: GGA,
RMA, and RMC.
 4-79

A.1.3.2 GXY: Geographic Position – X / Y Coordinates

X and Y coordinates of the present vessel position, in meters, time of position fix, and status.

$--GXY,xxxxxx.xxx,a,yyyyyy.yyy,b,hhmmss.ss,*hh<CR><LF>
ASCII DESCRIPTION
Numeric that may have a leading negative sign. Represents the horizontal axis of the plane
xxxxxx.xxx
(X coord).
a Character label for X (Must be a valid ASCII character, but the value is ignored)
Numeric that may have a leading negative sign. Represents
yyyyyy.yyy
the horizontal axis of the plane (Y coordinate).
b Character label for Y (Must be a valid ASCII character, but the value is ignored)
Time of position fix. Hours|Minutes|Seconds.decimal - 2 fixed digits of hours, 2 fixed
hhmmss.ss digits of minutes, 2 fixed digits of seconds, and a variable number of digits for decimal
fractions of seconds. Always pad with leading zeros.
Table 4-4: GXY – Geographic Position-X and Y Coordinates

A.1.3.3 GGU: Geographic Position – X / Y Coordinates

X and Y coordinates of the present vessel position in meters, time of position fix, and status.

NOTE: GGU string has a similar format as GXY but provides support for
large planes.

$--GGU,xxxxxxxx.x,a,yyyyyyyy.y,b,hhmmss.ss,*hh<CR><LF>
ASCII DESCRIPTION
UTM WGS84 easting coordinate in meters. Numeric that may have a leading negative
xxxxxxxx.x
sign. Represents the horizontal axis of the plane (X coordinate).
Character label for X. It is a fixed character “E.” Must be a valid ASCII character, but the
a
value is ignored.
yyyyyyyy.y UTM WGS84 northing coordinate in meters. Numeric that may have a leading negative
sign. Represents the vertical axis of the plane (Y coordinate).
Character label for Y. It is a fixed character, “N.” Must be a valid ASCII character, but the
b
value is ignored.
Is the UTC of the position. Hours|Minutes|Seconds.decimal - 2 fixed digits of hours, 2
hhmmss.ss fixed digits of minutes, 2 fixed digits for seconds, and a variable number of digits for
decimal fractions of seconds. Always pad with leading zeros.
hh It is the checksum.

Table 4-5: GGU – Geographic Position – X and Y Coordinates

 4-80

A.1.3.4 GGA: Global Positioning System Fix Data

Time, latitude, and longitude of the vessel in degree minutes and detailed GPS information.

$--GGA,hhmmss.ss,llll.lllllll,a,yyyyy.yyyyyyy,a,q,nn,d.d,a.a,M,g.g,M,e.e,rrrr,*hh<CR><LF>

ASCII DESCRIPTION
Time of position fix. Hours|Minutes|Seconds.decimal - 2 fixed digits of hours, 2 fixed
hhmmss.ss digits of minutes, 2 fixed digits of seconds, and a variable number of digits for decimal
fractions of seconds. Always pad with leading zeros.
llll.lllllll Latitude in degree minutes.
a The direction of latitude. N= North, S= South
yyyyy.yyyyyyy Longitude in degree minutes.
a The direction of longitude. E= East, W= West
q GPS Quality Indicator

nn Number of GPS satellites being used

d.d Horizontal Dilution fix

a.a Orthometric Altitude

M Meters descriptor used by Orthometric Height

g.g Geoidal separation

M Meters descriptor used by g.g.

e.e Age of differential GPS data

rrrr Differential reference station ID. Range is 0000-1023.

*hh Is the checksum.

Table 4-6: GGA – Geographic Position – Latitude and Longitude Coordinates

A.1.3.5 RMA: Recommended Minimum Specific Loran-C Data

Position, course, and speed from a Loran-C receiver

$--RMA,A,llll.ll,a,yyyyy.yy,a,d.d,.e.e,f.f,g.g,h.h,j,k*hh<CR><LF>
For fields see NMEA 0183 Specification.
 4-81

A.1.3.6 RMC: Recommended Minimum Specific GNSS Data

Time, Date, Position, course, and speed provided from a GNSS receiver

$--RMC,hhmmss.ss,A,llll.ll,a,yyyyy.yy,a,d.d,e.e,ddmmyy,g.g,j,k*hh<CR><LF>
For fields, see NMEA 0183 Specification

A.1.3.7 VTG: Track Made Good & Ground Speed

The actual track made good and speed relative to the ground

$--VTG,x.x,T,x.x,M,x.x,N,x.x,K*hh<CR><LF>
ASCII DESCRIPTION
x.x Floating-point numeric
T Degrees True
M Degrees Magnetic
N knots
K Kilometer/hour

Table 4-7: VTG: Track Made Good & Ground Speed

NOTE: Magnetic heading corrected for local deviation and

Easterly/Westerly variation would provide more accurate true vessel
heading in degrees.

A.1.3.8 ZDA: Time & Date

UTC, day, month, year, and local time zone

$--ZDA,hhmmss.ss,dd,mm,yyyy,ll,zz*hh<CR><LF>
ASCII DESCRIPTION
Universal Time Coordinated (UTC). Hours|Minutes|Seconds.decimal - 2 fixed digits
hhmmss.ss of hours, 2 fixed digits of minutes, 2 fixed digits of seconds, and a variable number of
digits for decimal fractions of seconds. Always pad with leading zeros.
dd.mm Day(01 to 31)|.Month(01 to 12)
yyyy Year
ll Local zone description, 00 to 13 hours. This field is optional and ignored.
zz Local zone minutes’ description, the same sign as local hours. This field is optional.

Table 4-8: ZDA: Time & Date

 4-82

NOTE: This message is essential to correct system operation as it is used

to set the correct time in the data recorded by the Discover application
or sent to 3rd Party Topsides and correctly set the time of the sonar
acquisition application running in the towfish.
Zone description is the number of whole hours added to the local time to
obtain GMT; Zone description is negative for East longitudes.
Fix marks are bars across the time zero line in all channels.

A.1.3.9 HDG: Heading, Deviation & Variation

Heading (magnetic sensor reading), which, if corrected for deviation, will produce Magnetic heading,
which, if offset by variation, will provide True heading.

$--HDG,x.x,x.x,a,x.x,a*hh<CR><LF>
ASCII DESCRIPTION
HDG Magnetic sensor heading, degrees

x.x Magnetic deviation, degrees E/W1,3

x.x, a Magnetic variation, degrees, E/W2,3

Table 4-9: HDG: Heading, Deviation & Variation

NOTES: To obtain Magnetic Heading:

• Add Easterly deviation (E) to Magnetic Sensor Reading
• Subtract Westerly deviation (W) from Magnetic Sensor Reading

To obtain True Heading:

• Add Easterly variation (E) to Magnetic Heading
• Subtract Westerly variation (W) from Magnetic Heading
Variation and deviation fields shall be null fields if unknown.
 4-83

A.1.3.10 EVT: Event & Annotation (EdgeTech Custom)

Event mark and related annotation provided by an integrated navigation system

$EGEVT,S,<Message>,*hh<CR><LF>

ASCII DESCRIPTION
ASCII character status flag.
S
M = Print and Store event mark
Event annotation or just annotation message up to 80 characters long with a maximum
Message
number of messages being 10
Table 4-10: EVT: Event & Annotation

NOTE: Only the first 23 characters of the first message are saved in
the.JSF file. A maximum of 10 <Messages> separated by commas may
be sent.
Annotation and event marks are placed on the screen when received,
printed on the printer if on, and stored on disk and time, date and
coordinates.
Event marks are displayed on the top of the screen as a tick mark and
mark number.

A shortcut to the Windows HyperTerminal application is provided to check the navigation input.
A sample display is shown below:

$GPGLL,2600.0100,N,800000.0000,W,151228.99,A*67
$GPVTG,315.65,T,314.15,M,3.8,N,7.0,K*48
$GPZDA,151229.25,28.08,1997,06,00*45
$EGEVT,M,EventNo,Time,Position,Annotation,*73

$GPGLL,2600.0125,N,8000.0025,W,151229.50,A*84
$GPVTG,316.65,T,315.15,M,3.9,N,7.1,K*33
$GPZDA,151229.75,28.08,1997,06,00*45
$EGEVT,M,EventNo,Time,Position,Annotation,*48

$GPGLL,2600.0150,N,800000.0050,W,151229.99,A*12
$GPVTG,315.85,T,314.65,M,3.8,N,7.0,K*58
$GPZDA,151230.25,28.08,1997,06,00*72
$EGEVT,M,EventNo,Time,Position,Annotation,*48
 4-84

A.1.3.11 EMA: Event, Set Mark & Annotation (EdgeTech Custom)

Event mark number and annotation provided by an integrated navigation system

$ETEMA,NNNNNN, <Message>,**hh<CR><LF>

ASCII DESCRIPTION
NNNNNN Mark number to use for this event.
Message Event annotation message up to 23 characters long

Table 4-11: EMA: Event, Set Mark & Annotation

NOTE: This message should only be used if it is imperative that the event
mark number be externally controlled. Otherwise, the $EGEVT message
should be used. If the mark number sent is the same as the current mark
number, the message will be ignored.

$GPGLL,2600.0100,N,800000.0000,W,151228.99,A*67
$GPVTG,315.65,T,314.15,M,3.8,N,7.0,K*48
$GPZDA,151229.25,28.08,1997,06,00*45
$EGEVT,M,EventNo,Time,Position,Annotation,*73

$GPGLL,2600.0125,N,8000.0025,W,151229.50,A*84
$GPVTG,316.65,T,315.15,M,3.9,N,7.1,K*33
$GPZDA,151229.75,28.08,1997,06,00*45
$EGEVT,M,EventNo,Time,Position,Annotation,*48

$GPGLL,2600.0150,N,800000.0050,W,151229.99,A*12
$GPVTG,315.85,T,314.65,M,3.8,N,7.0,K*58
$GPZDA,151230.25,28.08,1997,06,00*72
$EGEVT,M,EventNo,Time,Position,Annotation,*48

NOTE: The number of incoming strings should be limited to the five

mentioned above. For accurate fixes, the navigation strings should be
updated once a second or faster.
 4-85

A.1.4 Serial Port Connections

The following chart depicts the pinout of the male DB9, RS232 connector found on the computer.

9-PIN MALE PIN-OUT

Pin 1 Carrier Detect (CD) input

Pin 2 Receive Data (RD) input

Pin 3 Transmitted Data (TD) output

Pin 4 Data Terminal Ready (DTR) output

Pin 5 Signal Ground

Pin 6 Data Set Ready (DSR) input

Pin 7 Request To Send (RTS) output

Pin 8 Clear To Send (CTS) input

Pin 9 Ring Indicator (RI) input

Table 4-12: Pin Out Description

The following outlines the different pins from comport connection the EdgeTech processor uses for
communication:

PIN # 2 (usually brown)

The Receive Data (RD) pin, which connects to the transmit pin on the GPS, receives data input
from the GPS for use in Discover software. This is a necessary connection for GPS communications.

PIN # 5 (usually green)

The Signal ground pin is connected to the common ground from the GPS wiring. This is a necessary
connection for GPS communications.

PIN # 3 (usually red)

The Transmit pin is connected to the common from the GPS wiring. Pin # 3 is not a necessary
connection for using DISCOVER software for Real-Time positioning. Only proper connections to
pins number 2 and 5 are needed to log navigation data.
 4-86

B.0 CABLE COUNTERS

The following cable counters are compatible with Discover 4125:

B.1 MacArtney MK2

Format: L = lll,l m<lf> or S=sss,sss m/s<lf>
ASCII DESCRIPTION

L The header for cable length

lll Cable length

m Cable length unit

S The header for cable speed

sss Cable speed

m/s Cable speed unit

Table 4-13: MacArtney MK2

Example: L=10835.81 S=1.05

B.2 LCI-90
Format: RD,-TTTTT.TT,-SSS.SSS,PPP.PPPP,CCCC<CR><LF>

ASCII DESCRIPTION
Stands for an optional minus sign, which is always the first character (but omitted if the data
‘-‘
is positive).
TTTTT.TT Cable Tension

SSSS.SSS Cable Speed

PPP.PPPP Cable Out Length

A 4-digit decimal field that contains the sum of the ASCII value of all preceding characters,
CCCC
including the commas (but not including the four CCCC characters).

Table 4-14: LCI-90

Example: RD,396.361,1.05,10828.8,1245
 4-87

B.3 TCount
Format: Address: [+ or -]1234[cr][lf]
ASCII DESCRIPTION

1234 Counter value: -92 X circumference to 8100 X circumference

Table 4-15: TCount

Example: 3:+10814.48

B.4 USGS Custom 3PS SD-41

Example: 01, 396.361, , 10793.62, , 1.05, ,
The fourth column is the Cable value

B.5 Hypack
Format: [Cable Tension], Cable Speed], [Cable Length],

[Cable Tension], [Cable Speed], [Cable Length]

Example: ____________ 10823.95 HYPACK_METERS_____

B.6 XDR
Format: $- -XDR,D,[Cable Length]
Example: $GPXDR,D,10819.39
Do not care ‘- -‘ ‘XDR,D,’ 6 characters

B.7 Hydrographic Smart Cable Counter

Format: $CCANNNNNN.NM,+CCCC<cr><lf>

Example: $CCA10798.2M,+1000

ASCII DESCRIPTION

A can be A, B, C, D, depending on the internal setting

NNNNNN.N The cable out value is a fixed number of characters with leading zeros

M It can be M - Meters or F - Feet. Feet are converted to Meters

+/-CCCC The calibration value is ignored.

Table 4-16: Hydrographic Smart Cable Counter