ViewArgonaut User Guide

ViewArgonaut User GuideVersion 3.50(April 2007)Table of ContentsTable of Contents .......................................................................................................................... 1Section 1. Overview ................................................................................................................ 3Section 2. Diagnostics Module............................................................................................... 52.1. Diagnostics Module Overview.......................................................................................... 52.2. Diagnostics Module Operation.......................................................................................... 62.3. Diagnostics Module Output............................................................................................... 82.4. Deployment Site Survey.................................................................................................... 82.4.1. Acoustic Interference.................................................................................................. 82.4.2. Measurement Volume Limits ..................................................................................... 82.5. System Diagnostics ........................................................................................................... 92.5.1. Signal Strength Profile................................................................................................ 92.5.2. Noise Level ................................................................................................................. 92.5.3. Boundary Reflection ................................................................................................... 92.5.4. Sine/Cosine Data....................................................................................................... 10Section 3. Recorder Module ................................................................................................ 113.1. Recorder Module Quick Start Instructions...................................................................... 113.2. Communications Display ................................................................................................ 123.3. Recorder Display............................................................................................................. 123.4. Menu Bar......................................................................................................................... 133.5. Recorder Data Retrieval Rates ........................................................................................ 13Section 4. Deployment Module............................................................................................ 154.1. Creating Template Files .................................................................................................. 164.2. Starting or Planning the Deployment Process................................................................. 164.3. Standard Operating Parameters ....................................................................................... 204.4. Multi-cell Profiling Parameters ....................................................................................... 224.5. Advanced Operating Parameters ..................................................................................... 234.6. Internal Flow Parameters................................................................................................. 254.7. Analog Output Parameters .............................................................................................. 314.8. SDI-12 Interface Parameters ........................................................................................... 324.9. Battery Life and Recorder Capacity................................................................................ 334.10. Updating Parameters and Starting a Deployment ........................................................... 36Section 5. Realtime Module ................................................................................................. 395.1. Real-Time Data Collection Guidelines ........................................................................... 395.2. What Am I Looking At?.................................................................................................. 415.2.1. Sample Data Time-Series Graphs............................................................................. 415.2.2. Tabular Data.............................................................................................................. 415.3. Menu Items...................................................................................................................... 455.3.1. File Menu.................................................................................................................. 45Copyright © 2003-2007 SonTek/YSI, Inc. All rights reserved.

ViewArgonaut User Guide5.3.2. Edit Menu.................................................................................................................. 465.3.3. View Menu................................................................................................................ 465.3.4. System Communication Menu.................................................................................. 485.3.5. Processing Menu....................................................................................................... 485.3.6. Argonaut Config Menu............................................................................................. 495.3.7. Help Menu ................................................................................................................ 515.3.8. Toolbar Icons ............................................................................................................ 52Section 6. Processing Module .............................................................................................. 536.1. Getting Started................................................................................................................. 536.2. What Am I Looking At?.................................................................................................. 556.2.1. Sample Data Time-Series Graphs............................................................................. 556.2.2. Tabular Data.............................................................................................................. 556.3. Menu Items...................................................................................................................... 586.3.1. File Menu.................................................................................................................. 586.3.2. Edit Menu.................................................................................................................. 606.3.3. View Menu................................................................................................................ 616.3.4. Processing Menu....................................................................................................... 636.3.5. Argonaut Config Menu............................................................................................. 706.3.6. Analysis Menu .......................................................................................................... 726.3.7. Window Menu .......................................................................................................... 726.3.8. Help Menu ................................................................................................................ 726.3.9. Toolbar Icons ............................................................................................................ 72Appendix A...System Requirements and Software Installation............................................. 75A-1. System Requirements ...................................................................................................... 75A-2. Software Installation........................................................................................................ 75Appendix B. ..Flow Rate Calculations....................................................................................... 77B-1. Geometry Data File ......................................................................................................... 77B-2. Discharge Data File ......................................................................................................... 77B-3. Flow Rate Calculation Methods ...................................................................................... 77Index............................................................................................................................................. 792

ViewArgonaut User GuideSection 1. OverviewThe ViewArgonaut software contains individual program modules that let you control the operation,data processing, and testing of SonTek’s Argonaut line of acoustic Doppler current meters.More specifically, ViewArgonaut allows you to control the following SonTek instruments.• Argonaut-ADV (Acoustic Doppler Velocimeter)• Argonaut-MD (Mooring Deployment)• Argonaut-SL (Side Looking)• Argonaut-SW (Shallow Water)• Argonaut-XR (Extended Range)This User Guide uses generic terms such as Argonaut, instrument, or system when referring toany of the above models. When necessary, specific model names will be used.The ViewArgonaut program modules that are available from its Main Menu (Figure 1) include:• Diagnostics Module (Section 2) – Lets you check your system for proper operation.• Recorder Module (Section 3) – Lets you download or erase data files from the instrument'sinternal recorder (if one is installed in your system).• Deployment Module (Section 4) – Lets you prepare the system for an autonomous deployment.To view the data collected by an autonomous deployment, you will have to use theProcessing module after the data has been collected.• Realtime Module (Section 5) – Lets you prepare the system for a real-time deployment, andallows you to view the data “live”.• Processing Module (Section 6) – Lets you view, manipulate, and export data during postprocessing.Your original data files are not altered.Figure 1. ViewArgonaut Main Menu3

ViewArgonaut User GuideTo begin using ViewArgonaut:• Connect the Argonaut to the PC and apply system power (not needed for Processing).• Start ViewArgonaut (Start|Programs|SonTek Software|ViewArgonaut).• Select the module you wish to run (Diagnostics, Recorder, Deployment, Realtime,Processing).SYSTEM MANUAL NOTEThroughout this manual, you are often referred to the System Manual for your particularinstrument. In many cases, you can access the Help menu within many of the ViewArgonautprogram modules to access a link to each System Manual. In these cases, when youclick on the Argonaut-XX manual menu item (where XX is the abbreviation for a systemtype; e.g., MD, SL, SW, XR), the program will open the PDF version of the System Manualusing Adobe Acrobat.If the Help menu does not contain a link to your System Manual, you can instead use thePDF version of the manual that was included on the CD-ROM distribution disk that wasincluded with your system.4

Section 2. Diagnostics ModuleViewArgonaut User GuideNote: All functions in ViewArgonaut’s Diagnostics module can be accessed using the Beam-Check module in SonUtils. The SonUtils BeamCheck module also has additional features andcapabilities not available in Diagnostics; we encourage you to use BeamCheck when possible.The Diagnostics module (Figure 2) is a useful system evaluation tool for all Argonaut, Flow-Tracker, and Triton systems. Additionally, Diagnostics can be used to survey deployment sitesfor the Argonaut SL, SW, and XR systems. You should become familiar with the operation ofthis module — it is a valuable tool for understanding how your system works.• Diagnostics Module Overview• Diagnostics Module Operation• Diagnostics Module Output• Deployment Site Survey• System Diagnostics2.1. Diagnostics Module OverviewDiagnostics is the same program used by SonTek technicians. It provides you with a powerfultool for understanding and verifying system performance.• The output of Diagnostics is a plot of signal strength versus range from the instrument. Thisis used to determine the effective measurement range of the system and to look for interferencefrom boundaries and underwater structures. As such, you can use Diagnostics to surveya deployment site (see Deployment Site Survey).Figure 2. Diagnostics Module – Main Screen5

ViewArgonaut User Guide• We recommend that you become familiar with Diagnostics and use it on a regular basis duringdata collection. Using Diagnostics to test the system before every experiment can identifyproblems that might otherwise be undetected, thereby reducing the potential for lost orcorrupt data (see System Diagnostics).• The program samples the return signal at several points within the total measurement range.The total measurement range depends on system type and frequency.- 500-kHz SL: 120-m range- 750-kHz SL: 50-m range- 1.5-MHz SL or XR: 20-m range- 3.0-MHz SL or XR: 10-m range- 3.0-MHz SW: 6-m range• Signal strength data (Sig Amp) are given in internal units called counts; one count equals0.43 dB. Sine and Cosine data are given in internal units; these have no direct applicationfor the customer, but are used for internal diagnostic procedures at SonTek.2.2. Diagnostics Module OperationTo run Diagnostics:• For ideal testing conditions, mount the system at the site where you will conduct your experiment.Alternatively, mount the system in an open body of water for general diagnostics.• Connect the instrument to your computer and apply power to the system. Refer to your888System Manual for interconnection details.• Start ViewArgonaut (Start|Programs|SonTek Software|ViewArgonaut).• Click Diagnostics on the ViewArgonaut menu.• Click Connect to display the Communications window. If necessary, select the COM port towhich the instrument is connected and the appropriate baud rate (default = 9600).• Click the Go! button. Table 1 lists the Diagnostics module’s program controls. Table 2 describesthe Diagnostics displays.Upon execution, the software does the following.• Establishes communication with the instrument and downloads system operation parameters.Note: If the program fails to connect to the instrument, check your communication settingsand cable connections; details can be found in your 8888System Manual.• Starts the special Diagnostics operating mode.• Initializes a continually updating display of signal strength versus range from the transducers.The display is updated about once every five seconds.• See your 9999System Manual for information about the displayed signal strength profiles.Diagnostics includes the ability to record the displayed data to a file.• Recording data provides a record of system performance.• SonTek customer support may request a recorded Diagnostics file. Diagnostics data is avery effective way to evaluate system performance.• To record data to an ASCII file:- Click the Log Diagnostic Values to File icon. Select a folder and file name for the data (a.ckg file extension is automatically added).- Click OK to start data recording. Click Close Diagnostic Log File to stop data recording.• When sending data to SonTek for analysis, record at least 10 to 20 profiles for reference.6

ViewArgonaut User GuideTable 1. Diagnostics Module Program ControlsControl DescriptionConnectOpens the Communications window, which allows you to establishPC-to-instrument communications.Pause-StopPauses the display of data. Click again to resume display updates.Open Existing Diagnostic Allows you to select and display a previously recorded diagnosticsLog Filedata file (.ckg).Log Diagnostic Values to Allows you to save diagnostics data to a file (.ckg) for later playbackand review. This file can also be sent to SonTek/YSI forFile (i.e., Save File)troubleshooting assistance.Close Diagnostic Log File Stops the recording of a data file that was opened with Save File.PrintSends display data to a printer.CopySends the display data to the clipboard for use in other programs.HelpOpens the on-line help file (or press F1).Step Forward/Backward Lets you review a series of pings.Zoom X / Zoom Y Lets you change the plot axis scales. Note: Only available for usewith Argonaut-ADV and Triton systems.AveragingLets you plot a running average of sequential pings. This can bevery useful in removing the natural variability in successive samples.The display will be a running average of pings until this buttonis pressed a second time.CloseExits the Diagnostics program module.DisplayPing #NoiseCos Min/Max andSin Min/MaxPeak PosPeak LevelSig AmpSine and CosineTable 2. Diagnostics Module DisplaysDescriptionIdentifies the currently displayed ping.Shows the electronics noise level for each beam, which is determinedby the signal strength when the instrument is not receivingany return reflection from the water. This should match the signalstrength for the flat portion of the graph beyond the boundary.Used for factory diagnostics at SonTek and are not described here.This is the location of the center of the peak for the sampling volumefor each beam. The position should be approximately thesame for each beam; variations of 5-10 counts are typical.This is the height of the peak of the sampling volume for each ofthe beams. This will vary depending on the amount of scatteringmaterial in the water.Shows a representation of the strength of the returned signal. Seeyour 99991System Manual for descriptions of how to interpret this data.Used for factory diagnostics at SonTek and are not described here.7

2.3. Diagnostics Module OutputViewArgonaut User GuideFor an example of program output interpretation, refer to your instrument’s 11111System Manual.2.4. Deployment Site SurveySurveying the deployment site is typically only done for Argonaut-ADV/SL/SW/XR and Tritonsystems, and not for Argonaut-MD or FlowTracker systems. There are two main goals of a deploymentsite survey.• To verify that the system is not seeing interference from underwater structures, deploymentlines, or boundaries (e.g., surface, bottom, channel walls).• To set the limits of the measurement volume based on the environment.2.4.1. Acoustic InterferenceIt is important that the instrument does not see any interference from underwater objects whosereflections may contaminate the acoustic return signal (and as such, affect velocity data). Theseobjects may be underwater structures, boundaries (surface, bottom, channel walls), or smalleritems such as deployment lines and cables.Any large objects within the measurement field will show up as spikes in the Sig Amp return signal.These spikes may be present in one or more of the instrument’s beams. If any spikes are presentin some portion of the measurement volume, velocity data will be contaminated to some degree.The acoustic return signal for each sample is highly variable, and as such, it is useful tostore a number of pings to an output file (Log Diagnostic Values to File icon) and look at themean profile to determine any consistent source of interference.When working near underwater structures or deployment lines, interference can come from directreflections or from flow distortion caused by the object. To the greatest extent possible,place the instrument’s measurement volume in an open-water area free from sources of acousticor flow interference.2.4.2. Measurement Volume LimitsIn open water, the maximum effective range for the SL, SW, and XR is determined by the distanceat which the signal strength approaches the noise level. For most environments, the signalstrength will be above the noise level out to the maximum allowed instrument range. In clear water,signal strength may approach the noise level before reaching the maximum instrument range.This can be seen clearly from the output of the Diagnostics module. Capturing a number of pingsusing the output file option (Log Diagnostic Values to File icon), and plotting the mean signalstrength versus range, allow you to directly measure the maximum range.During normal operation, the SL, SW, and XR will automatically end the measurement volumeif the signal level is less than 6 counts higher than the noise level. This is to prevent contaminationif the signal strength levels are not sufficient. For example, if the end of the measurementvolume is set by the user to 15 m, but signal strength is only sufficient to a range of 13 m, thesystem will automatically end the measurement volume at 13 m. The precise start and end of themeasurement volume is reported with each sample.When working near boundaries or underwater structures, the limits of the measurement volumeare set by the range at which the system sees the reflection from the boundary. You must set themeasurement volume limits to avoid any contamination from the boundary reflection. The ex-8

ViewArgonaut User Guideception to this is when using either an up-looking SW or XR with dynamic boundary adjustment– see the 11111System Manual for details.The end of the measurement volume should be placed no closer than the greater of 0.25 m and10% of the total range to the boundary. If there is any variation in boundary range or instrumentmounting, the end of the measurement volume should be placed to avoid interference at alltimes.2.5. System DiagnosticsWhen looking at the output data, there are four basic features to verify system operation — signalstrength profile, noise level, boundary reflections, and sine/cosine data.2.5.1. Signal Strength ProfileWhen looking at the signal strength profile, data from all active beams should be similar in magnitudeand shape. Note that with two-beam systems (e.g., Argonaut-SL, SW) or probes (e.g., 2Dvs. 3D), the third beam is still plotted but will show a constant signal strength at the noise level(see your 11111System Manual for examples). For systems with a vertical beam for stage, data fromthe vertical beam will also be plotted but will likely show a significantly different profile sincethat beam is looking vertically up at the water surface. Each beam should see initial signalstrength of roughly the same magnitude and should decay at the same rate. Check that all beamshave an unobstructed view and are not showing spikes from objects in their path.When looking at the output data, keep in mind that individual samples will vary significantlyfrom ping to ping. Look for features that are consistent over several pings. It is often helpful torecord a number of pings and plot the mean profile to look for consistent features in the data.2.5.2. Noise LevelThe system noise level for each beam is measured as part of the Diagnostics data collectionprocess. You can read the system noise level from the data at the top of the screen (Noise). Examplesof typical noise levels (in counts):30-35 SW35-55 SL(all), XR(all), and MD (3-MHz)50-70 MD(deep-water titanium 1.5-MHz)60-70 Argonaut-ADV and Triton50-95 FlowTracker (can vary system to system, but should be consistent day-to-day for anygiven system)The noise will vary slightly among different beams. If the noise level of any one beam is outsidethis range, this can be an indicator of a noisy environment or of problems with the system. Trymoving the system away from any motors or electronics to see if the noise level changes. If problemspersist, contact SonTek.2.5.3. Boundary ReflectionIf the instrument has a boundary (surface, bottom, wall, underwater structure) within the measurementrange, this boundary should be seen as a strong spike in the return signal profile. In mostcases, all beams will see a reflection of about the same magnitude at the same range. In certainlocations, the magnitude and location of the boundary reflection will vary between beams due tothe different beam mounting angles and the nature of the boundary reflection. If the system istested in very shallow water, it may show multiple boundary reflections with increasing range.9

2.5.4. Sine/Cosine DataViewArgonaut User GuideThese data have no direct interpretation and are provided for factory diagnostic purposes only.They will typically show a mean level throughout the profile of about 125 counts, with a smallamount of variation around that level. The amount and nature of the variations depends on theenvironment.The only reason to be concerned is if these data show a flat line with no variations. This indicatesthat something in the electronics is not functioning properly. Contact SonTek if you see thiswhen running diagnostics (with the transducer either in or out of the water).10

Section 3. Recorder ModuleViewArgonaut User GuideThe Recorder module (Figure 3) is used to extract data from your instrument’s (optional) internalrecorder. This program can also be used to format (i.e.; erase) the internal recorder.The Recorder screen display has three main areas:• Communications Display (left side panel) – Lets you quickly set up and view the computerto-instrumentcommunications interface.• Recorder Display (right side panel) – Lets you set up and control the downloading of recorderdata and the formatting (erasing) of the recorder.• Menu Bar (top row) – Lets you access controls using a mouse or keyboard shortcut keys.3.1. Recorder Module Quick Start InstructionsThe basic steps for using Recorder are as follows:a. Connect a cable from the instrument to the appropriate COM port on your computer, andthen apply power to the instrument. See your 11111System Manual for connection details.b. Start ViewArgonaut (Start|Programs|SonTek Software|ViewArgonaut).c. Click Recorder on the ViewArgonaut menu.d. Set up Recorder to communicate with the instrument (Settings).e. Send a 11Connect command to the appropriate COM port, and verify that all communicationbetween the computer, instrument, and recorder are successful.Figure 3. Recorder Module11

ViewArgonaut User Guidef. To extract data:(1) Select the Current Download Baud Rate (default is 57600). See Recorder Data RetrievalRates for more information.(2) Highlight the files you wish to extract (you can use the Shift and/or Control keys to selecta range of files), or use Select All to highlight all files.(3) Use Save Files to Path or Browse to enter the download folder location. An extension isautomatically added to the file name.(4) Select Download to begin the extraction process. If you need to stop the download processafter it has begun, click Cancel Download. Note: If the extraction process fails, itmay be because the instrument returned to sleep mode after an extended period of inactivity.To wake the system, click 11Connect again, and repeat the data extraction process.(5) When download is complete, you can select additional files to download, format (erase)the recorder, or exit the program.g. To format (erase) the recorder:(1) Select Format.(2) At the warning prompt, confirm your selection with OK, or abort the process with Cancel.Note: If the format process fails, it may be because the instrument returned to sleepmode after an extended period of inactivity. To wake the system, click 1Connect again,and then repeat the format process.(3) Exit the program.3.2. Communications DisplayThe Communications Display (left side of screen; Figure 3) lets you quickly access the mostusedentries – port settings, Connect button, instrument output display.• Settings – Lets you quickly set the COM port and Baud Rate for the computer-to-instrumentinterface. Related notes:- If you also need to set the Parity, Data Bits, and Stop Bits parameters, use the Settings|PortSettings selection on the Menu Bar.- If you have established (or wish to establish) a baud rate other than the instrument’s defaultof 9600, refer to the appropriate 11111System Manual.- A green radio button identifies which ports are available; red shows which ports are inuse; gray means the associated port was not detected. These icons are not dynamic. Thatis, if a port that was in use now becomes available, its color will not turn to green; youmust exit and then re-enter Recorder to see the change.- The settings last used by Recorder are automatically saved in the Recorder.cfg file.• RS485 – If you are using a string of instruments that are connected via RS485, you can usethis option to select the system address number (1-15) for the instrument you wish toview/control. The default for this option is None (no device selected).• Connect – Opens the selected COM port to establish the computer-to-instrument interface.• Instrument Output Display – The lower left area of the screen shows you the communicationactivity (success or fail) between the computer, instrument, and internal recorder.3.3. Recorder DisplayThe Recorder Display (right side of screen; Figure 3), shows the files stored in the recorder andcontains the controls used to download and format the recorder.12

ViewArgonaut User Guide• Current Download Baud Rate – Lets you select the retrieval rate for downloading the recorder’sfiles. See Recorder Data Retrieval Rates for more information.• Recorder File Listing – Shows you the name, size, date, and time of each file stored on theinternal recorder, and the recorder’s amount of used space, amount of free space, and numberof files. Use this area to select the files you wish to download. To do this, click on anyone file that you want to extract, or use the Shift and/or Control keys to select a range offiles just as you would do for file selection within Windows. If you want to extract all files,use the Select All button.• Select All – Highlights all files for extraction.• Download – Starts the extraction process.• Cancel Download – If needed, can be used to stop the extraction process after it has begun.• Format – Starts the recorder’s erase process. You will be prompted to continue to ensure youreally want to erase the data on the recorder.• Save Files to Path / Browse – Lets you select the folder in which you want to extract the recorder’sdata files.3.4. Menu BarThe menu bar lets you access program options using a mouse or keyboard shortcut keys. A descriptionof each item menu follows.• File- Exit (Esc) – Lets you exit the Recorder program module.• Commands- Connect – Opens the selected COM port to establish the computer-to-instrument communicationinterface.• Settings- Port Settings – Lets you set up the computer-to-instrument communication parameters.▪ These parameters include the following settings (defaults): COM Port (COM1), BaudRate (9600), Parity (None), Data Bits (8), and Stop Bits (1).▪ If you have established (or wish to establish) a baud rate other than the instrument’sdefault of 9600, refer to the appropriate 11111System Manual.▪ A green radio button identifies which ports are available; red shows which ports are inuse; gray means the associated port was not detected. These icons are not dynamic.That is, if a port that was in use now becomes available, its color will not turn togreen; you must exit and then re-enter Recorder to see the change.▪ The settings last used by Recorder are automatically saved in the Recorder.cfg file.• Help- Help Topics – Opens the help file.- About Recorder – Displays program copyright and version information.3.5. Recorder Data Retrieval RatesThe rate at which data can be retrieved (downloaded) from the recorder depends on a few factorssuch as cable length, baud rate settings, and computer hardware.13

ViewArgonaut User Guide• For short cables (less than 30 m), the default extraction rate of 57600 baud provides the fastestdownloading time.• For longer cables, a slower baud rate may be needed to ensure reliable communication.• If Recorder encounters several communication errors while retrieving data, it will terminatethe retrieval. Note that some computers (particularly older laptop computers) do not operatereliably at high baud rates and may not be able to work using the default setting of 57600.• If you encounter data extraction problems, run the Recorder module using a lower data extractionrate.Table 3 shows the typical download rates achieved with different baud rate settings. Extractionrates slower than 9600 baud are rarely needed and are not shown here. Actual retrieval rates mayvary depending on the environment and the type of computer used.Table 3. Baud Rate ComparisonRate Effective Rate (bps) Time for 1MB (minutes)115200 4800 3.657600 3400 5.138400 2600 6.719200 1500 11.59600 850 20.514

Section 4. Deployment ModuleViewArgonaut User GuideThe ViewArgonaut Deployment software follows the popular “wizard” style interface, using asequential series of screens to configure all required parameters. One such screen, with additionalannotations, is shown in Figure 4. A few of the features of the Deployment software arelisted below.• The software can be used three different ways:- Planning a deployment without actually being connected to an instrument.- Loading desired parameter settings to an instrument without starting a deployment.- Loading settings and starting a deployment.• An index of all steps in the deployment process is shown on the left side of each screen.• You can move between steps using the Back and Next buttons.- You can also move between steps by clicking on the desired step within the index.- IMPORTANT: Be aware that many of the steps in the index consist of more than onescreen. Using the index to move between steps could potentially cause you to miss one ormore screens with important system parameters.• Each screen displays parameters related to a specific aspect of data collection.• The software automatically creates a log file each time you connect with an instrument. Thisprovides a record of commands sent to, and responses from, the instrument for the entiredeployment procedure. Log files are stored within a “Log Files” subdirectory of theViewArgonaut program folder (normally C:\Program Files\SonTek\ViewArgonaut\LogFiles). They use a naming format containing the date they were created and a sequentialnumber so that no log files are overwritten.• The typical deployment procedure is to move through each screen in order, while setting andverifying all commands.• The final part of the deployment software (§4.10) allows you to:- Save all settings to a template file (on your computer) for future use.- Upload settings to the instrument and save them to internal (non-volatile) memory.- Start data collection.ScreenHeadingDeploymentSoftwareIndexSystemOperatingParametersFigure 4. Typical Deployment Software Screen15

ViewArgonaut User Guide4.1. Creating Template FilesThe Deployment software uses template files to store all system hardware and operating parametersettings.• Template files are specific for a given system type, frequency, and configuration.• You can create multiple template files for a given system.• You can use a template file for multiple systems of the same type and hardware configuration.This can be useful when applying the same operating parameters to different systemsin different locations.No sample template files are included with the Argonaut software, but they can be easily createdfor your system using the following steps.• Connect the system to an available serial (COM) port on your computer.• Connect the system power supply.• Run ViewArgonaut and click Deployment on the main menu.• Follow the procedure outlined in §4.2 for connecting to the system.• Set the operating parameters for your application as outlined in §4.3 through §4.8.• At the Deployment Summary screen (§4.10), click Save Configuration to File.• The software will prompt you for a file name and location in which to save the template file.- The default template folder (when using the standard ViewArgonaut installation procedure)is C:\Program Files\SonTek\ViewArgonaut\Templates.- Files stored in this folder will automatically be listed by the Deployment software duringthe Load Deployment Template step (§4.2).- Template files can also be stored in another folder if desired.4.2. Starting or Planning the Deployment ProcessThe deployment process is very similar whether you are connecting directly to a system or justplanning a deployment using a template file.• Preliminary – If you will be connecting directly to a system:- Connect the system to an available serial (COM) port on your computer.- Connect the system power supply.• Run ViewArgonaut and click the Deployment button on the main menu.• The first Deployment screen (Select Session Type; Figure 5) gives you two choices:- Direct system setup – Lets you connect directly to a system to plan or start a deployment.Clicking Next takes you to the screen (Figure 5) that begins the communications process.- Plan a deployment – Lets you plan a deployment using an existing template file withoutconnecting to the instrument. Clicking Next takes you to the screen (Figure 6) that letsyou select the template file to use.• If you chose Direct system setup, establish communications with the system (Figure 7):- Select the correct serial (COM) port and baud rate for your system.- Click Connect To System.- The software will display progress as communications are established and all system settingsare downloaded.- When all communications are done, click Next to view the hardware configuration settingsthat were loaded (Figure 8).16

ViewArgonaut User GuideFigure 5. Deployment Software: Select Session TypeFigure 6. Deployment Software: Connect to System17

ViewArgonaut User Guide• If you chose Plan a deployment, you will be prompted to select a template file (Figure 7).- Files in the default template folder (C:\Program Files\SonTek\ViewArgonaut\Templates)will be listed in the main window.- To load a file from another location, select Load from file and click Open File to browsefor your desired template file.- When you have selected the desired template file, click Next to view all the major hardwareconfiguration settings for this system (Figure 8).Figure 7. Deployment Software: Load Deployment TemplateFigure 8. Deployment Software: Show System (Hardware) Settings18

ViewArgonaut User Guide• When connected directly to a system, you can proceed in two ways on the Load DeploymentTemplate screen (Figure 9):- Select Use existing system settings to work with settings downloaded from the system.- Select Load from file or Select a Template below to work with settings from an existingtemplate file and apply those settings to the current system.▪ Files in the default template folder (C:\Program Files\SonTek\ViewArgonaut\Templates)will be listed in the main window.▪ To load a file from another location, select Load from file and click Open File tobrowse for the desired template file.▪ When loading a template, the hardware settings in that template must match the hardwaresettings of the current system, or the template file will not be loaded.• When ready to continue, click Next.• All system parameters can be entered in either English Units or Metric Units, as chosen in theSelect Unit System and Options screen (Figure 10).- This also affects the output units used for any real-time output data (RS-232 or SDI-12).• The checkboxes on right side of the screen let you show/hide various parameter settings.- We recommend reviewing all installed parameter settings before each deployment.▪ Show Profiling Settings (§4.4)▪ Show Advanced Settings (§4.5)▪ Show Flow Settings (§4.6)▪ Show SDI-12 Settings (§4.8)- Any parameters that are not reviewed will not be changed from their current settings.• When ready, click Next to start setting all necessary parameters.Figure 9. Deployment Software: Load Deployment Template File or Use Existing Settings19

ViewArgonaut User Guide4.3. Standard Operating ParametersStandard operating parameters are those settings required for most Argonaut systems and deploymenttypes. These parameters are divided between two screens (Figure 11 and Figure 12).PARAMETER DEFINITIONS: Refer to your 11System Manual and its Direct Command Interfacesection (usually Appendix C) for examples and details about how these parametersare used with your Argonaut system. Detailed explanations are not provided herebecause the parameters may function differently for your particular Argonaut system.As an aide, the parameter’s Direct Command reference is shown in [brackets].The first screen (Figure 11) presents the following parameters (see Parameter Definitions). Afterall parameters are properly set, click Next.• File Name [Deployment]• Start Date [StartDate]• Start Time [StartTime]• Comments [Comments]Figure 10. Deployment Software: Select Unit System and OptionsThe second screen (Figure 12) presents the following parameters (see 1Parameter Definitions). Afterall parameters are properly set, click Next.• Averaging Interval [AvgInterval]• Sampling Interval [SampleInterval]• Def Water Salinity [Sal]• Cell Begin [CellBegin]• Cell End [CellEnd]• Dynamic Boundary Adjustment [DynBoundAdj]20

ViewArgonaut User GuideFigure 11. Deployment Software: Standard Settings (1 of 2)Figure 12. Deployment Software: Standard Settings (2 of 2)21

4.4. Multi-cell Profiling ParametersViewArgonaut User GuideMulti-cell profiling parameters are only required when the profiling feature is enabled. The parametersare displayed on one screen, shown in Figure 13.The screen presents the following parameters. (see 1Parameter Definitions). After all parametersare properly set, click Next.• Profiling Mode [ProfilingMode]• Blanking Distance [BlankDistance]• Cell Size [CellSize]• Number of Cells [NCells]When looking at the graphic display comparing the multi-cell profile to the single integrated cell(determined by Cell Begin and Cell End), it is important to remember that the single integratedcell will be adjusted with changing water level if Dynamic Boundary Adjustment is set to YES(see Figure 12). The location of multi-cell data is fixed, and will not be adjusted with water level.Figure 13. Deployment Software: Profiling Settings22

4.5. Advanced Operating ParametersViewArgonaut User GuideAdvanced operating parameters are present on all Argonaut systems, but are not commonly used.These parameters are most commonly left at their default values except for specialized applications.These parameters are divided between two screens (Figure 14 and Figure 15).The first screen (Figure 14) presents the following parameters (see 1Parameter Definitions). Afterall parameters are properly set, click Next.• Temperature Mode [TempMode]• Default Water Temperature [Temp]• Coordinate System [CoordSystem]• Reverse X Velocity [ReverseXVelocity]• Data Format [DataFormat]• Enable Flow Display [AutoSleep]• PowerPing [PowerPing]• One Beam Solution [AllowOneBeam]• Ice Detection [IceDetection]The second screen (Figure 15) presents the following parameters. These parameters are all relatedto burst sampling, which is described in your 11111System Manual (see 1Parameter Definitions). Afterall parameters are properly set, click Next.• Burst Mode [BurstMode]• Burst Interval [BurstInterval]• Samples Per Burst [SamplesPerBurst]• Averaging Interval (this parameter is also shown in standard settings; §4.3)• Sampling Interval (this parameter is also shown in standard settings; §4.3)Figure 14. Deployment Software: Advanced Settings (1 of 2)23

ViewArgonaut User GuideFigure 15. Deployment Software: Advanced Settings (2 of 2)24

4.6. Internal Flow ParametersViewArgonaut User GuideSome Argonaut systems are capable of making real-time flow calculations. To do this, additionalparameter entries are required (see your 11111System Manual for details about these parameters). Flowcalculation parameters are divided into two categories:• Parameters to define channel geometry (Figure 16 through Figure 19). In the channel geometryscreens, the channel type selection will change the layout of the screen to show the requiredparameters. The choices are:- Irregular Channel Type- Trapezoid Channel Type- Round Channel Type- Ellipse Channel Type• Parameters to determine the mean velocity calculation (Figure 20).• Selection of units for total volume calculations (Figure 21).Irregular Channel TypeFigure 16 shows the screen for Irregular channel type (usually a natural stream). The followingparameters are specified on this screen. Enter the parameters, and then click Next to continue.• Select Geometry: When set to Irregular, this parameter will change the layout of the screen todisplay the appropriate channel geometry parameters for an irregular channel type.• Input Dimensions: These are the dimensions for an irregular channel. Enter a minimum of 3and a maximum of 20 survey points to define the shape of the channel cross-section.- X values (Width) must be entered in increasing order.- First Y value (Elev) must be greater than all other Y values.- Use the cursor keys or mouse to move through the survey point input boxes.- To insert a new point (i.e., a new “row”) between existing points, use the Insert key.- To delete an existing point (i.e., remove a “row”), use the Delete key.• System Elevation: This is measured at the top of the system and is referenced to the local datum(for a visual example, refer to 1Parameter Definitions).• The Open Flow File button can be used to load a pre-defined channel geometry file.• Later, you can save channel geometry information to a file for future use using the SaveFlow File shown in (Figure 20).• Use the Show Geometry checkbox to show/hide the graphic display of channel geometry.Figure 16. Deployment Software: Irregular Channel Geometry25

ViewArgonaut User GuideTrapezoid Channel TypeFigure 17 shows the screen for Trapezoid channel type (normally a concrete-lined channel). Thefollowing parameters are specified in this screen. When all parameters are correctly specified,click Next to continue.• Select Geometry: When set to Trapezoid, this parameter will change the layout of the screento display the appropriate channel geometry parameters for a trapezoidal channel type.• Input Dimensions: These are the dimensions for a trapezoidal channel.- Channel Depth (see graphic for interpretation)- Bottom Width (see graphic for interpretation)- Top Width (see graphic for interpretation)• System Elevation: This is the vertical distance from the bottom of the channel to the top ofthe system (for a visual example, refer to 1Parameter Definitions).• The Open Flow File button can be used to load a pre-defined channel geometry file.• Later, you can save channel geometry information to a file for future use using the SaveFlow File shown in (Figure 20).• Use the Show Geometry checkbox to show/hide the graphic display of channel geometry.Figure 17. Deployment Software: Trapezoid Channel Geometry26

ViewArgonaut User GuideRound Channel TypeFigure 18 shows the screen for Round channel type (a round pipe). The following parameters arespecified in this screen. When all parameters are correctly specified, click Next to continue.• Select Geometry: When set to Round, this parameter will change the layout of the screen todisplay the appropriate channel geometry parameters for a round pipe.• Input Dimensions: These are the dimensions for a round pipe.- Diameter (see graphic for interpretation)• System Elevation: This is the vertical distance from the bottom of the pipe to the top of thesystem (for a visual example, refer to 1Parameter Definitions).• The Open Flow File button can be used to load a pre-defined channel geometry file.• Later, you can save channel geometry information to a file for future use using the SaveFlow File shown in (Figure 20).• Use the Show Geometry checkbox to show/hide the graphic display of channel geometry.Figure 18. Deployment Software: Round Pipe Geometry27

ViewArgonaut User GuideEllipse Channel TypeFigure 19 shows the screen for Ellipse channel type (an elliptical pipe). The following parametersare specified in this screen. When all parameters are specified, click Next to continue.• Select Geometry: When set to Ellipse, this parameter will change the layout of the screen todisplay the appropriate channel geometry parameters for an elliptical pipe.• Input Dimensions: These are the dimensions of the elliptical pipe.- Width (see graphic for interpretation)- Height (see graphic for interpretation)• System Elevation: This is the vertical distance from the bottom of the pipe to the top of thesystem (for a visual example, refer to 1Parameter Definitions).• The Open Flow File button can be used to load a pre-defined channel geometry file.• Later, you can save channel geometry information to a file for future use using the SaveFlow File shown in (Figure 20).• Use the Show Geometry checkbox to show/hide the graphic display of channel geometry.Figure 19. Deployment Software: Elliptical Pipe Geometry28

ViewArgonaut User GuideMean-Velocity Calculation MethodFigure 20 shows the screen for determining how to convert measured velocity to mean channelvelocity. The following parameters are specified in this screen. When all parameters are correctlyspecified, click Next to continue.• Select Mean-Velocity Calculation Method: Set the velocity equation type.- Disabled: Flow calculations will not be made. Example – If an Argonaut-SW is beingused for a side-looking application, you must select this option.- Index Calibration: Three parameters are required to relate measured to mean velocity. Forinformation about these parameters, see 1Parameter Definitions.▪ Vintercept▪ VSlope▪ Stage Coeff- Theoretical Flow Calculation: Using the location of the velocity cell relative to the channelgeometry, a 1/6-power law relationship is used to convert measured velocity to meanchannel velocity. For more information about this calculation, see 1Parameter Definitions.• The Save Flow File button can be used to save the current channel geometry file for futureuse. You will be prompted for a file and path name.• Channel geometry can be loaded from an existing file using The Open Flow File button onthe channel geometry screens (Figure 16 through Figure 19).Figure 20. Deployment Software: Mean Velocity Equation29

ViewArgonaut User GuideTotal Volume CalculationsFigure 21 shows the screen for enabling total volume calculations and selecting the output unitsto be used. Total volume is calculated as the measured flow rate multiplied by elapsed time. Theselected output units will affect RS232, SDI-12, and Analog Output data.• Select Output Units: Set the output units to be used for flow and total volume.- No total volume output: Volume calculations will not be made. Flow rate in cfs or m 3 /sbased on the Units selection.- cfs & acre-ft: Flow rate in cfs, total volume in acre-ft.- gpm & gallons: Flow rate in gpm (U.S. gallons per minute), total volume in gallons.- mgd & gallons: Flow rate in mgd (10 6 U.S. gallons per day), total volume in gallons.- m3/s & m3: Flow rate in m 3 /s, total volume in m 3 .- l/s & liters: Flow rate in l/s (liters per second), total volume in liters.- mld & m3: Flow rate in mld (10 6 liters per day), total volume in m 3 .• Total Volume Criteria: Determine which samples are used for total volume calculations.- Always accumulate flow (default): Every sample is used for total volume calculations.- Add flow to Total Volume when flow: use samples when flow rate:• >= a user-specified flow rate.• = a user-specified flow rate.- Add flow to Total Volume when velocity: use samples when velocity (Vx):• >= a user-specified flow rate.• = a user-specified flow rate.Figure 21. Deployment Software: Total Volume Calculations30

4.7. Analog Output ParametersViewArgonaut User GuideAnalog output parameters are only required for deployments that are using the external analogoutput converter modules (4-20 mA or 0-5 VDC).• To control the analog output modules, the Argonaut uses a special RS232 output format tocontrol the external converter. The firmware can control up to 2 converters at the same time,each outputting separate variables.• Analog outputs cannot be used during an SDI-12 deployment.Figure 22 shows the screen for selecting analog output parameters. The following parameters arespecified in this screen. See 1Parameter Definitions for details about Analog Output parameters.When all parameters are correctly specified, click Next to continue.• Output Type: Select the type of analog output converter that will be connected to the system.- Disabled: No analog output converter will be used.- Current (4-20 mA): The output module creates a current signal from 4-20 mA.- Voltage (0-5 VDC): The output module creates a voltage signal from 0-5 VDC.• Output Parameters: The Argonaut can control up to two analog output converters simultaneously– one on address 1 and one on address 2. Each converter can represent a separate variablewith separate scaling limits.- Parameter: Up to nine different variables can be output as an analog signal.- Min Value / Max Value: Input the minimum and maximum variable values that will correspondto the minimum and maximum analog output limits.- Units: Output units are determined by the selection of English or Metric units (Figure 10),and by the section of Total Volume output units (Figure 21). The output units cannot bechanged in this screen.Figure 22. Deployment Software: Analog Output Settings31

4.8. SDI-12 Interface ParametersViewArgonaut User GuideSDI-12 interface parameters are only required for deployments in which the Argonaut will becontrolled by an external SDI-12 data logger.• SDI-12 operation fundamentally changes the nature of data collection by the Argonaut.• During an SDI-12 deployment, the external data logger controls the timing of each velocitysample. Without a signal from the data logger, the system will never record velocity data.• In a standard (non-SDI-12) deployment, the system will not recognize any incoming commandsfrom an SDI-12 data logger.• The choice of deployment type (standard or SDI-12) is crucial, as an error in this selectioncan easily result in the loss of all data.Figure 23 shows the SDI-12 interface parameter screen. The following parameters are specifiedin this screen. See 1Parameter Definitions for details about SDI-12 operating parameters. When allparameters are correctly specified, click Next to continue.• SDI-12 Mode: Chooses whether this will be an SDI-12 deployment.- Turn SDI-12 OFF: Used for a standard deployment.- Turn SDI-12 ON: Used for an SDI-12 deployment.• Address: Sets the communication address between the Argonaut and the data logger.• Output Format: Always set to SonTek.• Multi-Address: Determines if multiple addresses will be used to handle data collected duringmulti-cell profiling. See 1Parameter Definitions for more details.• SDI-12 Output format is set to…: Shows whether the output data format is set for English orMetric units.Figure 23. Deployment Software: SDI-12 Interface Parameters32

ViewArgonaut User Guide4.9. Battery Life and Recorder CapacityThe Battery and Recorder menu (Figure 24) provides estimates for battery life and recorder capacityduring an autonomous deployment. The following parameters are shown on the screen.• Battery Type: Two battery type selections are supported.- Argonaut-xx Battery Pack – Shows listing of standard Argonaut battery packs.- User Supplied Battery – For a user-supplied battery, you must enter the battery voltageand capacity before the software can compute an estimate of battery life.• Battery Voltage: This is the nominal operating voltage of the battery, which can be expectedto change during the course of the battery’s life.• Battery Capacity: This is the nominal rating of the battery, in amp hours (A-h).- You must enter the rated capacity of your battery for battery life calculations.- Keep in mind that the capacity of many rechargeable batteries can vary depending on theage of the battery and its charge/discharge history.• Battery Capacity Multiplier: This is a safety factor used for battery life calculations.- We recommend a value of 80%. This allows a safety factor to account for cold weather(which can reduce battery capacity) and for changes in battery voltage with time.- For deployments in very cold environments, a lower value may be needed.• Power Consumption: The software determines this value based on system type, hardwareconfiguration, and operating parameters. It is an approximate value that can vary slightlyfrom system to system.Figure 24. Deployment Software: Battery Life and Recorder Capacity33

ViewArgonaut User Guide• Duty Cycle: This is the percentage of time the system is actively collecting data, based onsampling parameters (Averaging Interval, Sample Interval, and Burst parameter if enabled).- The system will normally enter a low power state between samples to conserve powerand extend battery life.- Note that duty cycle is always 100% for an SDI-12 deployment. This is because the datalogger, not the Argonaut, controls the timing of velocity samples. Also, the Argonautdoes not enter a low power state between samples so it can respond to commands fromthe data logger.- Likewise, the duty cycle is always 100% if Enable Flow Display is YES (Figure 14). Thisis because the Argonaut does not enter a low power state between samples in order to beable to respond to requests from the Flow Display.- For more information on duty cycle see 1Parameter Definitions.• Battery Life: This value is estimated (in days) based on all provided parameters. The basicequation is:Battery life (hours) = (V * Ah * BCM) / (PC * DC)whereV = Battery voltageAh = Battery capacityBCM = Battery capacity multiplierPC = Power consumptionDC = Duty cycle• Enable Recorder: This is used to turn on or off the internal recorder.- We strongly recommend always recording internal data even when interfacing with anexternal data logger, as it provides a backup of all data and additional diagnostic data.- If the recorder is full, you will not be allowed to start a new deployment with internal recordingenabled. You will need to download the existing data and format the recorder(see below), or disable internal recording.• Recorder capacity (Free space is sufficient for…): This is estimated based on the currentamount of free space on the recorder and the system operating parameters.- Recorder capacity calculations are based on currently specified operating parameters.- This value may not be accurate for SDI-12 deployments as the external data logger controlsthe timing of velocity samples.• The Show Recorder Details button can be used to view the current contents of the internalrecorder, to download data from the recorder, and to format the recorder. An example of theRecorder dialog box is shown in Figure 25.34

ViewArgonaut User GuidePOPPY001Figure 25. Deployment Software: Show Recorder Details• Features of the Recorder dialog box (Figure 25):- A directory of files on the recorder is shown in the main part of the screen.▪ Click on a file to select that file.▪ Hold down the CTRL or SHIFT key while clicking on files to select multiple files.- Using the Browse button to select the destination folder for downloaded files.- Click Download to transfer all specified files.- Click Format to erase the recorder.▪ You will be prompted to confirm your decision; no data can be recovered after the recorderhas been formatted.▪ You cannot delete individual files; the entire recorder must be erased at one time.- When done, click Close to return to the Deployment software.35

ViewArgonaut User Guide4.10. Updating Parameters and Starting a DeploymentThe final step in deploying the Argonaut is to transfer all system settings to the instrument and, ifdesired, start the deployment. Figure 26 shows an example Deployment Summary screen.• This screen shows an overview of the deployment configuration parameters specified in earlierscreens.• The Save Configuration to File button can be used to create a new template file.- Clicking this button will prompt you to enter a name and path for the template file.- Template files can be used to ensure the same settings are used each time an instrument isdeployed.- Template files can also be used to apply identical settings to systems of the same typethat are being deployed in different locations.• After reviewing the summary, click Next to continue.Figure 26 shows the final screen in the deployment software. This screen is used to transfer allspecified settings to the Argonaut, and to start the deployment.• The Update System button is used to transfer all settings to the instrument.- All settings are saved to non-volatile memory in the instrument and will not be lost if systempower is removed.- Settings can be transferred without starting a deployment if desired.- An updated display will be shown on the screen while settings are transferred.• The Start Deployment button is used to begin the deployment.- This button will first transfer all settings to the instrument if it has not already been doneusing the Update System button.- An updated display is shown on the screen as settings are transferred.Screen HeadingFigure 26. Deployment Software: Deployment Summary36

ViewArgonaut User Guide• All communications with the instrument are captured to a log file for future reference. Thebutton View Log File can be used to view the log file created with this session.- The software automatically creates a log file each time you connect with the instrument.This provides a record of commands sent to the system and instrument responses for theentire deployment procedure. Log files are stored within a “Log Files” subdirectory ofthe ViewArgonaut program folder (normally C:\Program Files\SonTek\ViewArgonaut\LogFiles). They use a naming format giving the date they were created and a sequentialnumber so that no log files are overwritten.• For standard deployments (SDI-12 mode is NO), you can watch the first few samples generatedby the system being output to the screen if desired.• After starting the deployment, disconnect the power and communications cable from yourcomputer. Secure the connector and protect it from weather and moisture.• The system is now deployed. When you are ready to retrieve/analyze data, see Section 6.37

ViewArgonaut User Guide38

Section 5. Realtime ModuleViewArgonaut User GuideMost Argonaut systems allow you to collect data in real time; that is, “live” rather than solely toan internal data recorder on a remote system that is using battery power. Running a system inreal-time lets you evaluate system performance at a new site and adjust unit system settings ifneeded. This section describes the following items in ViewArgonaut’s Realtime module.• Real-Time Data Collection Guidelines• What Am I Looking At?• Menu Items5.1. Real-Time Data Collection GuidelinesThe following steps outline the basic procedures used to collect data with an Argonaut systemusing ViewArgonaut. For specific details about parameter selection and application methods, referto your 11111System Manual.To start collecting/displaying Argonaut data in real-time:1. Interconnect the Argonaut to your computer and apply power (refer to 11122System Manual).2. Start ViewArgonaut and click Realtime on the main menu (Figure 1) to open the Real-TimeData Collection module (Figure 27).Figure 27. Realtime Software: Main Screen39

ViewArgonaut User Guide3. Click the Connect icon (or System Communication|SonTek Argonaut) to open the Communicationsdialog box (Figure 28). If necessary, select the desired COM port and baud rate (default=9600)for the computer serial port to which the Argonaut is connected. COM port colorcodes: Green=available; Red=in use/not available; Gray=not found.Figure 28. Realtime Software: Communications Dialog Box4. Click Go!. This should awaken and establish communications with the Argonaut. If not,check cable connections and COM port settings or refer to the 22222System Manual for details.5. Use these menus to set up data collection and display parameters for your application:• File- Configuration – Make appropriate selections for Record Flow and Unit System.• View- Number of Samples Displayed – Enter number of samples to view on graph’s X-axis.- Select Graph Variables – Select the parameters to view on the top/bottom graphs.- Show Components – Select velocity components you would like to see on the graphs.- Display X-Axis As – Select the X-axis unit (sample number or date/time).- Show … Display – Select which tabular displays you wish to view.• Processing- Sound Speed Correction – Make adjustments to correct for temperature and salinity.- Velocity Coordinate System – Select the desired velocity coordinate system to use.- User Specified Rotation – If you wish to rotate all velocity profiles by a user-selectableangle, enter the value here. This is useful when analyzing current data along a channel.• Argonaut Config- User Setup – Enter deployment parameters. Refer to your 22222System Manual for details.- Hardware Configuration – Review your system’s hardware configuration for accuracy.6. When you are ready to start data collection and display, click Play (F6). The actual display ofdata may take a few moments depending on the Averaging Interval you set. For an explanationof how to use the Play, Record, and Stop buttons, see Toolbar Icons.7. When you are ready to start recording data to disk, click Record (F7). Note: To stop recording,you can again click Record or use Alt+F7. For an explanation of how to use the Play,Record, and Stop buttons, see 2Toolbar Icons.8. As data is being collected/displayed/recorded, you can change most parameters. To adjust thescaling of the graphs, double-click the appropriate axis.9. You can open multiple system displays (i.e., view the data from several Argonaut systems atthe same time) using File|Collect/Record Data. Each system will need to be set up individu-40

ViewArgonaut User Guideally, and each must be on a different COM port (see System Communication). You can thenuse the Window menu to Cascade, Tile, or select a specific system display. You can also cyclethrough the system displays using Ctrl+F6. Any settings that are changed apply only to thecurrently active window/system.5.2. What Am I Looking At?After loading the data file, ViewArgonaut can display:• Sample Data Time-Series Graphs (top & bottom)• Tabular Data (right side, but movable)Notes:1. Use the View Menu to show/hide graphs, tabular displays, toolbars, beam components; thismenu also lets you select the graph axis variables.2. Use the Processing Menu to perform data display editing/smoothing functions.5.2.1. Sample Data Time-Series GraphsThe two Sample Data Time-Series Graphs (top and bottom of screen; Figure 27) let you view thedata points of a user-selected variable for the selected range of sample data over time. Severalvariables are available, of which four can be displayed at the same time — one on the left axisand one on the right axis of each graph. Use the View|Select Graph Variables (or its 2Toolbar Icon)to select the parameter(s) to be displayed.The variables are on “tabs” in the Select Time Series Variables dialog box (Figure 40), and includethe following items. Depending on system configuration, all tabs/variables may not beavailable. Note: Left-axis variables are displayed using a solid line; right-axis variables are displayedusing a dashed line. You can change axis scaling by double-clicking the appropriate scale.• Velocity (Velocity, Speed, Direction)• Flow (Stage, Flow, Area, Volume)• Diagnostics (Signal Amplitude, Mean Signal Amplitude, Standard Error, Mean Standard Error,Cell Begin, Cell End)• Multi-Cell (Multi-Cell Velocity, Speed, Direction)• Multi-Cell Diagnostics (Multi-Cell SNR, Standard Error)• Sensors (Temperature, Pressure, External Pressure)• Compass (Heading, Pitch, Roll)• CTD (CTD Salinity, CTD Temperature, CTD Conductivity, CTD Depth)• Misc (Battery Voltage, Noise Level, Ice Detection)5.2.2. Tabular DataDetailed information about each sample, velocity data, discharge summary data, diagnostic data,and sensor data (temperature, pressure, compass, CTD) can be viewed in a tabular format. Thefollowing tabular data dialog boxes can be turned on/off using the appropriate selection inView|Show … Display (where … is the tabular display name). You can move any tabular data dialogbox by clicking/dragging the title bar (or “gripper”) located at the top of the box.When using ViewArgonaut to monitor more than one system connected to your computer, youcan use the Window menu or Ctrl+F6 to view/cycle through the other systems. The data shown inthe tabular displays is associated with the selected system/display. For information on connectingto more than one system, see File|Collect/Record Data.41

• File Information (Figure 29):ViewArgonaut User Guide- System – Argonaut MD, SL, SW, XR, etc.- Frequency – Acoustic frequency of transmitter- Connected to – Shows the COM port to which the currentlyselected system is connected.- File – Shows name of file in which data is being stored.- File Size – Shows the current size of the data file.- Disk Space – Shows remaining disk space on computer.- Sample No – The number of the sample currently selectedby the time-series marker (top graph, light blue pointer).- Sample Time – Date/Time the selected sample began.- Time Interval – Shows the amount of time between data collectionsamples.- Elapsed Time – Shows how much time has elapsed sincedata collection began.- Next Sample – Shows how much time is remaining beforenext sample is displayed. The “clock” next to this field is avisual display of the same information.• Velocity Data (Figure 30):- V1/X/E, V2/Y/N, V3/Z/U – Shows the velocity components ofthe selected sample. The specific component depends on theselected velocity coordinate system.- Speed – Shows the averaged water-current speed for thelast-collected sample.- Direction – Shows the averaged water-current direction forthe last-collected sample in degrees.• Discharge/Flow Data (Figure 31):Figure 30. Velocity Data- V Beam – Shows the level of water above the vertical beam transducer (only for SW orSL with vertical beam).- Stage – Shows the water level above the center of the system computed using the verticalbeam (V indicator), pressure sensor (P), or a fixed value (F); N = None. Stage shows theaveraged water level for the last-collected sample based on sensor readings (from V, P, orF depending on system options) and the user-defined elevation of the Argonaut (see FlowCalculation in 6.3.4).- VMean – Shows the averaged water velocity mean for the last-collected sample based onthe user-defined calculation method (see Flow Calculation in6.3.4).- Flow – Shows the averaged flow rate for the last-collectedsample based on the user-defined riverbed geometry parameters(see Flow Calculation in 6.3.4).- Area – Shows the averaged data collection area for the lastcollectedsample based on the user-defined riverbed geometryparameters (see Flow Calculation in 6.3.4).- Volume – Shows the accumulated water volume for the file,if calculations are enabled (see Flow Calculation in 6.3.4).42Figure 29. File DataFigure 31. Discharge/Flow Data

ViewArgonaut User Guide• MultiCell Data (Figure 32): Output type is determined by MultiCell Data Display Options atthe bottom of the View menu- Speed / Direction – Shows speed and direction from all cells.- Vx / Vy – Shows the velocity component data from all cells.- Arrows – Shows graphic depiction of velocity data from all cells.Figure 32. Multi-Cell Data Displays: (a) Speed//Direction (b) Vx/Vy (c) Vector arrows• Diagnostics Data (Figure 33):- SNR1, SNR2, SNR3 – Shows the signal-to-noise ratio componentsof the last-collected sample in decibels.- Mean Amp – Shows the mean of the signal amplitude componentsof the last-collected sample in counts.- StDev1, StDev2, StDev3 – Shows the velocity standard deviationcomponents of the last-collected sample.- Mean StDev – Shows the mean of the velocity standard deviationcomponents of the last-collected sample in counts.- Battery – Shows the averaged battery voltage for the lastcollectedsample.• Sensor Data (Figure 34):- Temp – Shows the averaged temperature for the lastcollectedsample.- Press – Shows the averaged pressure data for the lastcollectedsample.Figure 33. Diagnostics Data43Figure 34. Sensor Data

ViewArgonaut User GuideFigure 35. Compass Data• Compass Data (Figure 35):- Heading –Shows the averaged heading for the last-collected sample in degrees.- Pitch/Roll – Shows the averaged tilt values for the last-collected sample in degrees.• CTD Data (Figure 36):- Temp – Shows the averaged CTD temperature for the last-collected sample.- Press – Shows the averaged CTD pressure data for the last-collected sample.- Cond – Shows the averaged CTD conductivity for the last-collected sample.- Salinity – Shows the averaged CTD salinity for the last-collected sample.• Wave Data (Figure 37):- Hs – Most recent significant wave height- Tp – Most recent wave peak periodFigure 36. CTD DataFigure 37. Wave Data44

5.3. Menu ItemsViewArgonaut User GuideThe following menus are available in ViewArgonaut’s Realtime module.• File• Edit• View• System Communication• Processing• Argonaut Config• Help• 2Toolbar Icons5.3.1. File MenuThe File Menu contains the following options:• Collect/Record Data… (Ctrl+R) – This item allows you to monitor/collect data for more thanone system simultaneously. When you first open the Realtime module, the program assumesyou will be collecting data for only one system and displays only one graphic “window”. Assuch, if you are setting up the data collection parameters for one system, you can skip thismenu item.If you wish to monitor/collect data for more than one system, you would invoke this menuitem as necessary to open multiple graphic “windows” — one for each connected system.You can use the Window menu or Ctrl+F6 to view or cycle through the graphic displays forthe other systems. The data shown in the tabular displays is associated with the currently selectedsystem/display.To set up each system:1. Activate (i.e., select) one of the windows (via the Window menu or Ctrl+F6).2. Use the Connect icon (or System Communication|SonTek Argonaut) to establish communicationswith the desired system on a unique COM port.3. Set up the data collection parameters for the selected system (Argonaut Config menu).4. Repeat the above steps for the next system.5. Select the appropriate system/window to start/stop/record data, to change its parameters,or to view its graphic/tabular displays.• Close (Ctrl+F4) – Closes the currently selected system/window, but keeps the Realtime moduleopen. Note: If the selected system is actively monitoring/collecting data, you will beprompted to confirm your decision.45

• Configuration (Ctrl+N) – Allows you toactivate various settings to save userworkspace and default display preferences(Figure 38).- Use Workspaces allows you to retainyour parameter settings from sessionto session.- Record Flow lets you record dischargedata to a separate file. The file usesthe same data collection file name butuses a .dis extension. The dischargedata file is in ASCII format and containsa self-explanatory description ofthe data contained in the file.ViewArgonaut User Guide- Unit System lets you display data in Metric or English units of measurement.• Exit – Closes all data files and then exits the RealTime module. Note: If any system is activelymonitoring/collecting data, you will be prompted to confirm your decision for thatsystem.5.3.2. Edit MenuThe Edit Menu contains the following option:Figure 38. Realtime Software: Program Configuration• Copy Screen to Clipboard (Ctrl+C) - Use this feature to copy the graphics display of the currentlyselected data file to the clipboard. You can then paste the display into another programfor further processing, presentations, or reports. Typical programs that could make useof this feature are Microsoft's Word and PowerPoint programs.5.3.3. View MenuThe View Menu contains the following options:• Number of Samples Displayed (Figure 39) – Used toselect the number of data samples (2-1000) you wishto display on the X-axis of the time-series graphs. Youcan also access this option by double clicking on theX-axis of either graph.Figure 39. Number of Samples to Display46

• Select Graph Variables (Figure 40) –Lets you select which variable(s) youwould like to display in the top andbottom Sample Data Time-SeriesGraphs. This selection is also availableon the tool bar (Select Variables;Figure 44).• Show Components – Allows you toshow/hide the individual componentsof the velocity data (Beam1/X/E,Beam2/Y/N, Beam3/Z/U) for the selectedvelocity coordinate system.• Display Sample X-Axis Using – Letsyou switch the sample graph’s X-axisbetween Sample Number andDate/Time.• Show File Toolbar – Use this optionto show/hide the icon toolbar.ViewArgonaut User Guide• Show … Display – Use this option toselect which Tabular Data displayswill be shown. Initially, these tabulardisplays will be shown on the rightFigure 40. Realtime: Select Time-Series Variables Dialog Boxside of the screen. However, you canuse the tabular display’s “grab” bar to drag the display to another part of the screen. Notethat the tabular data displays apply to the currently selected system/window if multiple systemsare being monitored.• MultiCell Data Display Options (Figure 32) – Lets you select the way in which the multi-celldata is displayed — as speed and direction (Show Speed/Direction), X and Y velocity vectors(Show Vx/Vy), or a graphical arrow plot (Show Arrows).47

5.3.4. System Communication MenuViewArgonaut User GuideUse the items in this menu to set up the communication protocols with the instrument.• SonTek Argonaut – Opens the Communications dialog box (Figure 28), which lets you establishthe communications interface with your system. You can also use the Connect icon onthe toolbar (Figure 44) to open the Communications dialog box.- Note that ViewArgonaut can monitor more than one system simultaneously. Each systemmust be connected to a unique COM port.- Select the desired COM port and Baud Rate (default = 9600) for the computer serial portto which the desired Argonaut system is connected.- COM port color code: Green = available; Red = in use/not available; Gray = not found.- Click Go!. This should awaken and establish communications with the selected Argonautsystem. If not, check your interconnections and COM port settings. If you still cannot establishcommunications, refer to your 22222System Manual.5.3.5. Processing MenuThe Processing Menu contains the following options.• Sound Speed Correction – Lets you correct velocity data for erroneous sound speed that mayhave occurred due to an incorrect salinity or temperature data.• Velocity Coordinate System – Lets you select the coordinate system in which to display velocitydata. Options are: Beam, XYZ, and ENU. The associated toolbar icon (Figure 44) staysdepressed for the selected coordinate system.- Beam – Velocity readings are along the selected beam.- XYZ – Velocity readings use a Cartesian coordinate system where the X-axis is horizontaland in the direction scribe mark on the probe head or in the direction of the red-tippedtransducer (see 22222System Manual for X-axis location details). The Z-axis is upward throughthe head. The Y-axis is orthogonal to X to complete the right-hand coordinate system.- ENU – Similar to XYZ with the Y-axis rotated to North. Velocity readings require a compassor GPS input. “E” is the East-West reading, with East positive and West negative.“N” is the North-South reading, with North positive and South negative. “U” is the verticalup/down reading, with Up positive and Down negative.• User Specified Rotation (Figure 41) – When activated,lets you rotate all velocity profiles by a user-selectableangle between 0 and 360 degrees. This feature is usefulwhen analyzing current data along a channel.Figure 41. User Specified Rotation Entry48

5.3.6. Argonaut Config MenuViewArgonaut User GuideThe Argonaut Config Menu contains the following options, which allow you to set up data collectionparameters and display configuration information that was recorded during data collection.The information listed includes:• Hardware Configuration (Ctrl+H) – Lists the configuration of system hardware (Figure 42):- CPU Software Version – Central Processing Unit firmware version- DSP Software Version – Digital Signal Processor firmware version- Board Revision – Level of printed circuit board changes- System Type – MD, SL, SW, XR, etc.- Serial No. – Serial number of the system- System Frequency – Acoustic frequency of the system- Number of Beams – Number of acoustic beams- Beam Geometry – 2 beams, 3 beams, etc- Vertical Beam – Vertical beam installed on this instrument (yes/no)- Slant Angle – Angle of beams from vertical in degrees- Sensor orientation – Up, Down, or Side-looking- Compass – Compass option installed (yes/no)- Recorder – Recorder option installed (yes/no)- Pressure Sensor – Pressure sensor option installed (yes/no)- Temperature Sensor – Temperature sensor option installed (yes/no)- Ext. Press. Sensor – External pressure sensor option installed (yes/no)- YSI Sensor – YSI sensor option installed (yes/no)- CTD Sensor – CTD sensor option installed (yes/no)- Waves Option – Waves option installed (yes/no)Figure 42. RealTime Software: Hardware Configuration49

ViewArgonaut User Guide• User Setup (Ctrl+U) – Allows you to set up the data collection parameters (Figure 43). Referto your 22222System Manual for descriptions and assistance in entering these parameters.- File Naming System:▪ Manual – Lets you enter a Recording Filename (9-character maximum). If you shouldstop, and then restart data recording, you will be prompted to overwrite this file.▪ Automatic – Lets you enter a Recording Filename (9-character maximum), and thenconcatenates the file name with the year, month, day, hour, and minute at which timedata recording began. For example: MYFILE0403230813 corresponds to a file nameof “MYFILE” started March 23, 2004 at 08:13a. If you should stop, and then restartdata recording, a file name will be created based on the new time string.- Recording Filename – This is the prefix for all recorded data files. The data files arestored in the same folder as the ViewArgonaut program.- Coordinate System – Beam, XYZ, or ENU (East-North-Up)- Magnetic Declination – The angular distance between True North and Magnetic North.Figure 43. RealTime Software: User Setup50

ViewArgonaut User Guide- Averaging Interval – The period of time, in seconds, over which the instrument will averagedata to compute a mean velocity.- Cell Begin – The distance from the transducer head where data collection will begin.- Cell End – The distance from the transducer head where data collection will end.- Velocity Range – Used with Argonaut-ADV systems; see System Manual.- Data Format – LONG format is always used (SHORT is disabled). See System Manual.- Dynamic Boundary (yes/no) – Used with XR systems to adapt system operation to changingconditions in environments where surface elevation varies (e.g., tide or river stagevariations). See System Manual.- Wave Spectra (yes/no) – For XR and SL systems. See System Manual.- Reverse X Velocity – For SW systems, water velocity measurements are reported using aCartesian coordinate system relative to the sensor. This parameter determines the orientationof the positive X velocity with respect to the system. See System Manual.- Ice Detection – Enable ice detection (Argonaut-SW only). See System Manual.- PowerPing – PowerPing provides improved velocity performance, but at the cost of increasedpower consumption. This option is generally recommended when power consumptionis not an issue. See System Manual.- Comments – Allows three lines of user comments; 60-character maximum per line.- Sound Speed Settings:▪ Temperature mode (measured, user)▪ Default water temperature (in user mode)▪ Default water salinity (in user mode)▪ Default speed of sound (in user mode)- Pressure Calibration – Allows you to calibrate (zero) the pressure sensor while in airprior to deployment.- MultiCell (See System Manual.):▪ Profiling Mode▪ Blanking distance▪ Cell Size▪ Number of Cells- Set Flow Parameters – See Flow Calculation in 6.3.4.5.3.7. Help MenuThe Help Menu contains the following options:• ViewArgonaut Help - Opens the ViewArgonaut.pdf help file.• Argonaut-XX Manual – Opens the PDF 22222System Manual for the selected instrument type.• About Argonaut Data Collection - Displays contact information and software version informationabout the program.51

ViewArgonaut User Guide5.3.8. Toolbar IconsThe toolbar (Figure 44) contains the following icons:Figure 44. Realtime Software: Toolbar Icons• Connect – Opens the Communications dialog box (Figure 28).• Play (F6) – After you 2Connect to the desired system, clicking Play (or pressing F6) instructsthe system to start pinging. This will allow you to actively monitor the displays before youstart recording data to a file. In other words, this action does not start the process of recordingdata to a file; it only allows you to monitor the real-time data on the displays.• Record (F7/Alt+F7) – After clicking Play (above), and when you are satisfied with the databeing displayed, you can click Record (or press F7) to start the process of recording the datato a file. To stop recording data, click Record again (or press Alt+F7). This action will endthe process of recording data to a file, but the system will continue to ping and display datain real time.• Stop (F5) – The process of ending a data monitoring session and a data recording session areslightly different.- Stopping Data Monitoring – If you are not currently recording data, you can click Stop(or press F5) to tell the selected system to stop pinging. This will stop the display of data,but will not close the Realtime module.- Stopping Data Recording – If you are currently recording data, you must first stop thisprocess by clicking Record (or by pressing Alt+F7). The will stop the process of recordingdata to a file, but the system will continue to ping and display data. To stop this monitoringprocess, you can now click Stop (or press F5).• 2Beam Coordinate System – See 3Processing|Velocity Coordinate System.• 33XYZ Coordinate System – Same as 3Processing|Velocity Coordinate System.• 33ENU Coordinate System – Same as 3Processing|Velocity Coordinate System.• 3Select Graph Variables – Same as 3View|Select Graph Variables.• 3Show Cross-Section – Same as 3View|Show Cross-Section Flow.52

Section 6. Processing ModuleViewArgonaut User GuideThe Processing module lets you “play back” previously recorded data for review, analysis, andpost-processing data manipulation. Note, however, that the Processing module never alters youroriginal data file. The program only uses your data for display and analysis purposes.This section describes the following items in relation to ViewArgonaut’s Processing module.• Getting Started• What Am I Looking At?• Menu Items6.1. Getting StartedThe following steps outline the basic procedures used to view and post-process Argonaut data.1. Start ViewArgonaut and click Processing on the main menu (Figure 1) to open the ArgonautData Processing module (Figure 45).2. Open an Argonaut data file. To open a file, you can:a. Use File|Open or the Open icon to select an Argonaut file (*.arg).b. Use File|1 (or 2, 3, 4) to select a previously opened file.3. Select file-loading options.a. When you first open a file, you will be shown a dialog box containing Argonaut File Information(Figure 46) about the currently selected Argonaut data set. Note: If you havepreviously opened the current data file, you can skip to Step 4 below.Time-Series MarkerSample DataTime-Series GraphsTabular Data DisplaysFigure 45. Processing Module: Main Screen53

. Use the Load Samplesoptions to load All Samples(Default) or SelectedSamples (enter the Startand End range of samples).The Select everyand Average over optionslet you select howto load the profiles.- Select every – Lets youquickly look at a noncontiguousseries ofsamples. This may beuseful when you havea very large data file,and you just want tosee if the data lookreasonable. A valueother than 1 is notmeant to be used for athorough data analysis.- Average over – Averagesthe user-enterednumber of samplesinto one sample beforedisplaying the data.c. Click OK to load the data file.ViewArgonaut User GuideFigure 46. Processing: Argonaut File Information Dialog Box4. Reload Previous Workspace? If you have previously opened this data file and saved itsworkspace (i.e., the display and processing settings), you will be asked if you want to reloadthe file’s previous workspace. Click Yes or No as appropriate. Note: If you never want tosave your last-used settings, uncheck the File|Configuration|Use WorkSpaces box.5. Select Display and Processing Options. After the file is loaded, the selected range of datasamples will be shown on the various graphs. You can now use the menu and toolbars to:a. Change the display.b. Smooth/filter the display data.c. Export selected data in an ASCII-text file format.d. Print the display.e. Copy the displays to the clipboard for use in other programs (e.g., Word, PowerPoint).6. Exiting. When you Exit the Processing module, Close the current data file, or Open anotherdata file, you may be asked to Save Workspace or Overwrite Existing Workspace (assumesFile|Configuration|Use WorkSpaces box is checked). Click Yes to replace your previous settingswith your current settings. Click No to retain your previous settings and abandon yourcurrent settings. Note: Workspaces are saved in the same folder as their parent data file witha .wsp extension.54

6.2. What Am I Looking At?ViewArgonaut User GuideAfter loading the data file, ViewArgonaut can display:• Sample Data Time-Series Graph (top and bottom)• Tabular Data (right side, but movable)Notes:1. Use the View Menu to: show/hide graphs and tabular displays, show/hide toolbars, selectgraph axis variables, show/hide beam components, show/hide cross-section flow plot.2. Use the Processing Menu to perform data display editing and smoothing functions. Note thatdata files are never modified; any editing/smoothing applies only to the display of data.3. Use the Analysis Menu to view data in various formats: Histograms, Spectra, Scatter Diagrams(Note: May not be available in this release).6.2.1. Sample Data Time-Series GraphsThe two Sample Data Time-Series Graphs (top and bottom of screen; Figure 45) let you view thedata points of a user-selected variable for the selected range of sample data over time. Severalvariables are available, of which four can be displayed at the same time – one on the left axis andone on the right axis of each graph. Use the View|Select Graph Variables (or its toolbar icon) toselect the parameter(s) to be displayed.Notes (refer to Figure 45):1. Left-axis variables are displayed using a solid line; right-axis variables are displayed using adashed line. The axis scale can be changed by double-clicking on the appropriate axis scale.2. Moving the Time-Series Marker (top graph, light blue pointer) will set the informationshown in the Tabular Data Displays for the selected data sample. If the marker is not visible,click the 3Center Marker icon.3. To magnify an area of the Time-Series Graph: (a) Select the Zoom In toolbar icon, (b) Clickand drag your cursor from the desired starting point to the desired ending point on eithergraph, (c) Release the cursor. You can now use the horizontal scroll bar to view data to theleft and right of the current position. To return the graph to its full size, click the ResetZoom toolbar icon. Note: Before zooming-in, set the Time-Series Marker to the expectedmiddle of the zoom area, or use the Center Marker toolbar icon to reposition the marker.6.2.2. Tabular DataDetailed information about each sample, velocity data, dischargesummary data, diagnostic data, and sensor data (temperature, pressure,compass, CTD) can be shown in a tabular format. The followingtabular data display boxes can be turned on or off using the appropriateselection in the View|Show … Display (where … is thename of the tabular display). Note: You can move any tabular datadialog box by clicking on and dragging the title bar (or “gripper”)located at the top of the box.• File Information Display (Figure 47)- System – Argonaut MD, SL, SW, XR, etc.- Frequency – Acoustic frequency of transmitter.- File – Shows the name of the currently selected data file.55Figure 47. File Info. Display

ViewArgonaut User Guide- File Size – Shows the size of the data file.- Sample No – The sample currently selected by the Time-Series Marker (top graph, lightblue pointer).- Sample Date/Time – Date/Time the selected sample began.- Time Interval – Shows the amount of time between data collectionsamples.• Velocity Data Display (Figure 48)- V1/X/E, V2/Y/N, V3/Z/U – Shows the velocity components ofthe selected sample. The specific component depends on theselected Processing|Velocity Coordinate System.- Speed – Shows the averaged water-current speed for the selectedsample.- Direction – Shows the averaged water-current direction forthe selected sample in degrees.• Discharge Summary Data Display (Figure 49)- V Beam – Shows the level of water above the vertical beamtransducer (only for SLs with a Vertical Beam installed).- Stage – Shows the water level above the center of the systemcomputed using the vertical beam (V indicator), pressuresensor (P), or a fixed value (F); N = None. Stage showsthe averaged water level for the last-collected sample basedon sensor readings (from V, P, or F depending on systemoptions) and the user-defined elevation of the Argonaut (see33Processing|Flow Calculation).- VMean – Shows the averaged water velocity mean for thelast-collected sample based on the user-defined calculationmethod in Processing|Flow Calculation.- Flow – Shows the averaged flow rate for the selected samplebased on the user-defined riverbed geometry parameters inProcessing|Flow Calculation.- Area – Shows the averaged data collection area for the selectedsample based on the user-defined riverbed geometryparameters in Processing|Flow Calculation.- Volume – Shows the accumulated water volume for the file,if calculations are enabled (see Flow Calculation in 6.3.4).• Sensor Data Display (Figure 50)- Temp – Shows averaged temperature for selected sample.- Press – Shows averaged pressure data for selected sample.• Diagnostic Data Display (Figure 51)- SNR1, SNR2, SNR3 – Shows the signal-to-noise ratio componentsof the selected sample in decibels.- StErr1, StErr2, StErr3 – Shows the velocity standard errorcomponents of the selected sample.- Mean StDev – Shows the mean of the velocity standard errorcomponents of the selected sample in counts.- Battery – Shows averaged voltage for selected sample.56Figure 48. Velocity Data DisplayFigure 49. Discharge SummaryFigure 50. Sensor Data DisplayFigure 51. Diagnostics Data

ViewArgonaut User Guide• Signal Data Display (Figure 52)- Amp1, Amp2, Amp3 – Shows the signal amplitude componentsof the selected sample.- Mean Amp – Shows the mean of the signal amplitude componentsof the selected sample in counts.- Noise1, Noise2, Noise3 – Shows the baseline noise componentsof the selected sample in counts.• MultiCell Data Display (Figure 53)- Shows the speed and direction components or the X and Yvelocity vectors for the multi-cell data (if enabled). Thechoice of which components are displayed is made throughthe View|Multi-Cell Data Display Options menu.Figure 52. Signal Data DisplayFigure 53. Multi-Cell Data Displays: (a) Speed//Direction (b) Vx/Vy (c) Vector arrows• Compass Data Display (Figure 54)- Heading – On systems with the optional compass, shows theaveraged heading for the selected sample in degrees.- Pitch/Roll – On systems with the optional compass, showsthe averaged tilt values for the selected sample in degrees.• CTD Data Display (Figure 55)- Temp – Shows averaged CTD temperature for selected sample.- Press – Shows averaged CTD pressure data for selectedsample.- Cond – Shows averaged CTD conductivity for selectedsample.- Salinity – Shows averaged CTD salinity for selected sample.Figure 54. Compass Data57Figure 55. CTD Data Display

ViewArgonaut User Guide• Wave Data Display (Figure 56)- Hs – Most recent significant wave height- Tp – Most recent wave peak period6.3. Menu ItemsThe following menus are available in the Processing module.Figure 56. Wave Data Display• File Menu• Edit Menu• View Menu• Processing Menu• Argonaut Config Menu6.3.1. File MenuThe File Menu contains the following options:• Analysis Menu• Window Menu• Help Menu• Toolbar Icons• Open… (Ctrl+O) – Opens an Argonaut data file (.arg) for display. More than one data filecan be opened during a session. To select the active data file, or to arrange the open datafiles on the screen, you can use the standard Windows features in the Window Menu.• Close (Ctrl+F4) – If more than one file is open, this closes the currently selected data file. Ifonly one file is open, this closes the file but keeps the Processing module open.• Print… (Ctrl+P) – Prints the graphs in the currently selected data file.• Print Preview – Lets you view the graphic display as it will look when printed. Depending onthe speed of your computer, and the number of data points in your graph, it may take fromseveral seconds to several minutes before the preview is displayed.• Print Setup… – Lets you modify the printer selection and its parameters before printing.• Export Data… (Ctrl-X) – Lets you create data file outputs for any or all of the items shown inTable 4. Individual files are created using the data file name with the appropriate extension.You can create a file just for the selected variable (Export Selected Variable), or create filesfor all the output variables at the same time (Export All Variables). Be aware that any userenteredaveraging, processing, or corrections will modify exported data.Table 4. ASCII Output FilesOutput Variables Extension NotesConfiguration Data ctl System and user-specified configuration setupSample Data dat Time-series dataDischarge Data dis Discharge/flow data. The discharge data file is in ASCII format. Thefile itself contains a description of the data.Multi-Cell Data snr/vel/std Data from multi-cell velocity profile (if enabled) including SNR andsignal amplitude (in .snr file), velocity (in .vel file), and standard errorof velocity (in .std file).Pressure Series pts Raw time-series of pressure data for wave spectra analysis (if enabled)Diagnostic DataFlow DataExchangeda1/da2/da3ds1/ds2/ds3diafdxRaw signal strength profile data as signal amplitude in counts (.da*files, one for each beam) and SNR (.ds*, one for each beam) files,and header data for signal strength profiles.An XML compatible format used for exchange of flow data betweendifferent SonTek instruments. This format is used in combination withSonTek software for detailed flow analysis.58

ViewArgonaut User GuideTo create the ASCII file output(s): (a) Enterthe path where you want to save the file(s)(Figure 57), (b) Enter the file name (but notthe extension), (c) Enter the sample range toprocess, (d) Enter the desired output variablesand format (ASCII) to export the selectedvariable, or export all variables, (e)Click the appropriate Export button.Note that you can enable or disable columnlabels for the exported files. Column labelsare helpful when interpreting data, but cancause problems with some automated dataanalysis programs.• Batch Export – Allows you to export all AS-CII output files from several input files atthe same time (Figure 58).- Add Files allows you to use a browsewindow to add one or more files to thelist to be exported.- Add Folder lets you add a folder to the listto be exported. All Argonaut (*.arg) datafiles within that folder will have the outputfiles exported.- Remove will remove files or folders fromthe list.- Export will export all ASCII output files,using the last configuration in the mainExport dialog, for the selected file.- Close will close the Batch Export window.Figure 57. ASCII Output File Dialog BoxFigure 58. Batch Data File Export Dialog Box59

ViewArgonaut User Guide• Configuration (Ctrl+N) – Allows you toactivate various settings to save userworkspace and default display preferences(Figure 59).- Use Workspaces lets you retain processingand display settings from sessionto session for the active data file.- Save Current Display Settings as Defaultlets you set the default display forall data files that you open; however,if the file you are opening already hasa saved workspace, the workspace settingswill override the default settings.- Unit System lets you display data inMetric or English measurement units.- Data Display lets you change the text Figure 59. Processing Configuration Dialog Boxand background colors of the tabular data displays.• 1, 2, 3, 4 – Lists the last four .arg data files that were accessed. Selecting one of these itemswill open the associated file. More than one data file can be opened during a session.• Exit – Closes the data file(s), and then exits the Processing module. You may be asked toSave Workspace or Overwrite Existing Workspace for each data file that is currently open(assumes File|Configuration|Use Workspaces box is checked). Click Yes to replace yourprevious settings with your current settings. Click No to retain your previous settings andabandon your current settings. Note: Workspaces are saved in the same folder as their parentdata file with a .wsp extension.6.3.2. Edit MenuThe Edit Menu contains the following option.• Copy Screen to Clipboard (Ctrl+C) – Use this feature to copy the graphics display of the currentlyselected data file to the clipboard. You can then paste the display into another programfor further processing, presentations, or reports. Typical programs that could make useof this feature are Microsoft's Word and PowerPoint programs.60

6.3.3. View MenuThe View Menu contains the following options:ViewArgonaut User Guide• Show … Graphs – Use this option to select which graph/s will be shown in the display. Thedefault is to Show All Graphs. Selecting any of the other choices will display only that graph(Top or Bottom). This may be helpful when you wish to magnify a particular data set.• View Diagnostics Data – Allows you to display (Figure 60) expanded diagnostics data (availablein Argonaut SL/SW/XR firmware versions 9.5 and later). This data is equivalent to recordinga BeamCheck or Diagnostics file periodically during deployment. The standard intervalfor diagnostics is once every 100 samples.- Diagnostics data from one sample at a time is displayed. Sample number and time areshown at the top. Use the forward/backward icons to move through diagnostic data either1 or 10 diagnostic samples at a time (Note: Since diagnostic data is normally recordedevery 100 samples, 10 diagnostic samples corresponds to 1000 samples in the file).- The two plots show signal strength from the system with range. The top plot shows thisprofile as raw signal amplitude, and the bottom plot as SNR. These plots can be interpretedas you would for BeamCheck or Diagnostics data (see 33333System Manual).- In the plot:▪ The red line is data from Beam 1.▪ The blue line is data from Beam 2.▪ The green line is data from Beam 3 (if present).▪ The gray line is the theoretical decay profile. This is useful for determining if the signalis behaving normally or showing unusual behavior (see 33333System Manual).- Press the Close button to return to the main ViewArgonaut screen.Figure 60. Diagnostics Data Display61

ViewArgonaut User Guide• Select Graph Variables – Lets you selectup to four variables to display inthe Sample Data Time-Series Graphs.The variables are arranged in “tabs”in the Select Time Series Variablesdialog box (Figure 61), and includethe following items. Note: Dependingon your system’s configuration,all tabs and/or variables may not beavailable.- Velocity (Velocity, Speed, Direction)- Flow (Stage, Flow, Area, Volume)- Diagnostics (Signal Amplitude,Mean Signal Amplitude, StandardError, Mean Standard Error, Signal-to-NoiseRatio, Noise Level)- Sensors (Temperature, Pressure,Vertical Beam)- Compass (Heading, Pitch, Roll)- CTD (CTD Salinity, CTD Temperature,CTD Conductivity, CTDDepth)- Multi-Cell (Speed, Direction, VelocityX/Y/Z)Figure 61. Processing: Select Time-Series Variables Dialog Box- Multi-Cell Diagnostics (Vx/Vy/Vz Standard Error, Beam 1/2/3 Signal-to-Noise Ratio)- Misc (Battery Voltage, Cell Begin, Cell End, Ice Detection)• Show Components – Allows you to show/hide the individual components of the velocitydata (Beam1/X/E, Beam2/Y/N, Beam3/Z/U) for the selected Velocity Coordinate System.• Display Sample X-Axis Using – Lets you switch the sample graph’s X-axis between SampleNumber and Date/Time.• Show … Toolbar – Use this option to select which toolbar/s will be shown in the display. Thedefault is to show all toolbars. Selecting any of the other choices will display only that toolbar(File, Processing, or Controls).• Show … Display – Use this option to select which tabular data displays will be shown. Initially,these tabular displays will be shown on the right side of the screen. However, you canuse the tabular display’s “grab” bar to drag the display to another part of the screen. For informationabout each tabular display, see Tabular Data (§6.2.2).• Multi-Cell Data Display Options (Figure 53) – Lets you select the way in which multi-cell dataare displayed: as speed and direction (Show Speed/Direction), as X and Y velocity vectors(Show Vx/Vy), or a speed/direction vector arrows (Show Arrows).62

ViewArgonaut User Guide6.3.4. Processing MenuThe Processing Menu contains the following options:• Velocity Coordinate System – Lets you select the coordinate system in which to display velocitydata. Options are: Beam, XYZ, and ENU. The associated toolbar icon stays depressedfor the selected coordinate system.- Beam – Velocity readings are along the selected beam.- XYZ – Velocity readings use a Cartesian coordinate system where the X-axis is horizontaland in the direction scribe mark on the probe head or in the direction of the red-tippedtransducer (see 33333System Manual for X-axis location details). The Z-axis is upward throughthe head. The Y-axis is orthogonal to X to complete the right-hand coordinate system.- ENU – Similar to XYZ with the Y-axis rotated to North. Velocity readings require a compassor GPS input. “E” is the East-West reading, with East positive and West negative.“N” is the North-South reading, with North positive and South negative. “U” is the verticalup/down reading, with Up positive and Down negative.• User Specified Rotation – When activated (Figure 41), lets you rotate all velocity profiles bya user-selectable angle (0-360°). The related toolbar icon stays depressed while the selectedrotation is in effect. This feature is useful when analyzing current data along a channel.• Data Smoothing (Figure 62) – Lets you smooth time-series data using a low-pass, adjacentaveragingfilter. Two filters are available: uniform weighting (Box Filter) and Gaussian distributedweighting (Gaussian). The amount of filtering can be controlled through the FilterWidth and Filter Limits settings.• Data Screening (Figure 63) – Lets you discard (mask) a portion of a profile using selectedcriteria. Screening selections include: Discard Range of Samples and Low Amplitude. Theseselections allow you to set either the starting/ending sample or a threshold.Figure 62. Processing: Data Smoothing Dialog BoxFigure 63. Processing: Data Screening Dialog Box63

ViewArgonaut User Guide• Mean Removal – When activated, this option will subtract the mean from all displayed data.The mean is calculated based on the full range of samples displayed.• Data Despiking – (Not available this release) When activated, lets you refine readily apparentdata spikes into more meaningful data. You select a range of samples over which to interpolatethe refining of data based on a user-selected standard deviation. The default windowwidth is 7; the default StdDev is also 7.• Sound Speed Correction (Figure 64) – Lets you correct velocity data for erroneous soundspeed that may have occurred due to an incorrect salinity or temperature data.• Flow Calculation (Ctrl+F) – Lets you define the parameters used in both the 3D presentationof flow (View|Show Cross-Section Flow) and the tabular display of flow (View|Show DischargeSummary Display; Figure 49).Flow-rate calculations are available in ViewArgonaut’s RealTime and Processing modules.The best results are achieved with Argonaut-SW or SL systems that have a vertical beam installed.If you wish to know more about these calculations, see Appendix B Flow Rate Calculations.A description of the controls and parameters in the Flow Calculation dialog box(Figure 65) follows.- Controls▪ Open File – Opens a previously saved geometry file (*.geo).▪ Save File – Saves current Flow Calculation dialog box parameters to a geometry file.▪ Show Preview – Shows/hides the Preview window in the Flow Calculation box.▪ OK / Cancel – Accepts/rejects your settings for flow calculations.Figure 64. Sound Speed Correction Dialog Box64

ViewArgonaut User GuideFigure 65. Flow Calculation Dialog Box65

ViewArgonaut User Guide- Geometry (tab)▪ Select Geometry – Defines type of channel in which system is installed. The systemsupports four channel types: irregular open channel, trapezoidal open channel, roundpipe, and elliptical pipe.o Irregular – This is usually a natural streambed whose shape is defined by up to 20survey points (X,Y or Width,Elev as used here) over the cross-section of the stream.The survey points must follow a few rules: (1) The elevation (Elev) of the firstPoint (i.e., Y1) must be greater than any other point, (2) Survey points must be enteredin order of increasing Width (X). See Figure 65 and Figure 66 as an example.o Trapezoid – Typically, this is a concrete-lined channel whose shape is defined bythree parameters: Channel Depth, Top Width, and Bottom Width (Figure 67).o Round – A round pipe of a given Diameter (Figure 68).o Ellipse – An elliptical pipe of a given Width and Height (Figure 69).▪ Input Dimensions – This area lets you enter the dimensions for the selected geometry.o Point, Width, Elev – for Irregular channels (Figure 65 and Figure 66).o Channel Depth, Top Width, Bottom Width – for Trapezoid channels (Figure 67).o Diameter – for Round pipes (Figure 68).o Width, Height – for Elliptical pipes (Figure 69).▪ System Elevation – This parameter (Figure 65) is used in flow calculations to determinethe relationship between measured water level, total channel depth, and channelarea. For Irregular channels, it is the height of the top of the system relative to the samedatum as the channel survey points. For Trapezoid, Round, or Ellipse channels, it is theheight of the top of the system relative to the bottom of the channel.Figure 66. Flow Calculation Geometry: IrregularFigure 67. Flow Calculation Geometry: TrapezoidFigure 68. Flow Calculation Geometry: RoundFigure 69. Flow Calculation Geometry: Ellipse66

ViewArgonaut User Guide- Mean-Velocity Calculation (tab)▪ Select Mean-Velocity Calculation Method – This flow calculation parameter (Figure 70)is the relationship between velocity as measured by the system and mean velocity inthe channel. Its options include the following settings. See Appendix B Flow Rate Calculationsfor details about the calculation methods.o Disabled – This setting disables internal flow calculations. Flow and area data arenot calculated, not output in real time, and not stored in the internal file.o Index Calibration – A user-supplied index relationship is used to relate system velocityto mean velocity in the channel. This requires three index coefficients to definethe relationship between measured and mean velocity.o Theoretical Flow Calculation – Using the location of the system velocity cell relativeto the channel geometry, a 1/6-power law relationship is used to convert measuredvelocity to mean channel velocity.Figure 70. Flow Calculation: Mean-Velocity Calculation67

ViewArgonaut User Guide- Total Volume (tab)▪ Select Output Units – Total volume (Figure 71) is the cumulative sum of measuredflow rate multiplied by elapsed time. This lets you specify the units used in the displayof both flow rate and calculated volume. Six different unit combinations are allowed.o No Total Volume Output: Total volume calculations will not be made. Flow rate willbe output in either cfs (English units) or m 3 /s (Metric units).o cfs & acre-ft: Flow rate output in cfs, total volume output in acre-ft.o gpm & gallons: Flow rate output in gpm (U.S. gallons per minute), total volume outputin U.S. gallons.o mgd & gallons: Flow rate output in mgd (millions of U.S. gallons per day), total volumeoutput in U.S. gallons.o m3/s & m3: Flow rate output in m 3 /s, total volume output in m 3 .o l/s & liters: Flow rate output in liters per second, total volume in liters.o mld & m3: Flow rate output in mld (106 liters per day), total volume in m 3 .Figure 71. Flow Calculation: Total Volume- Depth Calculation (tab)▪ Water Deptho Pressure Offset – If a pressure sensor is being used, enter any desired barometricoffset value here.68

ViewArgonaut User Guide• Total Volume (Figure 72) – This dialog will calculate the total volume of water deliveredover any given portion of the file. By default, it will calculate the total volume delivered forwhatever portion of the file is currently shown in the plot window. Additionally, you canmanually type in a range of sample numbers to immediately update the total volume calculationsfor the specified range. The units used for volume calculations are specified in theTotal Volume tab of the Flow Dialog (Figure 65).• Sensor Calibration Settings (Figure 73) – Lets you adjust any calibration settings for thevarious sensor types (Pressure, Temperature, External Pressure, External Sensor 1, ExternalSensor 2, CTD Temperature). Calibration coefficients that are adjustable include Offset,Slope, and Quadratic term.Figure 72. Flow Calculation: Total VolumeFigure 73. Sensor Calibration Settings Dialog Box69

6.3.5. Argonaut Config MenuViewArgonaut User GuideThe Argonaut Config Menu contains the following options, which display configuration informationthat was recorded during data collection. The information listed includes:• File Information (Ctrl+I) (Figure 74) – Gives an overview about the data collected in the file:- File Size- Start/end time of collectedsample data- Number of samplescollected in file- Are the followingdata in the file?▪ Compass▪ CTD▪ Wave▪ YSI sensor▪ Pressure series▪ Multi-cellFigure 74. Processing: File Information Dialog Box▪ Internal flow▪ External pressure sensor• Hardware Configuration (Ctrl+H) (Figure 42) – Lists the configuration of the Argonaut hardwareduring data collection:- CPU Software Version – Central Processing Unit firmware version- DSP Software Version – Digital Signal Processor firmware version- Board Revision – Level of printed circuit board changes- Housing Type – Original (round canister) or Low Profile- System Type – MD, SL, SW, XR, etc.- Serial No. – Serial number of the system- System Frequency – Acoustic frequency of the system- Number of Beams – Number of acoustic beams- Beam Geometry – 2 beams, 3 beams, etc- Vertical Beam – Vertical beam installed on this instrument (yes/no)- Slant Angle – Angle of beams from vertical in degrees- Sensor orientation – Up, Down, or Side-looking- Compass – Compass option installed (yes/no)- Recorder – Recorder option installed (yes/no)- Pressure Sensor – Pressure sensor option installed (yes/no)- Temperature Sensor – Temperature sensor option installed (yes/no)- Ext. Press. Sensor – External pressure sensor option installed (yes/no)- YSI Sensor – YSI sensor option installed (yes/no)- CTD Sensor – CTD sensor option installed (yes/no)- Waves Option – Waves option installed (yes/no)- Advanced – Shows nominal noise for each beam???• User Setup (Ctrl+U) (Figure 75) – Lists the setup parameters used during data collection:- Recording Filename – Name of data file to which data were recorded.- Coordinate System – Beam, XYZ, or ENU (East-North-Up)- Magnetic Declination – changeable during post-processing- Averaging Interval70

ViewArgonaut User Guide- Sampling Interval- Cell Begin/End- Velocity Range- Data Format(long/short)- DynamicBoundary(yes/no)- Wave Spectra(yes/no)- Reverse X Velocity(yes/no)- Comments- Sound SpeedSettings▪ TemperatureMode (measured,user)▪ Default WaterTemperature(in usermode)▪ Default WaterSalinity (inFigure 75. Processing: User Setup Dialog Boxuser mode)▪ Default Speed of Sound (in user mode)- Pressure Offset▪ Set Pressure Offset- Multi-Cell▪ Profiling Mode (yes/no)▪ Blanking Distance▪ Cell Size▪ Number of Cells- Advanced Settings (Figure 76)▪ Store Diagnostic Data (yes/no plus sample interval)▪ Power Ping (yes/no)▪ One Beam Solutions (yes/no)▪ Ice Detection (yes/no)▪ AutoSleep (yes/no)▪ Voltage Protection (yes/no)71Figure 76. Advanced User Setup Dialog Box

6.3.6. Analysis MenuViewArgonaut User GuideThe analysis option is not supported in this release.6.3.7. Window MenuThe Window Menu contains the following options:• Cascade – Arranges all open data files in the standard Windows cascaded formation.• Tile – Arranges all open data files in the standard Windows tiled formation.• Arrange Icons – Arranges all open/minimized data file icons.• 1, 2, 3, 4 – Switches the display to the selected data file.6.3.8. Help MenuThe Help Menu contains the following options:• ViewArgonaut Help – Opens the ViewArgonaut.pdf help file (this file).• Argonaut-xx Manual – Opens the associated .pdf 33System Manual for the selected system.• About Argonaut Data Post-Processing – Displays contact information, software version information,and copyright information.6.3.9. Toolbar IconsThe toolbars contain the following icons:• File Toolbar- Open- Copy- Print- Export Data- About• Processing Toolbar- Beam Coordinate System- XYZ Coordinate System- ENU Coordinate System- User Specified Rotation- Show(Hide) Beam1/X/East Component- Show(Hide) Beam2/Y/North Component- Show(Hide) Beam3/Z/Up Component• Controls Toolbar- Zoom In – To magnify an area of the either the Sample Time-Series Graph (Figure 45)or Wave Time-Series Graph: (a) Click the Zoom In toolbar icon, (b) Click and drag yourcursor from the desired starting point to the desired ending point on the upper time-seriesgraph, (c) Release the cursor. You can now use the horizontal scroll bar to view data tothe left and right of the current position. To return the graph to its full size, click the ResetZoom toolbar icon.- Reset Zoom – Returns time-series graphs to full size.72

ViewArgonaut User Guide- Center Marker – Resets Time-Series Marker (top graph, light blue indicator; Figure 45)to mid-scale. Usually used after using the Zoom In option to relocate the pointer.- Select Graph Variables- Show Flow Input Dialog- Show Total Volume Calculations- Show Cross-Section Display (Not available this release)- Histograms (Not available this release)- Spectra (Not available this release)- Scatter Diagram (Not available this release)- View Diagnostics Data• Show Cells Toolbar- Show Cells – Opens a dialog box (right) that lets you selectwhich cell levels you wish to view on the Sample Time-SeriesGraphs (Figure 45) when at least one of the Multi-Cell variables hasbeen selected for display via the Select Graph Variables dialog box(Figure 61). Selected cells are shown in the associated color. Nomore than six cells can be displayed at one time (with more than sixlines, it become difficult to distinguish between different cells).73

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ViewArgonaut User GuideAppendix A. System Requirements and Software InstallationA-1.System RequirementsThe ViewArgonaut program has the following system requirements.• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 98, 2000, XP, or NT 4.0+• 32 MB memory• 5 MB available disk space• Monitor capable of 800x600 resolution or better• 16-bit color or better• Any SonTek Argonaut acoustic Doppler instrumentA-2.Software InstallationThe ViewArgonaut program comes on a single CD-ROMdisk. To install the software on your PC-compatible computer,use the following steps:1. Insert the Argonaut software CD into your computer’sCD-ROM drive.2. Wait a moment for the Argonaut Software menu to appear(Figure 77). If the menu does not appear, use eitherWindows Explorer or Start | Run to locate and runInstall.exe from the CD.3. Click Read Me to learn more about the items on theCD, and to review any last-minute information thatmay not be contained in the printed documentation.4. Use the program setup options (i.e., ViewArgonautSetup, SonUtils Setup) to install the individual Windows-basedArgonaut programs. Follow the on-screeninstructions. We recommend that you use the defaultinstallation paths, especially if other SonTek programsor documentation does or will reside on this computer.5. The software installation is now complete. There is noneed to restart the computer.6. To run an installed program or view an installed document,click Start | Programs | SonTek Software | Program/ManualName.7. If desired, you can create shortcut icons on the Windowsdesktop for any of the software or manuals.Figure 77. Argonaut Software Setup Menu75

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ViewArgonaut User GuideAppendix B. Flow Rate CalculationsFlow rate calculations are available in both the RealTime and Processing modules of ViewArgonaut.The best results are achieved with Argonaut-SW and SL systems that have a vertical beaminstalled.B-1. Geometry Data FileBefore you can calculate the flow rate of a river, you must create a geometry data file to store thegeneral topography of the riverbed where flow data is being collected. An example file(DemoSection.geo) has been included with ViewArgonaut. You can use this demo file as a startingpoint in creating your own library of data collection sites. To create/edit geometry data files,see Processing|Flow Calculation.B-2. Discharge Data FileThe results of the flow rate calculations can be stored in a discharge data file (*.dis). SeeFile|Export Data for information about how to export this data. The discharge data file is in AS-CII format. The file itself contains a description of the data.B-3. Flow Rate Calculation MethodsTwo methods can be used to calculate the flow rate – the Index Method and the TheoreticalMethod.• Index MethodIn the Index Method, the following linear regression equation is used:V mean = VIntercept + V meas x (VSlope + (StageCoef x Stage))Where VIntercept, VSlope, and StageCoef are index coefficients derived through regressionanalysis. The flow is then computed as:Flow = Area x V mean• Theoretical MethodIn the Theoretical Method, we use a theoretical relationship between the measured velocityfrom the Argonaut and the mean velocity in the channel. This relationship is derived from a1/6-power law relation, and takes into account the location of the Argonaut measurementvolume within the channel. The theoretical method will generally provide reasonably accurateresults in regular channels (i.e. concrete lined, trapezoidal shape). In most natural rivers,an index calibration is required for accurate flow calibrations.77

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ViewArgonaut User GuideAacoustic interference, 8advanced settings (Dep), 23Advanced Settings (PM), 71AllowOneBeam (Dep), 23Amp1/2/3 (PM), 57analog output parameters (Dep), 31Analysis Menu (PM), 72Area (PM), 56Area (RT), 42Argonaut Config Menu (PM), 70Argonaut Config Menu (RT), 49AutoSleep (Dep), 23Averaging (Diag), 7averaging interval (Dep), 20Averaging Interval (Dep), 23BBatch Export (PM), 59Battery (PM), 56Battery (RT), 43battery and recorder (Dep), 33baud rate (Dep), 16Baud Rate (Rec), 14Beam (PM), 63Beam (RT), 48blanking distance (Dep), 22boundary reflection (Diag), 9Burst Interval (Dep), 23Burst Mode (Dep), 23Ccalculations, flow rate, 77cell begin (Dep), 20cell end (Dep), 20cell size (Dep), 22channel types (Dep), 25Close (Diag), 7Close (PM), 58Close (RT), 45Collect/Record Data (RT), 45Commands (Rec), 13comments (Dep), 20communications settings (Dep), 16Compass Data (RT), 44IndexCompass Data Display (PM), 57Cond (PM), 57Cond (RT), 44Configuration (PM), 60Configuration (RT), 46Connect (Diag), 7Connect (Rec), 12connect to system (Dep), 16Connected to (RT), 42coordinate system (Dep), 23CoordSystem (Dep), 23Copy (Diag), 7Copy (PM), 60Copy (RT), 46Cosine (Diag), 7cosine/sine data (Diag), 10CTD Data (RT), 44CTD Data Display (PM), 57DData Despiking (PM), 64Data Display (PM), 60Data Screening (PM), 63Data Smoothing (PM), 63date, start (Dep), 20def water salinity (Dep), 20default water temperature (Dep), 23Dep = Deployment Module, 15Deployment Module (Dep), 15Diag (PM), 61Diag = Diagnostics Module, 5Diagnostic Data Display (PM), 56Diagnosticsdisplays, 7operation, 6output, 8overview, 5program controls, 7Diagnostics Data (RT), 43Diagnostics Module (Diag), 5diagnostics, system, 9direct system setup (Dep), 16Direction (RT), 42Discharge Data Display (PM), 56Discharge/Flow Data (RT), 42Disk Space (RT), 4279

ViewArgonaut User GuideDisplay Sample X-Axis (PM), 62Display Sample X-Axis (RT), 47Download (Rec), 12downloading, recorder data, 12dynamic boundary adjustment (Dep), 20EE/N/U (RT), 42Edit Menu (PM), 60Edit Menu (RT), 46Elapsed Time (RT), 42ellipse channel type (Dep), 28enable flow display (Dep), 23english units (Dep), 19ENU (PM), 63ENU (RT), 48Exit (RT), 46Export Data (PM), 58extraction, recorder data, 12FFile (Rec), 13File Information (PM), 70File Information (RT), 42File Information Display (PM), 55File Menu (PM), 58File Menu (RT), 45file name (Dep), 20File Size (PM), 56File Size (RT), 42Flow (PM), 56Flow (RT), 42Flow Calculation (PM), 64flow rate calculations, 77flow settings (Dep), 25Format (Rec), 12Frequency (RT), 42HHardware Configuration (PM), 70Hardware Configuration (RT), 49Heading (PM), 57Heading (RT), 44Help (Diag), 7Hs (PM), 58Hs (RT), 44IIce Detection (Dep), 23index method, 77installation, software, 75interference, acoustic, 8internal flow parameters (Dep), 25irregular channel type (Dep), 25Llimits, measurement volume, 8load deployment template (Dep), 18, 19load from file (Dep), 18Log (Diag), 7Mmanual, system, 4Mean Amp (PM), 57Mean Amp (RT), 43Mean Removal (PM), 64Mean StDev (PM), 56Mean StDev (RT), 43mean-velocity calculation method (Dep), 29measurement volume limits, 8menu bar (Rec), 13metric units (Dep), 19MultiCell Data Display (PM), 57Multi-Cell Data Display Options (PM), 62MultiCell Data Display Options (RT), 47multi-cell velocity profile settings (Dep), 22Nnatural stream (Dep), 25Next Sample (RT), 42Noise (Diag), 7noise level (Diag), 9Noise1/2/3 (PM), 57number of cells (Dep), 22Number of Samples Displayed (RT), 46Oone beam solution (Dep), 23Open (Diag), 7Open (PM), 58options and unit system (Dep), 19overview, 380

ViewArgonaut User GuidePparameter definitions (Dep), 20Pause-Stop (Diag), 7Peak Level (Diag), 7Peak Pos (Diag), 7Ping # (Diag), 7Pitch (PM), 57Pitch (RT), 44plan a deployment (Dep), 16Play (RT), 52PM = Processing Module, 53Port Settings (Rec), 13power consumption (Dep), 33PowerPing (Dep), 23Press (PM), 56, 57Press (RT), 43primary system operating parameters (Dep),20Print (Diag), 7Print (PM), 58Print Preview (PM), 58Print Setup (PM), 58Processing Menu (PM), 63Processing Menu (RT), 48Processing Module (PM), 53profiling mode (Dep), 22profiling settings (Dep), 22RRealtime module (RT), 39Rec = Recorder Module, 11Record (RT), 52Record Flow (RT), 46recorder and battery (Dep), 33recorder display (Rec), 12Recorder Module (Rec), 11reflection, boundary, 9requirements, system, 75retrieval rates, recorder data, 13reverse X velocity (Dep), 23Roll (PM), 57Roll (RT), 44round channel type (Dep), 27RS485 (Rec), 12RT = Realtime Module, 39SSalinity (PM), 57Salinity (RT), 44salinity, def water (Dep), 20Sample Date/Time (PM), 56Sample No (PM), 56Sample No (RT), 42Sample Time (RT), 42Samples Per Burst (Dep), 23sampling interval (Dep), 20Sampling Interval (Dep), 23Save Current Display (PM), 60sdi-12 settings (Dep), 32Select Graph Variables (PM), 62Select Graph Variables (RT), 47select session type (Dep), 16select unit system and options (Dep), 19Sensor Data (RT), 43Sensor Data Display (PM), 56Settings (Rec), 12, 13show advanced settings (Dep), 19Show Components (PM), 62Show Components (RT), 47Show File Toolbar (RT), 47show flow settings (Dep), 19show profiling settings (Dep), 19show sdi-12 settings (Dep), 19Show...Display (PM), 62Show...Display (RT), 47Show...Graphs (PM), 61Show...Toolbar (PM), 62Sig Amp (Diag), 7, 8Signal Data Display (PM), 57signal strength profile (Diag), 9Sine (Diag), 7sine/cosine data (Diag), 10site survey, deployment, 8SNR1/2/3 (PM), 56SNR1/2/3 (RT), 43SonTek Argonaut (RT), 48Sound Speed Correction (PM), 64Sound Speed Correction (RT), 48Speed (RT), 42Stage (PM), 56Stage (RT), 42stage coeff (Dep), 29standard settings (Dep), 20start date (Dep), 2081

ViewArgonaut User Guidestart time (Dep), 20StDev1/2/3 (RT), 43Step Forward / Backward (Diag), 7StErr1/2/3 (PM), 56Stop (RT), 52stream, natural (Dep), 25survey, deployment site, 8System Communication Menu (RT), 48system diagnostics, 9system manual, 4system requirements, 75Ttabular data (PM), 55tabular data (RT), 41Temp (Dep), 23Temp (PM), 56, 57Temp (RT), 43temperature mode (Dep), 23template files (Dep), 16template, load deployment (Dep), 19TempMode (Dep), 23theoretical method, 77Time Interval (PM), 56Time Interval (RT), 42time, start (Dep), 20time-series graph (RT), 41time-series graphs (PM), 55toolbar icons (PM), 72toolbar icons (RT), 52total volume calculations (Dep), 30Tp (PM), 58Tp (RT), 44trapezoid channel type (Dep), 26UUnit System (PM), 60Unit System (RT), 46unit system and options (Dep), 19Use Workspaces (PM), 60Use Workspaces (RT), 46User Setup (PM), 70User Setup (RT), 50User Specified Rotation (PM), 63User Specified Rotation (RT), 48VV Beam (PM), 56V Beam (RT), 42V1/2/3 (RT), 42Velocity Coordinate System (PM), 63Velocity Coordinate System (RT), 48Velocity Data (RT), 42Velocity Data Display (PM), 56View Diagnostics Data (PM), 61View Menu (PM), 61View Menu (RT), 46Vintercept (Dep), 29VMean (PM), 56VMean (RT), 42Vol (PM), 56Volume (RT), 42VSlope (Dep), 29Wwater temperature (Dep), 23Wave Data (RT), 44Wave Data Display (PM), 58XX/Y/Z (RT), 42XYZ (PM), 63XYZ (RT), 48ZZoom X / Y (Diag), 782