SonTek-SL Series Side-Looking Doppler Current Meters
Features
- Accurate & reliable water velocity, level, & discharge measurements
- Measurements are made in a remote sampling volume free from flow distortion
- 3G model offers 128-cells for high-resolution and detailed profiles
- Expedited repair and warranty service
- Lifetime technical support
- More
Overview
The SonTek-SL (affectionately known as the Side-Looker or "SL") has earned worldwide acceptance as a long-term monitoring solution. Now, with two new (3G) models turbo-charged by the proprietary SmartPulseHD, the SonTek-SL features accessories, mounting options, software, and a variety of integration formats to ensure it fits the desired application.
Design
Designed specifically for side mounting on bridges, canal walls, or riverbanks, the SL's sleek, low-profile housing makes installation easy. With three models to choose from, the SL can be used in wide or narrow channels. Ultra narrow beam widths combined with unmatched side lobe suppression provide the superior acoustic directivity necessary for achieving maximum horizontal range free of interference from surface or bottom boundaries.
Mechanics
First time users can collect test data within minutes of receiving the SonTek-SL. Deployments require only a few minutes to configure the SL and start collecting data. This system provides the highest quality Doppler velocity data without requiring the user to become an expert on Doppler technology.
Benefits
- SmartPulseHD (3G models only): An intelligent algorithm that looks at water depth, profiling range, velocity, and turbulence, and then acoustically adapts to those conditions using pulse-coherent, broadband, and incoherent techniques. Best data possible under any condition. High-def cell sizes down to 4 cm.
- Compact, Hydrodynamic Design: Incredibly lightweight and easy to transport and mount. Slim shape is easy to maintain, stays clean, increases available sample area, and fits into more places.
- Water Velocity Profiling: Customizeable, flexible setup options to suit a variety of applications. 3G models offer 128-cells for high-resolution and detailed profiles.
- Acoustic-Pressure "Duo" Water Level (3G models only): Not only redundant sources of water level, the acoustic vertical beam and pressure sensor continually self-check, and pressure data are auto-corrected to keep atmospheric offset negligible.
- Versatile, Easy Mounting: Easy-access side mounting reduces concerns over personnel safety, lowers operational cost by avoiding divers and boats, avoids interruption in facility operations, and avoids interruption in data and water delivery to clients and stakeholders.
- Wave Spectra Option: Integrated pressure sensor calculates and outputs wave-height and period, in real-time.
In The News
Stone Lab: Cyanobacteria Monitoring in Ohio Lakes
Microcystin, one of several toxins produced by the cyanobacteria that form harmful algal blooms (HABs), has become a popular topic of lake research as the human health impacts of HABs become better understood. Stone Lab is one of the leading groups in algal bloom research on Lake Erie and other lakes in Ohio. 
 
For more than 100 years, Stone Lab has conducted biology research and provided science education and outreach to the region. Over the years, thousands of individuals of varying ages have learned from the resources Stone Lab provides. 
 
Stone Lab’s Research Coordinator and Senior Researcher, Justin Chaffin, learned of Stone Lab while an undergraduate student at Bowling Green State University Fireland Campus.
Read MoreFrom Assessment to Angler: Continual Research Ensures Lake Erie Remains a Beacon of Freshwater Fishing
Lake Erie is well known for its abundant recreational fishing. Anglers come from across the country to try their luck at the “walleye capital of the world” and search for other freshwater species, such as bass, perch, and steelhead trout. 
 
 As one of the world’s largest freshwater fisheries, much effort is made behind the scenes to maintain fishing opportunities for visitors to enjoy year after year, efforts that often go unnoticed by the public. 
 
 One of the lake's most important economic and tourism centers is the city of Sandusky, home to the Sandusky Fisheries Research Station . As part of the Ohio Division of Wildlife, the unit serves as a base for assessing fish populations and managing harvest with partner agencies from around Lake Erie.
Read MoreHigh Definition Stream Surveys: Informed Management in Local Waterways
When it comes to environmental monitoring, new stream survey methodologies have revealed a great deal about water quality and streambed conditions over time. Such information can be particularly important in leading restoration initiatives and prioritizing management decisions. 
 
Historically, stream surveys have been conducted at a single point along the stream, with data then extrapolated for miles up and downstream. However, Brett Connell, Hydrologist and Director of Sales at Trutta Environmental Solutions, started developing a more intensive stream survey format in his master's program in 2010 at the University of Tennessee.
Read More