NORBIT iWBMS Narrow Beam
NORBIT iWBMS Narrow Beam
The narrow-beam configuration of the iWBMS platform reduces the along-track acoustic footprint. At 400 kHz its 0.9° × 0.9° beam supports detailed feature definition for small targets, infrastructure and dense bathymetric mapping. It retains the integrated WaveMaster II positioning architecture.

A smaller footprint for detailed features
Narrow Beam is an iWBMS configuration that reduces the along-track beam width. A 0.9° × 0.9° beam at 400 kHz reduces the acoustic footprint for examining small objects and structure edges. Beam width alone does not determine final survey accuracy or guarantee the same depth capability in every condition. The linked iWBMS brochure describes the platform and its narrow-beam option rather than a separate product datasheet.
Applications and survey workflow
Bathymetric data supports harbour maintenance, dredging assessment, route surveys and the inspection of submerged infrastructure. Survey line spacing and frequency are selected to balance feature definition, coverage and the expected water depth.
Before mobilisation, the survey team defines the coordinate system, vertical reference and required deliverables. Mounting geometry, sensor offsets and time synchronisation are checked as one installation. Positioning quality, vessel motion and sound-speed conditions are reviewed during acquisition so that the final dataset can be assessed against the project specification.
Integration and deliverables
The selected hardware and software configuration determines the available outputs and interfaces. A practical workflow includes installation checks, a trial line, field quality control and documented processing. Depending on the sensor, deliverables may include a bathymetric surface, an inspection image, a point cloud or an interpreted sediment profile. Kordil can evaluate the platform, operating environment and intended use when defining the system configuration.
Technical specifications
| GNSS/INS | Applanix WaveMaster II |
|---|---|
| Frequency | 400 kHz nominal; 200–700 kHz |
| Swath sector | 5–210° |
| Ping rate | Up to 60 Hz |
| Housing depth rating | 100 m |
| Interface | Ethernet |
| Acoustic depth range | 0.2–275 m; for the narrow-beam option in the brochure >300 m |
| Beam width @ 400 kHz | 0.9° × 0.9° (narrow beam) |
| Range resolution | <10 mm; 80 kHz bandwidth |
| Roll / pitch accuracy | 0.02° |
| Heading accuracy | 0.03° RTK; 2 m antenna separation |
| Power | 60 W |
Specifications follow the original manufacturer brochure PS-120006-24. Acoustic range is distinct from housing depth rating. Options and operating conditions affect achievable performance.
Technical brochure
NORBIT iWBMS Narrow Beam original technical brochure — English PDF (PS-120006-24)