S4 Current Meter Family

General Description

The S4A Instrument family is a continuing evolution in a series of proven multi-purpose hydrographic data acquisition products that are continuously upgraded using the latest devices and techniques in microprocessor based instrumentation.

The versatile S4A instrument configurations are designed to provide direct measurements of Current Speed and Direction, Directional Wave, Tide, CTD, Salinity, Density, Sound Velocity, Turbidity, Chlorophyll and other parameters with high precision.

The S4A is a truly unique instrument for water current sensing, designed to directly measure the true magnitude and direction current motion in any water environment using two pairs of titanium electrodes located symmetrically on the equator of the sensor.
An internal flux-gate compass provides heading information, used to reference current direction to magnetic North or, for fixed installations, the instrument may be operated in an X-Y orthogonal mode whereby the current vector can be referenced to a landform or structure.

The simple spherical shape of the S4A provides significant improvements for measurements in the wave zone or other turbulent high-energy environments and, combined with the extensive use of titanium and composite materials, are major contributing factors in its robust design, ease of handling, and unparalleled service life, offering decades of reliable user-friendly operation with minimal maintenance requirements.  At the same time, because of its low threshold and low noise level, the S4A is also the instrument of choice for low current regimes. 

The unique grooved surface of the S4A housing produces stable hydrodynamic characteristics that ensure exceptional linearity and stability in all environments. The S4A in all of its various configurations have withstood rigorous performance testing, and has consistently produced excellent and stable data in the field.

CTDs/Multiparameter Probes

InterOcean systems, inc. CTD's and Multiparameter Probes provide precise and simultaneous in-situ measurements, with a choice of parameters that can include Conductivity, Salinity, Temperature, Depth, Sound Velocity, Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Turbidity, Specific Ions, and Redox.

The systems provide a unique combination of very high accuracy for the typical oceanographic parameters of Conductivity, Salinity, Temperature, Depth and Sound Velocity combined with very reliable sensors for Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Turbidity, and Redox. Deployment of a single system, therefore, efficiently provides comprehensive data for a number of scientific disciplines at one time.

The probes, with an appropriate selection of measurement parameters, data display, and recording options are ideal for use by environmental scientists, engineers, and oceanographers. The small size, rugged construction, and DC operation of the equipment make it easily portable for work on land or for small boat operations.

The systems operate effectively in lakes, rivers, coastal and estuarine waters, and open ocean areas of the world. Outputs from the sensors are transmitted via multi-conductor cable to a surface data display module or computer.