Instrument Systems
Inherent Optical Properties Suite
The inherent optical properties
(IOP) of water are defined by the coefficients of attenuation (c), absorption
(a), and scattering (b), as well as the volume scattering function (VSF)
in the backward direction, and hence the backscattering coefficient.
The IOP Suite provides an integrated solution to measure
each of these parameters, as well as conductivity, temperature, and depth.
System Instruments
ac-9 Plus—Determines spectral transmittance
and absorption of water over 9 wavelengths. It also integrates
data from the ECO VSF and a CTD.
ECO VSF 3—Determines
the Volume Scattering Function in the backward direction
at three distinct angles: 100, 125, and 150 degrees,
and the backscattering coefficient. Factory-set wavelengths:
470, 530, or 660 nm.
CTD—Determines conductivity, temperature,
and depth of water (Sea-Bird SBE-37SI).
Battery Pack—Provides power to instruments.
Mini Bio-Optics Package
This
compact, self-contained instrumentation suite is designed to provide
a bio-optical characterization of the water column. The ECO fluorometer measures chlorophyll-a
fluorescence. The C-Star transmissometer measures beam transmittance, which
provides information about total particulate mass. The ECO VSF measures
scattering at three angles, which may be useful to differentiate between
bio-populations and particulate types. Conductivity, temperature and depth
are also measured for correlation of the bio-optical and physical parameters.
The package is designed for out-of-the-box use.
System Instruments
C-Star—Measures
underwater beam transmittance.
ECO FL—Measures chlorophyll-a fluorescence.
ECO VSF—Determines the Volume Scattering Function
at three distinct angles: 100, 125, and 150 degrees.
CTD—Determines conductivity, temperature,
and depth of water (Sea-Bird SBE-37SI).
DH-4—Records
data from multiple casts, with a meter-dependent logging time
of several hours.
Battery Pack—Provides power to instruments.
