Argonaut-MD

Combining unparalleled sensitivity and the reliability you expect, the Argonaut-MD (Mooring Deployment) acoustic Doppler current meter has become the instrument of choice in the oceanographic community. Capable of measuring water motion at a "single point" almost anywhere in the oceans, this 3-D, vector-averaging current meter is small, light, and inexpensive. The MD’s high-sensitivity transducers improve performance in environments that have exceptionally low scattering conditions. The MD's simple, yet elegant design, and its capacity for long-term deployments provide you with accurate, dependable ocean current data.

Argonaut-MD Brochure [PDF]

Primary Applications

• High-precision coastal and deep-ocean studies

• Low backscatter environments

• Mooring line deployments

Argonaut-MD App Notes [PDF]

• Features
• Specifications
• Resources
• Software
• Request Information

Standard Features
Optimized 45 degree slant, 120 degree orthogonal beam geometry for 3D current measurements with no directional bias 1.5 MHz Acoustic frequency for optimal performance in low scattering environments 600 m rated Delrin housing with 40 mm transducers Reflected echo intensity output RS-232 communication protocol ViewArgonaut Windows software for real time data collection, data retrieval, diagnostics, and processing Flexible sampling strategies for reduced duty cycle operation and extended deployments of over 1 year Internal 128MB memory (stores over 3 million samples) Temperature sensor mounted on exposed titanium pin for fast response Compass/tilt sensor Internal alkaline battery pack
Optional Features
6,000 m rated Titanium housing with 40 mm diameter ceramics for enhanced sensitivity Integrated external SeaBird CT sensor Integrated internal inductive modem Mounting clamps Internal piezoresistive pressure sensor In-line load cage RS-422 communications protocol		The Argonaut-MD is designed for autonomous deployment and is most commonly mounted as part of a multiple-instrument mooring. Expanded Description [PDF]

Velocity — user-programmable data output rate from 10 seconds to 12 hours
Range	±6 m/s
Resolution	0.1 cm/s
Accuracy	±1% of measured velocity, ±0.5 cm/s
Physical and Environmental
Weight in air	Delrin: 5.6 kg (12.5 lb) Titanium: 11.8 kg (26 lb)
Weight in water	Delrin: 1.4 kg (3.0 lb) Titanium: 7.7 kg (17 lb)
Operating Temperature	-5° to 40°C
Storage Temperature	-10° to 50°C
Temperature Sensor
Resolution	0.01°C
Accuracy	±0.1°C
Compass / Tilt Sensor - calibration procedure to compensate for ambient magnetic fields
Resolution - Heading, Pitch, Roll	0.1°
Accuracy - Heading	±2°
Accuracy - Pitch, Roll	±1°
Power Requirements
Input Power	6-16 VDC
Typical Power Consumption	0.3 to 0.4 W, continuous operation | 0.001 W standby
Battery Capacity	392 W·h

Doppler technology has several inherent advantages over mechanical and electromagnetic sensors that make it the preferred method for current measurement. Combining this with SonTek’s proven ability to develop instruments that are both powerful and easy-to-use, the Argonaut-MD is the ideal choice for a wide range of applications.

Want to learn more? Download the brochure, read real stories about how our customers use the system in the field, or participate in one of our online training sessions (“Webinars”) at your convenience!

Brochures
Argonaut-MD Brochure

Customer Stories
Argonaut-MD Customer Stories

Training
Training Sessions and Podcasts

ViewArgonaut is a Windows-based deployment, postprocessing, and diagnostic software program that can be used with any SonTek Argonaut current meter (MD, SL, SW, XR, and Argonaut-ADV). ViewArgonaut consists of five modules: Diagnostics — Site survey and system diagnostics tool Recorder — Recorder data extraction Deployment — Setup for autonomous deployments Realtime — Setup and monitor real-time deployments Processing — Data playback tool and analysis ViewArgonaut Latest Argonaut Firmware Updates

Form Object

Solutions Showcase

Simple. Sleek. Superior.

Useful options and accessories make the Argonaut-MD a complete, turn-key solution.

Load Cages

Secure mounting for deep water applications.

Titanium and Delrin

Multiple housing material options for your unique application needs.

ViewArgonaut

Windows-based deployment, postprocessing, and diagnostic software.

Short Casing

Perfect solution for buoys with their own power source.