Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler

Nortek ECO

Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler

Nortek ECO

The Nortek Eco is a portable Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP) specifically designed for measuring current velocity and direction in shallow waters. It is a cost-effective solution for first-time ADCP users, budget-conscious projects, and educational institutions.

The operating principle is based on the Doppler method. Scientists use ADCPs to calculate how fast water is moving—and in which direction—along a vertical water column. A major advantage of this method is that the instrument, which is placed on the seafloor, can measure current speed and direction not just at a single point (on the bottom), but throughout the entire vertical water column.

Strong
Features

Suitable for various depths and water types
Profile creation ranging from 30cm to 20m.
Built-in battery and inductive charger. No cables or chargers required.
Built-in GNSS, temperature, pressure, and tilt sensors.
Weight of just 1 kg (in air) and height of 13 cm

Fields
of Application

River Estuary Studies
Sediment Transport Studies
Tidal Current Studies
Coral Reef Studies
Educational Use
Aquaculture Studies

How it Works

The sensor automatically detects its depth and, using this information, divides the water column into three equal layers (see image 2). It then uses acoustic signals to measure the speed and direction of currents within each of these three layers.

More Information

An excellent solution with an exceptional balance of features and price. Accessible for new users and a valuable tool for experienced professionals.

How to use it?

The Nortek Eco can be installed at a maximum depth of 50m. It has a measurement range of 20m but can also be used in situations where the water surface is only 30 cm above the instrument. Typically, Nortek Eco measurements last around one month or less, depending on the frequency at which measurements are taken.

Installation Options

Nortek Eco with Buoy and Scheduled Release: The system includes the device, buoy, and anchor. It can be deployed by one person from a boat, kayak, or dock. Once the scheduled measurement period is complete, the release mechanism activates, bringing the system back to the surface. Nortek Eco with Tripod:
When depth permits, the system can be installed with the help of a diver. It is used with a tripod to ensure stability and maintain the device’s correct orientation toward the water surface.

Automated Reporting

The Nortek Eco generates graphs and datasets in the Eco WebApp. Users can visualize the data by creating histograms and scatter plots for the desired parameters (showing speeds across all 3 layers). Finally, a PDF report is generated, displaying all the data.

Technical Specifications

Water velocity measurements
Maximum profiling range

20 m

Cell size

Self-configured (profiling range 0.3-20 m)

Minimum blanking

0.1 m

Maximum number of cells

Accuracy

±1% of measured value ±0.5 cm/s

Velocity resolution

0.1 cm/s

Maximum sampling rate (output)

2, 4, 5, 6, 8 10, 20, 30 or 60 minutes

Velocity range (horizontal)

±5 m/s

Purchase

Rely on our expertise and the trusted manufacturers we represent.
Invest in the right equipment or software for your needs — and take your business to the next level.
Discover innovative, high-quality solutions and a partner you can count on.

Rental

Looking for flexibility without compromising on performance?
We offer a wide range of up-to-date solutions for rent — tailored to your application and your timeline.
Stay up to speed with the latest technology, exactly when you need it.

Hire us

Got a complex project or limited resources?
Our expert engineers handle the data collection and processing on your behalf.
We deliver high-quality files in the formats you need — fully aligned with your project specs.
Accurate. Efficient. Hassle-free.