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MiniUAC-1402 2.5D Forward-looking Sonar
Software-Adjustable Vertical Field of View (FOV)
The MiniUAC-1402 forward-looking sonar is a distinctive imaging sonar with advanced vertical control capabilities.
Compared with conventional forward-looking sonars, the vertical field of view and vertical beam steering of the MiniUAC-1402 can be configured entirely through software. This enables the sonar to be used in specialized or innovative applications, such as measuring the height of underwater objects, stratified observation of targets at different water layers, and suppression of seabed and surface reflections.
The MiniUAC-1402 also features an automatic leveling function. By means of an integrated attitude sensor, the sonar can automatically adjust its vertical angle to compensate for beam displacement caused by platform motion, ensuring stable and accurate acoustic imaging.

Overview
MiniUAC-1402 Imaging Sonar
Key Features:
- 2.5D Forward-Looking Imaging Sonar – Multibeam imaging with software-controlled vertical steering for layered observation.
- Software-Adjustable Vertical FOV – Flexible beam angle and beamwidth control without mechanical gimbals.
- Automatic Leveling & Motion Compensation – Built-in attitude sensor ensures stable and consistent imaging.
- Compact, Low-Power Design – Small form factor with ~9 W average power for easy platform integration.
- High-Resolution Multibeam Architecture – 256 beams with narrow beamwidth for reliable obstacle detection.
Product Description
The MiniUAC-1402A 2.5D forward-looking sonar is a multibeam imaging sonar that provides forward-looking acoustic vision in both clear and turbid waters. It enables target detection and identification, obstacle avoidance, and hazard detection.
The sonar is characterized by its compact size, low weight, and low power consumption. Unlike conventional forward-looking sonars, the MiniUAC-1402A allows software-controlled adjustment of both the vertical steering angle and vertical beam width. This capability enables observation of objects at different depth layers, or within a selected portion of the water column, without the use of a mechanical pan-tilt unit. As a result, the sonar achieves an additional 0.5-dimensional vertical information acquisition, extending beyond traditional 2D imaging.
The center frequency of the MiniUAC-1402A is 1 MHz (Other frequencies are available upon request). The standard model supports a maximum operating depth of 300 m. For deeper operating depth requirements, please contact the manufacturer.
Specifications
Applications
- AUV / ROV Obstacle Avoidance & Forward Navigation
Provides forward-looking multibeam imaging with vertical beam control for safe navigation in complex underwater environments. -
Layered Water Column Observation
Software-adjustable vertical steering enables inspection of targets at different depth layers without mechanical tilt mechanisms. -
Underwater Structure Inspection
Suitable for inspecting bridge piers, quay walls, underwater foundations, and submerged infrastructure while minimizing surface and seabed interference. -
Height and Profile Measurement of Underwater Objects
Enables estimation of object height and vertical distribution using partial vertical (2.5D) information acquisition. -
Operations in Turbid or Low-Visibility Waters
Delivers reliable acoustic vision where optical sensors are ineffective, supporting detection and identification tasks. -
Compact Platforms and Small UUV Integration
Optimized for space- and power-constrained platforms such as compact AUVs, ROVs, and USVs.
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