An intercomparison of two acoustic doppler current profilers

An AMETEK Straza DCP4400 Doppler current profiler and an RD Instruments RD-SC1200 Doppler current profiler were operated simultaneously for a period of 5 days in the Port of Miami in bottom-mounted upward looking configurations. An EG&G-VMCM mooring was deployed between the two Doppler systems for the same period, and drifter experiments were also conducted during the week for surface measurement intercomparison. Experimental acoustic beam side lobe deflectors were used for a period of time on the AMETEK system to explore their effects on surface layer measurements. The system operating characteristics are discussed, and the data retrieved from the systems are presented. Analysis and interpretation of the intercomparison of all measurements, a discussion of surface measurement capabilities and deflector results, as well as system performance analysis are also presented.