Humminbird data files

Echoview supports Humminbird data files recorded by the following Humminbird instruments:

  • Helix series
  • Solix series
  • Apex series
  • 900 and 1100 series

Notes:

  • Each dataset consists of a single .DAT metadata file and one or more associated .SON files, each representing a different transducer beam or channel.
  • The .SON file names are fixed (B000, B001, etc.) and correspond to specific transducer channels. It is advised that any change to the file name of a .SON file, may result in the file being unread by Echoview.
  • Some models may not record all channels; variables are only derived when the corresponding .SON file is present.
  • .IDX files may be created by Humminbird instruments, but they are not required by Echoview to read Humminbird data files.
  • Although .SON files may be visible when selecting files, they are not supported for direct import.

.DAT and .SON files

The .DAT file contains recording parameters such as start time and number of pings. Each associated .SON file contains acoustic returns, GPS fixes, and heading data. Echoview automatically detects and associates .SON files with their parent .DAT file when you add the .DAT into the same folder as the .SON.

Adding files to a fileset

When a .DAT file is added to a fileset, Echoview searches for corresponding .SON files (if present in the same file folder). If .SON files are found they are are automatically linked to the .DAT. If a .SON file is missing, the corresponding variables are not derived.

.SON files cannot be added to a fileset. You must add the corresponding .DAT file. Echoview automatically associates any matching .SON files in the same folder.

Raw variables

Echoview derives unspecified dB acoustic, position and heading variables from Humminbird data files. For details of the specific variables, see Raw variables derived from Humminbird sonar data files.

See also

Calibration settings for Humminbird data