SonTek FlowTracker2 Acoustic Doppler Velocimeter (FT2)
SonTek FlowTracker2 Acoustic Doppler Velocimeter (FT2)
The FlowTracker2 (FT2) from SonTek is a portable, high-precision Acoustic Doppler Velocimeter (ADV®) designed for wading discharge measurements in rivers, channels, and shallow water environments. Built on SonTek’s proven ADV technology, trusted by hydrologists, researchers, and field professionals worldwide, the FT2 delivers exceptional accuracy in low-flow and shallow-water conditions where traditional methods can struggle.
With enhanced usability, integrated GPS, Bluetooth connectivity, and an intuitive colour display, the FlowTracker2 is a modern, efficient solution for discharge measurement and flow profiling in the field.
Advanced ADV Technology
At its core, the FT2 uses SonTek’s field-proven acoustic Doppler technology, refined to deliver faster sampling, lower noise, and improved standard error performance. The system captures 2D velocity data in the horizontal plane as standard, with optional 3D capability for advanced flow analysis and quality control.
Key advantages include:
Highly accurate low-flow measurements
Reliable performance in shallow water
No user calibration required
Real-time quality control and beam diagnostics
SmartQC audio alerts for guided measurements
Designed for Efficient Fieldwork
The FlowTracker2 has been developed with direct feedback from field users, resulting in practical features that improve efficiency, simplify workflows, and reduce setup time.
Key features include:
Embedded GPS for georeferenced measurements
Bluetooth and direct USB connectivity
Detachable probe with extension cable options up to 10 metres
Interchangeable probes and handhelds for flexible fleet management
Replaceable battery cartridges, even during measurements without data loss
Saveable site templates for faster repeat measurements
Audio prompts and visual workflow guidance
Intuitive Handheld Interface
The FT2 handheld features a large full-colour display with modern software designed for simple navigation and real-time data visibility. Rich graphical displays and live QC information allow users to make informed decisions in the field.
Users can:
View real-time velocity and discharge plots
Monitor beam checks and signal quality instantly
Access tilt sensor readings on-screen
Record comments and gauge heights
View running discharge summaries
Edit measurements directly on the device
Built for Any Environment
Designed for rugged field use, the FlowTracker2 is built to perform in a wide range of climates and water conditions, with durable construction and display options suitable for day or night operation.
Typical applications include:
Natural streams, rivers, and lakes
Open channels
Irrigation canals
Mining channels
Water treatment systems
Stormwater monitoring
Weirs and flumes
Portable. Precise. Practical.
The FlowTracker2 simplifies discharge measurement by guiding users through every step of the process, helping ensure accurate, defensible data collection the first time, every time. With minimal post-processing and powerful built-in QC tools, it is an ideal choice for professionals requiring reliable flow measurement in the field.
Combining proven ADV technology with modern handheld functionality, the FlowTracker2 sets the standard for portable wading discharge measurement.
Probe Specifications
Velocity Range | XZ: ±0.001 to 4.0 m/s (0.003 to 13 ft/s), Y: ±0.001 to 1.0 m/s (0.003 to 3.25 ft/s) |
Velocity Resolution | 0.0001 m/s (0.0003 ft/s) |
X&Y Velocity Accuracy | ±1% of measured velocity, ±0.25 cm/s |
Z Velocity Accuracy | ±3% of measured velocity |
Acoustic Frequency | 10.0 MHz |
Sampling Volume Location | 10 cm (3.93 in) from the centre transducer |
Sampling Volume Size | 0.25 cc |
Minimum Depth | 0.02 m (0.79 in) |
Depth Measurement Range | 0 to 10 m (0 to 32.81 ft) |
Depth Measurement Resolution | 0.001 m (0.003 ft) |
Temperature Sensor | Resolution: ±0.01° C, Accuracy: ±0.1° C |
Tilt Sensor | Resolution: (7) significant digits, Accuracy: ±1.00° |
Comms Protocol | RS-232 |
Operating/Storage Temperature | –20° C to 50° C (–4° F to 122° F) |
Optional Extension Cables | 1.5, 3.5, or 8.5 m |
Sampling Rate | 1*, 2, 5*, or 10* Hz |
Probe Dimensions | 2D: (L)13.3 cm (5.22 in); (W) 6.1 cm (2.39 in); (H) 2.3 cm (0.90 in), 2D/3D: (L)13.3 cm (5.22 in); (W) 6.1 cm (2.39 in); (H) 7.5 cm (2.96 in) |
Standard cable length | 1.5 m (4.92 ft) |
Weight (in air) | 2D: 0.90 kg (1.98 lbs) |
Weight (in water) | 2D: 0.30 kg (0.66 lbs) |
Depth Sensor Accuracy | +/– 0.1% of FS (temperature compensated over full operating range) +/– 0.05% Static (steady-state at 25° C) Additionally compensated for real-time water velocity, temperature, salinity, and altitude. |
Handheld Specifications
Bluetooth | Class 2, Range = 10 m (33 ft) nominal |
USB | Micro USB, IP-67 |
Storage Temperature | –30° to 70° C (–22° F to 158° F) |
Waterproof Rating | Field: IP—67 (1m submersible); Lab: IP—68 (30 m, 42 PSI) |
Handheld Dimensions | (L)10.4 cm (4.1 in); (W) 6.4 cm (2.5 in); (H) 23.7cm (9.3 in) |
Weight in Air | 0.75 kg (1.65 lbs) |
Weight in Water | 0.25 kg (–0.55 lbs |
Input Battery Voltage | 8—12 VDC |
Battery Life | 12 hours continuous use, typical settings1 |
Power Supply | Field: 8x AA Batteries; Lab: 8—12 VDC |
Power Consumption | 1 W (Average) |
Battery Power to Probe | 8—12 VDC |
Data Transfer | RS—232 |
Data Storage | 16 GB. Up to 10k discharge measurements. Up to 10 million velocity samples |
H. Position Accuracy | Up to 2.5 m (8.2 ft) nominal2 |
Frequency | L1 (1.575 MHz), SBAS compensation (WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS, GAGAN) |
Resolution | 320 x 240 TFT Transmissive |
Operating Temperature | Alkaline Batteries: –20° to 45° C (–4° F to 113° F) NiMH: –20° to 50° C (–4° F to 122° F) |