CHIRP Sonar Technology

CHIRP vs Traditional fixed frequency sonar

This article will help explain what CHIRP means and how it differs from Traditional fixed frequency sonar.

What does CHIRP mean?

CHIRP stands for Compressed High-Intensity Radiated Pulse

• Traditional fixed frequency sonar operates at one frequency per ping, or pulse, it sends out (I.E 50/77/200kHz). CHIRP operates at multiple frequencies per ping. For example, low band CHIRP scans 40-75kHz and everything in between; allowing for better target separation, clarity, depth, etc.
• CHIRP sonar is broken up between three different bands: Low, Medium and High

o   Low Band CHIRP

• Example: Airmar B175L 40-60kHz

o   Medium Band CHIRP

• Example: GT15M 85-165kHz

o   High Band CHIRP

• Example: GT8HW 145-230kHz 

Traditional Fixed Frequency Sonar	CHIRP Sonar

Garmin has also incorporated CHIRP technology into our ClearVu products which provides image like clarity of structure and fish below your boat at greater depths.

ClearVu/SideVu CHIRP Frequencies

• 260 (245-275kHz) and 455 (445-465 kHz) ideally suited for salt water
• 455 (445-465 kHz) and 800 (790-850kHz) ideally suited for fresh water

Ultra-High Definition Scanning Sonar

• ClearVu Frequencies 800kHz (760-880kHz)
• SideVu Frequencies 1.2MHz (1060-1170kHz)