2021 NMEA Awards: Fishfinder: Furuno DFF-3D Multibeam Sonar

The Furuno DFF-3D is an innovative tool for efficient fish location and seabed profile surveying, utilizing new multi beam technology. Highly detailed images are derived from the combination of an advanced signal processing system and an amazingly compact multi beam transducer. The folks at the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) were impressed with the DFF-3D because they named it the winner in the Fishfinder category in their 2021 Awards program.

The NavNet TZtouch series MFD can also be turned into a multi beam sonar that can see 120-degrees port to starboard, letting a user see the depth and direction fish schools are moving, while displaying the seabed condition in real time.

Sidebar detection range is up to 200 m (more than 650’) in a 120-degree swath port and starboard direction. Deep water, main beam penetration directly under the boat is approx. 300 m (more than 980’).

Whether it’s the thru-hull or transom-mounted unit, the transducer permits easier installation. The built-in motion sensor (standard supply) stabilizes the display to give clear and stable images even under rough sea conditions.

Modes Overview

Cross Section

Cross section displays the real-time sea column echo in 120 degrees port and starboard. This mode aids in instantly understanding the distribution of bait fish and the water column condition.

3D Sounder History

The 3D sounder history provides an intuitive and easy to understand 3D image of the seafloor, along with fish school icons. This mode is useful in a variety of situations, such as selecting a fishing hot spot and assessing the seabed condition.

Triple/Single Beam Sounder

The 3D sounder history provides an intuitive and easy to understand 3D image of the seafloor, along with fish school icons. This mode is useful in a variety of situations, such as selecting a fishing hot spot and assessing the seabed condition.

Side Scan

Side scan clearly displays the shape of structure as a high definition image in port and starboard direction. It is suitable for searching the seabed and understanding the sea floor structure.

Paired With Time Zero

When paired with TZ (TIMEZERO) Professional software and the optional PBG module, the DFF-3D can generate up to 50 depth points per second to quickly create a highly accurate Personal Bathymetric Generated (PBG) database.

Specifications

Transmission frequency                 165 kHz

Output Power                                   800 W

Minimum Range                               3 m

Basic Range                                     5-1,200 m

Detection Range                               200 m (Side Beam Best Performance)

Beam Angle for Triple Beam             20 to 50 degrees from right under

Sounder

External KP                                        1 port

Temperature                                        -15 degrees C to +55 degrees C

Relative Humidity                              93% or less at +40 degrees C

Waterproofing                                    IP55