FarSounder has integrated its Argos 3D Forward Looking Sonar with Anschütz’s SYNAPSIS (W)ECDIS NX navigation platform, enabling real-time underwater detection and bathymetric data to be displayed directly within the system’s interface.
The collaboration enhances the platform’s situational awareness capabilities by introducing a new data layer that visualizes the sonar’s real-time subsurface insights directly within the central navigation environment.
The integration leverages Anschütz’s SYNAPSIS interface, which enables third-party systems to contribute geo-referenced data layers, such as sonar returns, onto the chart display without requiring modification to the system itself.
As a result, users of FarSounder’s Argos sonar can now view in-water targets, such as submerged obstacles or floating debris, as well as bathymetric data collected by the sonar, alongside traditional navigational data.
Matthew Zimmerman, CEO and Co-Founder of FarSounder, commented, “This collaboration makes it easier than ever for mariners to benefit from the powerful insights offered by our 3D sonar technology. By integrating our subsurface awareness directly into a system they already use daily, we’re reducing complexity and enabling safer, faster decision-making in challenging environments.”
SYNAPSIS (W)ECDIS NX is known for its modular, user-centric design that unites critical navigation systems to improve safety and reduce cognitive load for operators. With the addition of Argos sonar data, bridge crews gain a clearer, real-time view of what lies ahead, both above and below the waterline. Operators can access both live and historical sonar detections, customize their display by depth and signal level, and apply different color schemes based on conditions and preference.
Philip Kankelfitz, Head of Commercial Sales at Anschütz, added, “Yacht captains have long expressed a desire to see their forward-looking sonar systems fully integrated into their navigation equipment. With the seamless integration of ECDIS and sonar, we are taking a significant step forward – delivering genuine added value to our customers.”
This marks another important step in FarSounder’s mission to make real-time 3D sonar data more accessible across the maritime industry. Following the recent launch of FarSounder’s redesigned and easily accessible user interface, SonaSoft LT™, and integrations with other advanced navigation and perception platforms, the company continues to advance the possibilities in multi-sensor marine navigation, supporting both crewed and increasingly autonomous vessel operations.
