Introduction

Before starting a hydrographic survey, the Tide Gauge System should be installed correctly to ensure accurate water level measurements.

The sensor must be placed at a stable location, connected to a data logger, and checked carefully before recording data.

A correct setup improves the accuracy of tidal corrections and helps produce reliable bathymetric maps.

Equipment Required

Before installation, prepare the following equipment:

• Tide Gauge Sensor
• Mounting Bracket
• Stainless Steel Mounting Pole or Wall Bracket
• Data Logger
• GNSS Receiver (Optional)
• Communication Modem
• Solar Panel or Power Supply
• Battery Backup
• Field Tablet or Laptop
• Survey Software
• Survey Benchmarks
• Survey Tools

Step 1 – Select a Suitable Location

Choose a stable location where the water level can be measured safely.

Common locations include:

• Jetty
• Harbour Wall
• Quay Wall
• Bridge Pier
• Tide Station
• Fixed Marine Structure

The location should remain stable throughout the survey and should not be affected by excessive waves or vessel traffic.

Step 2 – Install the Mounting Bracket

Secure the mounting bracket firmly to the selected structure.

Check that all bolts and fasteners are tight.

The installation should remain stable during changing tide conditions.

Step 3 – Install the Tide Gauge Sensor

Mount the Tide Gauge Sensor according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

The sensor should be positioned correctly so it can measure water level continuously without obstruction.

Avoid placing the sensor where floating debris or strong currents may interfere with the measurements.

Step 4 – Connect the Data Logger

Connect the Tide Gauge Sensor to the data logger.

Check all electrical connections and communication cables.

Make sure the system powers on correctly.

Step 5 – Connect the Power Supply

Install the battery or connect the external power supply.

For long-term monitoring stations, connect the solar panel and confirm that the battery is charging properly.

Step 6 – Establish Survey Benchmarks

A Tide Gauge should always be connected to permanent survey benchmarks.

Surveyors use precise levelling to determine the relationship between the Tide Gauge reference point and the project datum.

This step ensures that all recorded water levels can be used correctly during data processing.

Step 7 – Configure the System

Open the Tide Gauge software and create a new project.

Configure:

• Recording Interval
• Time Zone
• Project Datum
• Sensor Type
• Communication Settings
• File Storage Location

Check that the system is recording data correctly.

Step 8 – Verify the Water Level

Compare the Tide Gauge readings with a Tide Staff or another independent reference.

If the values are consistent, the system is ready for operation.

If differences are found, inspect the installation before continuing.

Step 9 – Start Recording

Begin continuous water level recording before the hydrographic survey starts.

Allow the Tide Gauge to collect data throughout the survey.

Do not stop recording until all survey operations have been completed.

Step 10 – Download and Process the Data

After the survey is complete, download the recorded water level data.

Import the data into hydrographic processing software and apply tidal corrections to the depth measurements.

Review the final results before preparing the survey report.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Installing the Tide Gauge on an unstable structure, failing to connect it to survey benchmarks, incorrect time settings, interrupted power supply, and poor cable connections can reduce the accuracy of water level measurements.

Always inspect the complete system before starting the survey.

Best Practices

Install the Tide Gauge several hours before the survey begins.

Check the sensor regularly during long survey projects.

Protect cables from damage.

Inspect battery levels every day.

Back up recorded data after each survey.

Verify benchmark elevations periodically.

Conclusion

A properly installed Tide Gauge System provides accurate water level information throughout the survey. By following the correct installation procedure and connecting the system to survey benchmarks, hydrographic surveyors can apply reliable tidal corrections and produce high-quality bathymetric data.