What type of sonar system has narrower beams, single or multibeam?

Multibeam sonar systems are designed to emit multiple acoustic beams simultaneously, allowing for the collection of bathymetric data over a wider area in a single pass. These systems have narrower beams compared to single-beam sonar systems. The narrower beams in multibeam systems enable higher resolution data collection and more detailed mapping of the seafloor topography.

In contrast, single-beam sonar systems produce a single conical beam that generally covers a larger area but lacks the resolution that narrower beams provide. The wider beam of a single-beam system can lead to less precise measurements of the seafloor, particularly in areas with complex underwater features.

Thus, multibeam systems, with their ability to create narrower beams directed at multiple angles, offer advantages in clarity and resolution of the collected data, making them suitable for comprehensive hydrographic surveys.