SonTek-QC4

Coming Soon! SonTek-QC4

A non-contact, AI-powered system for measuring flow in rivers and canals—combining optical velocity sensing with cloud-based analysis and real-time data access.

water discharge data non-contact flow gauging prado dam

non-contact water flow measurement normal vs flood conditions

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SKUQC4


The SonTek-QC4 is coming soon!
Please use the Request a Quote form to be notified when it's available.

camera based water velocity measurement

Meet the SonTek-QC4 surface velocity computer vision camera system – a smart, non-contact way to collect velocity data in rivers, streams and canals. Using optical flow and cloud-based machine learning, it not only captures real-time data, but also improves discharge ratings over time. The full system includes everything you need: hardware, software, analysis tools, and an online platform to bring it all together.

  • Overview

    The QC4 unlocks a new era of non-contact discharge measurement. Designed for real-time environmental insights, the QC4 leverages advanced optics, machine learning, and cloud-based automation to deliver accurate, reliable data—safely and efficiently.

    Technical Paper: Optical flow monitoring in complex hydraulic conditions

    computer vision stream gauging

    Key Features:

    • Live data visualization via easy-to-use app
    • Seamless API integration with existing databases
    • Continuous real-time video monitoring
    • Event-triggered alerts and notifications
    • Non-contact velocity and flow measurement
    • Automated data processing in the cloud
    • Built-in machine learning for adaptive analysis
    • Auto-generated stage-discharge ratings over time

    Why Add the SonTek-QC4 to Your Monitoring Toolkit?

    Environmental monitoring teams face real-world challenges—and the QC4 is designed to help solve them.

    • Preserve expertise: Helps offset the loss of in-house knowledge by automating complex processes
    • Capture critical data: Measures flow during flood events—even when site access is restricted
    • Respond to extremes: Delivers accurate data during fast-moving or flash flood conditions
    • Protect your equipment: Keeps sensors out of harm’s way during high-debris flows
    • Prioritize safety: Enables essential data collection without putting staff at risk

  • Specifications
    Velocity Measurement
    Stream Width 2mm Lens
    4mm Lens
    80m
    120m
    Velocity Range 0.1-4 m/s
    Resolution 0.001 m/s
    Accuracy 0.05 m/s

    Stereo Water Level Measurement - Optional
    Maximum Edge Distance 2mm Lens
    4mm Lens
    20m
    30m
    Resolution 0.01 m
    Accuracy Based on site conditions
    External Water Level Measurement

    Camera
    Resolution 1920x1080
    Frame Rate 30 fps
    Field of View 2mm (110°H, 80°V) / 4mm (80°H, 52°V)
    Computing CPU 1.9 GHz, GPU 21 TOPS
    Storage 1 TB
    Communications 4G LTE, Ethernet or external Sat Modem
    Data Usage Specs under verification

    Power
    Battery 3 x Internal 12.8V Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4)
    Rechargeable Capacity: 6.6Ah, 84.5Wh
    Consumption Specs under verification
    Input 12 - 15V DC
    Dimensions 280mm (W) x 410mm (H) x 220mm (D)
    Weight 7.5 kg
  • FAQs
    1. Can I connect external telemetry?

      Yes. The camera includes an Ethernet port that supports external modems, including satellite modems. It also has a built-in 4G GSM modem.

    2. Can I use my own SIM card?

      Yes. The QC4 is not shipped with a SIM card—users must provide one. The WebUI allows you to configure the APN for your SIM.

    3. What is the surface velocity measurement range?

      Landscape 2mm lens: 80 m. Portrait 4mm lens: 120 m.

    4. How many cameras does QC4 have?

      Two stereo cameras (four lenses total): one Landscape (2mm lens with IR filter) and one Portrait (4mm lens without IR filter).

    5. Do both stereo cameras record video?

      Yes. Each stereo camera records video from both lenses. The system selects the best data source for processing, based on video quality and timing.

    6. What is the field of view of the cameras?

      Landscape 2mm lens: 110°. Portrait 4mm lens: 80°.

    7. What is the stereophotogrammetry measurement range?

      Landscape: 20 m. Portrait: 35 m.

    8. Is there a cost for AWS data storage and processing?

      Yes, there is a monthly fee.

    9. What type of batteries are used?

      Enepower BCB-786269. One battery in the camera and three in the battery box.

    10. Can QC4 integrate with third-party cloud services like GovCloud?

      No. QC4 currently operates only on AWS.

    11. Can discharge data be exported to external services (e.g., Hydstra)?

      Yes. Data can be exported via API to external platforms or websites.

    12. How much data is stored in the cloud and for how long?

      Up to 12 months per site. You’ll be notified when nearing the limit and given a 3-month grace period to download data. API automation is available.

    13. What are the software requirements?

      The WebUI and cloud interface run on any modern web browser and device.

    14. Does the cross-section survey require XYZ format?

      QC4 accepts XYZ formats

    15. Will users see “Raw-external” and “Learning-external” discharge data?

      Yes, both are visible and exportable.

    16. How accurate must the external water level sensor be?

      Recommended accuracy is ±0.1% FS for best results.

    17. Can QC4 process flow if external water level is delayed?

      Yes. QC4 records video independently and will process flow once updated water level data is received via API.

    18. What is battery life (camera + battery box) without solar charge?

      Approx. 5 days with 1-hour daily IR-light scheduling. Actual performance varies by conditions.

    19. What is battery life (camera only) without solar charge?

      Approx. 1 day under similar conditions. Not an official figure.

    20. What is overall battery life expectancy?

      Under ideal conditions, 5–10 years.

    21. If one battery fails, will QC4 still operate?

      Yes, the system remains operational.

    22. Do batteries need to be replaced at a service center?

      Yes. Battery replacement must be done at an authorized center for warranty and sealing integrity.

    23. Can QC4 use two external water level inputs at once?

      No. Only one sensor input is supported at a time.

    24. Can I use multiple water level sensors via API?

      Yes. Redundant sources can be managed via API, but only one will be active at a time.

    25. Can I use my own external lighting?

      Yes, if it’s within output limits (unofficially 12V DC, 3A Max, 36W).

    26. Can I use a high-power light?

      Yes, but an external power source is required. The camera’s IR output can trigger the light.

    27. Can point cloud data help with camera setup and cross-section accuracy?

      Yes. This capability is in development.

    28. Will QC4 ship directly to customers?

      No. QC4 ships to RIC/service centers, which then distribute to customers.

    29. Does QC4 provide a rating curve equation?

      No. It currently provides only a stage-discharge table.

    30. Can QC4 measure at night?

      Yes. The system uses IR or white light. Accuracy depends on light type, brightness, and surface conditions. Lighting is managed by the camera.

    31. What water level sensor comes with QC4?

      The MJK 1400 sensor with 7070D connector. It supports plug-and-play connection, 4–20mA communication, and WebUI configuration.

    32. Can I use my own 4–20mA level sensor?

      Yes. Users can configure third-party 4–20mA sensors via the WebUI and connect using the supplied termination kit.

  • Video

    Coming Soon! SonTek-QC4

    A non-contact, AI-powered system for measuring flow in rivers and canals—combining optical velocity sensing with cloud-based analysis and real-time data access.

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