Estimating the Calibration Error–Caused Bias Limit of Moving-Boat ADCP Streamflow Measurements

Abstract

The bias error in moving-boat acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) streamflow measurements can be separated into two classes: calibration and application. Accordingly, the total bias limit of measured discharges can be separated into two components: calibration and application error–caused bias limits (in terms of standard uncertainties). This technical note presents a simplified analytical Type B model for estimating the calibration error–caused bias limit using manufacturer specifications for ADCP and its internal sensors. The merit of the presented model is that it helps to gain insights into the effects of major calibration error sources and parameters on the calibration error–caused bias limit.