FT Technologies FT6 Series Ultrasonic Wind Sensor
The FT Technologies FT6 Series Ultrasonic Wind Sensor brings proven industrial wind-sensing technology into the performance sailing sector. FT Technologies are globally recognised for their ultrasonic wind sensors used in wind turbines, commercial shipping, and safety-critical industrial applications, where absolute reliability and data integrity are essential. Their commercial FT7 Series has established a reputation in these sectors for robustness and accuracy, to the extent that weight is not even a consideration in its specification.
The FT6 Series has been specifically developed from this commercial foundation to meet the unique demands of high-performance sailing yachts. While retaining the full measurement capability and Acu-Res® acoustic resonance technology of the FT7 Series, the FT6 has been re-engineered for ultra-low weight and compact form, allowing it to be mounted at the very top of modern performance yacht masts without compromising rig dynamics or stability.
Unlike traditional marine wind sensors adapted from lighter-duty designs, the FT6 is a purpose-built solution for offshore racers and performance programmes that demand industrial-grade data quality in a masthead-optimised package. This focus on weight reduction without loss of functionality makes the FT6 fundamentally different from both leisure marine wind instruments and heavier commercial sensors.
This approach has already seen strong adoption at the highest levels of professional sailing. In 2025, FT6 Series sensors have been successfully used in elite classes such as IMOCA and SailGP, validating the platform in some of the most demanding wind measurement environments in the sport.
The FT6 Series represents the introduction of a new generation of ultrasonic wind sensing on our site — combining serious commercial pedigree with a design specifically optimised for modern performance sailing.
Ultrasonic Acu-Res® Technology
The FT6 Series uses FT Technologies’ Acu-Res® technology, which is based on acoustic resonance rather than conventional time-of-flight measurement. This produces a stronger ultrasonic signal, significantly improving resistance to vibration, shock, electrical noise, and environmental interference. The result is stable, high-resolution wind data even in rough sea states or high-wind conditions.
With no mechanical components, the sensor is immune to wear, inertia, or overspeed damage, ensuring reliable readings over an extended service life.
Wind Measurement Performance
The FT6 Series provides continuous measurement of apparent and true wind speed and direction across a wide operating range. Fast update rates allow the sensor to respond quickly to changing wind conditions, making it suitable for sailing instrumentation, autopilot input, and performance monitoring.
Each unit is individually calibrated to ensure accuracy and repeatability, delivering confidence in both cruising and high-performance sailing applications.
Integrated Environmental Sensors
In addition to wind data, the FT6 Series incorporates onboard sensors that can provide supplementary environmental and motion data. Depending on configuration, outputs may include temperature, barometric pressure, tilt, compass heading, and acceleration, allowing the sensor to act as a compact multi-sensor input for modern onboard systems.
Marine-Grade Construction
The FT6 Series is built for continuous outdoor exposure in harsh marine environments. Its sealed housing protects the electronics from water ingress, salt spray, dust, and UV exposure. The compact, lightweight design minimises windage and masthead loading, making it suitable for both sailing yachts and unmanned or weight-sensitive installations.
High resistance to shock, vibration, and electromagnetic interference ensures dependable operation on sailing yachts, power vessels, offshore structures, and marine monitoring platforms.
System Integration and Outputs
The FT6 Series is designed for straightforward integration into marine electronics and control systems. It supports multiple digital communication interfaces and industry-standard data formats, enabling compatibility with navigation displays, data processors, autopilots, and monitoring systems commonly used on modern sailing yachts and commercial vessels.
Flexible output options make the FT6 suitable both as a standalone wind sensor and as part of a fully integrated onboard data network.
Technical Specifications
Wind Speed | 0–75 m/s (146 knots) |
Wind Angle | 0–360° |
Operating Temperature | -20 to +60°C |
Pressure | 540 to 1200 hPa |
Tilt | -40 to +40° |
Power Supply | 5–24 VDC (5V USB compatible) |
Material | UV stabilised polycarbonate blend |
Waterproofing | IP67 |
Data I/O Interface | RS422, RS485, UART, CANbus |
Data I/O Format | ASCII, NMEA 0183, NMEA2000 |
Typical Marine Applications
The FT Technologies FT6 Series Ultrasonic Wind Sensor is suitable for a wide range of sailing and marine uses, including:
– Wind measurement for sailing yachts and performance cruisers
– Integration with navigation, autopilot, and sail-handling systems
– Offshore and coastal monitoring installations
– Commercial and professional marine vessels
– Research, survey, and weather observation platforms
Key Benefits
– Solid-state ultrasonic wind sensor with no moving parts
– Accurate wind speed and direction measurement across a wide range
– Patented Acu-Res® technology for exceptional stability and noise immunity
– Maintenance-free design with long service life
– Compact, lightweight, and marine-ready construction
– Easy integration with modern marine electronics systems
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