Oceanographic instruments refer to equipment used for ocean observation, testing, and sampling. Based on the marine science discipline, they are categorized into marine chemical instruments, marine physical instruments, and marine geological and geophysical observation instruments. Below is a detailed introduction to common marine instruments.

1. Mud sampler. This is a type of ocean surface sampling device capable of collecting various types of surface and bottom sediments at varying water depths. These instruments include box-type, gravity-type, and spring-type samplers. Box-type samplers preserve the sediment in its original state and are widely used in engineering geological surveys, surface sediment surveys, and mineral surveys. They are highly effective and popular with users.

2. Side-scan sonar. Side-scan sonar, also known as a geomorphometer, is a commonly used instrument for observing stratum structure, topography, and water depth. It is typically mounted on a ship's hull or a towed vessel to observe seafloor topography. It emits a series of sound waves simultaneously, resulting in high energy and strong water penetration, enabling deep detection.

3. Temperature, salinity, and depth meter. This instrument typically consists of an underwater probe, a suspended device, and a surface data processing unit. The surface data processing unit is primarily a computer, recording and displaying seawater temperature, salinity, and depth measurements using various methods, including digital display, analog graphing, and gauge indication.