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When you need to transfer large amounts of subsea data over short distances – you need BlueComm 200

Transform your underwater operations with BlueComm 200, our pioneering wireless optical communication system. You’ll experience game-changing data transfer speeds enabling true wireless subsea operations, with rates up to 10 Mbps at distances reaching 150 m – even in bright conditions.

Innovation at work

We’ve engineered BlueComm 200 to push the boundaries of your underwater communication. Using advanced LED technology and sensitive photomultiplier tubes, you’ll achieve communication ranges up to 150 m. Its design houses the emitter separately from the receiver, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.

Fast and flexible – key features to power your mission

 

  • Lightning-fast data transfer: 2.5 to 10 Mbps at ranges up to 150 m
  • Optimal performance: Perfect for moderate to low turbidity dark water (>200 m depth or at night)
  • Flexible deployment: Connect with your AUV, ROV, USV or surface dunker system
  • Deep-rated capability: Ready for operations up to 4,000 m
  • Speed of light technology: Experience unprecedented data transmission rates

Perfect for your platform

Perfect for your:

  • Autonomous Underwater Vehicles
  • Extra-large uncrewed underwater vehicles (XLUUV)
  • Uncrewed Surface Vehicles
  • Remotely Operated Vehicles
  • Tracking and communications systems

 

Choose your perfect match:

BlueComm 200

When you need maximum range and performance in dark water conditions, our visible light system delivers up to 150 m range – ideal for video transfer and direct vehicle control. You’ll transfer data up to 10,000 times faster than acoustic systems, although ambient light may affect operating range.

BlueComm 200 UV

Working with lights on? Our UV variant maintains reliable communication even with artificial lighting present. Operating at ranges up to 75 metres, it’s your go-to solution for ROV and AUV applications requiring illumination, such as video recording missions.

Both systems offer incredible energy efficiency – transfer more than nine gigabytes of data using just one Lithium D cell battery.

Specifications table

Feature Type 8361 BlueComm 200 UV
Depth rating Up to 4,000 m operation
Data rate 2.5–10 Mbps
Optical communication range Up to 75 m
Mechanical construction Anodized aluminium or titanium
Supply voltage 24–36 V dc
Communications interface 10/100 Base-T Ethernet (static IP address)
Command interface Graphical user interface or Ethernet UDP command set
Receiver unit
Receive wavelength UV (band pass filter blocking visible light)
Receive angle 180° (omni-directional)
Receiver weight in air/water 7.3/3.1 kg
Power consumption 10 W
Emitter unit
Optical transmit power 6 W (radiated light)
Optical wavelength options 450 nm (royal blue), 400–800 nm (white)
Emitter beam shape 180° (omni-directional)
Emitter weight in air/water 3.6/2.6 kg
power consumption 30 W (bandwidth allocation dependant)
Environmental and dimensions
Operating temperature range -5 to 40°C
Storage temperature -20 to 55°C
Dimensions (length x diameter) Receiver 384 x 136 mm
Emitter 199 x 136 mm

 

Manuals and quick start guides

Optics

• 450 nm (royal blue), 405 nm (UV) optical wavelength
• 180° (omni-directional) beam pattern
• 10 W / 15 W receiver / transmitter optical transmit power

Design

• Titanium and glass construction
• Subconn connectors
• 5.7 kg weight in water, emitter and receiver

Performance

• 2.5 – 10 Mbps data rate
• 4000 m depth rating
• Up to 150m optical communication range

Ownership

What’s in the box?
• Manual, 2 test cables and 2 sets of one emitter and receiver
• Warranty: 1 year return to Sonardyne service centre
• ITAR Controlled: No
• UK Export Licence: Not required

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Overview

Saves you time. Saves you weight. Saves you payload.

The SPRINT-Nav family is the only all-in-one, subsea navigation solution you’ll ever need for your marine robotic and autonomous vehicle operations. With over a decade’s experience of aiding your missions, SPRINT-Nav delivers class-leading underwater navigational performance. Its accuracy is unparalleled and can be as little as 0.01% variance of its path on a typical survey (depending on the model).

SPRINT-Nav combines our SPRINT inertial sensor, Syrinx DVL and high accuracy intelligent pressure sensor in a single, compact housing, replacing the need for a separate DVL, pressure sensor and INS/AHRS. We call this hybrid navigation.

Navigate your marine environment with the confidence only SPRINT-Nav can provide.

Pinpoint location precision. Enhance your operations by adding valuable location detail enabling you to identify exactly where your data is drawn from or to pinpoint the location of assets, obstacles and pipelines.

Guide, control and navigate your USVs, ROVs and AUVs faster, safely and more efficiently with SPRINT-Nav. Operate your vehicles and vessels with the confidence of knowing exactly where they are and what they’re doing.

No calibration needed. Straight out of the box SPRINT-Nav is ready to go, saving you precious time on your operations.

Reduced in size – but not in performance, SPRINT-Nav Mini is the industry’s smallest all-in-one hybrid acoustic-inertial subsea navigator. It provides the perfect instrument for you to control your smaller inspection class ROVs and small to medium sized USVs.

Navigating – to hold station, SPRINT-Nav DP provides a reliable dynamic positioning reference in shallow water for your surface vessel to remain in one place without the need for a GNSS signal.

Engineered for all autonomous vehicles no matter what size or purpose, there is a SPRINT-Nav for your operations.

Why should you invest?

By choosing SPRINT-Nav you are choosing an all-in-one acoustic-inertial navigation sensor, replacing the need for a separate DVL, pressure sensor and INS/AHRS. Saving you the time, cost, cabling and integration challenges associated with using different sensors from different vendors.

At a glance

  • Unique to Sonardyne
  • Performance levels to suit your operations
  • Tightly integrates raw acoustic, Doppler and inertial data
  • Titanium housed for deep ROV missions
  • Outputs altitude, depth, orientation and velocity
  • Configure and control using a Web UI

SPRINT-Nav. Your all-in-one guidance and navigation system.

SPRINT-Nav is an all-in-one hybrid acoustic – inertial navigation instrument for autonomous underwater and surface vehicles. It combines our SPRINT INS, Syrinx DVL and high accuracy intelligent pressure sensor in a single compact titanium housing.

Available in four different performance levels; 300, 500, 700 and X, and two different depth ratings; 4,000 and 6,000 m, it offers two DVL frequencies; 600 kHz and a high-altitude 400 kHz option.

For the full picture of what your SPRINT-Nav is capable of, please visit its dedicated product page.

SPRINT-Nav Mini packs a powerful punch for your underwater robotic applications.

Measuring just 213 mm in height (only fractionally taller than some competing DVL-only instruments), 148 mm in diameter and weighing in at approximately 3.6 kg in air for the 300 m rated unit – or 7.1 kg for the 4,000 m depth version –SPRINT-Nav Mini is the world’s smallest hybrid acoustic – inertial navigation technology.

SPRINT-Nav Mini is powered by the same navigation algorithm you’ll find inside SPRINT-Nav. It combines the strengths of all its sensors to provide robust, precise and accurate outputs. Two depth ratings are available; a 300 m and a 4,000 m. There is also a side-connector option depth rated for 300 m and measuring only 183 mm in height makes it ideal for tight spaces on small platforms.

For the full picture of what your SPRINT-Nav Mini is capable of, please visit its dedicated product page.

SPRINT-Nav DP ensures ultimate positional accuracy.

Developed in response to the increasing demand for shallow water dynamic positioning (DP) operations, SPRINT-Nav DP provides you with accurate and reliable surface vessel station keeping references without the need for a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signal.
Ideal for coastal or nearshore operations where GNSS signals may be blocked or distorted, SPRINT-Nav DP is perfect for work around offshore wind farms and coastal surveys etc ensuring your vessel remains stationary safely and accurately.

For the full picture of what your SPRINT-Nav DP is capable of, please visit its dedicated product page.

Compact

Low power and small, it’s the ideal size for installing on all size ROVs as well as USVs undertaking data harvesting missions in shallow water and around offshore structures which often block GNSS signals.

Cost-effective

Because it’s cheaper than the four separate sensors it replaces (AHRS, DVL, INS and pressure sensor), it’s a cost-effective solution for your research platforms where budgets need to stretch as far as possible.

Specialist applications

SPRINT-Nav X is the highest-grade model in our SPRINT-Nav family designed for very specialist applications such as long endurance missions using XLUUVs.

Survey

Supports dual ROV and Survey use and standalone ROV guidance. Also provides mid-water station keeping with vendor independent USBL aiding.

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Overview

Built for LBL and data harvesting

Dunker 6+ is an LBL and telemetry transceiver specifically designed for vessel deployment. The super duplex stainless steel housing with shock and vibration isolated electronics makes for an extremely rugged dunking system.

Overview

Its high power output and Wideband 3 signal processing offers improved operating range and acoustic performance in challenging conditions such as when deployed from noisy vessels or in multi-path environments.

The internal Lithium-ion rechargeable battery pack minimises the supply current for long dunker cables. It also enables relocation of the dunker if the cable is cut.

The robust AGP connector on the Dunker 6+ is identical to the ROVNav 6+ and HPT USBL for compatibility and to reduce spares.

At a glance

  • Perfect for commanding LBL transponders
  • Use it to recover data from Fetch and AMTs
  • Capability to operate as topside for RT 6 acoustic releases
  • Deploy it over-the-side of your vessel
  • Rugged mechanics and connectors
  • Shock mounted internal electronics

Dunker 6+ LBL and telemetry transceiver is fully compatible with our modem and sensor logging instruments such as AMT and Fetch , allowing it to be used to retrieve data or configure logging regimes. It can also be used to release the RT 6 range of acoustic releases.

The Dunker 6+ system consists of 100 m of cable on a stainless steel cable drum with brake and locking mechanism. The 10 m deck cable between the 48 V Surface Interface Unit (SIU) and the cable drum allows the drum to be conveniently located. The connection to the cable drum is via an easily replaceable 8-way SubConn.

Optionally, an RT 6 topside kit with 30 m of cable is available in a carrying case without a cable drum.

Specifications table

Feature Type 8309-1351 Type 8309-1353 Type 8309-1355 Type 8309-1356
Depth rating 1,000 m 1,000 m 1,000 m 1,000 m
Operating frequency MF (20–34 kHz) MF (20–34 kHz) LMF (14–19 kHz) LMF (14–19 kHz)
Transducer beam shape Omni-directional Directional Omni-directional Directional
Transmit source level 
(dB re 1 µPa @ 1 m) 187–196 dB (4 levels) 190–202 dB (4 levels) 187–196 dB (4 levels) 187–202 dB (4 levels)
Tone Equivalent Energy (TEE) 193–202 dB 196–208 dB 193–202 dB 193–208 dB
Receiver sensitivity (dB re 1 µPa) 90–120 dB (7 levels) 80–120 dB (7 levels) 90–120 dB (7 levels) 80–120 dB (7 levels)
Range precision Better than 15 mm Better than 15 mm Better than 15 mm Better than 15 mm
Serial communications
(software programmable)
Primary port: RS485 (half-duplex) or RS232
Secondary port: RS485 (half-duplex) or RS232 or SYNC IN
Primary port: RS485 (half-duplex) or RS232
Secondary port: RS485 (half-duplex) or RS232 or SYNC IN
Primary port: RS485 (half-duplex) or RS232
Secondary port: RS485 (half-duplex) or RS232 or SYNC IN
Primary port: RS485 (half-duplex) or RS232
Secondary port: RS485 (half-duplex) or RS232 or SYNC IN
Operating voltage 24 or 48 V dc (±10%) 24 or 48 V dc (±10%) 24 or 48 V dc (±10%) 24 or 48 V dc (±10%)
External power Active (listening) <3 W typical (max 6 W when charging) <3 W typical (max 6 W when charging) <3 W typical (max 6 W when charging) <3 W typical (max 6 W when charging)
Peak (during transmission <80 W <80 W <80 W <80 W
Battery life Li-ion (listening) 3 days 3 days 3 days 3 days
Connector type AGP (8-way female) AGP (8-way female) AGP (8-way female) AGP (8-way female)
Mechanical construction Super-duplex stainless steel Super-duplex stainless steel Super-duplex stainless steel Super-duplex stainless steel
Dimensions (length x diameter) 692 x 200 mm 660 x 200 mm 586 x 200 mm 641 x 230 mm
Weight in air/water 24/16 kg 26/17 kg 20/14 kg 28/17 kg
System kit
Dunker 6, SIU, 100 m cable drum etc. 602-0047 602-0053 n/a 602-0072

Software and firmware

Software and control hardware

Manuals and quick start guides

Did you know?

Dunker 6+ can be used to recover data from Fetch and AMTs

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Overview

Mini in size – big on performance

Mini-ROVNav 6+ is a 6G ranging and telemetry Long BaseLine (LBL) ROV transceiver specifically designed for installation on ROVs and USVs where payload space is tight. Suitable for a range of applications, from metrology to pipeline positioning as well as site survey and characterisation.

Overview

Mini-ROVNav 6+ is designed to be significantly lighter and smaller than our standard ROVNav 6+ instrument, whilst providing full 6G LBL capabilities.

This makes it particularly suitable for inspection-class ROVs as well now uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) which can be configured to undertake routine LBL operations over-the-horizon from your survey vessel.

Its full support of  Wideband 2 signal processing techniques offers long range and robust acoustic performance in challenging conditions such as on noisy vehicles or in multi-path environments.

At a glance

  • Use it with Fusion 2
  • Perfect when ROV space is limited
  • USBL mode for emergency relocation
  • Lightweight and easy to install
  • Modem mode for data recovery from AMTs and Fetch instruments

Mini-ROVNav 6+ is also a fully compatible USBL responder or transponder compatible with Sonardyne Wideband 1 and 2 USBL systems and HPR 400. The internal Li-ion rechargeable battery pack also enables emergency transponder mode, so if the umbilical and therefore power is cut to the ROV it can still be located using a vessel equipped with a USBL system.

The integrated omni-directional MF transducer has a hemispherical beam pattern which is ideal for acoustics to an array and to a vessel alike.

Mini-ROVNav 6+ is fully compatible with our modem and logging equipment such as AMT and Fetch products, allowing it to be used to retrieve data or configure logging regimes. Data rates of between 100 to 9,000 bps user data rates can be supported depending on the environment.

Specifications table

Feature Type 8240
Depth rating 3,000 m
Operating frequency MF (20–34 kHz)
Transducer beam shape Omni-directional
Transmit source level (dB re 1 µPa @ 1 m) 181–187 dB
(2 levels)
Tone Equivalent Energy (TEE) 187–193 dB
Receiver sensitivity (dB re 1 µPa) 90–120 dB
Range precision Better than 15 mm
Operating voltage 24 or 48 V dc (±10%)
Serial communications Primary port: RS232 (9,600 – 115,200 baud)
Responder input 4 V to 24 V,
>0.5 ms duration
Release output 12 V
(250 mA rated)
Battery life (listening) Li-ion >7 days
External power Active (listening) <2 W
Battery charging <6 W
Peak (during transmission) <50 W
Mechanical construction Hard anodised aluminium alloy and stainless steel connectors
Serial communications bulkhead connector MCBH8M
Dimensions (length x maximum diameter) 501 x 93.5 mm
Weight in air/water 5.1/2.2 kg
Operating temperature -5 to 40°C
Storage temperature -20 to 55°C
Sensors
Temperature (±0.25°C) Standard
Strain gauge pressure sensor (±0.25% FS) Standard

Did you know?

Mini ROVNav 6+ can be used with Fusion 2 software

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Overview

Revolutionising underwater precision

Marker 6 is a low-cost, Ranger 2 USBL compatible acoustic positioning transponder designed for simple target marking applications in water depths up to 7,000 m. It is suitable for a range of applications such as underwater relocation.

Overview

Marker 6 is a low cost acoustic positioning transponder for when a compact design and deep operating capability are important operational factors. It enables targets such as underwater structures, vehicles or instrumentation packages to be marked, located or tracked using a Ranger 2 USBL system – Micro, Mini or Standard.

The instrument incorporates Near Field Communications (NFC) allowing for fast set-up. Its acoustic address can be selected from over 200 unique identities meaning that multiple Marker 6s can be deployed in close proximity to each other without causing interference.

At a glance

  • Mark and relocate underwater equipment, vehicles and points of interest
  • Compatible with all Ranger 2 USBL systems
  • Depth rated up to 7,000 m
  • More than 30 months’ listening life (lithium battery option)
  • Over 200 unique acoustic addresses

On the backdeck, the address can be quickly programmed into each transponder using a suitable NFC enabled handset (including an NFC enabled Android™ handset with the Sonardyne NFC App) or a dedicated HF Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) reader.

Sonardyne Wideband signal encoding reduces the interference both on and by adjacent Sonardyne and other acoustic positioning systems.

The NFC link provides the ability to enter Marker 6 into a storage mode when not in use, thereby significantly increasing the overall battery endurance.

Specifications table

Feature Type 8326-4311 Type 8326-7511
Depth Rating 4,000 m 7,000 m
Operating Frequency MF (20–34 kHz) MF (20–34 kHz)
Transducer Beam Shape Omni-directional ±130º Omni-directional ±130º
Transmit Source Level (re 1 µPa @1 m) 187 dB 187 dB
Inclinometer Sensor ±5° ±5°
Battery Life (Continuously Listening) Alkaline >9.5 months >9.5 months
Lithium >30 months >30 months
Storage Mode (Battery Disconnect via NFC) Alkaline 5 years (battery self-discharge limited) 5 years (battery self-discharge limited)
Lithium >10 years (battery self-discharge limited) >10 years (battery self-discharge limited)
Operating Temperature Range -5 to 40°C -5 to 40°C
Storage Temperature Range -20 to 55°C -20 to 55°C
Mechanical Construction Outer Housing Polypropylene Polypropylene
Inner Housing Duplex stainless steel Titanium grade 5
Dimensions (Length x Diameter) 383.0 x 63.0 mm (15.1 x 2.5”) 383.0 x 63.0 mm (15.1 x 2.5”)
Weight in Air/Water 2.0/1.3 kg 1.5/0.7 kg

Manuals and quick start guides

Frequently asked questions

Software and control hardware

Manuals and quick start guides

Did you know?

Marker 6 is compatible with all of our Ranger 2 USBL systems

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Overview

Guiding your subsea vehicles

Lodestar is a high-quality Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS) designed for subsea AUV/UUV guidance applications. It is also available in different performance levels depending on your needs. Lodestar is a solid-state Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS) highly optimised for cost, size, weight, and power (C-SWaP). Suitable for tracking and communications with AUVs, USVs, ROVs and XLUUVs.

Overview

The instrument is a turn-key solution comprised of carefully selected high grade and highly reliable inertial sensors integrated into in-house designed inertial measurement unit (IMU).

The selected inertial sensors are the standard for commercial aviation with a proven 20+ year track record. These sensors have a highly desirable characteristic being insensitive to vibration, temperature changes and having very limited initial errors. The result is a system which is highly suitable for the marine environment where performance, robustness and data integrity need to be available from initialisation, even during the harshest conditions.

Lodestar requires no external aiding and settles robustly in dynamic conditions in less than five minutes. On-board data storage and backup battery functionality ensures continued operation and eliminates the risk of data loss even if communications or external power are lost. Power-pass through to external aiding sensors is supported to ease integration requiring only a single cable for comms and power.

If a full INS solution is required, Lodestar can easily be field upgraded to a SPRINT system (apart from Lodestar 200). This makes the Lodestar a flexible and future-proof solution for both ROV guidance and survey applications.

Lodestar has a proven track record spanning more than 10 years in the field in diverse applications from ROV guidance and autopilot to demanding survey applications. The instrument is available in 4,000 and 6,000 metre depth ratings with a variety of connector options and configurations.

At a glance

  • Designed to aid subsea vehicle guidance: AUVs, ROVs and UUVs
  • Uses high quality Honeywell gyro and accelerometers
  • Sensors available in three performance levels: 200, 300 and 500
  • Fast settling time so you can get straight to work
  • Integrated DVL option available; Lodestar-Nav
  • Factory upgradeable to SPRINT INS

Lodestar-Nav 200
Lodestar-Nav 200 provides all-in-one navigation solution for subsea vehicles by combining a Lodestar 200 AHRS with our Syrinx Doppler Velocity Log (DVL) and a high accuracy pressure sensor in a single housing.  This saves cost, payload space and the complexity of integrating and operating separate sensors from different vendors.

Lodestar-Nav is pre-calibrated providing the ROV pilots with a robust and reliable solution, even in the most challenging operational scenarios, without needing to worry about sensor offsets.

Syrinx DVL inside that provides a large altitude range and high precision at all altitudes; this combines the best of 300 and 1200 kHz DVLs. Each DVL transducer is fitted with a full depth rated water block to ensure protection of the internal components and easy replacement if damaged.

Lodestar-Nav can be interfaced via a single connection and/or the DVL can be interfaced separately depending on requirements. Continuous on-board data storage supports post-mission diagnostics and post-processing.

Size

Measuring just 260 mm tall, the 4,000 m rated titanium housing allows easy fitment to any subsea vehicle. 6,000 m housing option.

Long life sensors

Lodestars and SPRINTs use Honeywell-supplied RLGs and inertial sensors with 400,000 MTFB, which have been proven in over 20 years in commercial aircraft.

Connectivity

Most Lodestars can be upgraded to SPRINT in the field as your requirements grow so there’s no need to remove and re-install a different instrument.

Specifications

Feature Lodestar 300 Lodestar 500
Depth rating 4,000 / 6,000 m 4,000 / 6,000 m
Heading 0.2° 0.1°
AHRS settle time <5 minutes in dynamic conditions <5 minutes in dynamic conditions
Roll and pitch 0.01° 0.01°
Power requirement 20–50 V dc, 15 W nominal, 35 W maximum 20–50 V dc, 15 W nominal, 35 W maximum
Power pass through 3 x for external aiding sensors (up to 3A per sensor) 3 x for external aiding sensors (up to 3A per sensor)
Back up battery type/life Li-ion/5 minutes Li-ion/5 minutes
Data storage 8 GB internal memory 8 GB internal memory
Serial ports/protocol 4x RS232 or RS485 4x RS232 or RS485
Other ports 1x Ethernet, 4 triggers 1x Ethernet, 4 triggers
Output rate Up to 100 Hz Up to 100 Hz
Output telegrams Industry standard AHRS/INS telegrams including acceleration and rotation rates Industry standard AHRS/INS telegrams including acceleration and rotation rates
Connectors 4x Seacon / Seanet, 1x Seacon / Seanet 4x Seacon / Seanet, 1x Seacon / Seanet
Mechanical construction Titanium Titanium
Dimensions
(diameter x height)
4,000 m (Seacon) 205 x 260 mm 205 x 260 mm
6,000 m (Seacon) 205 x 280 mm 205 x 280 mm
4,000 m (Seanet) 205 x 250 mm 205 x 250 mm
Weight in air/water 4,000 m 18.5/11.5 kg 18.5/11.5 kg
6,000 m 22/14 kg 22/14 kg
Operating temperature -20 to +55°C -20 to +55°C
Storage temperature -20 to +60°C -20 to +60°C
Shock rating 22 g, 11 ms half sine 22 g, 11 ms half sine

Did you know?

Lodestar is highly optimised for cost, size, weight and power (C-SWaP)

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Overview

Designed for Work-class ROVs

ROVNav 6+ (plus) is a Wideband 3 and Wideband 2 ranging LBL and telemetry transceiver specifically designed for installation on work-class ROVs. ROVNav 6+ is suitable for pipeline positioning, seabed deformation monitoring and metrology.

Overview

ROVNav 6+ uses our new Wideband 3 signal technology, which is key to unlocking the benefits of your Fusion 2 LBL system.

It allows, for the first time, sensor telemetry data (e.g. pressure, depth or temperature) from a seabed or structure deployed Compatt 6+ to be embedded within navigation (ranging) data. This change has a big impact on operations such as structure installation, as breaks in tracking to get sensor reading updates at vital moments are now a thing of the past.

Its compatibility with Wideband 3 and Wideband 2 telemetry commands, and support of high power Wideband 2 ranging protocols, proven for their accuracy and robustness, means the ROVNav 6+ offers improved range and acoustic performance in challenging conditions such as on noisy vehicles or in multipath environments.

At a glance

  • High power, long range LBL transceiver for ROVs
  • Wideband 3-enabled supporting embedded sensor data with ranging data
  • Optimised for Fusion 2 and compatible with Fusion 1
  • 3,000, 5,000 or 7,000 m depth rated options
  • USBL mode for emergency ROV relocation
  • Modem mode for harvesting data from Sonardyne logging sensors; Fetch, AMT…

ROVNav 6+ is also a fully functional USBL responder or transponder, compatible with Wideband 2 USBL systems and HPR400. The internal li-ion rechargeable battery pack also enables emergency transponder mode, so if the umbilical and therefore power is cut to the ROV it can still be located by USBL.

The omni-directional remote MF transducer makes installation on an ROV easy. ROVNav 6+ is designed to be rugged and relatively lightweight and utilises robust underwater connectors. ROVNav 6+ supports a range of internal sensors including: strain gauge pressure, PRT temperature and MEMS based inclinometer.

ROVNav 6+ is also fully compatible with our modem and logging equipment such as AMT and Fetch products, allowing it to be used to retrieve data or configure logging regimes. It supports all of our Wideband 2 and Wideband 3 spread spectrum acoustic communication; 100 to 9,000 bps data rates can be selected depending on the environment.

Sensor options include a Digiquartz pressure sensor, precision inclinometer and altimeter interface. This provides a fully featured ROV manipulator deployable tool/sensor pack for a range of different applications including metrology, bathy survey and structure deployment operations, without the requirement for any additional interfacing on the ROV.

Specifications table

Feature 8340-3161 8340-5261 8340-7261
Depth Rating 3,000 m 5,000 m 7,000 m
Operating Frequency MF (20–34 kHz) MF (20–34 kHz) MF (20–34 kHz)
Transducer Beam Shape Omni-directional Omni-directional Omni-directional
Transmit Source Level (dB re 1 µPa @ 1 m) 187–196 dB (4 levels) 187–196 dB (4 levels) 187–196 dB (4 levels)
Range Precision Better than 15 mm Better than 15 mm Better than 15 mm
Serial Communications RS232 or RS485 (half-duplex) RS232 or RS485 (half-duplex) RS232 or RS485 (half-duplex)
Battery Life Li-ion (Listening) 3 days 3 days 3 days
Operating Voltage 24 or 48 V dc (±10%) 24 or 48 V dc (±10%) 24 or 48 V dc (±10%)
Serial Communications Connector Subconn (8-way female) Subconn (8-way female) Subconn (8-way female)
Remote Transducer Connector Burton (3-way male) Burton (3-way male) Burton (3-way male)
Housing Mechanical Construction Hard anodised aluminium 6082 Hard anodised aluminium 7075 Hard anodised aluminium 7075
Remote Transducer Mechanical Construction Stainless steel 316 Stainless steel 316 Stainless steel 316
Dimensions (Maximum) (Length x Diameter) 768 x 200 mm 768 x 200 mm 768 x 200 mm
Weight in Air/Water 14.3/5.3 kg 14.7/5.7 kg 15.5/6.0 kg

Manuals and quick start guides

Software and firmware

Did you know?

ROVNav 6+ is compatible with Fusion 1 and can be depth rated up to 7,000 m

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Overview

Ultimate precision for underwater tracking

WMT is used with Ranger 2 USBL for tracking and communication tasks. It’s most commonly used with ROVs, AUVs and towfish applications where its high acoustic output power level means it’s perfect for long-range operation up to 7,000 m. It’s also suitable for AUVs, ROVs and towfish applications.

Overview

WMT is a 6G compatible, high acoustic output power USBL transponder available in two depth versions: 3,000 m and 7,000 m. The 7,000 m version has a higher acoustic output power level for improved long-range operation.

For ROV and towfish tracking, WMT supports responder trigger for faster position updates, an integrated rechargeable Li-Ion battery pack that is charged from the ROV’s power supply and full RS232 communications enabling channel set up, power and gain etc. to be changed from the surface.

At a glance

  • Use it with Ranger 2 for deep water, long layback tracking tasks
  • High power acoustic output and directional transducer
  • Responder mode for fast position updates
  • Full two-way Sonardyne Wideband 2 interrogation and reply
  • Li-Ion rechargeable battery pack
  • Optional remote transducer

An on/off switch (3,000 m only) helps to ensure the battery pack is not discharged when not in use. If an umbilical trigger is not available, then the full Wideband transponder mode provides excellent USBL performance in a small, lightweight package.

Remote omni or directional transducers are available for WMT. These make installation on a ROV easier as the remote transducer can be installed where there is good line-of-sight and is easily replaced if damaged. The main body of the transponder can then be installed within the ROV frame where it is well protected from damage.

Specifications table

Feature Type 8190-3111 Type 8190-3112 Type 8190-7212
Depth Rating 3,000 m 3,000 m 7,000 m
Operating Frequency MF (20–34 kHz) MF (20–34 kHz) MF (20–34 kHz)
Transducer Beam Shape Omni-directional Directional Directional
Source Level
(re 1 µPa @ 1 m)
High Power 187 dB 193 dB 199 dB
Low Power 181 dB 187 dB 193 dB
Tone Equivalent
Energy (TEE) WBv2+
High Power 193 dB 199 dB 205 dB
Low Power 187 dB 193 dB 199 dB
Range Precision Better than 15 mm Better than 15 mm Better than 15 mm
Depth Sensor ± 0.5% full scale ± 0.5% full scale ± 0.5% full scale
Communications Interface RS232 (9,600–115,200 baud) RS232 (9,600–115,200 baud) RS232 (9,600–115,200 baud)
External Supply Voltage 24 or 48 V dc (± 10%) 24 or 48 V dc (± 10%) 24 or 48 V dc (± 10%)
External Power Sleep ~650 mW ~650 mW ~650 mW
Wideband Listening ~1 W ~1 W ~1 W
Battery Charging 6 W 6 W 6 W
Peak
(During Transmission)
<50 W <50 W <50 W
External Power Switch Yes Yes No
Battery Life
(Li-ion 15 V)
Listening 30 days 30 days 30 days
Continuous 5 Seconds
Interrogation
Approx. 6 days at low power Approx. 6 days at low power Approx. 6 days at low power
Mechanical Construction Anodised aluminium alloy and plastics Anodised aluminium alloy and plastics Anodised aluminium alloy and plastics
Operating Temperature -5 to 40°C -5 to 40°C -5 to 40°C
Storage Temperature -20 to 55°C -20 to 55°C -20 to 55°C
Dimensions (Diameter x Length) 94 x 501 mm 94 x 513 mm 98 x 513 mm
Weights in Air/Water 5.1/2.2 kg 7.0/3.5 kg 7.0/3.5 kg
Options Remote, Cable Connected Transducer
(see separate datasheet)
Remote, Cable Connected Transducer
(see separate datasheet)
None

Manuals and quick start guides

Software and firmware

Did you know?

WMT is used with Ranger 2 USBL for tracking and communications

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Overview

Small, rugged, versatile.

WSM 6+ is a popular choice of transponder for tracking a mobile underwater target such as a towfish, crane wire, ROV or manned submersible. 2-way wideband signals ensure reliable acoustic performance in all conditions. Suitable for a range of applications from environmental surveys to deep water nodal positioning as well as tracking and communications.

Overview

WSM 6+ is one our most popular USBL transponders, selected by customers for its small size, value and dependable performance in all environments, shallow or deep.

It’s the perfect choice for fitting to observation and work-class ROVs, towfish, submersibles and equipment being deployed onto the seabed for short durations.

WSM 6+ is compatible with all of our Ranger 2 USBL systems and we even include one with every Ranger 2 Standard – as standard.

The compact and rugged design is based on the field proven mechanics from previous generation designs and is available with omni-directional or directional transducers. The omni version is depth rated to 1,000  m and the directional is depth rated to 4,000 m.

At a glance

  • Rechargeable USBL transponder designed for tracking ROVs, towfish and equipment
  • Choice of 1,000 m (omni-directional) and 4,000 m (directional) depth ratings
  • Compatible with our family of Ranger 2 USBL systems: Micro, Mini and Standard
  • Transponder or responder operating modes
  • Depth sensor for improved USBL positioning performance
  • External on/off switch for battery saving

Both versions support transponder and responder operating mode if an external trigger from your platform is available. Responder mode provides significantly faster position updates than transponder mode.

WSM 6+ supports Wideband 2 acoustic signals and legacy Wideband 1 and HPR 400. The configuration is programmable using supplied software and a serial link or it can be configured acoustically via our back deck handheld test unit – iWand. This allows the WSM 6+ to be configured for use with all of the popular MF frequency acoustic navigation systems.

Both types of WSM 6+ are also fitted with a depth sensor fitted as standard to aid USBL positioning accuracy and an external on/off switch to save battery power when not in use.

WSM 6+ variants are available with acoustically controlled output lines suitable for external motor drive, burnwire or contact closure releases.

Watch our youtube video to learn more

Specifications table

Feature Type 8370-1111 Type 8370-4112
Depth rating 1,000 m 4,000 m
Operational frequency MF (20–34 kHz) MF (20–34 kHz)
Transceiver beam shape Omni-Directional Directional
Transmit source level (dB re. 1 µPa @ 1 m) (external power/battery) 187 dB/
184 dB
196 dB/
193 dB
Tone Equivalent Energy (TEE) (external power) 193 dB 202 dB
Receive Sensitivity (dB re 1 μPa) <85 dB <80 dB
Power supply Rechargeable NiMH battery or 
ext. 24 V via ROV umbilical Rechargeable NiMH battery or ext. 24 V via ROV umbilical
Operating channels All Sonardyne Wideband 
HPR 400 Channels All Sonardyne Wideband HPR 400 Channels
Depth sensor ±0.5% Full Scale (100 Bar) ±0.5% Full Scale (400 Bar)
Operating life
(1 s update rate, max. power, Wideband 2 )
>6 days >3 days
Update rate (maximum) >2 Hz >2 Hz
Quiescent life (battery) >35 Days >35 Days
Connector
(5-Way (standard)/
8-Way (burnwire/motor release))
Subconn MCBH5M/
Subconn MCBH8F
Subconn MCBH5M/
Subconn MCBH8F
Operating temperature -5 to 40ºC -5 to 40ºC
Storage temperature -20 to 55ºC -20 to 55ºC
Mechanical construction Anodised aluminium alloy Anodised aluminium alloy
Dimensions (length x diameter) 420 x 75 mm 429 x 96.5 mm
Weight in air/water 3.2/1.3 Kg 5.5/3.2Kg
Battery charger 8370-011-01 8370-011-01

Did you know?

WSM 6+ is compatible with our Ranger 2 family of USBL systems: Micro, Mini and Standard

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Overview

Compatt 6+ is our latest generation of intelligent transponder

Discover Compatt 6+: this advanced LBL transponder boasts unparalleled precision, featuring revolutionary Wideband 3 technology for a superior acoustic performance. Engineered for versatility with over 3,600 configurations available, it seamlessly integrates with your existing systems while enhancing your operational efficiency.

Overview

Compatt 6+ is used for high precision survey and construction operations in all water depths, including: spool piece metrology, pipeline touchdown monitoring, structure installation and dynamic positioning reference.

Compatt 6+ offers significant time saving with fast update rates (up to 1 Hz LBL tracking), all made possible using the Wideband 3 acoustic telemetry protocols. Support of Wideband 2 ranges maintains backwards compatibility. This makes any system operating with Compatt 6+ significantly easier to operate therefore de-risking operations, reducing vessel time and reducing training requirements for offshore personnel.

At a glance

  • Compatible with all 6G LBL, INS and USBL systems
  • Wideband 3 enabled
  • Versatile, flexible and cost-effective
  • Over 3,600 different configurations available
  • Choice of depth ratings to 7,000 m

Our Wideband advanced signal processing offers improved acoustic performance in challenging conditions, longer ranges, improved multipath rejection around structures and real-time range diagnostics for quality control. Wideband also reduces the interference to and from adjacent Sonardyne and other acoustic positioning systems.

The integrated communications and navigation technology allows the transponder to be used as a multi-purpose modem, autonomous data logger and navigation reference transponder.

Wideband 3

For the first time, sensor telemetry data (e.g. pressure, depth or temperature) is embedded within ranging data so no more waiting for sensor readings at vital moments.

Compatible

Compatt 6+ transponders are backwards compatible with your existing Compatt 6 inventories so you can mix and match in the field.

Upgradable

We can upgrade your existing Compatt 6 into plus units quickly and cost effectively meaning you can go on to realise the full benefits of Fusion 2.

Overview

Compatt 6+ is used for high precision survey and construction operations in all water depths, including: spool piece metrology, pipeline touchdown monitoring, structure installation and dynamic positioning reference.

Specifications table

Feature Type 8300-3111 Type 8300-3113 Type 8300-5213
Depth rating 3,000 m 3,000 m 5,000 m
Operating frequency MF (20–34 kHz) MF (20–34 kHz) MF (20–34 kHz)
Transducer beam shape Omni-directional Directional Directional
Transmit Source level (dB re 1 µPa @ 1 m) 187–196 dB
(4 levels)
190–202 dB
(4 levels)
190–202 dB
(4 levels)
Tone Equivalent Energy (TEE) 193–202 dB 196–208 dB 196–208 dB
Receive sensitivity (dB re 1 µPa) 90–120 dB
(7 levels)
80–120 dB
(7 levels)
80–120 dB
(7 levels)
Ranging precision Better than 15 mm Better than 15 mm Better than 15 mm
Number of unique Wideband 2 addresses >300 >300 >300
Battery life (listening) Alkaline 833 days 833 days 833 days
Lithium 1,390 days 1,390 days 1,390 days
External power supply 24 V 24 V 24 V
Safe working load (4:1) 250 kg 250 kg 250 kg
Operating temperature -5 to 40°C -5 to 40°C -5 to 40°C
Storage temperature -20 to 55°C -20 to 55°C -20 to 55°C
Dimensions (maximum)
(length x diameter)
With sensor guard 1,034 x 200 mm 1,018 x 200 mm 1,018 x 200 mm
Without sensor guard 1,034 x 178 mm n/a n/a
Weight in air/water 23.8/11.8 kg 27.0/14.0 kg 29.0/15.0 kg
Endcap sensors and options
Temperature (±0.1°C) Standard Standard Standard
Tilt switch (±30–45°) Standard Standard Standard
Strain gauge pressure sensor (±0.1%) Standard Standard Standard
High precision strain gauge (±0.01%)
Presens or Keller
Optional Optional Optional
Paroscientific digiQuartz pressure sensor
1,350 m, 2,000 m, 4,130 m, 6,800 m (±0.01%)
Optional Optional Optional
Inclinometer (tilt sensor)
range ±90°, accuracy: ±1°
Standard Standard Standard
High accuracy inclinometer
range: ±90°, accuracy: ±0.05° over 0 – ±15°;
±0.2° over 0 – ±45°
Optional Optional Optional
Sound velocity sensor
±0.02 m/s accuracy under calibration conditions Optional Optional Optional
Release mechanism Standard Standard Standard
Power for external sensors Standard Standard Standard
Gyro input Standard Standard Standard

Frequently asked questions

Compatt 6 and 6+ Deployment Tests

Frequency management is obsolete. Here’s why.

6G Terminal Lite Range Test

When to use a float, when to use a stand?

How can I get the best performance from my long layback tracking operations?

How can I deploy my Compatt 6+ using iWand?

How to correctly set a Compatt 6+ release mechanism

Does Compatt 6+ have modem capabilities?

How often do endcap sensors need calibrating to keep them in spec?

Is it possible to position Compatt 6+s independently within the same array and send each positioning out of Fusion to our navigation software?

Will Compatt 6+ work with Ranger 2 and Marksman?

I want to buy standard red Compatt 6, are they still available for sale?

Can Compatt 6+ be used in the same LBL array as standard Compatt 6?

What is the difference between Compatt 6 and Compatt 6+?

If I’m using Fusion 2, can I choose to use Wideband 2 or Wideband 3 telemetry?

Can ROVNav 6+ be used with standard Compatt 6s?

Will my ROVNav 6 work with Compatt 6+?

Do I need to upgrade to Compatt 6+ and ROVNav 6+?

How to QC a Sound Velocity (SV) in Fusion 2

How far can my Compatt 6+ be above the seabed?

How to replace a battery in Compatt 6 and 6+ family of transponders

How to plan my sparse LBL array (guidance note)

How do I calibrate my sparse LBL array?

How do I set up structure deflection monitoring (SDM) in Fusion 2?

Can I use Compatt 6+ Multiuser in Fusion 2?

How do I perform a SLAM calibration in Fusion 2?

How do I set up sound speed collection and pressure to depth conversion in Fusion 2?

Software and firmware

Manuals and quick start guides

Did you know?

Compatt 6+ uses Wideband 3 technology