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DPT 6+

USBL transponder

Engineered for

Seabed Structure
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Overview

The perfect choice for DP reference

DPT 6 is designed to be used as a seabed reference transponder by USBL acoustic positioning systems, installed on many Dynamically Positioned (DP) vessels.

Overview

Dynamic Positioning Transponder 6 (DPT 6) supports Wideband 2 acoustic ranging and telemetry providing high accuracy positioning, robust performance in noisy and multi-path conditions and easy set-up and use.

With hundreds of channels, less interference to and from other acoustic systems and multi-user capability, Wideband 2 enables easier SIMOPS vessel capability. These features of the DPT 6 help de-risk subsea operations and save vessel time and cost.

At a glance

  • Compatible with HPR systems
  • Up to 7,000 m depth rating
  • Advanced multi-user/multi-vessel capability
  • Robust acoustic performance in noisy conditions
  • Real-time diagnostics available on ranges to enable quality control

The DPT 6 is the standard length version and is based on the field proven mechanics of the previous version but with improvements to the end cap closure mechanisms. The design offers the perfect balance between size, acoustic output and battery life. Several depth ratings are available (3,000 m, 5,000 m and 7,000 m) all hard anodised aluminium alloy with protective polyurethane sleeve. Midi (shorter) and maxi (long endurance) options are also available. The DPT is fitted as standard with a highly reliable release mechanism to enable the unit to be deployed in a flotation collar and recovered to the surface without ROV intervention.

The DPT 6 is a midi-sized unit for deep water towfish tracking. Depth rated to 7,000 m, the unit is fitted with a high power super directional transducer. The DPTi 6 is fitted with internal inclinometers to accurately monitor riser angles (see separate datasheet). The unit can also be used with an external inclinometer unit to monitor BOP and flex joint angles.

Specifications table

Feature Type 8301-3111 Type 8301-3113 Type 8301-5213 Type 8301-7213
Depth Rating 3,000 m 3,000 m 5,000 m 7,000 m
Operating Frequency MF (20–34 kHz) MF (20–34 kHz) MF (20–34 kHz) MF (20–34 kHz)
Transducer Beam Shape Omni-directional 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)
190–202 dB
(4 levels)
Tone Equivalent Energy (TEE)1 193–202 dB 196–208 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)
80–120 dB
(7 levels)
Ranging Precision Better than 15 mm Better than 15 mm Better than 15 mm Better than 15 mm
Number of Unique Addresses Wideband 1 & 2 >500 >500 >500 >500
Battery Life (Listening) Alkaline 833 days 833 days 833 days 833 days
Lithium 1,390 days 1,390 days 1,390 days 1,390 days
Safe Working Load (4:1) (Release Mechanism) 250 kg 250 kg 250 kg 250 kg
Dimensions (Maximum)
(Length x Diameter)
With Sensor Guard 1,034 x 200 mm 1,034 x 200 mm 1,034 x 200 mm 1,034 x 200 mm
Without Sensor Guard 1,034 x 178 mm n/a n/a n/a
Weight in Air/Water2 23.8/11.8 kg 27.0/14.0 kg 29.0/15.0 kg 33.3/18.8 kg
Endcap Sensors and Options
Temperature (±0.1°C) Standard Standard Standard Standard
Tilt Switch (±30–45°) Standard Standard Standard Standard
Strain Gauge Pressure Sensor (±0.1%) Standard Standard Standard Standard
High Precision Strain Gauge (±0.01%)
Presens or Keller
Optional Optional Optional Optional
Paroscientific DigiQuartz Pressure Sensor
1,350 m, 2,000 m, 4,130 m, 6800 m (±0.01%)
Optional Optional Optional Optional
Inclinometer (Tilt Sensor)
Range ±90°, Accuracy: ±1°
Standard Standard Standard Standard
High Accuracy Inclinometer
Range: ±90°, Accuracy: ±0.05° over 0 – ±15°;
±0.2° over 0 – ±45°
Optional Optional Optional Optional
Sound Velocity Sensor
±0.02 m/s Accuracy Under Calibration Conditions
Optional Optional Optional Optional
Release Mechanism Standard Standard Standard Standard