Modem 6 (subsea)
Overview
Transferring data securely from subsea to surface
Modem 6 acoustic modems are a family of cost-effective solutions for simple point-to-point data transfer from a wide range of sensors including data loggers, ADCPs, CTDs and other subsea instruments. Suitable for a range of applications, including environmental surveys, aquaculture as well as tracking and communications
Overview
Built around our field-proven 6G hardware and Wideband 2 acoustic signal platforms, Modem 6 subsea units support secure subsea-to-surface wireless data transfer at speeds between 200 and 9,000 bps.
This makes them ideal for applications such as: near real-time data streaming, data harvesting from third party sensors or subsea command and control of equipment.
Modem 6 acoustic modems are aimed at simple data transfer applications which do not require the more complex functions such as integrated (USBL) positioning, on-board sensors or complex multi-node array telemetry. If you need any of these capabilities, or an OEM solution which you can integrate into your own instrument or vehicle, our application experts will be happy to discuss your requirements and identify the right solution for you.
We offer a variety of subsea-deployed acoustic Modem 6 units to suit any operational deployment scenario and data transfer mission. You can mount them on a variety of platforms ranging from seafloor installations to an AUV and transmit sensor or platform status data between instruments or to a surface buoy or vehicle.
At a glance
- Recommended for simple data retrieval projects
- Low cost and simple to configure
- Delivers up to 9,000 bps user data rate
- Depth ratings to 5,000 m
Modem 6 Sub-Mini
Modem 6 Sub-Mini is a compact and easy-to-mount instrument, suitable for transmission of data from a wide range of sensors including: current profilers, temperatures, depth and custom instrumentation. Type 8377-1111 is depth rated to 1,000 m and has an omni-directional transducer designed for excellent horizontal and shallow water communication. Type 8377-4112 is depth rated to 4,000 m and has a directional transducer.
Modem 6 Mini
Modem 6 Mini is available in MF with an omni-directional or directional transducer designed for excellent horizontal and shallow water communication. Both versions are depth rated to 3,000 m and have an internal battery offering 30 days listening life. External trickle charging is also supported.
Modem 6 Standard
Based on the field proven mechanics of Compatt 6 and DPT 6, Modem 6 Standard is a full-sized transponder with large internal battery pack making it suitable for long term deployments of multiple years. It’s also able to power external, third party sensors. Depth ratings of 5,000 m are available.
All of our family of underwater Modem 6 instruments benefit from same mechanics and electronics you’ll find in our other 6G transponders. These are trusted by leading offshore operators to perform in the most demanding marine environments and operational scenarios.
Specifications table
| Feature | Type 8377-1111 | Type 8377-4112 | Type 8244-3111 | Type 8244-3112 | Type 8307-3111 | Type 8307-3113 | Type 8307-5213 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Depth Rating | 1,000 m | 4,000 m | 3,000 m | 3,000 m | 3,000 m | 3,000 m | 5,000 m |
| Operating Frequency | MF (20–34 kHz) | MF (20–34 kHz) | MF (20–34 kHz) | MF (20–34 kHz) | MF (20–34 kHz) | MF (20–34 kHz) | MF (20–34 kHz) |
| Transceiver Beam Shape | Omni-directional | Directional | Omni-directional | Directional | Omni-directional | Directional | Directional |
| Transmit Source Level (dB re 1 µPa @ 1 m) | 181 dB | 187 dB | 181-187 dB | 187-193 dB | 187–196 dB (4 levels) | 190–202 dB (4 levels) | 190–202 dB (4 levels) |
| Power Supply | Rechargeable NiMH battery or external 24 V |
Rechargeable NiMH battery or external 24 V |
Lithium-ion or external 24 V | Lithium-ion or external 24 V | Alkaline or Lithium battery or external 24 V |
Alkaline or Lithium battery or external 24 V |
Alkaline or Lithium battery or external 24 V |
| Battery Life | >35 days | >35 Days | 30 Days | 30 Days | Alkaline = 833 days Lithium = 1390 days |
Alkaline = 833 days Lithium = 1390 days |
Alkaline = 833 days Lithium = 1390 days |
| Operating Temperature | -5 to 40°C | -5 to 40°C | -5 to 40°C | -5 to 40°C | -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 | -20 to 55°C | -20 to 55°C | -20 to 55°C | -20 to 55°C |
| Dimensions (Length x Diameter) | 420 x 75 mm | 429 x 97 mm | 501 x 94 mm | 512 x 97 mm | 955 x 200 mm (excluding release) | 925 x 200 mm (excluding release) | 925 x 200 mm (excluding release) |
| Weight in Air/ Water | 3.2/ 1.3 kg | 5.5/ 3.2 kg | 5.1/ 2.2 kg | 7.0/ 3.5 kg | 23.8/ 11.8 kg | 23.8/ 11.8 kg | 23.8/ 11.8 kg |
Frequently asked questions
How is data validated with Modem 6?
What modes are available with Modem 6?
How is data sent over the MDFT link with Modem 6?
Is there a handshaking mechanism or other link-establishing sequence?
Does Modem 6 support the MODBUS protocol?
Is simultaneous broadcasting and reception of messages supported with Modem 6?
What data rates should i expect from Modem 6?
What is the typical power consumption of a Modem 6?
How many topside modems do i need?
Which Modem 6 product best suits my application?
Modem 6 (point to point) or 6G telemetry (network comms)
How to replace a battery in Compatt 6 and 6+ family of transponders
Downloads
Integration guides
Did you know?
Modem 6 (subsea) is available in a range of sizes to suit your application
