The very latest subsea tracking system from Applied Acoustics made a last minute entry onto the Applied Acoustics’ stand at Seawork this year.
The portable version of the Alpha adds extra versatility to the tracking system as it offers an onboard computer within a splash-proof case, enabling it to be moved very quickly from vessel to vessel, or quayside.
Just like its sister, the Easytrak Alpha, the Portable is a compact, entry-level tracking system which is simple to use and quick to deploy. The Alpha systems are ideally designed for small subsea vehicle operations (ROVs) or basic diver tracking.
At the heart of the Alpha Portable system is the console, a yellow marine grade case containing all the electronics for the USBL system, including internal GPS, a full size keyboard, large LCD display and built-in battery. Transponders and responders are supported through a number of pre-defined channels, with switchable interrogation.
The system’s lightweight transducer incorporates heading and tilt sensors and offers hemispherical tracking, giving it a particular advantage during shallow water applications. The transducer cable is pre-moulded to the transducer, removing the need for a separate connector.
As with all Easytrak systems, the integral features can be disabled, and peripheral equipment can be added using the external serial and USB ports.
Applied Acoustics manufactures a range of subsea tracking systems from the sophisticated rack-mount Nexus suitable for housing in a vessel’s Ops Room to the smaller portable units for small workboats and RIBs. Many systems are in use across the globe typically tracking underwater survey equipment or monitoring subsea operations.
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Source: seawork, June 14 , 2011; Image: applied acoustics