Sub-Mini 6 Transponder
Sonardyne International, UK, has launched the sixth generation (6G) version of its acoustic positioning transponder, the Wideband Sub-Mini. The new Wideband Sub Mini 6 (WSM6) is a versatile USBL (Ultra-Short BaseLine) transponder that now supports the Wideband 2 signal architecture, whilst retaining many of the design features that made the previous model an industry standard.
The WSM6 is designed for positioning ROVs, towfish and other mobile targets in water depths of up to 4,000 metres. Reliable, robust and compact, the new transponder is based upon field proven WSM mechanics and is available in MF Directional and MF Omni-Directional versions to suit a wide range of operational scenarios.
On the inside, WSM6 has been re-engineered to incorporate the latest Sonardyne Wideband 2 signal technology. This offers superior ranging accuracy, operation in a multi-user, multi vessel environment and fast (up to 1Hz) USBL position updates.
In addition to supporting Sonardyne Wideband2 signals, WSM6 also supports Sonardyne's original Wideband 1 scheme, Sonardyne tone, HPR300 and HPR400 channels, offering maximum flexibility and compatibility with customers' existing acoustic positioning hardware. The popular ‘Quickset Channels' feature is retained and extended to include Wideband 2 signals to aid rapid set-up and ease of use.
Darryl Newborough, Director of Subsea Product Development at Sonardyne said, "The introduction of WSM6 marks a significant addition to Sonardyne's 6G product range. USBL transponders are one of our most popular products and this upgrade of WSM will now allow us to offer customers greater performance and flexibility."
