Universal Acoustic Deep Ocean Transceiver with RF Command Data Link

Abstract

Requirements continually grow for a long life, reliable microprocessor-based universal transceiver to provide a multiplicity of data collection and analysis functions and then to relay that data to an air or surface platform. This paper discusses a system which includes both bottom transceiver and adjunct acoustic/RF surface buoy. The system overcomes inherent real time clock problems via unique acoustic synchronization; provides two different acoustic receivers -- one CFAR for command, data telemetry and navigation purposes and the second for specialized signature analysis or data acquisition; utilizes a multi-layer secure command structure; provides reliable built-in solid state memory to record data for subsequent transmission should the application so warrant. An initial use of the transceiver alone was for a stand-alone, direct acoustic application while used in conjunction with the full-duplex surface buoy, the system provides a cost effective, multipurpose smart data link which drastically reduces on-station ships' operating costs. Of particular interest is that the system is designed to provide user friendliness and ease of operation while being extremely flexible thereby meeting multiple applications.