Fugro Survey (Middle East) Ltd has become the latest offshore company to endorse Applied Acoustics’ S-Boom sub bottom profiling system, after purchasing the equipment for their geophysical survey operations based out of Abu Dhabi.

Developed for shallow water, ultra-high resolution surveys, the S-Boom system had been undergoing extensive trials with Fugro during the late summer of 2011 before being accepted and selected at the end of the year.

Fugro Survey (Middle East) Ltd has become the latest offshore company to endorse Applied Acoustics’ S-Boom sub bottom profiling system, after purchasing the equipment for their geophysical survey operations based out of Abu Dhabi.

Developed for shallow water, ultra-high resolution surveys, the S-Boom system had been undergoing extensive trials with Fugro during the late summer of 2011 before being accepted and selected at the end of the year.

Gavin Willoughby, Applied Acoustics Sales Manager commented, “As the market leader in the Middle East in the field of offshore survey, we are delighted that Fugro has chosen to work with our systems, and I am confident that such an investment will significantly add value to their operations and enhance their position in the Middle East region”.

S-Boom sub bottom profiling systems combine the power of three modified boomer plates to provide a single pulse, driven by a single source power supply. The fusion of these three transducers delivers a source level high enough to significantly increase sub-bottom penetration without loss of data quality.
Capable of operating at a maximum energy setting of 1000 Joules per pulse, and firing at three pulses per second, the S-Boom has achieved penetration results of over 200ms through sand and limestone whilst delivering the high quality resolution records expected from boomer systems.

Watergate Technical Services based in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, purchased two Applied Acoustics’ Easytrak USBL tracking systems in 2010 and they quickly became a key, successful operational tool. The company’s offshore operations cover the full range of subsea services such as pre-installation pipe route surveys, SEWOP positioning, site hazard surveys, subsea riser and mattress installations.

Watergate Technical Services based in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, purchased two Applied Acoustics’ Easytrak USBL tracking systems in 2010 and they quickly became a key, successful operational tool. The company’s offshore operations cover the full range of subsea services such as pre-installation pipe route surveys, SEWOP positioning, site hazard surveys, subsea riser and mattress installations.

Watergate Survey Manager, Ugo Nwangwu, maintains the Easytrak System with its 900 Series Beacons fits perfectly in their deep water survey operations in the Nigerian Gulf of Guniea and Bight of Bonny.

Prior to the purchase of the tracking system diver positioning and tracking had been challenging during subsea riser and mattress installations during pipelaying projects. However, once Easytrak was deployed, interfaced with GPS and gyro compass, precise positioning and heading determination of the diver and mattress installation frame became much easier. During a recent operation mattress laying operation off Warri in the Gulf of Guinea, accuracy of less than one metre was achieved, even when working in a near shallow environment.

The ability to interface the unit with a navigation computer also makes the operation free of ambiguity as the positioning information can be displayed at strategic offices as well as at the dive shack. This visible confirmation of operations underwater provides the client with all the necessary confidence in the accuracy and efficiency of the Watergate operation.

“Our Easytrak tracking system has made our positioning operational work very easy,” said Mr Nwangwu, “raised our operational standards and delighted our customers.”

The Easytrak Nexus has been successfully deployed on various subsea tracking surveys across the globe since its introduction in 2009 and is currently being used nearer to home during the geophysical survey of sections of North Sea, close to shore.

The Easytrak Nexus has been successfully deployed on various subsea tracking surveys across the globe since its introduction in 2009 and is currently being used nearer to home during the geophysical survey of sections of North Sea, close to shore.

The Geosurvey Department of Emu Ltd, a marine development, research and planning company based in Southampton, UK, is using the Applied Acoustics’ system on several high resolution Windfarm Engineering and UXO (Unexploded ordnance) surveys off the East coast. It is currently on the 12m vessel Emu Surveyor, being used to track towed sensors in less than 5m of water. Two further Nexus systems are on hire for similar jobs, one on the 24m Survey vessel RV Discovery and one on a charted vessel Nabcat II.

Emu has found the Nexus system particularly reliable and accurate in shallow water environments compared to other USBL systems they have used, and have been impressed with the consistency of results.

“We undertake a wide range of geophysical and hydrographic surveys for a variety of customers including scour monitoring, pipeline surveys and ports and harbour surveys in addition to the Coastal Windfarm Engineering and UXO survey we are currently engaged in,” said Richard Hamilton, Marine Geophysicist with Emu, “and of course in each case we always employ the latest technology from our survey vessels to provide cost effective world class results. The selection of the Easytrak Nexus system for positioning and tracking towed sensors is yet another example of us sourcing the best kit available.”

Easytrak Nexus is a rack-mounted USBL positioning system incorporating Digital Spread Spectrum Technology in its design. This reduces the transmitted acoustic signals’ susceptibility to interference enabling the calculation of accurate positioning information. The technology also rejects unwanted reflected signals that have made operating in challenging locations such as ports and harbours difficult in the past.

The North Sea survey work currently being undertaken by Emu represents the early stages of significant windfarm expansion plans formulated by the UK Government that is committed to raising the proportion of energy derived from renewable sources from 2.4% to 15% by 2020.

The new 3510 PAM Portable has been specifically designed to meet the harsh operating conditions associated with offshore marine operations. Housed in a water-proof rugged enclosure with a clear LCD display and splash proof key pad, the PAM Portable is perfectly designed for operations on deck.

The new 3510 PAM Portable has been specifically designed to meet the harsh operating conditions associated with offshore marine operations. Housed in a water-proof rugged enclosure with a clear LCD display and splash proof key pad, the PAM Portable is perfectly designed for operations on deck. It is a multi-functional tool used for beacon configuration and testing, a command unit for acoustic release transponders, and has acoustic telemetry/command and control applications.

In addition, the 3510 PAM Portable configures the Applied Acoustics’ 1000 Beacons via a serial link, is Spread Spectrum compatible and operates the new 1500 Series Acoustic Release Transponders recently introduced to satisfy the growing number of oceanographic applications.

The PAM Portable is supplied with a lightweight Test Transducer and for subsea applications such as ranging, relocation, release operation and telemetry a new 3190 Dunker Transducer, with its integral 30 meter cable and protection cage.

The portability of the unit, long battery life, intuitive key pad menu functions and its weather proof features make it a truly versatile tool, ideal for offshore use.

By harnessing the combined power of three of their AA202 Boomer Plates to provide a single pulse, the Applied Acoustics’ S-Boom System is re-defining the boundaries of shallow seismic surveying. Already recognised for producing high resolution seabed profiles, the fusion of these three transducers delivers a source level high enough to significantly increase sub-bottom penetration without loss of data quality.

By harnessing the combined power of three of their AA202 Boomer Plates to provide a single pulse, the Applied Acoustics’ S-Boom System is re-defining the boundaries of shallow seismic surveying. Already recognised for producing high resolution seabed profiles, the fusion of these three transducers delivers a source level high enough to significantly increase sub-bottom penetration without loss of data quality.

Capable of operating at a maximum energy setting of 1000 Joules per pulse, and firing at three pulses per second, the S-Boom has achieved penetration results of over 200mS through sand and limestone whilst delivering the high quality resolution records expected from boomer systems. The high repetition rates and pulse stability allow for faster surveying, adding to the system’s overall versatility.

As with all Applied Acoustics’ sub bottom systems, the S-Boom forms part of a modular package able to operate from a number of energy sources from the renowned CSP range. For optimum results, the fast charging CSP-S1200 power supply has been designed as the energy source of choice for this system, although the system can operate just as well with a source from the larger CSP-S range. Furthermore, some existing variants of the CSP-D range can also be used at lower settings and longer pulse intervals.

One of the latest renewable energy sources currently being investigated for future large scale commercial deployment is tidal energy that exploits the natural ebb and flow of coastal tidal waters. As with other energy sources offshore, innovations to harness tidal forces often throw up additional operational difficulties particularly to do with positioning of the devices on the ocean floor and their connections to shore.

One of the latest renewable energy sources currently being investigated for future large scale commercial deployment is tidal energy that exploits the natural ebb and flow of coastal tidal waters. As with other energy sources offshore, innovations to harness tidal forces often throw up additional operational difficulties particularly to do with positioning of the devices on the ocean floor and their connections to shore.

One such company experienced in hydrographic/seabed survey and recently involved in the installation and testing of a tidal energy test rig off the Orkney Isles in Scotland, is local survey company Triscom Marine Ltd. A specialist in subsea positioning techniques pioneered in the offshore oil & gas construction, Triscom have recently added the latest USBL positioning system, the Applied Acoustics’ Easytrak Nexus, to its equipment pool to meet the increasing requirement for accurate underwater positioning tasks.

“We were required to inspect some subsea cabling in the area of a massive OpenHydro tidal turbine off the island of Eday in Orkney,” stated Tristan Thorne the Senior Surveyor, “because it was important to know what was happening in the deep inlet where surges of water are funnelled along a particular channel. As the turbine is mounted on the seabed, deep enough not to interfere with shipping traffic, its positioning is critical as are the cables in the vicinity that lead to shore.”

“We carry out a lot of work like this mapping inshore cable routes which are often in shallow and dynamic environments,” said Tristan, “and very often we find damage or anomalies that must be accurately marked for reporting to clients. The Nexus is the perfect design to perform very well in this capacity as the results achieved are accurate and repeatable in the most challenging acoustic environments.”







In initial trials this summer the Easytrak system was deployed firstly with a small ROV used to visually inspect and verify a cable route for a seabed-mounted current profiler, then again with a towed sidescan sonar for a salvage contract.

“We were looking for a very small seabed asset in a difficult tidal site, and towing the sonar in a straight line was impossible, but we were able to track it with the Nexus and this gave us an accurate fix on our targets.
After the sonar sweeps, the Nexus guided the ROV to these targets and enabled us to locate the missing asset, survey it and report its position to our client.”

Since the trials, Triscom has continued its use of the Nexus in a range of contracts including the ongoing support of the major tidal generator trial. Demand is also high for this Nexus outside Triscom's traditional operational area as the company has successfully hired its system to other industries in between its own contracts.

“Easytrak Nexus is generally impressive,” stated Tris, “We mount the system’s transceiver on a pole aboard our survey vessel and track the ROV's, divers, sonars, crane hooks and virtually anything underwater with a high degree of accuracy.”

Tristan admits that the Nexus system has quickly become an essential piece of kit for this company because it greatly adds to its operational efficiency – particularly he says, as “its interoperability with industry standard beacon types is great too.”

The Easytrak Nexus is the latest generation of USBL tracking systems from Applied Acoustics that has Spread Spectrum Technology incorporated into it to improve the accuracy of positioning information. This technology also rejects unwanted reflected signals that have made operations in challenging locations such as ports and harbours difficult in the past. It is a rack-mounted system with built in PC that displays positioning information on a separate monitor where the activity of up to ten subsea targets within a specified operating area can be viewed.

An Applied Acoustics’ rack-mount USBL tracking system is has recently been deployed in the northern Arctic Ocean. The system, the Easytrak Nexus, is the most sophisticated of the Easytrak systems, with spread spectrum technology for high accuracy performance. Working with a variety of dynamic underwater targets, the Nexus was used during a geohazard survey by McGregor Geosciences Limited, a marine geosciences and seabed mapping company based in Bedford, Nova Scotia.

An Applied Acoustics’ rack-mount USBL tracking system is has recently been deployed in the northern Arctic Ocean. The system, the Easytrak Nexus, is the most sophisticated of the Easytrak systems, with spread spectrum technology for high accuracy performance. Working with a variety of dynamic underwater targets, the Nexus was used during a geohazard survey by McGregor Geosciences Limited, a marine geosciences and seabed mapping company based in Bedford, Nova Scotia.

For the second consecutive year, from May to October 2010, McGregor Geosciences was contracted to map seafloor and shallow seabed structures in the high Arctic. The work was being carried out to identify potential drilling hazards and provide baseline environmental information in advance of offshore drilling. For the work, McGregor mobilized two survey vessels, the R/V Strait Explorer and the R/V Poseidon EA 303, ships that are ideally suited for operations in ice prone arctic waters.

The survey vessels were tasked with collecting multibeam bathymetry with backscatter, 2D High Resolution seismic, sub-bottom profiles, side scan sonar, box and gravity cores, grab samples, water sampling and profiles as well as video/stills photography, with the deployment of current meter moorings at four locations. Both vessels were fully staffed with a team of survey and geoscience experts that carried out all phases of the acquisition, processing, interpretation and reporting for the project.

Reliable, accurate and well serviced equipment is the key to the success of any marine project and to augment the suite of McGregor equipment on board, the Easytrak Nexus system was amongst a wide range of acquisition materials and ocean sensors supplied to McGregor by ROMOR Ocean Solutions of Dartmouth Nova Scotia, to fully kit the two survey vessels.

“We’re dedicated to supplying our customers with the best the market can provide to ensure their operations run as smoothly and efficiently as possible,” explained Matthew Davis, ROMOR’s Sales Manager, “and our purchase of Easytrak Nexus for our rental pool is just another example of sourcing exactly what our client’s need.”

Used for the first time in Canadian waters, the Nexus is mounted in the Ops Room of the survey vessel where it can monitor the activity of up to 10 subsea targets within a specified operating area displaying their position on a separate monitor in real-time.

Rick Hunter, General Manager of McGregor Geosciences confirmed that both survey vessels, mobilized from Port Hawkesbury, Nova Scotia in early May, have now returned to port following a successful mission.

The Easytrak Nexus purchased by ROMOR is the first system in North America. ROMOR is the Canadian representative for Applied Acoustics with 25 years’ experience in the marine marketplace, offering instrumentation, integrated solutions and technical services for the Canadian geophysical and oceanographic industries.

The latest Applied Acoustics rack-mount USBL tracking system is now available from a number of rental agencies covering the globe.

The latest Applied Acoustics rack-mount USBL tracking system is now available from a number of rental agencies covering the globe. The system, the Easytrak Nexus, now incorporates Spread Spectrum Technology for increased operational efficiency and like all Easytrak systems, it combines its high accuracy performance with versatility and ease of operation.

“Nexus has proved its worth in a number of comparative trials so we’re pleased that rental outlets have added the tracking system to their inventories, recognising it has the sort of operational performance their customers require,” commented Sales Manager, Gavin Willoughby.

The rental units are available for the UK and Europe/Africa region from Sonar Equipment Services in Great Yarmouth, ROMOR Atlantic in Canada for Americas, and Sea & Land Technologies and Hydronav in Singapore for the Far East/Australia region.

Applied Acoustics’ new USBL underwater tracking system is making its first appearance at Seawork in June. Called the Easytrak Alpha, it is the introductory and most compact of their range of subsea tracking systems.

Applied Acoustics’ new USBL underwater tracking system is making its first appearance at Seawork in June. Called the Easytrak Alpha, it is the introductory and most compact of their range of subsea tracking systems.

Ideally suited for small ROV operations or basic diver tracking, Alpha is a condensed and cost-effective system for monitoring close range subsea targets.

The Alpha system is centred on a desktop command console connected to the submerged transducer and to the host PC via a USB port. With its own internal GPS receiver, Alpha calculates the target’s position as well as its range and bearing. With the ability to offer hemispherical tracking, Alpha is ideal for shallow water applications from small work boats in coastal waters, estuaries and lakes. A fully portable version with integral computer and display will also be available by the summer of this year.

Alpha joins other Easytrak systems in a range of subsea tracking units from Applied Acoustics that offer true flexibility in operation, including a rack-mounted and spread spectrum model. The addition of a wide range of transponders for positioning and release completes the versatility of the USBL systems on offer.

Many Applied Acoustics’ tracking systems are in use across the globe by commercial marine survey companies, oceanographic institutions and defence industries, all supported by a network of overseas agents.

Great Yarmouth based Applied Acoustic Engineering Ltd has won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category.

Great Yarmouth based Applied Acoustic Engineering Ltd has won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category. The Award is recognition of its outstanding achievement in boosting export revenues by over 300% during six years of continuous growth, and selling more than 70% of its products overseas. This extraordinary performance has been made possible through innovation of highly technical products and sustained support of a strong network of overseas representatives.

“This is tremendous news for us,” said Managing Director Adam Darling, “We have competitors all over the world, so it’s great to know that what we do in terms of engineering excellence, customer service and fast response technical support, really pays off. Our sales figures reflect our team effort in the truest sense. I’m pleased for everyone in the company because the recognition of a Queen’s Award is about as good as it gets in business.”

The company designs and manufactures underwater acoustic positioning, tracking and survey equipment sold mainly to the commercial offshore energy market but increasingly sales have been secured with oceanographic research institutions and naval defence industries. Applied Acoustics’ largest overseas market is the USA followed by the Far East. New markets established in recent years include Australia, Canada, Argentina, Brazil and India. The company is gearing up for more orders in 2010 with job openings planned for May.

The Queens Award is a highly prized recognition of business achievement requiring an exceptional overall standard of commercial success and corporate responsibility. Internationally recognised, it is universally regarded as one of the most prestigious business accolades in the world.

Applied Acoustics proudly announced that it reached a significant milestone at the Oceanology International exhibition in London recently. The company has been supplying subsea acoustic equipment for 21 years and celebrated with a champagne and strawberries reception on their stand at the show.

Applied Acoustics proudly announced that it reached a significant milestone at the Oceanology International exhibition in London recently. The company has been supplying subsea acoustic equipment for 21 years and celebrated with a champagne and strawberries reception on their stand at the show.

Managing Director Adam Darling reflected on the last 21 years by saying, “We started from very small beginnings in a former goat shed in a tiny Norfolk village and now our products are in use all over the world. I particularly wanted to thank our customers for their loyalty over the years, as well as our many overseas agents, so a reception here seemed like the perfect opportunity.

“It’s been really enjoyable and the years have passed quickly but I’m now looking forward to the next 21” he added.

Established in 1989 and based in Great Yarmouth, UK, Applied Acoustics designs and manufactures subsea positioning and USBL tracking systems, and marine seismic power supplies for offshore survey companies, defence and oceanographic institutions. A worldwide network of representatives ensures customer service on a global scale.

Applied Acoustics launched a powerful new seismic energy source at Oceanology. An extension to the range of market leading seismic power supplies, the CSP-S12000 features a maximum output energy level of 12000 joules, bringing a new dimension to shallow seismic reflection surveys.

Applied Acoustics launched a powerful new seismic energy source at Oceanology. An extension to the range of market leading seismic power supplies, the CSP-S12000 features a maximum output energy level of 12000 joules, bringing a new dimension to shallow seismic reflection surveys.

Designed for use specifically with the upgraded 12KJ Delta Sparker, the CSP-S12000 has been created following customer demand for increased seabed penetration and operations in deeper waters. With its fast charge rate of 2500 Joules per second, the new CSP-S can operate at maximum power once every 5 seconds, allowing surveyors access to geology previously difficult to profile with portable, surface towed equipment.

Although the CSP-S12000 is the largest unit in the company’s range of geophysical power supplies, it still fits comfortably within a single 21U robust housing, removing the need for separate enclosures for the capacitor banks. This single box solution also gives the system portability, and the ability to be transferred between vessels of opportunity.

Technical Manager Neil MacDonald explained, “We’ve many CSP units working throughout the world both in coastal waters and deeper out to sea providing reliable sub-bottom profiling data for a variety of applications, so this new unit will provide the valuable extension to that range that geophysicists need.”

Applied Acoustics unveiled their new USBL tracking system at Underwater Intervention in New Orleans this February. Called the Easytrak Alpha, it is the introductory and most compact of their range of subsea tracking systems. Ideally suited for small vehicle operations or basic diver tracking, Alpha is a condensed and cost-effective system for monitoring close range subsea targets.

Applied Acoustics unveiled their new USBL tracking system at Underwater Intervention in New Orleans this February. Called the Easytrak Alpha, it is the introductory and most compact of their range of subsea tracking systems. Ideally suited for small vehicle operations or basic diver tracking, Alpha is a condensed and cost-effective system for monitoring close range subsea targets.

The Alpha system is centred on a desktop command console connected to the submerged transducer and to the host PC via a USB port. With its own internal GPS receiver, Alpha calculates the target’s position as well as its range and bearing. With the ability to offer hemispherical tracking, Alpha is ideal for shallow water applications from small work boats in coastal waters, estuaries and lakes.

Alpha joins other Easytrak systems in a range of subsea tracking units from Applied Acoustics that offer true flexibility in operation, including a rack-mounted, spread spectrum model and a fully portable version. The support of a wide range of transponders for positioning and release completes the versatility of the USBL systems on offer.

Applied Acoustics’ Field Engineer Mark Eccleston is recently back from Korea where he lead a training course covering all operational aspects of the new Easytrak Nexus, the latest USBL tracking system from the company. KORDI, the Korean Maritime and Ocean Engineering Research Institute, purchased the system unit following comparative trials over the summer months and it was put through its paces in the waters of Geoje Bay, SW of Busan, this October.

Applied Acoustics’ Field Engineer Mark Eccleston is recently back from Korea where he lead a training course covering all operational aspects of the new Easytrak Nexus, the latest USBL tracking system from the company. KORDI, the Korean Maritime and Ocean Engineering Research Institute, purchased the system unit following comparative trials over the summer months and it was put through its paces in the waters of Geoje Bay, SW of Busan, this October.

“The Korean engineers were very pleased with Nexus,” said Mark. “It has lots of special features which make it really flexible and versatile, and now with multiple target tracking and Spread Spectrum Technology for improved range stability, its accuracy could be demonstrated very clearly. Although my Korean is very limited, anyone could see the performance was good - the system spoke for itself.”

As with all Easytrak systems, Nexus works with a variety of Applied Acoustics’ underwater targets and beacon types including pingers, responders, release and positioning transponders. The Broadband Spread Spectrum Technology, which rejects unwanted reflected signals, makes operations easier in challenging locations such as the shallow waters of ports and harbours.

Applied Acoustics, a leading manufacturer of undersea positioning, tracking and sub-bottom profiling equipment, has a new 6000m rated pressure testing facility. Newly constructed in 2009, this facility is now available for hire at the Great Yarmouth factory.

Applied Acoustics, a leading manufacturer of undersea positioning, tracking and sub-bottom profiling equipment, has a new 6000m rated pressure testing facility. Newly constructed in 2009, this facility is now available for hire at the Great Yarmouth factory.

The chamber has a maximum operating pressure of 690 bar and has an internal diameter of 340mm with a useable length of 1500mm. This allows for most transducer assemblies and towfish designs to be catered for. Assemblies of up to 500kg can be handled by the overhead hoist.

The Pressure Test Tank is sunk into the ground to ease the handling of the Devices Under Test (DUT) and is positioned close to roller-shutter doors for access. The Pressure Test Tank also has the facility to offer penetrator openings through the top end cap.

Hire rates are based on half, full-day or longer periods as required.

Increased sales in Applied Acoustics’ underwater positioning equipment and seismic survey systems has necessitated their move into larger premises. The new facility, more than twice the size of the previous building, houses spacious production areas, test facilities and administrative offices as well as a new suite to be used as a Training Centre...

Increased sales in Applied Acoustics’ underwater positioning equipment and seismic survey systems has necessitated their move into larger premises. The new facility, more than twice the size of the previous building, houses spacious production areas, test facilities and administrative offices as well as a new suite to be used as a Training Centre. In addition, the company has invested in a spectacular new 6000m pressure test tank which will allow it to develop products for full ocean depth operations.

“The successful launch of several new products in recent years has meant our production facilities have been rather congested,” explained Managing Director Adam Darling, “but now with much more space we can offer a greater product range, shorter lead times and more products from stock.”

The staff have worked hard and a healthy order book reflects their efforts, so I’m delighted we can step up to provide an even better service in the months ahead.” he added.

Applied Acoustics was established in 1989 and now manufactures a wide range of positioning beacons, USBL subsea tracking systems and seismic sub-bottom profiling equipment used by commercial companies and academic institutions worldwide. Their latest new product, the rack-mounted, spread spectrum Easytrak Nexus was launched recently at Ocean Business in Southampton.

The new facility was officially opened by Norfolk MP Tony Wright on April 23rd with local VIPs, customers and suppliers invited to toast the company’s success.

Applied Acoustic Engineering launched its latest USBL tracking system at Ocean Business in Southampton, UK, in April. The new system, Easytrak Nexus, represents the latest in a series of innovative developments in subsea acoustic tracking by the company.

Applied Acoustic Engineering launched its latest USBL tracking system at Ocean Business in Southampton, UK, in April. The new system, Easytrak Nexus, represents the latest in a series of innovative developments in subsea acoustic tracking by the company. Now incorporating Spread Spectrum Technology, Nexus combines its high accuracy performance with versatility and ease of operation.

The rack-mounted Easytrak Nexus determines the position of a dynamic subsea target through the transmission and reception of acoustic signals between the submerged transceiver and the target beacon. By incorporating Spread Spectrum Technology, the frequency of the transmitted signal is able to be varied, reducing its susceptibility to interference and enabling the calculation of accurate positioning information. Spread Spectrum Technology also rejects unwanted reflected signals that have made operating in challenging locations such as ports or harbours difficult in the past.

As with all Easytrak systems, Nexus works with a variety of underwater targets and beacon types including Pingers, Responders, Release and Positioning Transponders. Furthermore, Nexus operates in both traditional ‘tone-burst’ and new Spread Spectrum modes. The Spread Spectrum (SS) Beacons include an enhanced 1000 Series with a depth telemetry option and a Bi-directional Spread Spectrum version for improved range stability. With low-power consumption the bi-directional Spread Spectrum beacons can be connected to peripheral devices subsea to send back digital data, for example current flow or heading, as well as simultaneously being used as navigation transponders.

Nexus has a built in PC running embedded Windows XP with a solid state HD. The positioning information is displayed on a separate monitor where activity of up to ten subsea targets within a specified operating area can be viewed. These targets can be Applied Acoustics’ beacons or those operating in the same frequency range from other sources.

Applied Acoustic Engineering’s range of sub-bottom profiling equipment has recently won critical acclaim during a number of operations in the harsh working conditions north of the Arctic Circle, firstly as part of a research study by the University of Bergen and secondly in the search for hydrocarbons beneath the seabed.

Applied Acoustic Engineering’s range of sub-bottom profiling equipment has recently won critical acclaim during a number of operations in the harsh working conditions north of the Arctic Circle, firstly as part of a research study by the University of Bergen and secondly in the search for hydrocarbons beneath the seabed.

Scientists from Bergen, Norway, have been conducting studies to determine the origin of the Alpha Ridge north of Greenland which required them to obtain seismic data from the seabed underneath autonomous drifting buoys placed on multi-year ice. Personnel from the university had developed their own sparker sound source to suit their specific requirements, but needed an energy supply to operate remotely, in sub-zero temperatures, for a period of approximately 6 months, recharging itself from its own power supply.

Applied Acoustics’ technicians, in conjunction with the university, tackled this challenge by developing a novel seismic energy supply capable of firing a 4.8KJ shot using energy harnessed from the sun. A series of solar cells were incorporated into the unit to recharge the capacitor banks easily and sufficiently, creating a viable and environmentally friendly way round what could have been a major obstacle. The successful arrangement meant that with the buoy drifting at an average speed of 5km/day, the system could fire the sparker every 50m of movement.

The reflected seismic energy, received by a single hydrophone, was digitised and recorded, and sent to Bergen via the Iridium Satellite Network. This enabled the University’s scientists to monitor the operation remotely, returning to the region to retrieve the equipment at the end of the project. Three of these drifting seismic buoys are planned for further deployment in the Spring of 2009.

Elsewhere in the Polar region, Applied Acoustics’ geophysical capabilities have been put to the test in a very different way. Their 6000J Delta Sparker with CSP-S energy source have been utilised in geohazard surveys off the northern Alaskan coast to establish the presence, or not, of shallow gas, active faulting and potential hydrate zones. The Ultra High Resolution (UHR) multichannel seismic surveys utilised a 48-channel streamer at 6.25m spacing in conjunction with the multi-tip Delta Sparker array.

The deployment of the CSP-D and Delta Sparker system offered speed of mobilisation as it required only a two-man operation and a readily available single-phase generator on a vessel of opportunity rather than a cumbersome air compressor and air-gun arrangement on a dedicated platform.

The Automatic Variable Input Power (AVIP) circuitry of the CSP-S also proved important. By smoothing the input voltage to the energy source, a soft start is provided which gradually increases the power output, reducing the load on the equipment and keeping generator requirements to a minimum.

The project was mobilised in the western Alaskan port of Nome in October 2008 and in order to maximise weather conditions the survey was performed ‘single pass’ with good quality high resolution data achieved.

Applied Acoustics have recently returned from a police diving conference where the latest equipment and techniques for policing maritime operations were discussed. Gavin Willoughby, Sales Manager, gave a presentation about Easytrak, the underwater tracking system which can provide police diving teams with vital underwater location information.

Applied Acoustics have recently returned from a police diving conference where the latest equipment and techniques for policing maritime operations were discussed. Gavin Willoughby, Sales Manager, gave a presentation about Easytrak, the underwater tracking system which can provide police diving teams with vital underwater location information.
Easytrak is used to plot targets, plan the route to a specific seabed or lake location of interest while the divers’ path is monitored on shore or on a vessel above in real-time. Gavin explained, “Underwater dive operations are fraught with difficulty and one of the biggest challenges is knowing where you are, where you’re going and where you’ve been. With Easytrak on the team it’s possible to save a lot of time during a search – plus your colleagues know exactly where you are, so it adds to your safety.”

Applied Acoustics has appointed a new agent in Italy. Mepeco S.r.l , based in San Donato Milanese, near Milan, has been operating since 1978 and supplies equipment and services for oil and gas exploration, drilling and production as well as Ocean Engineering.

Applied Acoustics has appointed a new agent in Italy. Mepeco S.r.l , based in San Donato Milanese, near Milan, has been operating since 1978 and supplies equipment and services for oil and gas exploration, drilling and production as well as Ocean Engineering. Applied Acoustics’ range of sub-bottom profiling equipment, subsea location and tracking devices will sit very well with Mepeco’s other sensors, instruments and components for oceanography and hydrography.

Roberto Balistrieri, Sales and Technical Director of Mepeco, is delighted to have added the Applied Acoustics’ products to his company’s portfolio. He says, “These products are very well known throughout the world for their high quality, engineering excellence and reliability so I am very pleased to be able to offer these to our clients in Italy, and some of the former Yugoslav countries.”

Commenting on the development Gavin Willoughby, Sales Manager of Applied Acoustics, said, “The appointment of specialist organisations to represent our products is a vital part of our overall sales strategy, so we are delighted to welcome Mepeco to our team of agents, and look forward to building a successful working relationship with them. This appointment will strengthen our presence in Southern Europe and will help to bring the Applied Acoustics name to the attention of new and existing markets.”

Applied Acoustics have added a further streamer hydrophone to their range of sub-bottom profiling products. Up to now the company has offered standard streamer hydrophones with 1-8 or 20 element designs but from July it is introducing a 12 element hydrophone spacing...

Applied Acoustics have added a further streamer hydrophone to their range of sub-bottom profiling products. Up to now the company has offered standard streamer hydrophones with 1-8 or 20 element designs but from July it is introducing a 12 element hydrophone spacing, with the array calculated to offer the optimum resolution and penetration for either sparker or boomer applications.

The length of the hydrophone streamers, as with the other variants, remains at 4.5m with a robust 50m tow leader as standard, but the elements are spaced at 250mm. Extensive trials proved this was an ideal specification to bridge the gap between earlier models.

Applied Acoustics supply complete seismic sub-bottom profiling systems including the Seismic Energy Source, the Seismic Sound Source (boomer or sparker) as well as streamer hydrophones so can provide the best package of components tailored to each application. Several hundreds of these systems are in use worldwide by marine survey companies, government departments and academic institutions.

Applied Acoustics, based in Gt.Yarmouth UK, has been manufacturing sub-bottom profiling systems for over 15 years. With advances in technology the company has been able to steadily enhance its product range to meet the ever increasing demands of the industry as regards both performance and safety.

Applied Acoustics, based in Gt.Yarmouth UK, has been manufacturing sub-bottom profiling systems for over 15 years. With advances in technology the company has been able to steadily enhance its product range to meet the ever increasing demands of the industry as regards both performance and safety. For example, the discharge mechanism has evolved from a mechanical device to a solid state switch and the mains supply demand has improved due to the efficiency and averaging rate of the charger. A very recent development, the ‘Dual Voltage Setting’ adds extra versatility by enabling the operator to ‘tune’ the boomer to a lower operating frequency and thus obtain both increased penetration and resolution. Across the product range, output current is monitored shot by shot for fault conditions. Operator safety has always been a top priority so several dual layer features are incorporated to ensure very high safety standards are met.

In the past year alone the company has launched three new Seismic Power Sources; the CSP-D and CSP-P with their special dual voltage output and the CSP-S, a compact ‘all in one’ 6000 Joule power source.

Launched at Oceanology International in London in March, the CSP-S provides both requirements geophysicists have when examining the subsea sediment layers; high resolution, shallow penetration or low resolution, high penetration. It operates both with lower powered boomer plates, such as the AA300 boomer as well as the 6000J sparkers.

Applied Acoustic Engineering is launching its latest Beacons at Oceanology International. The new range, the 1000 Series, is a more electronically sophisticated product with improved reliability. Clever engineering design has also made the new product simpler to use.

Applied Acoustic Engineering is launching its latest Beacons at Oceanology International. The new range, the 1000 Series, is a more electronically sophisticated product with improved reliability. Clever engineering design has also made the new product simpler to use. The Channel Selector switches have gone and in their place is digital control from an external Smart Switch.

The palm sized Smart Switch, with direct connection to the beacon, is packed full of useful electronic circuitry enabling the device to perform a multitude of important tasks in addition to transponder configuration. These include battery diagnostics, trickle charge/fast charge monitoring & control, and depth telemetry selection. Easy to use, the small device provides a smooth and efficient set-up and provides valuable operational information on the clear LCD screen. The
new 1000 Series can also be configured direct from a PC.

“Using our years of experience and useful feedback from our customers we knew exactly what was required when we started designing this product, “ said Neil MacDonald AAE’s Technical Manager, “so we’ve perfected the set-up function and provided the operators with really useful data - just what they need in the field. Even the firmware can be updated remotely via the internet.

“This is an extension to our product range, a means by which we can cater for all tastes, as the 900 Series of beacons will retain their strong role in our product portfolio.” he added.

The addition of a standard 5-pin bulkhead connector, offering pin-for-pin compatibility, improves the versatility and worldwide appeal of the product.

“This is a important new product for the company, ”said Gavin Willoughby, Sales Manager. “The quality of our products and our engineering excellence is recognised across the globe, so Oceanology International will provide us with the perfect platform to let our customers know about this exciting development.”

Such is the enthusiasm for Applied Acoustics’ Easytrak USBL Tracking System, that three organisations have recently added extra systems to their initial investment.

Such is the enthusiasm for Applied Acoustics’ Easytrak USBL Tracking System, that three organisations have recently added extra systems to their initial investment.The customers involved have been using Easytrak in a variety of applications showing how truly versatile and valuable the product has proved to be.

GSE Rentals in Aberdeen, UK, now have two Easytrak systems in their rental fleet. “We found the one unit we had was in constant demand both to our customers in the North Sea and further afield, so it was an easy decision to double up.” said Alan Cameron, Engineering Manager of GSE Rentals.

A similar endorsement was received from Gardline Environmental, based in Great Yarmouth, UK, who found the accuracy and reliability of Easytrak during subsea survey tasks crucial to operational success and cost-effectiveness. Gardline’s second and third systems were delivered at the end of 2007.

The third customer ordering again is the Royal Danish Navy, who use Easytrak in their specialist diving and mine counter measure operations. The Navy will take delivery of their third unit during the first quarter of 2008.

“We’re particularly pleased that the global customer base for this product continues to expand,” said Gavin Willoughby, AAE’s Sales Manager, “but what’s equally satisfying is the knowledge that Easytrak is fulfilling a number of key roles within individual organisations, which breeds confidence in the system, resulting in a number of repeat orders.”

Software enhancements to Applied Acoustics’ Easytrak subsea tracking system will make their debut on stand 409 at UI in New Orleans. The new sophisticated package complements the software already in the main console by providing an additional display on an external PC via Ethernet.

Software enhancements to Applied Acoustics’ Easytrak subsea tracking system will make their debut on stand 409 at UI in New Orleans. The new sophisticated package complements the software already in the main console by providing an additional display on an external PC via Ethernet.

The intuitive software also allows the user to resize or rescale the vessel graphic, utilize a measurement tool and customise the workspace.

The innovative USBL tracking system, Easytrak, is manufactured in the UK by Applied Acoustic Engineering and sold in the US by Subsea Technologies of Houston.

Applied Acoustics has recently announced the sale of its 50th Easytrak subsea tracking system at Offshore Europe, Aberdeen. The system is one of a pair that has been ordered by CaspianLab in Azerbaijan for use in their operations in the Caspian Sea.

Applied Acoustics has recently announced the sale of its 50th Easytrak subsea tracking system at Offshore Europe, Aberdeen. The system is one of a pair that has been ordered by CaspianLab in Azerbaijan for use in their operations in the Caspian Sea.The first Easytraks were delivered in June 2005, with NIWA, the New Zealand based oceanographic institute, one of the first to recognise the benefits of the Easytrak system. Since then other units have been purchased by international survey companies such as Fugro and Gardline for user in the Gulf of Mexico, West Africa, SE Asia and the North Sea. Further users include police authorities, marine project engineering firms as well as a number of European Navies.

Easytrak is a compact, portable Ultra Short Baseline (USBL) tracking system that uses a multi-element single transducer to send and receive acoustic signals to and from multiple underwater targets from which range, bearing and depth information can be determined.

“We designed Easytrak not just to be reliable but specifically to be user-friendly and uncomplicated, even for a relatively inexperienced user,” explained Gavin Willoughby, Sales Manager, “So we’re pleased that it is proving its worth in so many diverse situations and different applications, including successfully tracking floating targets.” he added.

Seatronics, one of the offshore industry’s leading rental companies, prides itself on offering its many clients the latest technology from leading manufacturers. This strategy has seen them make a significant investment in further equipment from Applied Acoustic Engineering (AAE) to expand the sub-bottom profiling stock available from their Abu Dhabi operation.

Seatronics, one of the offshore industry’s leading rental companies, prides itself on offering its many clients the latest technology from leading manufacturers. This strategy has seen them make a significant investment in further equipment from Applied Acoustic Engineering (AAE) to expand the sub-bottom profiling stock available from their Abu Dhabi operation.

The additional CSP1500 and AA300 boomer plate system has been immediately used on a pipeline route survey between Qatar and the UAE and is already earmarked for other engineering surveys offshore UAE and Oman.

“The AAE equipment is our system of choice, particularly for shallow water Boomer/Sparker applications, because of its ease of use, high performance and reliability, coupled with its universal acceptance by the industry worldwide.” says Seatronics’ Director Graeme Ross, based in Aberdeen.

We know that the many AAE systems available for rent from our bases in Aberdeen, Gt.Yarmouth, Houston, New Iberia, Abu Dhabi and Singapore will provide us with a rental asset with good price/performance ratios because we are confident in the system’s reliability and the first class technical support from AAE.” he adds.

Applied Acoustic Engineering offers both Boomer Plate and Sparker Assembly sound sources as well as a variety of CSP seismic energy sources, so the optimum package can be tailored to the application.

Following on from their success supplying Easytrak underwater tracking systems to both the UK Royal Navy and Royal Danish Navy, Applied Acoustics announce a similar order for two Easytrak systems for the Estonian Navy, to be used in their mine counter measure operations.

Following on from their success supplying Easytrak underwater tracking systems to both the UK Royal Navy and Royal Danish Navy, Applied Acoustics announce a similar order for two Easytrak systems for the Estonian Navy, to be used in their mine counter measure operations.

The militarised version of the Easytrak Lite will be used by the Estonians with Ultra Electronics’ Seafox mine disposal system, an expendable remotely operated underwater vehicle containing an explosive warhead designed to neutralise the mine. Easytrak, along with the vehicle’s own on board sonar, will guide Seafox to the target.

Easytrak is an Ultra Short Baseline (USBL) tracking system that uses a multi-element single transducer to send and receive acoustic signals to and from multiple underwater targets from which range, bearing and depth information can be determined. Available as both a specialist militarised product or a commercial off the shelf system, Easytrak is acclaimed for accuracy and stability during a multitude of subsea tracking tasks in which divers, ROV’s or AUV’s are involved

Applied Acoustic Engineering proudly announce the launch of their new range of CSP Seismic Energy Sources, the latest in a long line of products from the company constantly setting new industry standards for performance...

Applied Acoustic Engineering proudly announce the launch of their new range of CSP Seismic Energy Sources, the latest in a long line of products from the company constantly setting new industry standards for performance. Developed with their vast experience and taking advantage of new improved technologies, the CSP-D range is set to become the benchmark ‘workhorse’ seismic power supply.

Along with an increased energy output, the innovative feature of the CSP-D is its unique dual voltage output, giving the product extra versatility. By adjusting the output, switchable on the front panel, better penetration can be achieved from the boomer plate sound source, a feature previously only obtainable to the same extent with sparker assemblies.

The other notable feature of the CSP-D (as with some other units from AAE) is the incorporation of a special ‘slow-start’ feature. This is a means of gradually increasing power output to ease the load on the sound source, so helping to avoid any potential interference with marine mammals.

The new CSP-D is available with a charging rate of 1500 J/second in three variants producing up to 700J, 1200J or 2400J per shot respectively.