Features & Benefits

Automates the process of cable asset tracking and database management

Data logged against GPS giving true ‘as-laid’ positions

Tags read by un-intrusive antennas built into fore and aft cable chutes

Data compatible with Gator navigation systems

Brochure

Geophysical Systems

In large surveys where hundreds of acoustic transponders are deployed, monitoring equipment movements can be time consuming and inaccurate. Sonardyne has responded by introducing crews to the many benefits of Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID) technology which automates the process of cable ‘asset’ tracking and database management.

Sonardyne's OBC RFID system automatically logs the identities of transponders and cables as they are deployed from vessels, together with their associated GPS drop co-ordinates.

The system comprises of four main parts; asset tracking software, reader modules, antennas and passive RF tags. As the cable is deployed, antennas built into the deployment chute interrogate the passing tag and log the information contained to a database.

The RFID reader modules are a new generation of product from Sonardyne offering a smaller and more rugged mechanical design, easier installation and greater flexibility. They also provide operators on the back deck with visual confirmation of reads as the cable is deployed.

Dedicated PC software is available to program RFID tags with customer and application specific data. HydroPos Seismic software interfaces to the RFID readers, GPS (position) and fathometer (water depth). As the Transponders are deployed past the RFID reader during deployment, HydroPos uses the GPS position information to derive the drop positions for each transponder and, if applicable, determine the Receiver Group the transponder is connected to.

There is also now the option of direct connection and control via Concept System’s ‘Gator’ navigation software.