December 2003

Cost-saving Super Sub-Mini firmware upgrade now available

Sonardyne International are pleased to announce the release of new firmware that will enable Type 7970 and Type 7973 Super Sub-Minis (SSM) to test a host of different subsea positioning transponders. This capability will save Sonardyne’s customers thousands of pounds by removing the need to purchase a separate transponder test unit for use in workshops or onboard vessels.

Introduced as part of Sonardyne’s on-going product support and development programme, the firmware upgrade is available on an EPROM that can be fitted in a simple workshop procedure. Once installed a user is then able to connect a SSM to a PC, via the supplied RS232/ charging lead, and use it to interrogate and test a second transponder placed alongside. This is illustrated below.

This feature is unique to Sonardyne SSMs and does away with the need for a workshop or vessel to be equipped with a dedicated, and often expensive, transponder test unit. The upgrade has several other key benefits including improved equipment utilisation and greater operational independence, especially when working onboard a vessel-of-opportunity where a suitable test unit is unavailable.

Super Sub-Minis are compact, high powered transponders that are commonly used with USBL positioning systems to track ROVs and towfish. Since their introduction, they have been supplied with software that allows a range of common bench tests to be conducted using a PC, laptop or Windows-based PDA. These tests include setting of reply channels, altering turnaround times and checking battery voltage.

The introduction of a ‘transponder test mode’ in the new firmware further extends the capabilities of SSMs and now makes in-air acoustic testing of other transponders possible. This is considered to be an essential procedure prior to deployment as it provides a user with the confidence that a transponder is functioning correctly and within acoustic specification.

The enhancements to the SSM product range also have major benefits for customers with mixed inventories of Medium Frequency transponders. Using a SSM, a user now has the ability to test Sonardyne PGTs, Compatts, older style Type 7656/7866 transponders and all HPR300/400 compatible beacons. Together, this represents the majority of MF transponders that are in use around the world.

For existing customers, the firmware upgrade is intended for use with Type 7970 and Type 7973 SSMs currently using Version 2.00 firmware or above. All new units will have the new firmware fitted as standard. Customers wishing to find out more, or to arrange an upgrade, are requested to contact their local Sonardyne office or email: sales@sonardyne.co.uk for full details.

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