Sonardyne WSM 6+ AUV/ROV Positioning Beacon (USBL)
The Wideband Sub-Mini 6 Plus (WSM 6+) is Sonardyne’s latest generation of versatile USBL transponders/responders that support WBv2 signals. The WSM 6+ is designed for towfish and ROV positioning, and tracking other mobile targets in water depths up to 4,000 metres
Description
The compact and rugged design is based on the field proven WSM mechanics and is available in MF Directional and MF Omni-Directional versions. The latest Sonardyne Wideband®2 signal technology has been incorporated, which offers superior ranging accuracy and fast USBL position updates.
The WSM 6+ improves on its predecessors by offering full two-way Wideband support – interrogation and reply signals. All Wideband V2 and V2+ signals are supported. Legacy support is also available for WBV1 and HPR 400. The configuration is programmable using supplied software and a serial link or it can be configured acoustically via iWand. This allows the WSM 6+ to be configured for use with all of the popular MF frequency acoustic navigation systems.
The Type 8370-1111 WSM 6+ is equipped with an Omni-directional transducer and is depth rated to 1,000 metres making it suitable for a wide range of general USBL tracking applications.
The Type 8370-4112 WSM 6+ is a 4,000 metre rated unit and features a higher power directional transducer.
Both types of WSM 6+ have a depth sensor fitted as standard to aid USBL positioning accuracy and an external on/off switch to save the battery when not in use.
WSM 6+ variants are available with acoustically controlled output lines suitable for external motor drive, burnwire or contact closure releases.
Technical information
| Feature | Type 8370-1111 | Type 8370-4112 |
| Depth Rating | 1,000 Metres | 4,000 Metres |
| Operational Frequency | MF (19–34 kHz) | MF (19–34 kHz) |
| Transceiver Beamshape | Omni-Directional | Directional |
| Transmit Source Level (19–34 kHz) (External Power) (re. 1 µPa @ 1 m) (battery) |
187 dB 184 dB |
196 dB 193 dB |
| Tone Equivalent Energy (TEE*) (External Power) | 193 dB | 202 dB |
| Receive Sensitivity (dB re 1 μPa) | <85 dB | <80 dB |
| Power Supply | Rechargeable NiMH battery orext. 24 V via ROV umbilical | Rechargeable NiMH battery or ext. 24 V via ROV umbilical |
| Operating Channels | All Sonardyne Wideband HPR 400 Channels |
All Sonardyne Wideband HPR 400 Channels |
| Depth Sensor | ±0.5% Full Scale (100 Bar) | ±0.5% Full Scale (400 Bar) |
| Operating life ( 1 s update rate, max. power, WB2 ) | ≥6 days | ≥3 days |
| Maximum Update Rate | >2 Hz | >2 Hz |
| Quiescent Life (Battery) | >35 Days | >35 Days |
| Connector 5-Way (Standard) 8-Way (Burnwire/Motor Release ) |
Subconn MCBH5M Subconn MCBH8F |
Subconn MCBH5M Subconn MCBH8F |
| Operating Temperature | -5 to 40°C | -5 to 40°C |
| Storage Temperature | -20 to 55°C | -20 to 55°C |
| Mechanical Construction | Aluminium Alloy, Anodised | Aluminium Alloy, Anodised |
| Dimensions (Length x Diameter) | 429 x 97 mm | 426 mm x 79 mm |
| Weight in Air (Water) | 3.2 kg (1.3 kg) | 5.5 kg (3.2 kg) |
| Battery Charger | 8370-011-01 | 8370-011-01 |
