Subsea Optical Modem

The AQUAmodem® Op2 enables wireless subsea data connectivity to underwater instruments using light, this creates a robust optical link that performs like a virtual wired link through water. The modems manage all aspects of link maintenance and error handling. The system allows real-time remote access to subsea instruments for monitoring, control or download.

DATASHEET

Features

Discover the innovative features that set our products apart, designed to streamline your workflow, enhance efficiency, and provide a seamless user experience tailored to your specific needs.

01

Subsea data access without recovery

  • Enables access to data from deployed subsea instruments when recovery to the surface is impractical.
  • Supports real-time communication, depending on the connected instrument.
  • Helps reduce field time by supporting faster data review and operational decision-making.

02

Transparent cable-replacement link

  • Creates a transparent RS232 optical link through water.
  • Provides cable-like access to compatible subsea instruments without a permanent physical data cable.
  • Offers a cost-effective alternative to ROV-mateable connectors and cables.

03

Designed for work-class ROV operation

  • Supports data transfer through the ROV umbilical cable.
  • Simplifies subsea deployment and operation using the ROV-side modem.
  • Transfers data wirelessly once the ROV-side unit is aligned with the subsea unit.

04

Compatible with RS232 instruments

  • Compatible with instruments using an RS232 serial interface.
  • RS485 compatibility available as an option.

05

Deployment-ready accessories

  • ROV cable, test cable and ROV handle options available.
  • External battery and subsea cable options available for supported configurations.
  • Manuals supplied to support setup, testing and field operation.

Specifications

Explore the advanced capabilities of our instruments and systems through their technical specifications.

InterfaceRS232, with RS485 compatibility optional
ProtocolTransparent link, with cable replacement functionality
Temperature115,200 baud
Transmission typeDigitally coded telemetry with error detection
Data throughput*10.2 kBytes/s
Light bandCyan visible light
Operating rangeTypically 1 m to 2 m, depending on environment
Maximum depth3,500 m
TemperatureOperating: -5°C to 40°C | Storage: -40°C to 65°C
External powerROV unit: 9 VDC to 36 VDC | Subsea unit: 6.5 VDC to 32 VDC
Serial wake-upROV unit as standard, optional on subsea unit
Optical wake-upROV unit | Subsea unit
Dimensions285 mm length x 72 mm maximum diameter | 60 mm main housing diameter
Weight4 kg in air | 3 kg in water
Material316 stainless steel with Perspex window

*Measured by transmitting 2,000-byte packets at 250 ms intervals. Data throughput is calculated as an average of 100 transmissions.

FAQs

What is the AQUAmodem® Op2 used for?

The AQUAmodem® Op2 is used for wireless subsea data access, allowing operators to communicate with compatible underwater instruments without recovering them to the surface.

How does the AQUAmodem® Op2 work?

The system uses a pair of optical modems to create a transparent RS232 link through water. One modem remains connected to the subsea instrument, while the ROV positions the second modem to establish the optical link.

Can the AQUAmodem® Op2 download data from subsea instruments?

Yes. The Op2 supports short-range interrogation, control and data download from compatible subsea instruments.

Does the AQUAmodem® Op2 provide real-time communication?

Yes, the Op2 can support real-time remote access to subsea instruments, depending on the connected instrument and deployment setup.

What instruments is the AQUAmodem® Op2 compatible with?

The Op2 is compatible with instruments using RS232 serial interfaces, including Aquatec’s HYDROlog® and AQUAlogger® ranges. RS485 compatibility is available as an option.

What is the depth rating of the AQUAmodem® Op2?

The AQUAmodem® Op2 is depth rated to 3,500 m.

What is the operating range of the AQUAmodem® Op2?

The typical operating range is 1 m to 2 m, depending on environmental conditions.

Is the AQUAmodem® Op2 suitable for ROV operations?

Yes. The Op2 is suitable for work-class ROVs and can support subsea data transfer through the ROV umbilical cable.