SONARDYNE - USBL - Micro-Ranger 2

Operational overview and field deployment

Instrument role in underwater positioning and tracking systems

SONARDYNE Micro-Ranger 2 USBL is designed for real-time tracking of underwater targets using ultra-short baseline (USBL) acoustic positioning technology. It is used in offshore operations where accurate positioning of subsea assets is required.

Functional usage context

This system enables the tracking of multiple underwater transponders simultaneously, providing real-time position updates relative to a surface reference. It is commonly used for navigation support, diver tracking, and subsea instrument localization during marine operations.

Operational environment

The system is designed for deployment from vessels or fixed offshore platforms and operates in marine environments up to approximately 995 meters range. It is suitable for coastal and offshore missions requiring precise acoustic positioning.

System integration role

Within an underwater positioning system, it functions as the surface-based acoustic tracking unit. It communicates with subsea transponders to calculate relative positions and support navigation and operational decision-making.

Deployment usage

Deployment involves installing the USBL transceiver on a vessel or platform and pairing it with compatible underwater transponders. The system then continuously computes positions of up to multiple targets in real time during operations.

Typical users

It is commonly used by offshore survey companies, oceanographic institutes, and marine engineering teams conducting subsea positioning, diver tracking, and underwater asset monitoring operations.