Valeport Advances Subsea Distance Measurement with New Altimeter

26 October 2011

Leading oceanographic instrument manufacturer, Valeport, is delighted to announce its latest innovation, the VA500 Altimeter. The VA500 is launched in November and introduces advanced new technology for underwater positioning in offshore applications.

The VA500 uses a state-of-the-art signal processing system with a 500kHz broadband transducer to provide stable, repeatable readings to a resolution of 1mm over a range of 0.1m-100m. The system takes a significant step forward in performance for a 500KHz altimeter.

With a wide range of power supply options and both analogue and digital outputs, the VA500 offers great flexibility for the needs of the ROV, AUV and hydrographic community. Digital RS232 and RS485 interfaces, as well as analogue 0-5V and 0-10V outputs are fitted as standard. The VA500 will interface to the Valeport Bathypack and those of other manufacturers.

As an option, the VA500 may be fitted with a high accuracy (0.01%) pressure sensor, as used in Valeport’s MiniIPS (Intelligent Pressure Sensor), which offers an unbeatable package for all underwater positioning requirements. Valeport’s Sales and Marketing Manager, Kevin Edwards, explains, "The combination of the altimeter and pressure sensor provides top performance with a more attractive price tag than other systems on the market.”

As with all Valeport’s products, the VA500 is sealed in a robust titanium package as standard, in order to eliminate the corrosion issues associated with lower cost metals. Both OEM and right-angled package configurations are also available on request. Further information about the new product is available from: www.valeport.co.uk.