Kongsberg Martime Launches New Generation Low-Light Underwater Camera
27 January 2009
27 January 2009
Kongsberg Maritime Ltd, the leading underwater camera specialist is pleased to announce the launch of its new generation low-light underwater camera, the OE13‑124 BIT. The new camera delivers unprecedented light sensitivity, image quality and range performance, enabling users to undertake more accurate, longer range underwater vehicle navigation in low-light and in turbid water conditions.
For almost 30 years, Kongsberg Maritime has led in the innovation of low-light underwater video camera technology for sophisticated military, scientific and offshore ROVs, plough and trencher vehicle navigation and underwater surveillance, where the best possible camera sensitivity, image-contrast and definition is key in order to achieve maximum through-water viewing performance.
Building on previously successful enhanced SIT (Silicon Intensifier Target) and 1st Generation EMCCD based low-light camera products, the new OE13-124 BIT features an advanced back illuminated and thinned (BIT) CCD light sensor, thermo-electric cooling and integral image-processing algorithms, which delivers up to six-times the light efficiency in water of 1st Generation EMCCD sensors.
This performance, combined with a host of other best-in-class features, results in significantly optimised image detail, contrast, sharpness and low-noise levels across a wide dynamic brightness range.
The enhanced viewing capability enables users to undertake more accurate, longer range underwater vehicle navigation and surveillance in harsh environments, low light and turbid water conditions down to 4500m depth and beyond. The OE13-124 has significantly reduced image lag, immunity to image-burn and offers improved reliability, maintainability and through-life savings.
The OE13-124 is built and tested to rigorous quality standards and incorporates the highest levels of temperature, humidity, shock, vibration, over-voltage and electromagnetic compatibility protection and comes supplied with an individual light sensitivity performance test certificate and 2 year warranty as standard.
“Significant advances in core imaging sensor technology have enabled us to yet again provide a step-change in low-light underwater camera performance,” comments Kongsberg Maritime Ltd's General Manager David Mackay. “After rigorous testing and performance benchmarking, our customers believe the OE13-124 will offer major advantages in the field, including improved ROV navigation and underwater surveillance efficiency. The development of this new low-light camera and recent advanced HD cameras keeps us at the forefront of underwater camera technology.”
