VEMCO - VR2AR / VR2AR-X Manual
15 March 2019
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Deployment
How a VR2AR receiver is deployed is driven by the environment it is being deployed in and the type of study
being performed. Some important points to keep in mind when designing a deployment plan for your
VR2AR receivers are explained here. The common method for attaching a VR2AR to a mooring line is also
given, along with the dimensions of the VR2AR cases.
4.1
Deployment Facts/Tips
4.1.1
Mooring
VR2AR receivers are moored in many configurations often reflecting the bathymetry
and oceanographic/weather conditions. A simple mooring design generally works well.
In rougher conditions, heavier weights and mooring lines are usually required. A
buoyancy of 7 - 14 kg (15 - 30 lbs.) is recommended to raise the VR2AR when no
biofouling has occurred – adjust this as needed for your deployment location conditions.
The floatation must be suitable for the depth at which it will be deployed.
The VR2AR should be positioned above the floor such that it has an unobstructed
“view” of tagged animals within their expected acoustic range. Ensure the VR2AR’s
hydrophone is unblocked (e.g. position a buoy a few feet above the hydrophone to allow
an unobstructed view of the surface) and free of any biofouling. In high flow locations,
you may consider using hydro dynamically shaped buoys and low profile anchors.
For the best horizontal range and acoustic communication, mount the VR2AR receiver
in a vertical position with the hydrophone pointing up to the surface.
Attach the VR2AR’s float attachment bracket to a floatation device capable of
withstanding pressure since it will be submerged. Hard skinned floatation devices are
recommended.
Connect the Mooring Lug to a weight. For typical deployments, we recommend using 36 – 68 kg (80 – 150
lbs.) weight with 7 – 14 kg (15 – 30 lbs.) floatation. Modifications may need to be made for deployment
situations that are not typical.
During deployment, always lift the weight section separately. Never
lift the weight in air by attaching to the VR2AR.
Always check the tilt of the receiver after it is deployed to verify it is
vertical with the hydrophone pointing up (0-11°). This is done using a VR100-200 and a transponding
hydrophone. Details are found in the VR100 Acoustic Communication manual.
CAUTION:
The hydrophone must be kept
free of
mooring lines and obstructions
. Objects
around the hydrophone will adversely affect
the detection range of the VR2AR receiver.
Never lift the weight in air by
attaching to the VR2AR.
Always
lift the weight section separately.
