User Manual for the Type 8300 Compatt 6
(and Variants)
UM-8300-Compatt 6
Issue B3
Section 4 – Installation
4.1 Introduction
Before installing the equipment, ensure
is read and fully understood.
4.2 Pre-Use Checks
The best positioning accuracies are achieved when the array transponders are held in a rigid support
structure. Care should be taken to avoid metal to metal contact with the structure, as accelerated
corrosion of the transponder may result. The integral tilt switch can be used to indicate whether a
frame has fallen over.
Before installing the equipment it is advised to visually inspect the equipment for any signs of damage,
e.g. corrosion, dents, bent protective guard or damage to the release mechanism (if fitted).
Note
Remove the battery disconnect fob (if fitted) to enable the transponder.
It is recommended a full functional test of the equipment is carried out to ensure the transponder is fully
serviceable and to check the battery has sufficient charge to carry out its full term of operations. For
instructions on functionally testing the transponder, see
.
4.2.1 Check the Pressure Relief Vent Valve
Before using the transponder it is recommended the pressure relief vent valve is inspected to ensure it
is flush with the endcap. If the pressure relief vent valve is found not to be flush it indicates a build-up of
internal pressure. See
Section 8.7.1 "Operating the Pressure Relief Vent Valve"
to release the internal
pressure.
4.2.2 Floatation
No floatation accessories are provided with the transponder. The Compatt 6 weighs approximately
15 kg in water, therefore buoyancy must be added for operations that require a net upthrust.
Glass spheres or syntactic foam with a suitable depth rating can be used and must be able to give a
net up-thrust of 3 kilograms or more, allowing for the weight of the shackle and strop. Syntactic foam
floats are usually in the form of “collars” which clamp around the pressure housing. Glass spheres or
other floats should be attached to the top guard by a rope long enough to minimise “shadowing” of the
transducer. Sonardyne supply a range of suitable floatation collars of different depth ratings.
Max Unit only: fit the floatation collar mid-way along the tube. This will allow the transducer to remain
in the water when the unit is at the surface.
When possible, make sure the label with the acoustic command address and the Unit ID number are
clearly visible with the floatation fitted.
4.2.3 Anchor Weights
To take the transponder to the seabed and hold it there an anchor weight is required for each
deployment. A minimum of four times the net transponder/float buoyancy is recommended. As the
anchor weight will be left on site after recovery of the transponder, Sonardyne International Ltd
recommend “bio-degradable” anchor weights which take the form of gravel inside a double or triple
skin of hessian sacks.
Section 4 – Installation
17