VideoRay
Pro III MicroROV Announced for Underwater Science, Research,
and Documentary Missions
Use a PC to Control, Display
and Record Video, Depth, Compass Heading, and Other Instrument
Data
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Oceanology International, London, March 16, 2004 – VideoRay
announced today the VideoRay Pro III, the next generation of its
remote control video camera for short- or long-term monitoring
in aquatic environments down to 500 feet deep (152 m). Now, the
8-pound microROV (remotely operated vehicle) can be computer controlled
from a laptop PC, opening new possibilities for gathering and analyzing
data. Compact, non-invasive, and fascinating to sea life, the VideoRay
Pro III can host sonars, positioning systems, hull inspection software,
thickness gauges, manipulators, and radiation sensors that can
be quickly installed and configured in the field in minutes. See
VideoRays in booth 357, 543 with Tritech, 622 with Atlas Marine,
and 840 with Nautikarus.
Foremost on the list of new features is the ability to now control
the Pro III from a laptop computer, using wired or wireless video
game controllers. Using a computer as the controller creates unique
opportunities for innovative interfaces and integration with other
software programs. For example, computer control will allow the
Pro III to be piloted without a joystick, using a mouse or pen
or remotely via network protocols. In addition to the normal heads
up display of basic dive parameters, data from sonar, positioning
systems, or other sensors, can also be overlaid and/or recorded
using one system. Further integration will allow the Pro III to
be piloted under software control for autonomous functionality.
Operated like a remote control plane underwater, the Pro III flies
on up to 500 feet (152 m) of tether, and features superior performance,
reliability and ease of maintenance. Upgrades include rod-less
thrusters and increased thrust from 60 mm props for significantly
higher thrust–to-drag ratios. The new design also incorporates
changes to the lights and light housings. Light bulbs can be changed
without tools and the system uses standard off-the-shell PAR lamps
for a wider range of lighting choices. Additionally, thruster shaft
seals are translucent and visible from the exterior. Shaft seal
inspections can be accomplished quickly and without down time.
Standard cameras include a forward-looking high-resolution color
camera (570 line/0.1 lux, wide angle lens), and a high-resolution,
high-sensitivity black and white camera in the rear. The focus
and tilt of the front camera can be adjusted with up to 160 degrees
of tilt.
Composite video from the Pro III allows operators to see underwater
views on the 5-inch topside monitor, or on optional displays
monitors. A power tap and recess are built into the control panel
to support
a variety of recording devices such as a Sony GV-D1000 DVD recorder,
or, alternatively, a microcomputer. The system also includes
a mini lapel microphone to audio annotate video as it is recorded.
Pro III’s are delivered to support either NTSC or PAL video
formats to accommodate video standards worldwide.
An LCD display on the control panel shows depth, compass heading,
time and date. This information can alternatively be placed on
the video screen. The built-in depth sensor and auto-depth holding
software in the controller lets the VideoRay Pro III maintain its
depth. The Pro III submersible requires less than 300 watts of
100-240VAC power and can be plugged into a standard wall outlet,
a battery with inverter, or a small generator. The maximum voltage
in the tether is a safe 48VDC.
Also included in the purchase of a Pro III is attendance at the
VideoRay International Partner Symposium for training, or membership
in the Comprehensive Support and Maintenance Program (CSMP) for
one year. CSMP membership entitles the owner to 24/7 phone service
to prevent downtime during field operations; insurance from all
losses except theft or intentional damage; and other benefits.
The entire Pro III system weighs less than 100 pounds (45 kg),
and includes the Pro III submersible, integrated control box (ICB),
250 feet (76 m) of neutrally buoyant tether, a Tether Deployment
System (TDS) that easily reels the tether in and out and eliminates
clutter in the operating area, owner’s manual, spares, and
a maintenance kit. All components fit neatly into watertight, rolling
Pelican cases sized for the trunk of a car and airline travel.
ADD ON: Additional tether in either 250 feet (76 m) or custom lengths
can be ordered. Other accessories and options include: the SBL
(Short Base Line) Positioning System; GPS Integrated Tracking;
Professional Performance Package to boost speed; manipulator; metal
thickness gauge; water quality sonde; Shiphull Inspection software;
LAZIC camera; underwater radiation detector; and 15 inch Samsung
or Flatron PIP computer monitor. New accessories developed for
the VideoRay by third parties will be added throughout the year.
PRICE: $19,995 USD
THE NEXT STEP UP: The next step up from the VideoRay Pro III is
the VideoRay Deep Blue, which is depth rated to 1000 feet (305
m) and equipped with additional tether, scanning sonar, and the
Professional Performance Package (PPP) for increased speed.
See and download print quality images at http://www.videoray.com/Press_Room/photo_gallery.htm
For real-life stories of VideoRays, pictures
and videos online,
visit http://www.videoray.com
Contact VideoRay LLC • 400 Eagleview Blvd. • Exton,
PA 19341 USA • Phone: (610) 458-3000 • FAX: (610) 458-3010 • www.videoray.com
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owners.
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