New third generation HiPAP system takes acoustic positioning performance to the next level

The third generation of Kongsberg Maritime's de facto industry standard High Precision Acoustic Positioning and Navigation System – HiPAP, is now available.

Smaller, lighter, more durable and accurate than ever, HiPAP 502 sets new standards for subsea position reference systems. It is designed to support the performance and safety of offshore support, survey, subsea construction and scientific vessel operations.

HiPAP 502 is the latest in a long line of High Precision Acoustic Positioning Systems from Kongsberg Maritime. Simrad, a Kongsberg Maritime brand introduced the first HiPAP 500 in 1996 and the Second generation (HiPAP 501) was released as a Kongsberg Maritime product in 2007. Now in 2015 the third generation is released with major advances.

The new HiPAP 502 specifications deliver 100% better angle accuracy, with improved range capability to 5000m. Angle accuracy is essential in SSBL (or USBL) positioning; the HiPAP 502 has an accuracy of 0.06 degrees vs the 0.12 degrees of the HiPAP 501.

Learn more about HiPAP (High Prescision Acoustic Positioning) (Pdf) The third generation HiPAP features a smaller and lighter transceiver unit, which is housed in a stainless steel cabinet and is less temperature sensitive so there is no requirement for extra cooling in warm environments. It also uses new Low Power Transceiver (LPT) boards with better filtering and signal processing providing an extra 5-6 dB more sensitivity. Due to improved sensitivity, the source level from the transponder can be less, which also increases battery endurance. "We are able to offer improved operation with HiPAP 502 thanks to our continuous development of the technology platform, making use of new electronic hardware and software, along with new electronic components," said Morten Berntsen, Sales Director, Kongsberg Maritime. "This new technology and our in-house system expertise comes together to deliver even more accuracy and reliability with every HiPAP generation." With the additional capability of sending and receiving high speed acoustic telemetry data, Kongsberg Maritime expects HiPAP 502 to be well received by existing and new users for a diverse range of applications.