DX300 Diver Magnetometer!
INTRODUCTION
The
AQUASCAN DX300 has been developed as a powerful detection tool for the diver,
providing a solution for a multitude of detection requirements. One major
role is to complement the towed magnetometer where solid evidence from the
surface survey is met with a flat apparent debris free seabed, diver investigation
with the DX300 can readily pinpoint deeply buried ferrous anomalies. The
DX300 supercedes the popular and very successful DX200 version and features
an even higher sensitivity and stability.
The system has a selectable sensitivity which in itself can assist in the
progressive pinpointing of a target, response is indicated by an audible
tone allowing the diver to determine the closest proximity to a target by
the progressive increase in audible tone.
SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
The DX300 has been designed to utilise the same housing as the familiar
AQUAPULSE (AQ1B) range of metal detectors. The system comprises a robust
DX300 electronic module together with an RX200 (80cm (32") length)
detection probe, a slim Bonephone (or optionally Underwater Headphones)
and a universal mains charger. Connections are made to the control unit
with the same robust underwater Ikelite connectors as the AQ1B range.
The mains charger, Bonephone & Headphones are identical to those supplied
with the AQ1B family, this allows existing AQ1B owners to utilise these
items on a crossover basis. An internal NiMH battery pack gives a minimum
of 12 hours operation when fully charged and can be readily topped up at
any time without the drawback of “memory” effects.
The RX200 probe utilises a pair of high sensitivity Fluxgate magnetic sensors
with a 600mm (approx 2ft) spacing, these are built into a robust GRP housing
together with a pre-conditioning combiner circuit. A two metre polyurethane
sheathed cable couples the probe to the control unit via an Ikelite connector.
One of 4 sensitivity modes can be selected, this allows the system to be
progressively de-sensitised as a target is investigated. The audible output
can be preset to be silent or at a low frequency such that a minor change
in pitch can be observed, this is how the presence of metallic items is
determined. The proportional nature of the audio response allows the object
to be accurately pinpointed or tracked as in the case of a pipe or cable.
The nature of a response can also be helpful in determining the way a buried
object is laying – such as an anchor or cannon.
The RX200 probe is also available with longer cable lengths, up to 100m;
this allows the system to be used from the surface for towed or drop down
and drift applications.
USES
PIPE TRACKER - This system can be used to locate and follow
ferrous sub sea pipes down to burial depths of several meters.
CABLE TRACKER - As per pipe tracker above.
UXO DETECTOR- The DX-300 has been successfully used on numerous contracts
to locate unexploded ordinance (UXO).
See this news article
for news on UXO training with the DX300
SALVAGE & ARCHAEOLOGY - An invaluable tool to locate all buried ferrous
material down to burial depths of several metres.
POLICE SEARCH TEAMS - Ideal for a range of applications including locating
discarded weapons and homing in on targets in very low viz such as submerged
vehicles. The DX300 will pinpoint a vehicle in 10 metres depth from the
surface prior to diving to confirm.
Available documents:
DX300 Brochure (PDF)
DX300 Operators manual (PDF)
DX300 prices