Ocean instrumentation: Problems and promise

An up-to-date look at the problems associated with ocean instrumentation. Many of the past reports and recommendations on the subject are cited and related progress is discussed. There is concern over too much rhetoric. A key point is lack of quantitative information for program managers to adequately analyze cost effectiveness. Insufficient failure reporting and quality assurance are major deficiencies. The need for a better focus on instrument development is also addressed. A band of performance requirements and up-to-date national inventory data are presented. The promise comes from increased measurement requirements resulting from emphasis on coastal zone and environmental concerns which the authors believe will force favorable change.