A spread-spectrum radio data link buoy for underwater sensing applications

High data rate connectivity from an underwater sensor suite to a data acquisition platform has been demonstrated without the need to string vulnerable cable across a beach or up to a ship. Initial test results of a prototype data relay buoy coupled to a lightweight seafloor hydrophone array are described. Ranges of 5 km over water at a data rate of over 1 Mbps have been achieved. The buoy complements new technology in lightweight arrays and low-power RF digital communications from a small, expendable buoy.