ClearSat Argos Marker Buoy
Reliable ARGOS Data Collection


The Argos unit

The buoy housing

Description

The ClearSat Argos Marker Buoy is a rugged, fiberglass spherical float containing a ClearSat-2.0 Argos PTT to provide accurate Argos location (typically 500 meters, or better) of floating equipment anywhere in the world. Location information is obtained through the Argos dissemination system. The microprocessor controller, transmitter and antenna are contained completely within the buoy hull which floats approximately at its equator. Although the buoy profile is quite low at the sea surface (approximately 17 cm.), extensive use of this equipment in oceanographic research has shown that Argos transmissions are reliably received by the satellite. The Marker Buoy is attached by means of stainless steel eyebolts at the bottom and side. Argos PTT is turned on by removing a magnet from the the outside of the hull. The bottom half of the hull is coated with antifouling paint. Internal alkaline batteries will power the unit in continuous operation mode for approximately one year. Argos data reports percentage battery life remaining. Available options include surface temperature and GPS position (accurate to 20 meters) updated every 30 minutes.

Technical Specifications:

Hull 33.7 cm. (13.25 in) diameter fiberglass, 7.7 kg (17lbs).
Attachment 2.5 cm. (1.0 in) inside diameter eyebolts, 1 cm. thick 304 ss
Power Supply 7 - 15 VDC, one year.
Transmit Cycle User determined transmission: continuous, 8/16 , 12/12, 12/24, 24/48 (hours on/hours off)
RF output 1± .3 watt into 50 ohms, BNC
Temperature -50 to 50°C, storage
-5 to 45°C, operation
* CLS/Argos-certified.
** For further information about Argos data collection services:
U.S.: North American CLS, Inc., 9200 Basil Court, Suite 306, Landover, MD 20785, U.S.A.
Europe: CLS/Service Argos, 18 avenue Edouard Belin, 31055 TOULOUSE Cédex, FRANCE Voice: 61 39 47 74 Telex: 531 752F Fax: 61 75 10 14