January 11, 2001, For Immediate Release  

WOODS HOLE PURCHASES CTFM SONAR FOR ALVIN......

EL CAJON, CALIFORNIA, USA.   Sunwest Technologies, Inc.  reports that Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute (WHOI) has purchased the new Super Search CTFM (Continuous Transmission Frequency Modulated) Sonar, SS300, for use on the deep diving research submarine, ALVIN.  The new digital PC-based sonar operates under Windows NT and will replace an aging CTFM system installed more than fifteen (15) years ago.  The SS300 provides 3000 ft range and high resolution at a fast scan rate of over 28 deg / second.  The system also offers a beacon mode which can be tuned over a 20 – 50 kHz band.  Orders for additional systems have been received with indications of broad acceptance in the ROV, manned submarine and towed vehicle markets.    Systems will be delivered to Oceaneering this month for installation on CURV, DEEP DRONE, and the MAGNUM 38.   

The spokesman for Sunwest indicates that with minor changes, this system can be adapted for use on AUVs.   Sunwest is pursuing other variations of the SS300, including a very high resolution, high frequency model and a combination CTFM search and high resolution pulse system.