Instrument Connection
Instrument Connections for Industry Projects
Industry projects with Ocean Networks Canada usually, though not always, require connecting hardware or software to the observatory systems. Therefore an overview of the observatory systems should enlighten potential industry partners on connection options and interface control requirements.
Seafloor deployment sites on the observatory.
Concept diagram of observatory.
Ocean technology test bed in Saanich Inlet.
Recoverable platform of the OTTB.
Scheduling
Access to the Ocean Technology Test Bed is simple to arrange and can occur at any time which allows for significant flexibility. Access to the observatory seafloor sites on the NEPTUNE Canada and VENUS networks must occur during one of the scheduled maintenance cruises. There are typically two cruises per year depending on ship and ROV availability.
Interface Control
It is preferable to utilize observatory standards, however the Technology Demonstration Facility Engineer can accommodate a wider range of interfaces with the ONC interface module (OIM). The Innovation Centre will work to ensure that we can provide whatever interface the manufacturer needs to demonstrate or support the development of of a product.
Communications
The observatory uses Ethernet communications wherever possible. Some ports can be configured to support RS-232, RS-485 and RS-422 communications. Fibre optic ports can also be provided.
Formats
| Data type | Format |
| Video | H-264 |
| Photos | .bmp |
| Passive acoustics | .wav |
| Sonar | as the manufacturer requires |
| Scalar | as the manufacturer requires |
Power
| Port type | Voltage (port dependent) | Power (port dependent) |
| Node | 375 VDC | |
| Junction Box | 375 VDC, 48 VDC, 24 VDC, 12VDC | 150 W, 75 W, 48 W |
| SIIM | 375 VDC, 24 VDC | 150 W, 75 W, 48 W |
| OIM | as requested | limited by port connection and voltage supplied |
Instrument Drivers
The manufacturer should provide an interface control document for their instrument. This should include the command set, input and output formats and power requirements. ONC's IT staff will develop a driver for the instrument that is compatible with the observatory. This can be pre-tested over the internet using an instrument at the manufacturer's facility or an instrument can be sent to ONC for driver testing.