New Device For Finding Lost Divers

**Kev Martin** · 01-07-2008, 04:04 PM

I have just read about an innovative new device that is being developed with the aim of detecting lost divers.

The location system was designed in response to a competition run by the British Sub Aqua Club and the Institute of Engineering and Technology.

The system uses a transponder device which is worn by the diver. It is about the size of a small dive light and can be strapped to the divers arm. The transponder transmits a signal to a surface device which can pinpoint the range of a diver to within 1 metre. The device is also capable of transmitting a distress signal from a diver in difficulty to the surface receiver.
The device is capable of detecting lost divers within a 400 metre radius and at depths of up to 200 metres.

During dives to test the system the divers found that their logged dive profile was matched on the device. They also reported that the kit was very straightforward to use.

The designers are claiming that they will, in the near future, be able to bring out an easily affordable product that will significantly improve diver safety worldwide.

Should be interesting. I know that Scubapro had a similar device that they subsequently failed to market. I wonder just how much interest would be shown in purchasing yet more kit. Good for schools? Maybe even technical divers going deep?

I think that whatever the scope of its use, no electronic gadgetry is every going to be a replacement for good diving practices and common sense.

Scuba Mama · 01-08-2008, 08:05 PM

I think this would be good to have and use. I know they will give hikers a gps locator while out. Just in case something goes wrong they can find them fast. It has already proven its self in the field.

Some of the new divers I have worked with, I won't think twice about strapping a couple of units on them.

I give the same promise my first instructor gave me. I promise to recover the body and bring it back.

Scuba Mama

**Kev Martin** · 01-16-2008, 11:52 AM

It certainly looks as though 2008 is going to be the year of the diving gadget

A couple more companies have come up with computers that have tracker beacons fitted which give direction and distance between a boat and a lost diver. One company has even come up with a computer that allows the diver to set off their alarm if they need help, but if they lose their buddy they can set off their alarms too, and use the built in direction finder to locate them. The computer even allows texting between a network of up to 14 divers underwater!!!

I just hope that my daughter never finds out

I must admit to using a PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) which is a fairly simple device that we wear with our scuba. Should we get lost or separated from the boat the beacon will send out a signal on the international distress frequency and the aerial which fits around the neck will emit a pulsing light which can be seen for miles. Never had to use it but at least it is nice to know that it is available should I ever need it

**glynneco** · 01-16-2008, 09:26 PM

More gadgets would just dispell diving's Darwinian charm

MgicTwnger · 01-17-2008, 12:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by glynneco

More gadgets would just dispell diving's Darwinian charm

I have a whistle and a sausage. I shall live to evolve.

**glynneco** · 01-17-2008, 03:09 AM

I agree. My aim is to stand upright! opposable thumbs rule!

**Kev Martin** · 01-17-2008, 06:26 AM

I agree to an extent but then I can actually remember the introduction of the BCD and how it was ridiculed and pooh poohed by divers at that time. Classed as a gimmick I recall

**glynneco** · 01-17-2008, 10:21 AM

I have this whole theory about the inevitibility of progress. I remember the when frost free refrigerators came out. What a luxury. Now a standard feature. Then Automatic ice makers. Then they put them in the doors and crushed the ice and added water. Who would go back to all that scraping of ice and filling ice trays? Primitive. The new toys can be fun lord knows I've got a basement full of "new stuff". As an official member of the Old Farts club, I'm entitled to make fun of it even as I pull out my wallet to buy. Forget Opposable thumbs, IRONY rules!