Issue 2, May 2006

V6 Transmitter Update

In our March 2005 Newsletter, we described our Miniature Tag initiative and the planned introduction of a 6 mm diameter transmitter. We now have initial prototypes and will use this season to ensure all the system components (receivers, hydrophones, processing software, etc.) are in place and evaluated in the field by a number of users before a full roll out. As well, there are some improvements we will be making to improve performance - particularly transmitting life.

While specifications (and model numbers) are subject to change before final roll out, the following summarizes key characteristics of the two initial versions that will be available.

These transmitters will incorporate all features of current VEMCO transmitters including pinger or coded operation, programmable ON/OFF cycles and a number of enhancements including the possibility of code maps enabling significantly more ID codes than the current 64k limit.

Through 2006, we will be evaluating and characterizing performance of this transmitter with three different receivers:

• VR100 with firmware upgrade to support 180 kHz.
• A 180 kHz version of the VR2.
• A 180 kHz narrowband monitoring receiver to give selectivity required for reliable operation in noisy environments such as around dams as well as various difficult multipart environments.

Finally we should comment on the choice of operating frequency. The March 2005 Article explained the rationale for our move from 69 kHz to 200 kHz for these small transmitters along with some comments on range implication. Initial field testing showed we should adjust this slightly to avoid interference from 200 kHz echo sounders used in sport fishing.

Once we complete field testing and other evaluations of the technology, we will announce the timing for a full scale roll out.