Implementation of an underwater acoustic modem with network capability

Abstract

This paper introduces the underwater acoustic modem as implemented within the UAN – Underwater Acoustic Network project. The low power modem has implemented turbo equalization algorithms in addition to variable spread rate direct sequence spread spectrum signaling. The network layer implemented on the modem support automatic network discovery, multi hop routing and support for mobile nodes, and when expanded with a single board computer via serial line it supports IP connectivity end-to-end. Experimental results from sea trials are presented.