IXSEA AR6X1 Series User manual

User Manual
AR6X1 SERIES ACOUSTIC RELEASES
UM–AR6X1
ED DATE
FIELD OF APPLICATION
AR6X1 SERIES ACOUSTIC RELEASES
1.1 06/11/02
SUMMARY
Operating manual for AR6X acoustic release
INTERNAL CIRCULATION EXTERNAL CIRCULATION
Department Name Nb. Of
copies
Company Name Nb. Of
copies
R&D
Quality
1
1
1
1
EXTERNAL APPROVAL
Department Name Function Date Signature
INTERNAL APPROVAL
Identification Drafted by Checked by Approuved by Approuved by
Name P.F ADAM
Date Sept.1998
Signature
IXSEA S.A.S. - Rue Rivoalon – Sainte-Anne du Portzic - 29200 BREST - FRANCE
Email : [email protected]
http://www.ixsea.com
Page
1/21

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 2/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
IS DATE PAGES OBJECT
1 Sept. 1998 all Resumption of T/1147/PG - NT93/015 – DP6500745
1.1 2002-11-06 all Transfer to IXSEA-OCEANO format

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 3/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
C O N T E N T S
1. GENERAL INFORMATION 6
1.1. Introduction 6
1.2. IXSEA-OCEANO Products Designation 6
1.3. Description of the Acoustic Release 7
1.3.1. General 7
1.3.2. Accessories 7
1.4. Operational Characteristics 8
1.5. Shipping Data and Sizes 8
2. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 9
2.1. Mechanical 9
2.2. Environmental 9
2.3. Receiver 9
2.4. Command Coding 9
2.5. Transmitter 10
2.6. Transducer 10
2.7. Release Motor 10
2.8. Battery Packs/Life 10
2.8.1. Power Supply 10
2.8.2. Gearmotor Power Supply 11
3. COMMAND OPERATIONS 11
3.1. ON/OFF Functions 11
3.2. Interrogation/Ranging 11
3.3. Release 11
4. SUB-ASSEMBLIES FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION 12

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 4/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
4.1. Break out List 12
4.1.1. AR 661 S 12
4.1.2. AR 661 CS 12
4.1.3. AR 601 AP 12
4.1.4. AR 661 CE 12
4.1.5. AR 661 B1S 12
4.1.6. AR 661 B2S 12
4.1.7. AR 661 DS 12
4.2. 194-2003 Printed Circuit Board 13
4.3. Description 13
4.3.1. Power supplies 13
4.3.2. Receiver section 13
4.3.3. Logic section 13
4.3.4. Transmit power section 14
4.4. Programming 14
5. MAINTENANCE 15
5.1. Dismantling 15
5.1.1. AR 661 S 15
5.1.2. AR 661 CS 15
5.1.3. AR 601 AP 15
5.1.4. AR 661 CE 16
5.1.5. AR 661 B1S 16
5.1.6. AR 661 B2S 16
5.1.7. AR 661 DS 17
5.2. Battery packs replacement 17
5.3. Unit Re-assembly 17
5.4. Preventive Maintenance Procedure 17
5.4.1. Transducer neoprene boot 17
5.4.2. Storage 18
5.4.3. O-Rings 18
6. PREPARATION FOR DEPLOYMENT 18
6.1. User Guide 18
6.1.1. ON/OFF Switch 18
6.1.2. Pre-immersion documentation 18
6.1.3. Functional test prior to immersion 18
6.2. Mooring Line Considerations 19
6.3. Deployment 20
6.4. Recovering the Acoustic Release 20
6.5. Preparation for Storage 21

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 5/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
7. APPENDICES 21
7.1. Overall Dimensions 21
7.2. Electronic Board 21

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 6/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
1. GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1. Introduction
This manual should be carefully read prior using and/or opening any AR 6X1 Acoustic Release,
keeping in mind that IXSEA-OCEANO will not be responsible for any damage due to misuse or
misinterpretation of this manual by a non qualified operator.
1.2. IXSEA-OCEANO Products Designation
Every IXSEA-OCEANO product is identifiable by its alphanumeric designator. This consists of
a series of letters and numbers. The first two letters designate the product type.
Example:
AR = Acoustic Release
TT = Telecommand Transmitter
PS = Power Supply
RM = Rangemeter
ES = Echo Sounder
RT = Recoverable Transponder
MT = Miniature Transponder
Etc....
The typical designator will have two letters followed by three numbers. If additional designation
is required, more letters will follow the numbers.
Example: AR 661 CS
1. A = Type of Equipment
2. R = Type of Equipment
3. 6 = 6th generation
4. 6 = 6000 meters max. Depth
5. 1 = Low Frequency Band
6. C = 0.5 ton max. Load
7. S = Stainless steel
1 & 2: Type of Equipment
3: Mark of Series (electronics configuration)
4: Depth Rating
1 = 1,000 M (operational)
2 = 2,000 M (operational)
3 = 3,000 M (operational)
6 = 6,000 M (operational)
8 = 8,000 M (operational)
9 = 10,000 M or more (operational)

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 7/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
5: Frequency Band
1 = Low Frequency Band : Up to 20 kHz
2 = Medium Frequency Band : From 20 to 50 kHz
3 = High Frequency Band : From 50 to 120 kHz
4 = Very High Frequency Band : From 120 to 500 kHz
5 = Ultra High Frequency Band : Over 500 kHz
6: Release Hook Max. Load Rating
A = 0.25 ton
B = 2.5 ton
C = 0.5 ton
D = 5 ton
7: Housing Material
P = Plastic
S = Stainless Steel
E = Aluminium
G = Glass
1.3. Description of the Acoustic Release
1.3.1. General
The AR 6X1 series Acoustic Releases are multipurpose acoustic receivers/transmitters, which
use a secure low frequency command code structure for reliable deep-sea operations. These units
can execute acoustic remote controls such as acoustic replies and/or releases.
AR 6X1 unit is fitted with a ranging function (through the "RANGE" telecommand code) to
assist relocation.
The codes are transmitted with a telecommand unit (model TT 201 or TT301).
Acoustic commands to activate the remote control use a secure and reliable FSK-2 states
telemetry link with more than 30 000 codes.
AR 6X1 series use C-MOS technology and signal processing at very low current consumption.
1.3.2. Accessories
AR 6X1 units are supplied as standard with:
- A wooden shipping container
- A user manual
Upon request, IXSEA-OCEANO can provide with:
- Floats
- Flashes

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 8/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
1.4. Operational Characteristics
- ON/OFF switch: always ON when batteries are installed
- Ranges in excess of 10,000 meters in good conditions
- Secure 8-bit FSK dual states coding system with more than 30,000 unique codes
- Load capacities: Release Load Safe Working Load
AP : 0.25 ton AP : 0.25 ton
CS : 0.5 ton CS : 2.5 tons
CE : 0.5 ton CE : 1.25 tons
B1S : 2.5 tons B1S : 2.5 tons
B2S : 2.5 tons B2S : 2.5 tons
DS : 5 tons DS : 5 tons
- Max. Depth Rating: AR 601 AP : 750 m
AR 661 CS : 6000 m
AR 661 CE : 6000 m
AR 661 B1S : 6000 m
AR 661 B2S : 6000 m
AR 661 DS : 6000 m
- 18 standard Alkaline or on option LiSOCl2 lithium cells (D-size)
- Operating life: refer to § 2.8.1.
1.5. Shipping Data and Sizes
AR 661 S : - Overall length: 723 mm
- Maximum diameter: 130 mm
- Weight in air: 25 kg
- Weight in water: about 16 kg
AR 661 CS : - Overall length: 724 mm
- Maximum diameter: 130 mm
- Weight in air: 26 kg
- Weight in water: about 17 kg
AR 661 CE : - Overall length: 744 mm
- Maximum diameter: 146 mm
- Weight in air: 19 kg
- Weight in water: about 8.5 kg
AR 601 AP : - Overall length: 745 mm
- Maximum diameter: 160 mm
- Weight in air: 16 kg
- Weight in water: about 4 kg

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 9/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
AR 661 B1S : - Overall length: 855 mm
- Maximum diameter: 130 mm
- Weight in air: 35 kg
- Weight in water: about 26 kg
AR 661 B2S : - Overall length: 830 mm
- Maximum diameter: 130 mm
- Weight in air: 30 kg
- Weight in water: about 22 kg
AR 661 DS : - Overall length: 907 mm
- Maximum diameter: 215 mm (fenders)
- Weight in air: 40 kg
- Weight in water: about 31 kg
2. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
2.1. Mechanical
Material: - Plastic with AR 601 AP
- Stainless steel DUPLEX UNS 32550 with AR661S, AR 661CS, AR 661DS,
AR 661B1S and AR 661B2S
- Aluminium with AR 661 CE
2.2. Environmental
- Operating temperature range : - 5° C to + 50° C
- Storage temperature range : - 40° C to + 70° C
- Depth depending on the model : AR 601 AP : 750 meters
AR 661 : 6,000 meters
2.3. Receiver
- Two frequencies factory set within 8 - 16.5 kHz range
- Minimum pulse width: 6 ms
- Receiver bandwidth: 200 Hz
- Minimum detectable signal: 80 ± 5 dB ref. 1 µPascal
- Consumption: 1 mA with alkaline cells (3 parallel banks 9 V)
2.4. Command Coding
- Two unique command codes: release and ranging
- 8 bit FSK dual state coding
- 8 pulse command, 10 ms pulse width, 100 ms pulse repetition rate (710 ms total duration).

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 10/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
2.5. Transmitter
- Reply to FSK commands (acknowledgement and execution)
- 8 or 12 kHz as standard, with factory option between 8 to 15 kHz (0.5 kHz step)
- Acoustic source level: 190 ± 3 dB ref. 1 µPascal at 1 meter with 12 kHz
187 ± 3 dB ref. 1 µPascal at 1 meter with 8 kHz
- Pulse width: 10 ms ± 0.5 ms
- Frequency stability: ± 30 Hz
- Consumption: 1 Joule per reply
2.6. Transducer
Beam pattern: hemispherical ± 3 dB
2.7. Release Motor
Directly powered with alkaline cells or through a regulator (depending on the battery type)
Typical consumption = 0.25 A over 3 to 4 seconds (1 A max. over 10 seconds on rotation limit
of the motor)
2.8. Battery Packs/Life
2.8.1. Power Supply
- As standard 18 alkaline cells (Lithium LiSOCl2 cells as option)
- 3 parallel banks of 6 D-size cells in serie
- Operating life:
* Alkaline cells: 3 years at 20° C with more than 100 releases
2 years at 0° C with more than 100 releases
•1000 Acoustic Replies reduce the life by 2 days
•100 Releases reduce the life by 4 days
* Lithium cells: 6 years with more than 100 releases,
•1000 Acoustic Replies reduce the life by 1 day
•100 Releases reduce the life by 2 days
Use only LiSOCl2 lithium cells with spiralled technology (Capacity doesn't change with cell
inclination). SAFT model LSH 20 is recommended.
Do not change the type of cells without setting the AR_AL link on the PCB (refer to § 4.4).

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 11/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
2.8.2. Gearmotor Power Supply
A 9 V alkaline cell (model IEC 6F22) is used for emergency power supply of the release motor-
gear.
Note: For voltage delay reasons of some Lithium cells, do not use Lithium cell for emergency
power supply.
3. COMMAND OPERATIONS
3.1. ON/OFF Functions
The unit is automatically "ON" when batteries are in circuit.
3.2. Interrogation/Ranging
Upon receipt of "RANGE" telecommand code, the AR 6X1 series unit will transmit a 10 ms
acoustic pulse at F0 frequency (8 or 12 kHz in general).
This function allows easy relocation of the AR unit before recovering.
Stand-by Mode of the transmit amplifier: no audible reply after a telecommand code if the AR
unit has not been used for a long time (about 1 hour).
Note: the single pulse interrogation for ranging is not implemented on AR units. Proceed with
"RANGE" telecommand code to range on AR units.
3.3. Release
Upon receipt of its own release code, the AR unit sends back an acknowledgement pulse at F0. 3
seconds later, the motor is activated (release duration from 1.5 to 3 seconds depending on the AR
model). At the end of the release, a second pulse at F0 is transmitted.
The motor rotation makes the hook free and open.

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 12/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
4. SUB-ASSEMBLIES FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
4.1. Break out List
4.1.1. AR 661 S
- One housing tube
- One oil filled transducer/top endplate with protective cage
- One endplate assembly and internal structure
4.1.2. AR 661 CS
- One housing tube
- One oil filled transducer/top endplate with protective cage
- One endplate assembly with release hook and internal structure
4.1.3. AR 601 AP
- One housing tube
- One oil filled transducer/top endplate
- One endplate assembly with release system and internal structure
4.1.4. AR 661 CE
- One housing tube
- One oil filled transducer/top endplate
- One endplate assembly with release system and internal structure
4.1.5. AR 661 B1S
- One housing tube
- One oil filled transducer/top endplate with protective cage
- One endplate assembly with release hook and internal structure
4.1.6. AR 661 B2S
- One housing tube
- One oil filled transducer/top endplate with protective cage
- One endplate assembly with release hook and internal structure
4.1.7. AR 661 DS
- One housing tube
- One assembly including a stirrup, rods and nuts
- Two fenders
- One oil filled transducer/top endplate with protective cage
- One endplate assembly with release hook and internal structure

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 13/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
4.2. 194-2003 Printed Circuit Board
This board gathers all the main functions of the Acoustic Release:
- Preamplifier, wide band pass filter, amplifier and narrow band filtering
- Receiving, telecommand logic implemented in EPROM
- Output amplifier with storage capacitors
- DC/DC converter of transmitter
- Transmit oscillator
- Motor driver and regulator
- DC/DC stand-by converter
4.3. Description
4.3.1. Power supplies
Transmit amplifier section is powered by a 35 VDC blocking converter from the battery voltage
through storage capacitor (C61).
In order to avoid leakage and to save energy of the battery pack, the DC/DC converter is
automatically shut down if the AR unit is not interrogated over about 60 mn.
A 5 VDC serie regulator supplies the receiver and logic sections from the DC/DC converter and
from the battery voltage.
4.3.2. Receiver section
The signal received by the transducer is first amplified through a low noise FET pre-amplifier
(Q01). The signal is fed in a wide band pass filter (L1-C11, L2-C12, and L3-C13), and then the
signal is amplified and hard limited (Z2). The resulting signal from the amplification section is
fed simultaneously into Bit_0 and Bit_1 narrow band filter (T1-C21 for BIT_1, T2-C29 for
BIT_0). Upon detection of one of the telecommand frequencies, an analogue gate samples the
incoming signal for improvement of false detection ratio.
4.3.3. Logic section
Receiving and telecommand logic is implemented in an EPROM (Z24). There are two
programmable commands: RANGE/RELEASE.
The received message is compared to the programmed codes. If the code received matches one
of the two programmed codes, a reply transmission is generated at F0. In case RELEASE code is
detected, the motor is actuated. Control command is applied to the motor drive amplifier for 20
seconds maximum. Time of release completion is about 3 to 4 seconds. Upon completion of
release operation, a second transmit pulse at F0 is generated.

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 14/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
4.3.4. Transmit power section
Upon receipt of a valid command, the transmit frequency is generated by an oscillator driven by
Y2 crystal and Z44, Z43 IC's. Signal is applied to the driver of push-pull amplifier (Z37, Q08
and Q09). Tapped secondary of T03 power transformer allows the adjustment of acoustic output
level. L4 core coil with the transducer forms a tuned RLC circuit.
4.4. Programming
- Two programmed command codes by wire links:
- RELEASE (REL) : Hexadecimal from 00 to FF
- RANGE (INT) : Hexadecimal from 00 to FF
Upper digit (GROUP) is common to the INT and REL codes.
- Transmit frequency F0 is fixed by the Y2 crystal: F_crystal = F0 x 384
Example: F0 = 8 kHz; crystal frequency should be: 3,072 kHz.
- Link AR_AL (PL25) must be:
•Installed with alkaline cells,
•Cut (open) with Lithium cells.

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 15/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
5. MAINTENANCE
5.1. Dismantling
Preliminary: All the references mentioned in the following paragraphs (for example: 910
1638) are IXSEA-OCEANO references.
5.1.1. AR 661 S
- Unscrew the locking screw (ref. 910 1638) thanks to the Allen key (size 10) supplied with the
Acoustic Release.
- Manually extrude the transducer endplate from the housing tube. A plastic connector should
appear. Disconnect it.
- Remove the endplate assembly and internal structure.
5.1.2. AR 661 CS
- Unscrew the locking screw (ref. 910 1638) thanks to the Allen key (size 10) supplied with the
Acoustic Release.
- Manually extrude the transducer endplate from the housing tube. A plastic connector should
appear. Disconnect it.
- Remove the endplate assembly with release hook and internal structure.
5.1.3. AR 601 AP
- Install the AR 601 AP unit in up right position, transducer at the top.
- Remove the locking O-ring located at the base of the transducer, by pulling on the visible
thread or using a small screwdriver.
- Drive the two opening keys into the two holes located on the transducer endplate.
- Turn the two keys towards the centre of the housing tube.
- Pull on the keys to extrude the transducer endplate from the housing tube.
- Open the electrical connector from transducer to main board.
- Put upside down the AR 601 AP unit and proceed the same way to extrude the lower
endplate/internal structure.

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 16/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
5.1.4. AR 661 CE
- Unscrew the locking screw (ref. 910 1488) thanks to an Allen key (size 12).
- Manually extrude the transducer endplate from the housing tube. Disconnect the plastic
connector.
- Remove the endplate assembly with release hook and internal structure.
5.1.5. AR 661 B1S
- Dismantle the strain plate (ref. 910 1579).
- Unscrew and remove the locking shaft (ref. 910 1662).
- Lift the hook N°2 (ref. 910 1658).
- Unscrew the locking screw (ref. 910 1638) thanks to the Allen key supplied with the Acoustic
Release.
- Manually extrude the transducer endplate from the housing tube. Disconnect the plastic
connector.
- Remove the endplate assembly with release hook and internal structure.
5.1.6. AR 661 B2S
Only partial dismantling of the B2S-DDL hook assembly is required to accede to electronic
board or replace battery packs of an AR 661 unit. Execute this dismantling as follows:
- Fully unscrew the locking screw (ref. 910 1662).
- Unscrew then remove the two screws (ref. 910 1288) that hold the shaft (ref. 910 1529).
- Remove the two washers (ref. 910 1531)
- Remove the shaft (ref. 910 1529)
- Recover the release hook (ref. 910 2922) and the two spacers (ref. 910 1540).
Use the special tool kit supplied with the unit to open it. This dismantling tool kit comprises the
following parts:
FACOM J120 Extension bar
J210 Handle
J236 Intermediate socket
J240A Cardan
EH210 screwing end-piece
- Extrude the transducer endplate from the housing tube. Disconnect the plastic connector.
- Remove the endplate assembly and internal structure.

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 17/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
5.1.7. AR 661 DS
- Unscrew the nuts (ref. 910 1526)
- Recover the assembly made of the stirrup and rods
- Unscrew the locking screw (ref. 910 1638) thanks to the Allen key delivered with the Acoustic
Release.
- Extrude the transducer endplate from the housing tube. Disconnect the plastic connector.
- Remove the endplate assembly with release hook and internal structure.
5.2. Battery packs replacement
Changing the batteries needs to remove only the transducer endplate:
- Unscrew the 4 screws M3 from "springs" printed circuit (-cells)
- Remove all the cells from the three PVC tubes by leaning the AR unit
- Replace with new ones, individually tested, and respect their polarity
- Reinstall the printed circuit with the screws
Do not change the type of cells without changing setting of link AR_AL (see § 4.4.).
5.3. Unit Re-assembly
- Clean O-rings and grooves. Do not hesitate to change O-rings (ref. R50DF801).
- Apply new silicone grease on O-rings and grooves. Use RHODORSIL 33 silicone grease
(available on request at IXSEA-OCEANO).
- Proceed in reverse order to reassemble the AR unit. Do not forget to connect the hydrophone.
- For the AR 661 DS model: before final tightening, fit the assembly made of the stirrup and
rods in the DS hook fork (ref. 910 1285).
- For the AR 661 B1S model: before final tightening, fit the strain plate (ref. 910 1579) in the
aperture of the strain bar (ref. 910 1580). Fix the plate on the hook with the shaft (ref. 910 1529)
while inserting the Nylon spacers (ref. 910 1589).
5.4. Preventive Maintenance Procedure
5.4.1. Transducer neoprene boot
The neoprene boot should always be free of grease prior to immersion. Clean it with soapy
solution. Do not use alcohol or petroleum based solvents.

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 18/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
5.4.2. Storage
If the Acoustic Release is to be warehoused for a long time, we recommend to remove the
batteries.
5.4.3. O-Rings
Whenever an Acoustic Release has been opened, it is necessary to clean the O-rings and grooves
before re-assembly. Apply special silicone grease as necessary (RHODORSIL 33).
Replace any O-ring that has been scratched.
6. PREPARATION FOR DEPLOYMENT
6.1. User Guide
6.1.1. ON/OFF Switch
To avoid loss of units due to forgetting to switch ON the AR 6X1 unit, the external switch has
been purposely eliminated.
Therefore, as soon as the D-size cells are connected, the AR 6X1 Acoustic Release is powered
on.
6.1.2. Pre-immersion documentation
Before deployment, record the model, serial number, frequencies, time delay, appropriate
command codes on a form.
This information is compulsory and vital for the successful use and/or recovery of the unit. See
Equipment checklist.
6.1.3. Functional test prior to immersion
After checking the batteries and prior to any operational use, it is advisable to test each function
of the AR 6X1 Acoustic Release:
1. Position the transducer's head of the AR unit in alignment or close to the transducer of TT301,
TT301-A, TT301-B (or TT201) telecommand transmitter.
2. Program the release code on the telecommand transmitter. Transmit the command code.
3. Check that the AR unit has transmitted an acoustic acknowledgement pulse, upon receipt of
the release code. Check that the release pin turns after 3 seconds delay and stops after 1/4 turn,
making the release hook free. Upon completion of the release, verify that the AR 6X1 unit
transmits a second execution pulse.

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 19/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
4. For re-arming procedure of AR 601 AP, AR 661 CS and AR 661 DS, insert a release ring at
the right place (take care of the good position of the hook) and transmit a release command. The
motor runs a quarter turn. The release ring should be locked in the hook.
For re-arming procedure of AR 661 B1S and AR 661 B2S, first remove the locking shaft (ref.
910 1662) then fit the release ring. Correctly close the hooks N° 1 and 2, then fit the locking
shaft (ref. 910 1662). Check the locking of the release ring and the good condition of the hooks.
5. Program the "interrogate/ranging" code on the telecommand transmitter. Transmit the
command code. Check that the AR unit has transmitted an acoustic pulse at the end of the
command.
In the air, the distance displayed on the telecommand unit is not the real distance between the
AR unit and the telecommand unit.
6. Do not deploy an AR unit unless it has successfully operated in each of its modes.
6.2. Mooring Line Considerations
The AR 6X1 Acoustic Release may be inserted in the mooring line just below the floats or
oceanographic equipment to recover.
Take care that the transducer head is free of obstruction.
AR unit should be oriented the way towards the surface.
Special attention should be given to the following considerations:
. No dissimilar metals should be used in the connections of the mooring line unless perfectly
insulated by neutral material such as Delron or Nylon.
. A proper sized release ring should always be used.
. It is recommended to separate the AR unit from the anchor (dead weight) by a line of 3 to 5
meters long. This separation should be a negative buoyant line to prevent this line to wind
around the AR body.
. If the sea bottom topography is not flat, do not hesitate to increase length of the line between
AR unit and anchor as necessary.
. The buoyancy package for recovering the AR should be a 2 or 3 to one ratio of positive
buoyancy versus the AR weight in water.
. The dead weight for anchoring the mooring line should be dimensioned to prevent drifting
due to tidal or current actions.
. The anchor weight in water should be at least 3 or 5 times the positive buoyancy fitted on the
AR 6X1 line.

IXSEA IS DATE UM-AR 6X1 PAGE
1.1 06/11/02 20/20
This document is the property of IXSEA and may not be reproduced or divulged without their prior written approval.
6.3. Deployment
Two methods are typically used to deploy an AR unit:
a) Suspend the entire assembly in a vertical position using a crane. The release and finally the
anchor should at the top, followed by any instrument packs and additional buoys, follow the
flotation buoy. The entire column should be lowered into the water and then release. This
method insures that no tangling of the lines will occur during the descent.
b) If a crane is not available, or impracticable, then the unit can be deployed from the stern of the
vessel. Deploy the buoy first, followed by the instrument packs and the release. With the vessel
moving slowly ahead, the assembly should be in a straight line astern. At the desired drop point,
push the anchor over the stern. As the anchor sinks, the assembly should follow it without
fouling.
Geodetic coordinates should be recorded as each release is deployed.
6.4. Recovering the Acoustic Release
- Locate the recovery area thanks to the recorded geodetic coordinates.
- Program the "INT-RANGE" code of the AR on the telecommand transmitter.
- Check the good receiver mode of the TT 301 telecommand unit:
•Mode A: used for an AR unit replying at 8 kHz
•Mode B: used for an AR unit replying at 12 kHz
- Transmit "INT-RANGE" code of the AR with the telecommand transmitter.
- Because of the power stand-by system, the AR 6X1 may not respond at the first code or
transmit at very low acoustic level.
- As the release replies, note its range and compare this with known depth of the site. Using the
range indicator, direct the vessel to close on the target until the range approximately equals the
depth. At this point, stop the vessel.
Recovery procedure:
- Using the telecommand system, program and transmit the RELEASE code (REL).
The AR unit should acknowledge the receipt of this code, then acknowledge its execution 3 or
4 seconds later.
- Check that the "RECEIVED" and "EXECUTED" LED’s of the TT unit light on and that the
distance posted up on the Range Display is coherent with the previous measurements. At this
point, the Acoustic Release should be rising to the surface.
- Keep on ranging the unit with "INT-RANGE" code until the buoy is sighted. The range should