The communications links associated with the OceanNet buoy serve three distinct purposes for forwarding experimental data and operation of hardware components. The communications links can be classified as either a high data rate link, a remote monitor and control (M&C) link or an emergency signal link. The figure below illustrates the various links associated with the buoy that accomplish this purpose.

OceanNet Communications Links

The remote M&C link is generally a one way link from the Communications Center to the buoy for control of experimental sensors and buoy components. This link is also capable of returning hardware status messages from the buoy to the Communications Center, in the event that the primary high data rate link is not operational. Command and control messages transfer from the Inmarsat Coastal Earth Station to the Communications Center via Internet e-mail.

The local M&C link consists of a low data rate wireless local area network which serves for the monitor and control of the buoy hardware complement for visiting service ships within a 2 mile radius of the buoy.

The emergency signal link is used for buoy positioning information in the event of a mooring failure, power loss or other catastrophic event. The link utilizes the ARGOS polar orbiting satellites for position location to a 1km accuracy. The location is triangulated from the Doppler shift of the moving satellite as received by a ground station and the calculated position is then forwarded via e-mail to the OceanNet Communications Center. The ARGOS transmitter terminal on board the buoy is powered by an autonomous battery for added reliability and increased operational life. The transmitter will also allow for directional finding equipment on board the service ship to locate the buoy during inclement conditions.

The equipment rack is located in the environmentally controlled equipment room. The rack is isolated from shock and vibration which protects the equipment in high sea states.