UK-based manufacturers of oceanographic systems Ocean Scientific International Ltd (OSIL) has launched new expandable Deep Sea Camera System, a pressure activated self-contained system which allows for the integration of additional instrumentation.
The new system is activated by a pressure switch in the intelligent battery pack which can be programmed at the surface to turn the camera on and off at specific depths, preventing users from having to record and review hours of wasted footage, and can also independently or concurrently activate any instrumentation that is connected to it.
Data is recorded onto a standard Micro SD memory card. Several hours of video footage can be built up over repeated deployments depending on the camera resolution settings and memory card used. Larger power packs are available for extended deployments. Recharging and data transfer takes place via an external connector.
The self-contained system delivers even under extreme low-light conditions, and gives high quality images in fine detail, the company explains. The system employs a full HD camera together with a dimmable all-purpose LED light, and a battery pack that can either be integrated into the same housing as the camera, or kept as a separate component depending on system requirements.
The camera is equipped with a 2750 lumen LED light with variable intensity to allow adjustments to be made for visibility. The standard housing is rated to 6000m, but systems for shallower use are also available.