Acoustic Release Units

Product Description
The ARC-1XD ‘extended duration’ acoustic release is specifically optimized for the operation and remote recovery of large inventories of commercial fishing gear. The ARC-1 acts as a release mechanism for an anchored buoy (any anchor weight), thus eliminating surface equipment and gear from the vertical water column. It provides the operator with real-time status feedback, and then uses a very fast acting mechanism to reliably recover the payload. The ARC has been field tested, validated and used continuously since 2003, and stands as the worlds only fully-functional rope-less fishing system. The ARC-1XD is unique in that it not only prevents whale entanglements but also offers business advantages to fishermen who use it. The ARC also offers new innovation in the way gear is marked and regulators are able to track and control traps (Rope-less fisher app).
Features
ARC-1XD
Best for Off-shore and testing
Serviceable by anyone
Every ARC-1XD can be serviced within minutes with no specials tools or knowledge required. Swapping out batteries or a broken end is easy and quick.
Individual Release Mode
Incorporated sonar transducer allows the ARC-1XD to reply back with distance information without triggering a release using IRM (individual release mode). Also good for off-shore fishing.
10+ year lifetime
Made from all Delrin and Titanium parts, in combination with an easy to service build, the ARC-1XD should last as long as you do.
ARC-2
In-shore and near-shore
Compact
A bit on the smaller side, this model will save space for those more crowded boats.
Broadcast Release Mode
Automatically trigger a release before the boat arrives on location. Great for in-shore and near-shore fishers who have only minutes between servicing their gear sets. Black-out period of 1 hour after a release to prevent pre-mature triggering when setting back in the water.
Cost Effective
With a different design comes a different price. The ARC-2 offers a lower price point, with the trade off of not being easy to service.
Full Quantity Pricing
ARC-1XD
Quantity | Price (USD) per unit |
1-9 | 1995 |
10-49 | 1700 |
50-99 | 1600 |
100+ | 1550 |
ARC-2
Quantity | Pricing (USD) per unit |
1-9 | 950 |
10-49 | 810 |
50-99 | 762 |
100+ | 738 |
Other Equipment
Item | Description | Price (USD) |
STM-3 | Surface control station used to send acoustic signals from computer to ARC. For use with ARC-1XD and ARC-2. Comes with individual and broadcast release modes. Comes with over-the-side and thru-hull transducers. | 8,000 |
STM-4 | Surface control station used to send acoustic signals from computer to ARC. For use with ARC-2. Comes with broadcast release mode ONLY. Comes with over-the-side and thru-hull transducers. | 4,000 |
Surface Control Software | Custom Windows software for interrogating releases, ranging functions, trouble shooting, noise tests and more. | 2,995 |
On-site Support | Expert in-person support by a registered Desert Star technician. This does not include travel costs, or food expenses. | 1,200 per day |
Arm
The release is armed prior to use by inserting a small length of nickel-chromium wire which constrains a lever.
Test and Deploy
The package is now submerged next to the boat, or placed in a water filled test tub on deck. A command from the deck unit confirms contact by interrogating the unit specific serial ID via testing the device and registering the GPS location. Anchor weight is attached to the bottom while a buoy or floatation (up-to 80lbs float weight) is attached on the opposite end of the top. The instrument package is then dropped to the sea floor and the boat can proceed.
Interrogate
As the boat approaches the GPS location, the deck box interrogates and ranges to the ARC-1. battery. Status information is returned and the distance measurements are used to position the boat close to or directly above the release. Even if an instrument moved, ranging allows the boat to be positioned for rapid recovery – in particular useful in heavy seas.
Release
Upon command, the ARC-1 energizes the nickel-chromium wire with a safe low-voltage but very high current pulse is generated from standard 9V and/or AA batteries.. It vaporizes instantly, the lever opens and the instrument package or a buoy rises to the surface. The ARC-1 also confirms released status.
How it Works
The ARC-1XD and payload are fastened to the Pot/Trap. From the vessel the unique serial is called from a surface station (STM). From the STM, the release signal is given via a transducer either in the hull of the ship or over-the-side of the ship. The burn-wire is burnt and the lever arm releases the anchor weight. Allowing the payload/buoy to surface along with the ARC-1XD.
Release Mechanism Up-Close
2) Sent to the Surface Station
3) Surface Station Relays electronic command into Sonar ping
4) Ping produced by tranducer attached to surface station
5) Ping reaches the ARC
6) ARC "talks back" with status update
7) Second Ping triggers release
8) High voltage but low amperage charge sent through nickel chromium burn wire
9) Burn Wire disintegrates immediately
10) Lever Arm is freed from anchor weight
11) Buoy and floats to the surface for grappling
Technology Readiness Rating
Product - ARC-1XD
Readiness Rating - Mission Verified
Priority Level - Very High
Sales Rating - C.O.T.S.
Product - ARC-2XD
Readiness Rating - Alpha
Priority Level - Very High (Primary Engineering Focus)
Sales Rating - Unavailable (Development Funding for fastback possible, please contact us )