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For illustration only - Image obtained with EM 302. Courtesy of NOAA, Office of Ocean Exploration and Research Okeanos Explorer
For illustration only - Image obtained with EM 302. Courtesy of NOAA, Office of Ocean Exploration and Research Okeanos Explorer

Press release -

Kongsberg Maritime: Higher Performance and New Functionality for Surveyors as KONGSBERG Releases New Generation Multibeam Echo Sounder

Kongsberg, Norway, 18 December 2017 – Kongsberg Maritime has released the EM 304, the third generation of its de facto industry standard 30 kHz Multibeam Echo Sounder System, which is used for high resolution seabed mapping from depths of 10 metres to beyond the continental rises – deeper than 8000 metres. Developed as a low noise echo sounder with state-of-the-art electronics, the EM 304 delivers superior data that requires minimal post-processing.

In addition to offering increased range and resolution performance, the EM 304 introduces a broad range of functionality and cutting-edge new features that serve as a significant upgrade to the current generation EM 302 system.

As part of a new EM technology platform designed for future challenges, the EM 304 is compatible with a new KONGSBERG developed datagram format, which supports several new features, such as extended backscatter calibration, with more features already in development. The new format is supported by Kognifai, KONGSBERG’s open digital ecosystem which brings opportunities to transform survey operations through digitalisation.

“The EM 304 provides state-of-the-art survey vessel operators with the highest performance, most accurate mapping capability. The system replaces the EM 302 which has been the de facto industry standard since it was launched in 2006,” says Helge Uhlen, Director Sales Subsea. “The unparalleled performance of the EM 302 has resulted in a record number of medium-to-deep water systems being delivered for operations around the world, so we are pleased to introduce the next generation of our leading technology, which offers even more functionality and higher performance.”

Considering the extensive EM 302 global user-base, KONGSBERG has developed the EM 304 to utilise the same transducers as its current generation system. This simplifies

upgrading from the EM 302 to the new EM 304 platform. Installation is optimised thanks to a highly, modular and flexible system with compact electronics.The EM 304 also accommodates easier installation through the use of a sub-bottom profiler. The KONGSBERG SBP 300 can be fully integrated, by sharing the same receiver transducer as the EM 304.

The EM 304 is a highly scalable mapping system that takes advantage of features and benefits achieved in the development of the EM 2040 family and the EM 712. It joins Kongsberg Maritime’s unmatched range of leading Multibeam Echo Sounder Systems, from very shallow water to full ocean depth, all with proven superior performance and reliability.

For operations in artic waters, the system can be delivered with ice windows for protection of the transducers, enabling light ice-class vessels to heavy ice breakers operating in the toughest ice conditions to enjoy the benefits of KONGSBERG’s new solution. And like all Kongsberg EM multibeam echo sounders, the EM 304 ensures the best operating environment to safeguard marine life inhabiting the survey area, through decreased emitted sound levels.

Ends

For further information, please contact:

Gunvor Hatling Midtbø, VP Communication

Kongsberg Maritime

Tel: +47 9921 4209

gunvor.hatling.midtbo@km.kongsberg.com

Saul Trewern

Saltwater Stone

Tel: +44 (0)1202 669244

s.trewern@saltwater-stone.com

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About Kongsberg Maritime

Kongsberg Maritime is a global marine technology company providing innovative and reliable technology solutions for all marine industry sectors including merchant, offshore, subsea and naval. Headquartered in Kongsberg, Norway, the company has manufacturing, sales and service facilities in 20 countries.

Kongsberg Maritime systems for vessels cover all aspects of marine automation, safety, manoeuvring, navigation, and dynamic positioning. Subsea solutions include single and multibeam echo sounders, sonars, AUV/Underwater Robotics, underwater navigation, communication and camera systems.

Training courses at locations globally, LNG solutions, information management, position reference systems and technology for seismic and drilling operations are also part of the company’s diverse technology portfolio.

In parallel with its extensive technology portfolio, Kongsberg Maritime provides services within EIT (Electro, Instrument & Telecom) engineering and system integration, on an EPC (Engineering, Procurement & Construction) basis.

Kongsberg Maritime delivers solutions that cover all aspects of technology underwater and on the water, aboard new build and retrofit vessels, and on offshore platforms and rigs, often under a single supplier strategy called The Full Picture.

Kongsberg Maritime is part of Kongsberg Gruppen (KONGSBERG), an international, knowledge-based group that celebrated 200 years in business during 2014. KONGSBERG supplies high-technology systems and solutions to customers in the oil and gas industry, the merchant marine, and the defence and aerospace industries.

www.km.kongsberg.com

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