DK180 – Low Frequency Beacon
Specifications
Dukane Seacom’s DK180 is designed and certified to meet the newly developed standards FAA TSO-C200a, TSO-C142a.
The DK180 also meets SAE-AS6254a minimum performance standard for Low Frequency Underwater Locator Devices (acoustic, self-powered) & the ARINC-677 installation standard.
In the event of an accident at sea, the DK180 emits a low frequency signal (8.8kHz) in order to provide an extended detection range in locating the submerged aircraft. The beacon transmits for a minimum of 90 days and acts as a supplement to the existing Underwater Locating Devices (ULD) which are attached directly to the flight and data recorders.
- Watertight aluminum case (2” dia, 6” length).
- Capable of operation at depths of up to 20,000 feet(6096 m)
- Detectable underwater up to 7.0-12.0 NM ( 13-22 km) based on environmental factors.
- Sustained pressure up to 8700 psi.
- Water switch actuation initiates beacon operation upon immersion in either fresh or salt water.
- The battery used to power the DK180 will sustain beacon operation for a minimum of 90 days at an acoustic output of 160 dB operating frequency is 8.8 kHz.
Beacon Specifications
Operating Frequency
8.8 kHz ± 1 kHz
Pulse Width
10 milliseconds min.
Pulse Repetition Rate
10 Sec max.
Power Source
Lithium battery
Operating Life
90 Days (Minimum)
Actuation
Fresh or salt water
Size
2.0 in (5.1 cm) diameter 6.0 in (15.2 cm) long
Weight
26 oz (unit), 16 oz (mounting bracket/hdwr)
Operating Depth
Surface to 20,000 ft (6096 m)
Case Material
Aluminum
Acoustic Output
160 dB re 1 μPa at 1m
Battery Life In Beacon
6 years
Theory of Operation
- The DK180 is a battery operated underwater acoustic pulse generator (beacon / pinger) that is activated when the water switch is immersed in either fresh or salt water.
- The water switch is part of a low current triggering circuit, which when closed will initiate normal pulsing of the beacon oscillator circuit. The output voltage of the oscillator is coupled to the piezo-ceramic transducer ring.
- The resultant mechanical motion is transmitted to the metal case of the beacon, which in turn radiates acoustic energy into the surrounding water at 8.8 kHz.
