An overview of the methods and characteristics of underwater data transmission

Underwater data transfer in this publication refers to the transfer of data between vessels, equipment, sensors, etc. operating underwater or on the surface. The focus is on wireless communication. Traditionally, underwater and sub-surface communications have been associated with military or other government applications such as submarine communications, weapon systems, diver communications, or underwater listening hydrophone networks.

However, the importance of underwater data transmission has also grown strongly in civilian applications with the advent of various sensor networks and remote control devices. These include many sensors and networks for monitoring the state of the environment, fish farming monitoring equipment, equipment for studying the sea (or lakes) and their ecosystems, real-time control of underwater unmanned devices. Applications may require high-speed broadband data transmission, including video. Ocean oil and gas industries and mining are also applications.