Evaluation of IEEE 802.11 Underwater Networks Operating at 700 MHz, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz

Abstract

The usage of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs), Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), and sensors in surveillance, maintenance and inspection of underwater facilities is increasing the need for broadband, cost-effective communications solutions. Current solutions, mainly based on acoustic communications, enable long ranges but provide low bitrates and have high communication delays. Despite its strong attenuation underwater, RF is envisioned as a technology to enable broadband, short-range communications.