A study of channel capacity for a seabed underwater acoustic sensor network

Developing a seabed underwater acoustic sensor network is a challenging venture. Of great importance is the prospect of a reliable horizontal communication link. Due to the cost and difficulty in the deployment of such a network, it is imperative to understand the potential for communication prior to implementation and field testing. Understanding those parameters that have greatest effect on communication is also useful. Through the use of environmental data and the BELL-HOP Gaussian beam tracing program, this study discusses the capacity potentials for a target network deployment. Parameters, such as transducer placement, range, and bathymetry, are varied to illustrate their effects on the channel capacity. Understanding how the channel reacts to these variations will enable designers to explore possible deployment advantages.