Transducer Evaluation Center (TRANSDEC)

The Transducer Evaluation Center is a controlled environment, low ambient noise, and conveniently accessible transducer calibration and underwater acoustic test facility. It consists of a large, man-made anechoic pool, 300 ft by 200 ft by 38 ft deep containing 6 million gallons of chemically treated fresh water, continuously circulated to maintain isothermal conditions.

TRANSDEC is capable of performing a wide variety of measurements for a complete transducer evaluation including but not limited to:

* Transmitting voltage, current and power response
* Receiving sensitivity
* Directivity patterns
* Complex impedance and admittance
* Noise measurements and harmonic distortion
* Target strength measurements
* Phase measurements between two hydrophones or array elements
* Insertion loss of sonar windows


The low ambient noise level in the TRANSDEC pool is ideal for investigating the radiated noise of mechanical devices such as underwater motors, pumps and low thrust propulsion systems. Although not filtered, the water clarity in the pool is excellent for photographic work and optical experiments.