Nucleus 1000: Firmware Update 4.2.2

The latest firmware release introduces two important features that enhance performance and open new opportunities for our navigation users.

ADCP processing for Earth referenced water velocity

Nortek’s Nucleus navigation sensor suite now includes an enhanced ADCP functionality that allows the Nucleus to collect Earth referenced current profiles, even if the vehicle is under way. The Nucleus removes the motion of the host platform, such as the AUV or USV, by using bottom track data, or, when the bottom is out of range, GNSS data. All data are passed through the Nucleus’ INS for georeferencing. To benefit from this feature, users must have both Current Profile and INS licenses enabled, as it builds on a stacked set of capabilities.

This update also introduces the familiar quality control steps from our standard ADCP data processing workflow, including the removal of low amplitude and low correlation, seabed removal, and fish interference filtering. Bin mapping is also used when the Nucleus measures tilt, which is essential on smaller, dynamic platforms.

This feature is complementary to our vessel-mounted ADCP systems, which similarly use bottom track to remove vessel motion when collecting current profiles. Our vessel-mounted systems have additional performance benefits in terms of time and space resolution and real-time capability and are more suitable for users with a high focus on current profile data quality.

New narrowband mode for small ROVs

The Nucleus now offers a “narrow band” mode for ROVs operating with power supplies that have a switching frequency (noise) in our acoustic band (875-1125 kHz). The new narrowband mode operates at a bandwidth of 6.25%, compared to 25% in normal operation. This change improves operating range in the presence of in-band noise.

What’s next

Nortek is continuing to test and verify the functionality of all new features. We are dedicated to continuing to share updates, insights, and questions around Nucleus developments. The current release marks another important step in making Nucleus more flexible, robust, and adaptable across a wide range of platforms.