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5. Audio Communication with the Ship

Audio Communication with the Ship

This section explains the two methods for two-way audio communication with the Okeanos Explorer.

Telephone

The primary means to communicate with the vessel during science operations is through a conference call line. The expedition coordinator will provide participating explorers with a 1-800 number and a passcode for the duration of the cruise. To join the call during an ROV dive, dial the 1-800 number and enter the passcode followed by the # key when prompted. You will then be placed in to conference with the ship.

The ship is only dialed into the conference call line when shore-based participation is expected. To reach the ship when it is not connected to the conference call line, the preferred method is through the instant message service/Eventlog. However, at the beginning of the cruise you will be provided with a couple VOIP numbers for the ship.

Some participants have used Google Talk or Skype to connect to the conference call during cruises. For more information about using once those service please follow the links below. Depending on your geographical location, fees may apply for using these services.

Google Talk: https://hangouts.google.com/webchat/start 

Skype: https://www.skype.com/en/ 

 

RTS Units

If you are operating from an Exploration Command Center (ECC) you may have access to an RTS unit. The RTS unit is a point-to-point intercom system that is capable of calling the ship. These units should only be used for prearranged special events or as a back up to the conference call line. The two RTS units that are the most important are the EXWL station and OKEX. EXWL is the science watch lead station in the control room and OKEX is known as the party line. All communications from shore to the ship should first go through OKEX and if the ship does not respond try EXWL. The OKEX party line will also have all of the audio from the teleconference line.

RTS Operations

Alpha:
The Alpha is the 3 or f letter code displayed on the key panel that indicates the RTS unit’s location and name. Each Alpha has two indicator lights either below or above the tab. These two lights will indicate if you are listening or speaking to the desired alpha.

Speaker and Headsets:
While sitting at the station, the far right knob controls selection. Three lights will indicate options, (HDST, SPKR, PRGM) with Red being the selected. To change the option, press the knob once.

To Listen:
Gently flip the tab up once so that the top indicator light turns solid green. This enables you to listen to what is being said by that station. Because we are able to listen to many Alpha’s at once, multiple sides of the conversation can be heard (OKEX being the party line). If any color appears besides green, please see one of the ISC technicians. To turn off listening, gently press the tab up once so that the indicator light turns off.

To Speak:
Gently hold down the tab of the selected Alpha until the bottom indicator light becomes solid green.  At this time, speak into the microphone or headset.

IMPORTANT:  Holding down the tab while speaking only allows you to be heard while the tab is pressed down. Pressing the tab once enables a continuous speak function. This is evident if the bottom indicator light remains sold green without holding it down. To undo, press the tab down again so the bottom indicator light turns off.  At this time, the function to continuously speak has been disabled, but can be changed if needed.

BE AWARE that enabling the continuous speak function can result in issues for Alphas down the line and everything said from your station can be heard throughout the entire network. Please always release all the Alphas talk and listen when the ECC is not in use. When a talk or listen is latched, it ties up lines to the ship and may prevent others from communicating with the ship.

 

RTS Alpha Information