Mk III

The Mk III is the most-expensive variant of the ROVLe lineup. It is designed to require the least amount of attention from the user or operator, and require the least amount of infrastructure from the user system. It is not subject to drift so it can be used in long-duration missions. It also automatically re-synchronizes if either or both ends are power-cycled.

The Mk III transponder requires power from the host ROV. Otherwise, it is independent from the rest of the ROV setup. The Mk III transponder is deprecated in favor of the Mk V transmitter / transponder.

The Mk III Transceiver is also compatible with the Mk V transmitter / transponder, which is smaller than the Mk III transponder. Mk III systems sold after September 2025 will include the Mk V transmitter as the ROV-mounted component. A Mk V transmitter automatically detects if it should operate in Mk III mode or Mk V mode.

When a Mk III transceiver is properly configured, it will click once per second. When a Mk III transponder or Mk V transmitter is properly connected, it will click when the transducer is gently tapped with a fingernail or pencil.

By default, the Mk III Transceiver communicates with its host PC using a USB connection. The USB connection enumerates as a COM port. By specification, the maximum length of a USB cable is 5 meters (about 16 feet). The length can usually be extended using an active powered USB cable, as long as the powered cable is low-enough resistance to properly power the Receiver. It is also possible to use a power-over-Ethernet connection, which can be much longer.

ROVL Mk III System (typical)