Recompression Chamber Communication Systems Test and Evaluation.

Abstract

Five commercially available Hardwire Communications Systems were tested at the Navy Experimental Diving Unit for Use as two-wire communications systems on recompression chambers. These systems were designed to serve as the primary means of communication between outside personnel and personnel inside the chamber. The communication systems were evaluated and rated by how well they fulfilled specific critical parameters related to this application. The five systems evaluated were Helle Models 3220 and 3214, Amron Model AMCOM II 2820, EFCOM Model DAR-1000, and Atkinson Dynamics Model AD-27H-M2. Overall, the AMCOM II and EFCOM DAR-100 were rated the best communicators by the system operators on human factors variables. The overall ranking of the systems was in agreement with the operators' confidence in each communicator. In summary, the AMRON Model AMCON II and the EFCOM Model DAR-1000 communication systems were considered to be reliable and effective instruments of communication with occupants in U.S. Navy recompression chambers from 0 to 165 FSW. Originator-supplied keywords include: Diver phones, and MIL-STD 810C.