Review of Autonomous Undersea Vehicle (AUV) Developments 
Table 10. ABE Specifications 
Length: 10.5 feet (3 m) 
Beam: Approx. 5.5 feet 
Height: 5 feet 
Gross Weight: 1,500 Ibs. 
Maximum Operating Depth: 20,000 feet (6,000 meters) 
Dive Duration: 6 hours to 1 year, 4-100 active hours 
Propulsion: 7 thrusters 
Navigation: Medium frequency (7-14 kHz) transponders guide ABE during descent to 
the worksite and are used to navigate for surveys. 
Power requirements: 
Sleep: 50 milliwatts 
Maximum Propulsion Power: 200 watts 
Science Power: 10-100 watts 
Vehicle Navigation and Control Power: 17 watts 
Power source: 
Option 1: Lead acid rechargeable cells - 1 kWh usable 
Option 2: 2-5 kWh usable (rate dependent) 
Option 3: Lithium primary cells - 17 kWh usable (expensive) 
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