HydroFlex, Inc.: Underwater Communications

Speaker Video assist capabilities when used in conjunction with a one way underwater P.A. speaker system provide for a simple but effective means of communications between the cameraperson and the topside director. Camera roll and talent cues can be instigated by the director and the cameraperson can answer questions, in a yes or no context, by nodding the underwater camera via the video tap image, relayed from the underwater camera to the topside monitor.

An amplifier and microphone on the surface feed voice, siren or music underwater. Sound travels very well underwater, and all talent and crew in even large tanks can hear clearly. For personnel safety, the amp and mike are powered by 12 volt DC battery power only. For clearest sounds, the speakers should be suspended at least 6" away from the side of the pool, tank or boat.

For more complex set-ups where the cinematographer and the director need to talk directly to each other, a two way communications system works best. While wearing a full facemask, with a hardwire or wireless communication system, the underwater cinematographer can converse with the director and also talk to the underwater crew via an underwater P.A. speaker.