The Kongsberg TRX32 (303088) is a 32-channel multi-frequency transmitter/receiver circuit board designed for the HiPAP® high-precision acoustic underwater positioning system. Identified in Kongsberg’s spare parts documentation as “PCB TRX32, 501,” it serves as the core acoustic transceiver stage for the HiPAP 501, 451, 351, and 101 system variants .
System Context: HiPAP Acoustic Positioning
The HiPAP family is Kongsberg Maritime’s high-precision acoustic positioning system, used for positioning ROVs, AUVs, towed bodies, and subsea structures during offshore operations. The system relies on a multi-element transducer that generates narrow transmitter and receiver beams through electronic beamforming, achieving sub-degree angular accuracy and long-range capability. The TRX32 board operates within the transceiver unit that drives this transducer array.
Board Function and Architecture
The TRX32 performs the fundamental acoustic pulse chain for the HiPAP system. It generates the multi-frequency transmit signals that drive the transducer elements and receives the returning echoes from subsea transponders and targets, digitizing these signals for downstream beamforming and position calculation.
Each TRX32 board carries 32 transmitter and 32 receiver channels, with each transmit/receive pair associated with a specific element of the HiPAP transducer. In a Model x81 transceiver unit, up to eight TRX32 boards can be installed, collectively supporting the full transducer array. Kongsberg documentation for a 241-element HiPAP transducer confirms that eight TRX32 boards provide 241 separate transmitter and receiver paths.
The board accepts external synchronization inputs including CLK20MHZ, TXENABLE, and a decimation clock, enabling deterministic transmit timing synchronized with other system components. Front-panel indicators include Ethernet LEDs (LINK/SPEED/ACTIVITY), power and I/O status indicators, and configuration switches SW1/SW2.
Field-Replaceable Design
The TRX32 is specified as a Line Replaceable Unit (LRU) within the HiPAP transceiver cabinet. It is secured by two board ejectors and covered by a protection/screening plate over most of its component side. Replacement in the field requires no soldering or special tools: disconnect the front cables, operate the ejectors, and seat the replacement board.
This LRU design is operationally significant for vessels running HiPAP positioning offshore, where transceiver board failure can directly impact DP reference availability and survey operations.
Application Scope
The TRX32 supports HiPAP system deployments across offshore and marine operations, including:
ROV and AUV positioning and tracking during subsea construction and intervention
DP (Dynamic Positioning) reference for drilling rigs and offshore construction vessels
Subsea pipeline laying and structural installation survey
Marine geological exploration and seabed scientific research
Underwater salvage and offshore wind substructure monitoring
