Node pattern simulation of an undersea sensor network using RF electromagnetic communications

Underwater sensor networks have traditionally used acoustic or optical technologies to enable communication between the network nodes. Electromagnetic communications, although ubiquitous in most atmospheric communications systems, it has been largely dismissed for use in underwater environments because of the huge attenuation of the signal in water. Very low frequency (VLF) electromagnetic signals however do not suffer attenuation as much as higher frequencies. This paper describes the simulation of the optimal layout pattern for the nodes of a small scale wireless sensor network using VLF technology that is used to provide an underwater coastal monitoring service.