Which system utilizes a single transducer along with an array of transponders on the seabed?

The Ultra Short Baseline (USBL) acoustic positioning system employs a single transducer located on the vessel along with a network of transponders fixed on the seabed. This setup allows for precise positioning by measuring the time it takes for acoustic signals to travel from the transponder to the transducer. The single transducer simplifies the system while still providing the necessary data for accurate location tracking beneath the water's surface.

In contrast, the Long Baseline (LBL) system also uses multiple transponders, but it typically involves multiple transducers both on the vessel and on the seabed to triangulate positions, making it more complex. GPS acoustic positioning relies on satellite signals rather than underwater acoustic transmissions. Additionally, a Dynamic Positioning System (DPS) focuses on maintaining a vessel's position rather than determining its location through transponders and transducers. Thus, the USBL system stands out for its straightforward configuration using one transducer and several seabed transponders, enabling effective underwater positioning techniques.