This is a common question, however the answer isn’t as simple as just a number or a specification.

This depends on the application and the ROV model being used. Generally, operations can be divided into two categories:

Transiting to a single target – where holding a precise path is less important.
Conducting detailed inspections or surveys – where maintaining heading, position, and consistent coverage is critical.

When transiting to a single location, all Deep Trekker ROVs are capable of handling stronger currents since their exact path is not as important as reaching the target. Tools such as imaging sonar, USBL positioning, and heading/depth sensors can help maintain situational awareness during transit.

For structured inspections, performance depends on the vehicle’s thrust configuration and stabilization features:

PHOTON - Compact and lightweight, ideal for calm conditions, confined spaces, and tanks or shallow protected areas. Best operated in 1 knot currents for controlled navigation and image stability.
PIVOT - Equipped with six vectored thrusters for full lateral and vertical control, enabling efficient maneuvering in any direction. Capable of maintaining course and performing detailed inspections in up to 2 knot currents, depending on tether length and configuration.
REVOLUTION - Deep Trekker’s most powerful ROV, featuring larger vectored thrusters and a stable, balanced frame. The system can transit through currents up to 3 knots and perform comprehensive surveys, even under moderate flow conditions.

Tether drag also affects how well the ROV can fight current. The longer the tether deployed, the greater the drag on the vehicle. Deep Trekker’s 4.5mm diameter neutrally buoyant tether minimizes drag compared to thicker, topside-powered systems. For optimal control:

PHOTON and PIVOT operate best with less than 300 m of tether deployed.
REVOLUTION maintains reliable control with tether lengths of up to 800 m.

In summary, the ROV’s ability to handle current is influenced by both model selection and operational setup - including tether management, mission type, and environmental conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

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About Deep Trekker

When was Deep Trekker Inc. Founded?

Where is Deep Trekker Inc. located?

Does Deep Trekker hold any patents?

Where are Deep Trekker robots manufactured?

What does the warranty cover and how do I get support on my robot?

Do I need the tether / can I go wireless?

Can I add other Deep Trekker options to a robot after I buy? Do I have to return it to you?

Can I add my own custom attachments to a Deep Trekker robot?

What kind of maintenance does it need?

About the ROVs

Does the ROV record video? Can I plug into larger monitors? What is the quality of the video? Can I livestream footage?

How deep do the ROVs go?

What is the ROV made out of?

How does the ROV drive up and down?

How is the ROV powered?

What kind of camera is used?

How does the ROV do in murky / dirty / dark water?

How much light is on the ROV?

Can I plug the controller into a larger monitor while I complete a dive?

What is the maintenance?

How well does the ROV do in current?

Can I lift and lower the ROV by its tether?

How much can I lift with the Grabber?

What are the sensors?

Can I add my own accessories to it, such as a neutrally buoyant camera?

What is the difference between Deep Trekker ROVs and the packages available?

Can I get a longer tether?

Can I take my ROV on a plane?

About the Pipe Crawlers

What's the difference between the two crawlers?

How do I record video and data? What software do you run?

What's the difference between the packages?

How Do You Ship The Crawler?

What diameters of pipe can I go into?

What's the difference between the tires and the tracks?

How Long Do The Batteries Last?

About VAC Utility Crawlers

What's the difference between the two packages VAC and MAX?

How does it clean tanks?

What kind of hose do I need?

What kind of pump do I need?

How much area can I clean in a day?

How thick of sediment and sludge can I clean?

How far can I go with the Utility Crawler?

How long do the batteries last?

How do I tell what area I have cleaned in a tank?

How strong is the tether?

About MAG

How much force do the magnets on the MAG magnetic crawler hold onto the steel surface with?

Can I work in water and out of water with the Magnetic Crawler?

How long do the batteries last on the MAG Utility Crawler?

How do I deploy the Magnetic Crawler and how do I retrieve it?

Can I use the Magnetic Crawler to clean the inside of steel tanks?