It’s been some time since an update. That’s because not a lot has changed.
I’m still working in Oman – although on break right now.
BGP have upgraded their crew – now 30000 channels available, although
only recording a little over 24000. Only 24000!!
Have to admit feeling a bit old – I started in the industry on a crew with 24 channels and it
was two 12 channel systems hooked back to back. Then I joined Digiseis in Australia and they had a massive system – a 48 Channel MDS10.
Then I moved to Geosource after a brief and painful sojourn with Western in India (now there is a story, but not for now). Geosource were operating 120 Channel MDS10s. I never thought it would get much bigger until they put me on the MDS18 crew with 240 channels.
Now I am talking about ‘only’ 24000 channels. Wish I could go back to 24!
And although a big channel count, it seems bigger crews are starting in Saudi in a few months.
I can see it getting to 100000 channels in only a couple of years – Sercel seem to be prepared for it with their new Giga-Transverse, but I suspect there will be a move away from cable based systems when we get to huge channel counts. Sercel and Geospace both have good working cableless systems – the UNITE and GSR respectively. I hope I get a chance to see them in operation some time soon.
BGP’s upgrade was mildly interesting. All new ground equipment, recording system and vibrators.
I had hoped BGP would have taken some of my advice on board and prepared properly for the technical audit and parameter testing, but as always they decided to just muddle though. A bit disappointing from my point of view – they had the chance to shine, but came off looking more than a little battered and scuffed. Maybe next time. But I certainly don’t expect to be there.
I did get one wish though – they have employed a crew tech, but he is older than I am!
Seems like an OK guy though, will have to see how he works out, it’s going to take an effort from both sides.
The major highlight was finally meeting a genuine Seismic Hero – a vibrator legend –
G-AT. Those in the know will recognize the initials.
I hope to meet up with him again some time. Hopefully I will be in better form then and maybe talk some sense.
Another 4 weeks off then back to it.
Have to admit – working for PDO is OK.