To whom it may concern, We have developed a low cost tag (under U$ 4000) to study the southern right whale behavior in Peninsula Valdés, Argentina. The unit (computer and sensors not connected ) was successfully attached to 23 whales during November and December 2008. We have just started to testing a number of sensors connected to a micro computer (open source Linux software). The device (400 gr weight) has three silicone suction cup , which are released by a radio triggered device (up to 2 miles). The prototype has an internal hydrophone plus an external mono audio plug, a 12 bit digital camera (vga quality, IR capable), a 3D inertial movement unit (3 axes of acceleration input + 3 axes of gyroscopic input + 3 axes of magnetic input), two analog connectors for external sensors (pressure, hearth rate), 8Gbs micro SD memory, Bluetooth data offload, and a high sensitivity GPS-enabled tag tracking system (to recovery the unit post released up to 5 miles). The complete system work with a custom PDA from where can be download all the tag data, track the device and activate the radio valves to release suction cups. We will use this unit in several research projects, including underwater noise disturbance in Peninsula Valdes Gulfs, behavioral responses of whales to kelp gull attacks, response of whales to a whale watching boats, and playback and response experiments to prevent potential risk on ship strike incidents, beginning August 2009. Because we work in shallow waters (up to 100 meters depth) we did not test the tag in a high pressure environment. Even the device was developed to work with right whales, we are pleased to share the device and our first experience with cetaceans research teams who want to use our tag with other species (2010 season). Kind Regards and please could you be so kind to respond directly to our E-mail address, Daniel Pérez Martínez Independent consultant <mailto:Daniel.reporte@gmail.com> Daniel.reporte@gmail.com Domec García Norte 1142 (9120) Puerto Madryn (Chubut) Argentina Dr. Marcelo Bertellotti Biología y Manejo de Recursos Acuáticos Centro Nacional Patagónico (CONICET) bertello@cenpat.edu.ar Boulevard Brown 2825 (9120) Puerto Madryn (Chubut) Argentina