VideoRay UROVs

Lore & Background

Founded in 1999, VideoRay LLC quickly became the world's largest volume producer of underwater ROVs and the global leader in MicroROV technology. As of July 2018, more than 3,000 VideoRay ROVs had been delivered worldwide. The company is located in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, where nearly every aspect of design, manufacturing, shipping, and repair still operates. Dealers in 33 countries provide global reach, but every purchase order comes directly to the Pottstown office.

VideoRay has received several awards: in November 2012, the TriCounty Area Chamber of Commerce presented the Economic Development Award for bringing international business to Pottstown; in March 2008, the Chester County Economic Development Council presented the Globe Award for distinguished achievement in international business; and in May 2018, VideoRay was awarded Member Company of the Year from the World Trade Center of Greater Philadelphia. The company is an associated member of the Marine Technology Society, Association of State Dam Safety Officials, DEMA, and National Defense Industrial Association.

Notable missions include under-ice investigation in Antarctica, Cenote exploration in the Yucatan for Mayan artifacts, the first penetration and observation of the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor, a search for the Loch Ness Monster, and other deep sea operations. VideoRays have been featured in National Geographic Channel productions, including the documentary Dark Secrets of the Lusitania, which documented a 2011 exploration of the RMS Lusitania wreck.

Reader's Guide

VideoRay ROVs have established a significant legacy as the world's largest volume producer of underwater ROVs and a global leader in MicroROV technology. Their compact, suitcase-sized control system and depth ratings from 250 ft to 3,280 ft have made them adaptable to a broad spectrum of uses, from aquaculture and sport fishing to port security and deep-sea wreck exploration. The vehicles are equipped with attachments such as scanning and imaging sonars, positioning systems, and manipulators, enabling tasks like ship inspections and artifact recovery. Notable users include the United States Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the New York Police Department, and fourteen branches of the Maritime Safety and Security Team of the United States Coast Guard. The company's impact extends beyond commercial sales; its missions have included under-ice Antarctic research, Mayan artifact exploration in Yucatan cenotes, and the first penetration of the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor. VideoRay's presence in National Geographic documentaries, such as Dark Secrets of the Lusitania, has further cemented its role in underwater exploration and public awareness of marine technology.

Did You Know?

• VideoRay ROVs have been used for a search for the Loch Ness Monster.
• The company received the Economic Development Award from the TriCounty Area Chamber of Commerce in November 2012.