Focal Technologies Inc. is a world leader in the provision of underwater slip-rings, using both electrical and fibre optic passes. Focal slip rings are exported worldwide and have been used in many of the notable deep explorations, including the dives on the RMS Titanic. Focal, located in Dartmouth, also produces an optical plankton counter. Advances in marine communications have provided opportunity for Ultimateast Data Communications Inc. and NewEast Wireless Telecom, both in St. John's, and Seimac Limited in Halifax. The former two companies provide software and communication networking, including vessel tracking.
Marine biotechnology is a fast growing sector of the region's ocean technology expertise.
The former, augmented by the facilities of the Dalhousie University Aquatron, provides research into stock and population discrimination, identification and assessment and selective improvement of aquaculture breeds. Hologene Genetics Technologies, Ltd. of Armdale, Nova Scotia, provides commercial genetic research services for aquaculture and fisheries. Among the companies active in the application of these technologies are Acadian Seaplants Ltd. and Fisheries Resource Development Limited. Survival Systems, Ltd., of Halifax, has earned an enviable reputation in the provision of offshore survival training and is currently exporting its services to several countries in South East Asia. In St. John's, the Offshore Safety and Survival Centre of Memorial University provides a wide variety of training from fire fighting to the transport of hazardous material.