Viewport3, winner of the 2023 Subsea Expo "Cross Sector Diversity" award, announces the launch of its groundbreaking ZECO camera system, setting a new benchmark in subsea imaging and photogrammetry technology.
With manually controlled digital stills cameras being the undisputed king of high-accuracy photogrammetry, Viewport3, specialists in subsea 3D scanning and dimensional analysis, decided it was time for a step change.
Recognising the efficiency and resolution limitations of many existing subsea ROV cameras, it set out to develop a superior solution, leading to the creation of the “Zero Compromise” ZECO camera.
The "Zero Compromise" ZECO camera delivers an unprecedented 60-megapixel resolution, whilst deploying a far more capable ‘full-frame’ sensor than current industry-standard ROV cameras. What sets ZECO apart is its ability to offer manual camera control and transmit full-resolution, photogrammetry ready images to topside in under three seconds, enabling immediate data verification.
This game-changing capability was successfully demonstrated during a Lloyd's Register accredited mooring-link inspection campaign in late 2024. The ZECO camera's superior resolution significantly reduced the number of images required for accurate 3D modelling, while its dual-strobe system proved essential in offering the power and adjustable lighting required to maximise the unit’s capabilities.
"The subsea industry has long needed a solution that combines manually controlled high-resolution imaging with real-time data transmission by taking advantage of ethernet-enabled ROV systems," says Richard Drennan, director at Viewport3.
"ZECO doesn't just improve image quality - it streamlines the entire inspection process and is capable of capturing the smallest of hair-line cracks with ease."
By enabling faster, more accurate data collection, the ZECO camera helps operators save time and money on subsea projects - a valuable investment when every second counts.
Fewer images are required to create precise 3D models, reducing the duration of offshore campaigns and minimising vessel time at sea. This leads to lower fuel consumption and a significant reduction in carbon emissions, supporting the industry’s drive toward more sustainable operations.
Viewport3's expertise spans multiple sectors, including oil and gas, renewables, defence, and aquaculture. Its track record includes over 20 successful retro-fit design projects achieving ‘first-time-fit solutions’, alongside 80+ subsea projects delivering highly precise 3D data tailored to specific client requirements.
The company brings over 40 years of combined subsea engineering and inspection experience to its photogrammetry services, ensuring seamless integration with offshore operations.
Visit the Viewport3 team at Stand 42 during Subsea Expo 2025 to learn more about the ZECO camera system and its comprehensive range of subsea 3D scanning solutions.