The collection contains ocean temperature and salinity data measured by profiling floats. The data have been contributed by a number of researchers. None have passed through standardized procedures so users are cautioned when using this data set.

The Sub- surface float DAC examined and used the trajectory data in augmenting its data sets and should be the primary source for sub-surface velocity data. The profile data, gathered largely towards the end of and after the WOCE field program, is in part a lead in to the ARGO program of float deployments. That program will be the best source for quality-controlled data from those floats included in it. This collection should be regarded as an archive of original data from early deployments, which might otherwise be lost,