SUUNTO D6i
User’s GUide
en
1. WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF SUUNTO DIVE COMPUTERS .. ... ... ... ... ... 8
2. WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, AND NOTES . ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... .. 9
3. SUUNTO USER INTERFACE . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... 16
3.1. Navigating in the menus . ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... 17
3.2. Button symbols and functions . . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... 19
4. GETTING STARTED .. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . .. 21
4.1. TIME mode settings . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. 21
4.1.1. Setting the alarm . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . 22
4.1.2. Setting the time ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... 23
4.1.3. Setting the dual time . ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... .. 23
4.1.4. Setting the date .. ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... . 24
4.1.5. Setting the units . ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... . 24
4.1.6. Setting the backlight . . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... .. 25
4.1.7. Setting the contrast ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... . 25
4.1.8. Setting the tones . . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. 26
4.2. Stopwatch ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . . 26
4.3. AC water contacts . ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... . 27
4.4. Learning how to use your compass . ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. 28
4.4.1. Compass display . . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. 29
4.4.2. Locking a bearing . ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... .. 30
4.4.3. Compass settings . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 31
5. BEFORE DIVING . ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . 35
5.1. The Suunto RGBM ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... . 35
5.2. Emergency ascents . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. 36
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5.3. Dive computer limitations ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... 37
5.4. Nitrox . ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . 37
5.5. Freediving ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . . 38
5.6. Audible and visual alarms . ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... . 38
5.7. Error conditions . ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... . 43
5.8. Wireless transmission . ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... 44
5.8.1. Installing the wireless transmitter .. ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... 44
5.8.2. Pairing and code selection . . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... . 45
5.8.3. Transmitting data .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . . 48
5.9. DIVE mode settings . . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . . 49
5.9.1. Setting the nitrox values ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... .. 51
5.9.2. Setting the personal/altitude adjustments . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . 53
5.9.3. Setting the tank pressure pairing . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... . 54
5.9.4. Setting the tank pressure alarm . ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . . 54
5.9.5. Setting the depth alarm .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... . 55
5.9.6. Setting the depth notify alarm (FREE mode) . ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... 55
5.9.7. Setting the dive-time alarm . . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... . 56
5.9.8. Setting the surface time notify alarm (FREE mode) .. ... ... ... ... ... ... . 56
5.9.9. Setting the sample rate . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... 57
5.9.10. Setting the deep stops . . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... . 57
5.9.11. Setting the units . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . 58
5.10. Activation and pre-checks . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... . 58
5.10.1. Accessing DIVE mode . . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... . 59
5.10.2. DIVE mode activation . ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. 59
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5.10.3. Battery power indication ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... 61
5.10.4. Diving at altitude . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... 61
5.10.5. Personal adjustments . ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. 63
5.11. Safety Stops . ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... 65
5.11.1. Recommended Safety Stops . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... . 65
5.11.2. Mandatory Safety Stops . . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... .. 66
5.12. Deep stops . ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... .. 67
6. DIVING . ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . 69
6.1. Diving in the AIR mode (DIVE Air) . ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... 69
6.1.1. Basic dive data . ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... .. 70
6.1.2. Bookmark . ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . . 71
6.1.3. Tank pressure data .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... 72
6.1.4. Ascent rate indicator . . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... .. 74
6.1.5. Safety Stops . ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... .. 75
6.1.6. Stopwatch (Timer) . . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . . 75
6.1.7. Decompression dives . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... .. 75
6.2. Diving in the NITROX mode (DIVE Nitrox) . ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... . 80
6.2.1. Before diving in the NITROX mode . ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... . 81
6.2.2. Oxygen displays ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... .. 82
6.2.3. Oxygen limit fraction (OLF%) ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. 83
6.2.4. Gas change and multiple breathing gas mixes . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . 84
6.3. Diving in the GAUGE mode (DIVE Gauge) ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... . 85
6.3.1. Day History . ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... 86
6.3.2. Free dive time limit . ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... . 87
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7. AFTER DIVING ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . . 88
7.1. Surface interval ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... .. 88
7.2. Dive numbering . ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... . 89
7.2.1. FREE Dive . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . . 90
7.3. Repetitive dive planning . . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... 90
7.4. Flying after diving . ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... .. 90
7.5. DIVE PLANNING mode (PLAN NoDec) . ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... . 91
7.5.1. Dive numbering shown during dive planning . . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... .. 93
7.6. MEMORY mode . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... 93
7.6.1. Dive logbook (MEM Logbook) . ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... . 94
7.6.2. Dive history (MEM History) .. ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... . 96
7.7. Suunto DM4 with Movescount . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 98
7.8. Movescount . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... .. 99
8. CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF MY SUUNTO DIVING COMPUTER ... ... ... 101
9. BATTERY REPLACEMENT . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... . 106
9.1. Wireless transmitter battery replacement . ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . 106
9.1.1. Transmitter battery kit . . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... .. 107
9.1.2. Required tools .. . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... . 107
9.1.3. Replacing the transmitter battery . . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... . 107
10. TECHNICAL DATA ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . 110
10.1. Technical specifications ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... .. 110
10.2. RGBM . ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 113
10.2.1. Suunto RGBM adaptive decompression . ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... . 114
10.2.2. No-decompression limits for air .. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... .. 115
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10.2.3. Altitude diving ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... .. 117
10.3. Oxygen exposure . ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... . 118
11. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY . ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... 119
11.1. Copyright . ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. 119
11.2. Trademark . ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... . 119
11.3. Patent notice . ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . 119
12. DISCLAIMERS . . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... 120
12.1. User’s responsibility . ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... . 120
12.2. CE . ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... . 120
13. SUUNTO LIMITED WARRANTY FOR SUUNTO DIVING COMPUTERS AND
SUUNTO DIVING COMPUTER ACCESSORIES .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. 121
14. DISPOSAL OF THE DEVICE . ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . 126
GLOSSARY ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . .. . .. . .. . 127
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1. WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF SUUNTO DIVE COMPUTERS
Suunto D6i wristop dive computer is designed to help you get the most out of your
diving.
With integrated digital compass and gas switching, Suunto D6i simplifies your diving
experience because all the information you need relating to depth, time, decompression
status, optional tank pressure, and direction is available on one easy-to-read screen.
The Suunto D6i User's Guide contains vitally important information which enables you
to become familiar with your Suunto wristop dive computer. To understand the use,
displays, and limitations of the instrument before using it, please read this user's guide
carefully, and save it for further reference. Note also that a glossary is included at the
back of the user's guide to help you understand dive-specific terminology.
8
2. WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, AND NOTES
Throughout this user's guide, important safety icons are displayed. Three classifications
are used to separate these icons by their order of importance:
WARNING
is used in connection with a procedure or situation that could
result in serious injury or death
CAUTION
NOTE
Before you go on to read the user's guide itself, it is extremely important that you read
the following warnings. These warnings are intended to maximize your safety while
using Suunto D6i and must not be ignored.
WARNING
is used in connection with a procedure or situation that could
result in damage to the device
is used to emphasize important information
READ THIS user's guide! Carefully read this user's guide in its
entirety, paying close attention to all the warnings listed below,
including Section 5. BEFORE DIVING. Ensure that you fully understand the use, displays and limitations of the dive computer,
because any confusion resulting from neglecting to follow this
user's guide or from improper use of this device could cause you
to commit errors that may lead to serious injury or death.
9
WARNING
NOT FOR PROFESSIONAL USE! Suunto dive computers are
intended for recreational use only. The demands of commercial
or professional diving may expose the diver to depths and conditions that tend to increase the risk of decompression illness (DCI).
Therefore, Suunto strongly recommends that the device is not
used for any commercial or professional diving activities.
WARNING
WARNING
10
ONLY DIVERS TRAINED IN THE PROPER USE OF SCUBA
DIVING EQUIPMENT SHOULD USE A DIVE COMPUTER! No
dive computer can replace the need for proper dive training. Insufficient or improper training may cause you to commit errors
that may lead to serious injury or death.
THERE IS ALWAYS A RISK OF DECOMPRESSION ILLNESS
(DCI) FOR ANY DIVE PROFILE, EVEN IF YOU FOLLOW THE
DIVE PLAN PRESCRIBED BY DIVE TABLES OR A DIVE
COMPUTER. NO PROCEDURE, DIVE COMPUTER, OR DIVE
TABLE CAN PREVENT THE POSSIBILITY OF DCI OR OXYGEN
TOXICITY! An individual’s physiological make-up can vary from
day to day. The dive computer cannot account for these variations.
You are strongly advised to remain well within the exposure limits
provided by the instrument to minimize the risk of DCI. As an
added precaution, you should consult a physician regarding your
fitness before diving.
WARNING
SUUNTO STRONGLY RECOMMENDS THAT SPORT DIVERS
LIMIT THEIR MAXIMUM DEPTH TO 40 M/130 FT OR TO THE
DEPTH CALCULATED BY THE COMPUTER BASED ON THE
SELECTED O2% AND A MAXIMUM PO2OF 1.4 BAR! Exposure
to greater depths increases the risk of oxygen toxicity and decompression sickness.
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
DIVES WITH REQUIRED DECOMPRESSION STOPS ARE NOT
RECOMMENDED. YOU SHOULD ASCEND AND BEGIN DECOMPRESSION IMMEDIATELY WHEN THE DIVE COMPUTER
SHOWS YOU THAT A DECOMPRESSION STOP IS REQUIRED!
Note the blinking ASC TIME symbol and the upward pointing arrow.
USE BACK-UP INSTRUMENTS! Ensure that you use back-up
instrumentation, including a depth gauge, submersible pressure
gauge, timer or watch, and have access to decompression tables
whenever diving with the dive computer.
PERFORM PRE-CHECKS! Always activate and check the device
before diving in order to ensure that all Liquid Crystal Display
(LCD) segments are completely displayed, that the device has
not run out of battery power, and that the oxygen, altitude, personal, and Safety/Deep Stop are correct.
11
WARNING
YOU ARE ADVISED TO AVOID FLYING ANY TIME THE COMPUTER COUNTS DOWN THE NO-FLY TIME. ALWAYS ACTIVATE THE COMPUTER TO CHECK THE REMAINING NO-FLY
TIME PRIOR TO FLYING! Flying or traveling to a higher altitude
within the no-fly time can greatly increase the risk of DCI. Review
the recommendations given by Divers Alert Network (DAN) in
Section 7.4. Flying after diving. There can never be a flying after
diving rule that is guaranteed to completely prevent decompression illness!
WARNING
12
THE DIVE COMPUTER SHOULD NEVER BE TRADED OR
SHARED BETWEEN USERS WHILE IT IS IN OPERATION! Its
information will not apply to someone who has not been wearing
it throughout a dive, or sequence of repetitive dives. Its dive profiles must match that of the user. If it is left on the surface during
any dive, the dive computer will give inaccurate information for
subsequent dives. No dive computer can take into account dives
made without the computer. Thus, any diving activity up to four
days prior to initial use of the computer may cause misleading
information and must be avoided.
WARNING
DO NOT EXPOSE THE SUUNTO D6i's OPTIONAL TANK
PRESSURE TRANSMITTER TO ANY GAS MIX CONTAINING
MORE THAN 40% OXYGEN! Enriched air with greater oxygen
content presents a risk of fire or explosion and serious injury or
death.
WARNING
WARNING
DO NOT DIVE WITH A CYLINDER OF ENRICHED AIR IF YOU
HAVE NOT PERSONALLY VERIFIED ITS CONTENTS AND
ENTERED THE ANALYZED VALUE INTO YOUR DIVE COMPUTER! Failure to verify cylinder contents and enter the appropriate O2% into your dive computer will result in incorrect dive
planning information.
THE DIVE COMPUTER WILL NOT ACCEPT FRACTIONAL
PERCENTAGE VALUES OF OXYGEN CONCENTRATION. DO
NOT ROUND UP FRACTIONAL PERCENTAGES! For example,
31.8% oxygen should be entered as 31%. Rounding up will cause
nitrogen percentages to be understated and will affect decompression calculations. If you want to adjust the computer to provide
more conservative calculations, use the personal adjustment
feature to affect decompression calculations, or reduce the PO
setting to affect oxygen exposure according to the entered O2%
and PO2 values.
13
2
WARNING
SET THE CORRECT ALTITUDE ADJUSTMENT SETTING
MODE! When diving at altitudes greater than 300 m/1,000 ft, the
Altitude Adjustment feature must be correctly selected in order
for the computer to calculate the decompression status. The dive
computer is not intended for use at altitudes greater than 3,000
m/10,000 ft. Failure to select the correct Altitude Adjustment setting, or diving above the maximum altitude limit will result in erroneous dive and planning data.
WARNING
WARNING
14
SET THE CORRECT PERSONAL ADJUSTMENT SETTING
MODE! Whenever it is believed that factors that tend to increase
the possibility of DCI exist, it is recommended that you use this
option to make the calculations more conservative. Failure to
select the correct Personal Adjustment setting will result in erroneous dive and planning data.
This device contains a Lithium cell battery. To reduce the risk of
fire or burns, do not disassemble, crush, puncture, short external
contacts, or dispose of in fire or water. Replace only with manufacturer-specified batteries. Recycle or dispose of used batteries
properly.
NOTE
It is not possible to change between AIR, NITROX and GAUGE
modes before the instrument has counted down the no-fly time.
There is one exception to this: You can change from AIR to NITROX mode even during the no-fly time.
When planning both air and nitrox dives during the same dive
series, you should set the instrument in NITROX mode and
modify the gas mix accordingly.
In GAUGE mode the no-fly time is always 48 hours.
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3. SUUNTO USER INTERFACE
Current Time Display
Mode Indicator
No-Decompression Time
Total Ascent Time
Ceiling Depth
Remaining Air Time
Safety/Deep Stop Time
Surface Interval Time
No-Fly Time
Compass Display
Tissue Saturation Graph
Present Depth
Low Battery Warning
Safety Stop Indicator
No-Fly Icon
Diver Attention Symbol
Date
Dual Time
Maximum Depth
O
2
% (Nitrox Mode)
Time
Tank Pressure
Ascent Rate Bar Graph
Active Water Contact
Indicator
Seconds Display
Stopwatch
Weekday
Dive Time
Temperature
PO
2
% (Nitrox Mode)
OLF% (Nitrox Mode)
Dive Alarm Indicator
Daily Alarm Indicator
Tank pressure bar graph
Wireless Transmission
Indicator
NOTE
16
If no button is pressed for 5 minutes, the dive computer beeps
and returns to the TIME mode automatically.
3.1. Navigating in the menus
Suunto D6i has four main operating modes - TIME mode (TIME), DIVE mode (DIVE),
PLAN mode (PLAN), and MEMORY mode (MEM). It also has a COMPASS submode,
which can be activated from either TIME or DIVE modes. To toggle between the main
modes, press the MODE button. To select a submode in DIVE and MEM modes, press
the UP/DOWN buttons.
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SETTINGS
Alarm
Time
Dual Time
Date
Units
Backlight
Contrast
Tones
SUB-MODES
Air
Nitrox
Gauge
Free
SETTINGS
Nitrox
Personal/Altitude
Tank Press Pairing
Tank Press Alarm
Depth Alarm
Depth Notify Alarm
Dive Time Alarm
Surface Time Notify Alarm
Sample Rate
Deepstop
Units
TIME DIVE PLAN MEM
SETTINGS
Calibrate
Declination
Timeout
COMPASS
SUB-MODES
Logbook
History
LIGHT LIGHT LIGHT LIGHT
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3.2. Button symbols and functions
The table below explains the main functions of the dive computer's buttons. The buttons
and their use is explained in more detail in the relevant sections of the user's guide.
Table 3.1. Button symbols and functions
Main functionsPressButtonSymbol
ShortMODE
LongMODE
Switch between main modes
Switch from submode to main mode
Activate backlight in DIVE mode
Activate backlight in other modes
Activate stopwatch in DIVE mode
ShortSELECT
Select a submode
Select and accept settings
Select stopwatch to stop or start in DIVE mode
Activate compass in TIME and DIVE modesLongSELECT
19
Main functionsPressButtonSymbol
ShortUP
Toggle between alternative displays
Change submode
Increase values
Activate gas switching in MIXED modeLongUP
20
ShortDOWN
LongDOWN
Toggle between alternative displays
Change submode
Decrease values
Enter Setting mode
4. GETTING STARTED
To get the most out of your Suunto D6i, use some time to personalize it and really
make it YOUR computer. Set the correct time and date, as well as the alarms and
tones, unit and backlight settings. Then, calibrate and test the compass function.
Suunto D6i is a very user-friendly dive computer, and you will quickly become familiar
with its functions. Make absolutely sure that you know your computer and have it set
up as you want it BEFORE getting into the water.
4.1. TIME mode settings
The first thing to do with your Suunto D6i is to set the TIME mode shortcuts: the time,
alarm, dual time, date, units, backlight, contrast, and tones.
The figure below shows how to toggle between different shortcuts in the TIME mode:
NOTE
NOTE
The seconds display reverts to date display after 5 minutes in
order to save battery power.
The display is illuminated by holding down the MODE button for
more than 2 seconds.
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Now that after you know how to toggle between the shortcuts, you can start to set
USE UP AND DOWN BUTTONS
TO TOGGLE BETWEEN ALARM, TIME,
DUAL TIME, DATE, UNITS, CONTRAST
AND TONES.
them.
The figure below shows how to enter the TIME Settings menu.
4.1.1. Setting the alarm
The dive computer has a daily alarm function. When the daily alarm activates, the
screen blinks and the alarm sounds for 60 seconds. Press any button to stop the
alarm.
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ADJUST WITH UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
4.1.2. Setting the time
ADJUST WITH UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
In the Time setting mode, you are able to set the hour, minute, and second, as well
as choose between a 12 and 24 hour display.
4.1.3. Setting the dual time
In the Dual Time setting mode, you are able to select the hour and minute of a dual
time, which is useful when traveling to a different time zone.
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ADJUST WITH UP AND
DO WN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
4.1.4. Setting the date
ADJUST WITH UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
In the Date setting mode, you are able to set the year, month, and day. The day of
the week is automatically calculated in accordance with the date. In metric units the
date is presented as DD/MM, and in imperial units as MM/DD.
4.1.5. Setting the units
In the Units setting mode, you are able to choose whether the units are displayed in
either the metric or imperial system (meters/feet, Celsius/Fahrenheit, and so on).
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ADJUST WITH UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
4.1.6. Setting the backlight
ADJUST WITH UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
In the Backlight setting mode, you are able to turn the backlight ON or OFF and to
define how long it stays on for (5, 10, 20, 30, or 60 seconds). When the backlight is
turned OFF, it does not illuminate when an alarm sounds.
4.1.7. Setting the contrast
In the Contrast setting mode, you are able to set the contrast of the display (the value
range is between 0 and 10).
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ADJUST WITH UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
4.1.8. Setting the tones
ADJUST WITH UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
In the Tones setting mode, you are able to activate or deactivate the tones.
NOTE
When the tones are off, there are no audible alarms.
4.2. Stopwatch
The Stopwatch function in Suunto D6i measures elapsed and split times.
A separate stopwatch (dive timer) can also be used in the DIVE mode. For more in-
formation, refer to Section 6.1.6. Stopwatch (Timer).
26
USE DOWN BUTTON TO START
STOPWATCH AND TAKE A SPLIT TIME.
THE UP BUTTON STOPS THE STOPWATCH
AND LONG PRESSING IT RESETS IT.
4.3. AC water contacts
AC APPEARS IN THE TOP RIGHT
CORNER OF THE DISPLAY, WHEN THE DIVE
COMPUTER IS IN CONTACT WITH WATER.
THIS ALSO ACTIVATES THE DIVE MODE.
The water and data transfer contact is located on the side of the case. When submerged, the water contact poles are connected by the conductivity of the water and
the “AC” symbol appears on the display. The AC text is shown until the water contact
deactivates.
27
Contamination or dirt on the water contact may prevent this automatic activation.
Therefore, it is important that the water contact is kept clean. The contact can be
cleaned with fresh water and a soft brush, for example a tooth brush.
NOTE
4.4. Learning how to use your compass
Suunto D6i integrates a digital compass, which can be used both while diving and on
dry land, and can be accessed from either the DIVE mode or TIME mode.
28
Water or moisture build-up around the water contact may cause
the contact to activate automatically. This can happen, for example, when washing your hands or sweating. If the water contact
activates in the TIME mode, the AC symbol will appear on the
display, and will be shown until the water contact deactivates. To
save battery power, you should deactivate the water contact by
cleaning it and/or drying it with a soft towel.
IF ACCESSED FROM TIME MODE,
TIME AND BEARING ARE DISPLAYED
AT THE BOTTOM OF THE SCREEN.
ACCESSED FROM DIVE MODE,
CURRENT DEPTH, AND TIME OR
MAXIMUM DEPTH, TANK PRESSURE,
AS WELL AS BEARING OR DIVE TIME
OR TEMPERATURE ARE DISPLAYED.
NOTE
When accessed from DIVE mode, toggle between the alternative
displays by pressing the UP/DOWN buttons.
4.4.1. Compass display
The Suunto D6i displays the compass as a graphical representation of a compass
rose. The rose displays the cardinal and half cardinal points, in addition to which, the
current bearing is also displayed numerically.
29
4.4.2. Locking a bearing
TO LOCK A BEARING,
PRESS SELECT.
A bearing can be locked to help you follow a selected course, and directional arrows
point towards the locked bearing. The last locked bearing is stored and is available
the next time the compass is activated. In the DIVE mode the locked bearings are
also stored in the log.
The Suunto D6i also provides help for navigating square and triangular patterns, as
well as navigating a return heading. This is made possible by following graphical
symbols in the center of the compass display:
Table 4.1. Locked bearing symbols
ExplanationSymbol
You are traveling towards the locked bearing
You are 90 (or 270) degrees from the locked bearing
30
ExplanationSymbol
You are 180 degrees from the locked bearing
You are 120 (or 240) degrees from the locked bearing
4.4.3. Compass settings
You can define the compass settings (Calibration, Declination and Timeout) in the
COMPASS mode:
Calibration
Because of changes in the surrounding magnetic field, the Suunto D6i electronic
compass occasionally needs to be re-calibrated. During the calibration process, the
compass adjusts itself to the surrounding magnetic field . As a basic rule, you should
calibrate the compass whenever it does not seem to operate properly, or after replacing
the dive computer's battery.
31
Strong electromagnetic fields, such as power lines, stereo speakers, and magnets
can affect the compass calibration. Therefore, it is advisable to calibrate the compass
if your Suunto D6i has been exposed to these fields.
NOTE
When traveling overseas, it is recommended that you recalibrate
the compass at the new location before using it.
NOTE
32
Remember to hold the Suunto D6i level during the calibration
process.
To calibrate the compass:
HOLD THE
DEVICE LEVEL
AND SLOWLY
ROTATE 360°.
THEN SLOWLY
TURN THE DEVICE
90° TO VERTICAL
POSITION.
If the calibration fails several times in a row, it is possible that you are in an area with
sources of magnetism, such as large metal objects, power lines or electric appliances.
Move to another location and try to calibrate the compass again. If the calibration
continues to fail, contact an authorized Suunto service center.
Declination
You can compensate for the difference between true north and magnetic north by
adjusting the compass declination. The declination can be found, for example, from
sea charts or topographic maps of the local area.
33
ADJUST WITH UP
AND DOWN. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT.
Time-out
ADJUST WITH UP
AND DOWN. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT.
You can set the compass time-out from 1 to 20 minutes. After the set time has passed
from the latest button press, the dive computer returns to the TIME or DIVE mode
from the COMPASS mode.
You can exit the COMPASS mode also by long pressing the SELECT button.
34
5. BEFORE DIVING
Do not attempt to use the dive computer without reading this user's guide in its entirety,
including all the warnings. Make sure that you fully understand the use, displays and
limitations of the instrument. If you have any questions about the manual or the dive
computer, contact your SUUNTO dealer before diving with the dive computer.
Always remember that YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY!
When used properly, Suunto D6i is an outstanding tool for assisting properly trained,
certified divers in planning and executing sport dives. It is NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR
CERTIFIED SCUBA INSTRUCTION, including training in the principles of decompression.
WARNING
Do not attempt to dive with any gas mix other than standard air without first receiving
certified training in this specialty.
5.1. The Suunto RGBM
Suunto’s Reduced Gradient Bubble Model (RGBM), utilized in the Suunto D6i, predicts
both dissolved and free gas in the blood and tissues of divers. It is a significant advance
on the classic Haldane models, which do not predict free gas. The advantage of Suunto
RGBM is additional safety through its ability to adapt to a variety of situations and dive
profiles.
Diving with gas mixtures exposes you to risks that are different
from those associated with diving with standard air. These risks
are not obvious, and require training to understand and avoid.
Risks include possible serious injury or death.
35
The Suunto D6i allows you to choose between a traditional Recommended Safety
Stop and Deep Stops. Deep Stops are safety stops that occur deeper than traditional
stops, with the purpose of minimizing microbubble formation.
In order to optimize the response to different increased risk situations, an additional
category of stop, referred to as a Mandatory Safety Stop, has been introduced. The
combination of stop types depends on the user settings and the specific dive situation.
To get the most from the RGBM safety benefits, refer to Section 5.9.10. Setting the
deep stops and Section 5.12. Deep stops.
5.2. Emergency ascents
In the unlikely event that the dive computer malfunctions during a dive, follow the
emergency procedures provided by your certified dive training agency or, alternatively,
follow these steps:
Assess the situation calmly and then move promptly to less than 18 m/60 ft.
1.
At 18 m/60 ft, slow down your ascent rate to 10 m/33 ft per minute and move to
2.
a depth between 3 and 6 m/10 and 20 ft.
Stay there for as long as your air supply will safely allow. After reaching the sur-
3.
face, do not dive for at least 24 hours.
In the event that the dive computer functions but a required gas is not available, you
can use your diving partner's gas, which is set as a secondary gas on your dive computer. Displayed ASC TIME is not correct, but the decompressions are calculated
correctly.
36
In the event that a required gas is not available at all, decompress for as long as you
can by using the next most suitable gas that has the highest oxygen content. Notice
that the oxygen content should be low enough to not violate the maximum partial
pressure of oxygen (PO2).
5.3. Dive computer limitations
While the dive computer is based on current decompression research and technology,
you must realize that the computer cannot monitor the actual physiological functions
of an individual diver. All decompression schedules currently known to the authors,
including the U.S. Navy Tables, are based on theoretical mathematical models, which
are intended to serve as a guide to reduce the probability of decompression illness.
5.4. Nitrox
Diving with nitrox provides you with an opportunity to increase bottom times or reduce
the risk of decompression illness by reducing the nitrogen content in the gas mix.
However, when the gas mix is altered, the oxygen content of the mix is generally increased. This increase exposes the diver to an oxygen toxicity risk not usually considered in recreational diving. In order to manage this risk, the dive computer tracks
the time and intensity of the oxygen exposure and provides the diver with information
to adjust the dive plan in order to maintain oxygen exposure within reasonably safe
limits.
In addition to the physiological effects of enriched air on the body, there are operational
considerations to be addressed when handling altered breathing mixes. Elevated
concentrations of oxygen present a fire or explosion hazard. Consult the manufacturer
of your equipment to check its compatibility with nitrox.
37
5.5. Freediving
Freediving, and particularly freediving in combination with scuba diving, may present
risks that have not been researched and are not commonly known.
Anyone who engages in any form of breath hold diving is in danger of shallow-water
blackout (SWB), that is, the sudden loss of consciousness caused by oxygen starvation.
Any breath hold diving results in some nitrogen build-up in the blood and other fast
tissues. Due to the short time spent at depth, this build-up is generally not significant.
Therefore, provided the effort involved in freediving has not been severe, there is little
risk in diving after breath hold diving. However, the reverse is more unknown and may
significantly increase the risk of DCI. Therefore, FREEDIVING AFTER SCUBA DIVING
IS NOT RECOMMENDED. You should avoid freediving, and not exceed 5 m/16 ft, for
at least two hours after scuba diving.
WARNING
5.6. Audible and visual alarms
The dive computer has audible and visual alarms that advise when important limits
are approached or that prompt you to acknowledge preset alarms. The table below
describes the different alarms and their meanings.
38
Suunto also recommends that you receive training in freediving
techniques and physiology before conducting breath hold dives.
No dive computer can replace the need for proper dive training.
Insufficient or improper training may cause a diver to commit errors
that may lead to serious injury or death.
Table 5.1. Dive computer alarms
DurationSound patternAlarm type
2.4 s sound + 2.4 s breakHigh priority
Low priority
Table 5.2.
Ascending
ascending
The visual information on the dive computer display is shown during the alarm breaks
in order to save battery.
0.8 s sound + 3.2 s break
InterpretationSound patternInstructional beep
Start ascending
Start descendingDescending
Change gasDescending-
39
Table 5.3. Audible and visual alarm types
High priority alarm followed
by "Start ascending" beep,
repeated for the maximum of
three minutes. The PO2 value
blinks.
High priority alarm followed
by "Start descending" beep,
repeated for the maximum of
three minutes. The Er symbol
blinks and an arrow points
downwards.
High priority alarm, sounded
three times. The SLOW symbol blinks.
Low priority alarm followed by
the "Start ascending" beep,
sounded two times. The ASC
TIME symbol blinks and an
arrow points upwards.
40
PO2 value is greater than the adjusted value. Current
depth is too deep for the gas in use. You should immediately ascend or change to a gas with a lower oxygen
percentage.
Decompression ceiling depth is exceeded. You should
immediately descend to, or below, the ceiling.
Maximum allowed ascent rate, 10 m per min / 33 ft per
min, is exceeded. Slow the ascend rate down.
No-decompression dive turns into a decompression
stop dive. Depth is below the decompression floor
level. You should ascend to, or above, the floor.
Alarm reasonAlarm type
Low priority alarm followed by
the "Change gas" beep,
sounded once. The Gas mix
(O2%) value blinks.
Low priority alarm followed by
"Start descending" beep, for
the duration of the Deep Stop
violation. The DEEPSTOP
symbol blinks and an arrow
points downwards.
Low priority alarm followed by
two short beeps, sounded
once. The DEEPSTOP and
timer symbols are displayed.
Low priority alarm, sounded
two times. The Tank pres-
sure value blinks.
Alarm reasonAlarm type
Gas change is recommended. In the DIVE Nitrox
mode only. You should change to a gas more favorable
to decompression. ASC TIME assumes that the tas is
changed and is accurate only if you change the gas
accordingly.
Mandatory Safety Stop is violated. You should descend
to complete the Deep Stop.
Mandatory Safety Stop is reached. Make the Mandatory Deep Stop for the duration shown by the timer.
Cylinder pressure reaches the selected alarm pressure,
10 - 200 bar. Cylinder pressure reaches the fixed alarm
pressure, 50 bar. This alarm operates only if the pairing
to the wireless tank pressure transmitter is performed
correctly and the transmission of tank pressure data
is not disrupted during the dive for any reason. You
can acknowledge the alarm.
41
Low priority alarm, sounded
two times. The OLF% value
blinks if the PO2 value is
greater than 0.5 bar.
Low priority alarm, sounded
two times. The Maximum
depth value blinks.
Low priority alarm, sounded
two times. The Dive time
value blinks.
Low priority alarm, sounded
once. The Maximum depth
value blinks.
Low priority alarm, sounded
once. The Surface time value
blinks.
Alarm reasonAlarm type
The OLF value reaches the fixed 80% or 100%. In the
DIVE Nitrox mode only. You can acknowledge the
alarm.
The selected depth (3–120 m / 10–394 ft) is exceeded.
The fixed maximum depth (120 m / 394 ft) is exceeded.
You can acknowledge the alarm.
The selected dive time (1–999 min) is exceeded. You
can acknowledge the alarm.
Indicates reaching a certain depth. In the DIVE Free
mode only. You can acknowledge the alarm.
Indicates the length of the surface time before a new
dive. In the DIVE Free mode only. You can acknowledge the alarm.
NOTE
42
When the backlight is turned OFF, it does not illuminate when an
alarm is activated.
NOTE
When the tones are turned OFF, the alarms are not sounded
when an alarm is activated.
WARNING
5.7. Error conditions
The dive computer has warning indicators that alert you to react to certain situations
that would significantly increase the risk of DCI. If you do not respond to its warnings,
the dive computer will enter an Error mode, indicating that the risk of DCI has greatly
increased. If you understand the dive computer and operate it sensibly, it is very unlikely
you will ever put the instrument into the Error mode.
Descent at the rate of 10 m/min is included in the time. The times allow for a safe ascent
using the bottom gas all the way to the surface without exceeding tissue pressures.
Omitted decompression
The Error mode results from omitted decompression, for example, when you stay
above the ceiling for more than three minutes. During this three-minute period the Er
warning is shown and the audible alarm beeps. After this, the dive computer enters a
permanent Error mode. The instrument will continue to function normally if you descend
below the ceiling within this three-minute period.
WHEN THE OXYGEN LIMIT FRACTION INDICATES THAT THE
MAXIMUM LIMIT IS REACHED, YOU MUST IMMEDIATELY
TAKE ACTION TO REDUCE OXYGEN EXPOSURE. Failure to
take action to reduce oxygen exposure after the warning is given
can rapidly increase the risk of oxygen toxicity, injury, or death.
43
When the dive computer is in the permanent Error mode, only the Er warning is shown
in the center window. The dive computer does not show times for ascent or stops.
However, all the other displays function as before to provide information for ascent.
You must immediately ascend to a depth of 3 to 6 m/10 to 20 ft and remain at this
depth until air supply limitations require you to surface.
After surfacing, you should not dive for a minimum of 48 hours. During the permanent
Error mode, the Er text is displayed in the center window and the planning mode is
disabled.
5.8. Wireless transmission
In order to use the transmitter, the wireless integration needs to be enabled in your
Suunto D6i settings. To enable or disable the wireless integration, refer to Section 5.9.3.
Setting the tank pressure pairing.
5.8.1. Installing the wireless transmitter
When purchasing the Suunto D6i, we strongly recommend that you have your Suunto
representative attach the transmitter to the first stage of your regulator.
However, if you decide to attach it yourself, do the following:
Remove the high pressure (HP) port plug on the first stage of your regulator using
1.
an appropriate tool.
Thread the high pressure transmitter of the Suunto D6i into the HP port of your
2.
regulator with your fingers. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN! Maximum torque is 6 Nm/4.4
lbsft or 53 lbsin. The seal is based on a static O-ring, not force!
44
Attach the regulator to the scuba cylinder and slowly open the valve. Check for
3.
leaks by submerging the regulator first stage in water. If leaks are detected, check
the condition of the O-ring and sealing surfaces.
5.8.2. Pairing and code selection
In order to receive wireless data, the transmitter and the Suunto D6i need to be paired.
During the pairing procedure, the dive computer locks on the code that the transmitter
has.
The transmitter is activated when the pressure exceeds 15 bar/300 psi and it then
starts sending pressure data together with a code number. During the pairing procedure,
the Suunto dive computer stores the code number and starts displaying pressure
values that are received with that code. This coding procedure prevents data mix-up
from other divers also using a Suunto wireless transmitter.
When there is no stored code, the Suunto D6i displays “cd:--” and receives data with
lowered sensitivity from a very short distance only. By taking the Suunto D6i unit close
to the transmitter, it will store the received code and start receiving with full sensitivity
and display data received with this code only.
NOTE
To pair the transmitter and the Suunto D6i dive computer:
Ensure that the transmitter is properly attached to the regulator’s HP port and
1.
that the regulator is properly attached to the cylinder.
The pairing procedure only needs to be performed once, before
the first use. You do not need to redo the pairing unless you
change the transmitter to a new one, or another diver in your
group uses the same code as you.
45
Ensure that the D6i is turned on, and that the wireless integration is enabled in
2.
the Suunto D6i settings (Tank Press is set ON. For more information, refer to
Section 5.9.3. Setting the tank pressure pairing). If the D6i is in the TIME mode,
enter the DIVE mode by short-pressing the MODE button. The D6i should display
“cd:--” in the lower left corner of the display.
Slowly open the cylinder valve fully and pressurize the system. The transmitter
3.
starts transmitting when the pressure exceeds 15 bar/300 psi.
Take the Suunto D6i unit close to the transmitter. The unit will then quickly display
4.
the selected code number and then start displaying the transmitted cylinder
pressure. The wireless transmitter indicator (flash symbol) is displayed every time
the Suunto D6i receives a valid signal.
WARNING
To assign a new transmitter code:
Slowly open the cylinder valve fully to pressurize the system.
1.
Close the valve. Depressurize the regulator so that the pressure is reduced to
2.
less than 10 bar/145 psi. Wait about 10 seconds, and slowly open the cylinder
valve again to re-pressurize to above 15 bar/300 psi.
The transmitter assigns a new code automatically.
46
If there are several divers using Suunto D6i with wireless transmission, always ensure that each diver is using a different code
before starting the dive. In case there are several divers using
the same code, the transmitter's code must be changed before
diving.
NOTE
To re-pair the transmitter with the new code and the Suunto D6i dive computer:
In the DIVE mode of the Suunto D6i , long-press the DOWN button to enter the
1.
DIVE settings. Enter the Tank Press Pairing menu (Refer to Section 5.9.3. Setting
the tank pressure pairing). Short-press the SELECT button to bypass the tank
pressure ON/OFF selection (the tank pressure transmission must remain ON).
In the next menu, a Code number is displayed. Clear the code by short-pressing
2.
the UP button (toggle from “Ok” to “Clear”), and press the SELECT button.
Short-press the MODE button to exit the DIVE settings.
3.
Take the Suunto D6i unit close to the transmitter (the system must be pressurized
4.
to above 15bar/300 psi). The dive computer displays the received new code
number and then start displaying the transmitted cylinder pressure. The wireless
transmitter indicator (flash symbol) is displayed every time the Suunto D6i receives
a valid signal.
NOTE
To pair on the new transmitter code, the Suunto D6i code must
be cleared first.
In order to save battery energy, the transmitter enters power
saving mode with slower data transmission rate if the tank pressure remains unchanged for more than five (5) minutes. The
transmitter continues transmitting with the saved code when any
pressure change is measured.
47
5.8.3. Transmitting data
After the pairing procedure, the Suunto D6i will receive cylinder pressure data from
the transmitter. The pressure is displayed in either bars or psi, depending on the unit
selected. Any time the Suunto D6i receives an appropriate signal, a flash symbol is
displayed in the lower left corner.
Table 5.4. Pressure transmission related displays
FigureIndicationDisplay
Cd:--
Cd:10
- - -
no conn
batt
48
Set Code. No code stored, Suunto D6i ready for pairing with
transmitter.
Set Code. Code number can be between 01–32.
Pressure reading over 360 bar/5220 psi.
Pressure reading has not been updated for more than one minute.
The latest valid pressure reading is displayed intermittently.
Transmitter is out of range, in power saving mode or on another
channel. Activate the transmitter by breathing off the regulator,
and assign a new code to the Suunto D6i unit if necessary.
Pressure transmitter battery voltage is low. The pressure reading
is displayed intermittently. Change the transmitter battery!
A
B
C
D
E
A B C D E
5.9. DIVE mode settings
Suunto D6i has several user-definable functions, as well as depth and time-related
alarms that you can set according to your personal preferences. The DIVE mode
settings are dependent on the dive submode chosen (AIR, NITROX, GAUGE, FREE),
so that, for example, nitrox settings are only available in the NITROX submode.
The table below shows what DIVE settings are available in each DIVE submode.
Table 5.5. DIVE mode settings
XNitrox
XXPersonal/Alti-
tude
XXXTank pressure
pairing
FREE modeGAUGE modeNITROX modeAIR modeSetting
49
alarm
XXXTank pressure
alarm
alarm
XXDeep stop
The figure below shows how to enter the DIVE mode settings menu.
50
FREE modeGAUGE modeNITROX modeAIR modeSetting
XXXXDepth alarm
XDepth notify
XXXXDive time alarm
XSurf time notify
XXXXSample rate
XXXXUnits
USE UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS TO
TOGGLE BETWEEN
DIVE SETTINGS.
NOTE
Some settings cannot be changed until five (5) minutes has
elapsed after the dive.
5.9.1. Setting the nitrox values
If set to the NITROX mode, the correct oxygen percentage of the gas in your cylinder
(and additional gases) must always be entered into the computer to ensure correct
nitrogen and oxygen calculations.
51
In the NITROX setting mode, the equivalent maximum operating depth (MOD), based
on the chosen setting, is displayed. After entering values for Mix1, you can similarly
set an additional mix, Mix2. You can set Mix2 to "Primary", "Secondary" or "Off". Set
the gas as "Primary" if you use the Mix2 for decompression. Set the gas as "Secondary"
if this gas is for back-up/emergency purpose only (for example, dive partner's gas mix
which differs from your own primary gas). "Secondary" gas is not taken into account
in decompression calculations unless you enable it. Mix1 is always set as the "Primary"
gas. The default oxygen percentage (O2%) setting is 21% (air) and oxygen partial
pressure (PO2) setting is 1.4 bar.
In order to minimize the risk of error during a dive, it is highly recommended that the
mixes are set in the proper order. This means that as the mix number rises, so does
oxygen content, and this is the order they are usually used during the dive. Before a
dive, only enable the mixes you actually have available, and remember to check the
set values to ensure they are correct.
The ASC time is calculated based on the assumption that you start the ascent profile
immediately, and all the gases enable as Primary gas are changed as soon as their
maximum operating depth allows it. That is, using the gases that are set as primary,
the most optimal ascent schedule for the moment is calculated.
To view the most pessimistic ascent schedule, that is, a schedule for the situation in
which the gases are not changed at all, you can set the Mix2 gas as Secondary gas,
and the time it takes to finish the decompression using the current breathing gas is
shown as the ASC time. Note however, that showing the most pessimistic ascent
schedule during a long dive can easily result in the ascent time no longer fitting the
reserved field and the dive computer displays "---" (max. 199 min).
52
ADJUST WITH
UP AND DOWN
BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT
BUTTON.
ADJUST WITH
UP AND DOWN
BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT
BUTTON.
NOTE
ADJUST WITH UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
While setting the gases, note that the calculated maximum operating depth is displayed in the upper field. You cannot change to
this gas before you have ascended above this depth.
5.9.2. Setting the personal/altitude adjustments
The current Altitude and Personal Adjustment settings are displayed in the startup
screen when entering the DIVE mode. If the mode does not match the altitude or
personal conditions (refer to Section 5.10.4. Diving at altitude and Section 5.10.5.
Personal adjustments), it is imperative that you enter the correct selection before
diving. Use Altitude Adjustment to select the correct altitude and use Personal Adjustment to add an extra level of conservatism.
53
5.9.3. Setting the tank pressure pairing
ADJUST WITH UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
In the Tank Pressure Pairing setting mode, the wireless transmission can be set “ON”
or “OFF” depending on whether the wireless pressure transmitter is used or not. When
the wireless transmission is set “OFF”, no cylinder pressure-related data is shown,
nor data reception made. The Code setting allows you to verify the selected transmitter
code and to clear the stored transmitter code. Clearing the code enables re-pairing
with the transmitter, which can be necessary if a new transmitter or used, or if several
divers are using the same transmitter code.
5.9.4. Setting the tank pressure alarm
The tank pressure alarm can be set "ON" or "OFF" and in the range of 10–200 bar.
The alarm is the secondary cylinder pressure alarm point. The alarm is activated when
the tank pressure drops below the set limit. You can acknowledge this alarm.
The 50 bar/700 psi alarm, however, is fixed and cannot be changed. You cannot acknowledge this alarm.
54
TANK PRESSURE HAS DROPPED BELOW 50 BAR
AND THE REMAINING AIR TIME IS 4 MINUTES. THE
DISPLAY BLINKS AND THERE IS AN AUDIBLE ALARM.
5.9.5. Setting the depth alarm
ADJUST WITH UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
The Depth Alarm setting is factory-set to 30 m/100 ft, but you can adjust it according
to your personal preference, or switch it off altogether. The depth range can be set
from 3 m to 120 m/10 ft to 394 ft.
5.9.6. Setting the depth notify alarm (FREE mode)
You can set the Depth Notify Alarm setting to indicate a certain depth, for example,
start of free falling or mouth filling in freediving.
55
ADJUST WITH UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
5.9.7. Setting the dive-time alarm
ADJUST WITH UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
The Dive Time Alarm setting can be activated and used for several purposes to add
to your diving safety.
NOTE
With a range of 1–999 minutes, the alarm can be set to your
planned bottom time, for example.
5.9.8. Setting the surface time notify alarm (FREE mode)
You can set the Surface Time Notify Alarm to indicate the length of the surface time
before a new dive. Suunto D6i starts counting the time automatically when you surface
(at 0.5 m/1,6 ft).
56
ADJUST WITH UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
5.9.9. Setting the sample rate
ADJUST WITH UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
The Sample Rate setting controls how often the depth, tank pressure (if enabled), and
water temperature is stored in the memory.
The factory default setting is 20 seconds.
You can set the dive profile sample rate in free dive to 1, 2 or 5 seconds. The sample
rate for nitrox and air dives is 10, 20, 30 and 60 seconds.
5.9.10. Setting the deep stops
In the AIR mode in the Deep Stops setting mode, the Deep stops can be set “ON” or
“OFF” depending on whether the Deep stops are used or not.
57
ADJUST WITH UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
5.9.11. Setting the units
ADJUST WITH UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT
WITH SELECT BUTTON.
In the Unit settings you are able to choose between metric (meters/Celsius/bar) and
imperial (feet/Fahrenheit/psi) units.
5.10. Activation and pre-checks
This section describes how to activate the DIVE mode and explains the pre-checks
that it is highly recommended you perform before you get into the water.
58
5.10.1. Accessing DIVE mode
The Suunto D6i has four diving modes: AIR mode for diving with standard air only,
NITROX mode for diving with oxygen enriched mixtures, GAUGE mode for use as a
bottom timer and FREE mode freediving.
The chosen dive mode is displayed when the DIVE mode is accessed, and you can
toggle between the submodes by pressing the UP/DOWN buttons.
5.10.2. DIVE mode activation
The dive computer activates automatically when submerged deeper than 0.5 m/1.5
ft. However, it is necessary to activate the DIVE mode BEFORE diving to check
the altitude and personal adjustment settings, battery condition, oxygen settings
, and so on.
After activation, all graphical display elements are turned ON, and the backlight and
the beep are activated. After this, the selected altitude and personal settings are displayed. A few seconds later the battery power indicator is shown, as well as the
maximum operating depth (MOD, 66.2 m), O2% (21%) and PO2 (1.6) value. A few
seconds later the battery power indicator is shown.
59
WARNING
At this time, perform your pre-checks, and ensure that:
the instrument operates in the correct mode and provides a complete display
•
(AIR/NITROX/GAUGE mode)
the battery level is ok
•
the altitude, personal adjustment, Deep stops settings are correct
•
the instrument displays correct units of measurement (Metric/Imperial)
•
the instrument displays the correct temperature and depth (0.0 m/0 ft)
•
the alarm beeps
•
And, if set to NITROX mode, ensure that:
the oxygen partial pressure limits are set correctly
•
For more information on the NITROX mode, please refer to Section 6.2. Diving in the
NITROX mode (DIVE Nitrox).
The dive computer is now ready for diving.
60
SUUNTO STRONGLY RECOMMENDS THAT SPORT DIVERS
LIMIT THEIR MAXIMUM DEPTH TO 40 M/130 FT! Exposure to
greater depths increases the risk of oxygen toxicity and decompression sickness.
5.10.3. Battery power indication
Temperature or internal oxidation of the battery affect the battery voltage. If the instrument is stored for a long period, or used in cold temperatures, the low battery warning
may be displayed even though the battery has enough capacity. In these cases, reenter DIVE mode to receive the battery power indication.
After the battery check, the low battery warning is indicated by the battery symbol.
If the battery symbol is displayed in the Surface mode, or if the display is faded or
weak, the battery may be too low to operate the dive computer, and battery replacement
is recommended.
NOTE
5.10.4. Diving at altitude
The dive computer can be adjusted both for diving at altitude and also to increase the
conservatism of the mathematical nitrogen model.
For safety reasons, the backlight cannot be activated when the
low battery warning is indicated by the battery symbol.
61
When programming the instrument for the correct altitude, you need to select the
correct Altitude Adjustment settings according to Table 5.6, Altitude Adjustment settings.
The dive computer will adjust its mathematical model according to the entered altitude
setting, giving shorter no-decompression times at higher altitudes (refer to Sec-
tion 10.2.3. Altitude diving).
Table 5.6. Altitude Adjustment settings
Altitude rangeAlt. adjustment value
0–300 m / 0–1000 ftA0
300–1500 m / 1000–5000 ftA1
1500–3000 m / 5000–10 000 ftA2
NOTE
WARNING
62
Section 5.9.2. Setting the personal/altitude adjustments describes
how the Altitude value is set.
Traveling to a higher elevation can temporarily cause a change
in the equilibrium of dissolved nitrogen in the body. It is recommended that you acclimatize to the new altitude by waiting at
least three (3) hours before diving.
5.10.5. Personal adjustments
There are personal factors that can affect your susceptibility to DCI, which you can
predict in advance, and input into the decompression model. Such factors vary between
divers and also for the same diver from one day to another. There is available a threestep Personal Adjustment setting if a more conservative dive plan is desired, and a
two-step adjustment for RGBM effect on repetitive dives for very experienced divers.
The personal factors which tend to increase the possibility of DCI include, but are not
limited to:
cold exposure —water temperature less than 20 °C/68 °F
•
below average physical fitness level
•
fatigue
•
dehydration
•
previous history of DCI
•
stress
•
obesity
•
patent foramen ovale (PFO)
•
exercise on or after dive
•
63
This feature is used to adjust the computer to be more conservative, according to
personal preference, by entering the suitable Personal Adjustment setting with the
help of Table 5.7, Personal Adjustment settings. In ideal conditions, retain the default
setting, P0. If conditions are more difficult, or any of the factors which tend to increase
the possibility of DCI exist, select P1, or even the most conservative P2. The dive
computer then adjusts its mathematical model according to the entered Personal Adjustment setting, giving shorter no-decompression times (refer to Section 10.2.2. No-
decompression limits for air, Table 10.1, No-decompression time limits for various
depths (m) and Table 10.2, No-decompression time limits for various depths (ft) ).
Table 5.7. Personal Adjustment settings
Personal adjustment value
P1
P2
64
exist
Several risk factors or conditions
exist
Desired tablesCondition
DefaultIdeal conditionsP0
Progressively more conservativeSome risk factors or conditions
5.11. Safety Stops
WHEN STOP IS DISPLAYED,
MAKE A RECOMMENDED SAFETY
STOP FOR 3 MINUTES.
Safety Stops are widely considered good diving practice for recreational diving, and
are an integral part of most dive tables. The reasons for performing a Safety Stop include: reducing sub-clinical DCI, microbubble reduction, ascent control, and orientation
before surfacing.
The Suunto D6i displays two different types of Safety Stops: Recommended Safety
Stop and Mandatory Safety Stop.
5.11.1. Recommended Safety Stops
With every dive over 10 meters, there is a three-minute countdown for the Recommended Safety Stop, to be taken in the 3–6 m/10–20 ft range. This is shown with the STOP
sign and a three-minute countdown in the center window instead of the no-decompression time.
NOTE
The Recommended Safety Stop, as the name implies, is recommended. If it is ignored, there is no penalty applied to the following
surface intervals and dives.
65
5.11.2. Mandatory Safety Stops
WHEN CEILING AND STOP ARE
DISPLAYED, MAKE A ONE MINUTE
MANDATORY SAFETY STOP IN THE
DEPTH ZONE BETWEEN 6 M AND 3 M.
When the ascent rate exceeds 10 m/33 ft per minute continuously for more than five
(5) seconds, the microbubble build-up is predicted to be more than is allowed for in
the decompression model. The Suunto RGBM calculation model responds to this by
adding a Mandatory Safety Stop to the dive. The time of this Mandatory Safety Stop
depends on the severity of the ascent rate excess.
The STOP sign is shown in the display and when you reach the depth zone between
6 m and 3 m/20 ft and 10 ft, the CEILING label, ceiling depth, and the calculated Safety
Stop time also appear in the display. Wait until the Mandatory Safety Stop warning
disappears. The total length of the Mandatory Safety Stop time depends on the seriousness of the ascent rate violation.
You must not ascend shallower than 3 m/10 ft with the Mandatory Safety Stop warning
on. If you ascend above the Mandatory Safety Stop ceiling, a downward pointing arrow
will appear and a continuous beeping starts. You should immediately descend to, or
below, the Mandatory Safety Stop ceiling depth. If you correct this situation at any
time during the dive, there are no effects on the decompression calculations for future
dives.
66
WHEN CEILING AND STOP ARE DISPLAYED
WITH DOWNWARD POINTING ARROW,
IMMEDIATELY (WITHIN 3 MINUTES) DESCEND
TO OR BELOW CEILING.
If you continue to violate the Mandatory Safety Stop, the tissue calculation model is
DURING DESCENT,
YOU'RE SHOWN THAT A
DEEPSTOP IS NEEDED AT
THE DEPTH OF 16 M.
DURING ASCENT, YOU'RE
ADVICED TO MAKE A DEEP
STOP AT 16 M FOR THE
DURATION SHOW BY THE
TIMER (42 S REMAINING).
affected and the dive computer shortens the available no-decompression time for your
next dive. In this situation, it is recommended that you prolong your surface interval
time before your next dive.
5.12. Deep stops
Deep stops are safety stops that occur deeper than traditional stops, with the purpose
of minimizing microbubble formation and excitation.
The Suunto RGBM model calculates deep stops iteratively, placing the first stop about
halfway between the maximum depth and the ceiling depth. After the first Deep stop
is completed, another Deep stop will be prompted halfway to the ceiling, and so on
until the ceiling depth is reached.
67
Enabling the deep stops does not disable Recommended Safety Stops. Mandatory
Safety Stops, for example due to continuous ascent rate violations, are still prompted.
If a deep stop is violated, it does not cause the dive computer to go into an error (Er)
mode. However, a penalty time is added to the subsequent decompression.
NOTE
68
With Deep Stops ON, the Recommended Safety Stops will still
be activated at the end of the dive.
6. DIVING
DIVE HAS JUST BEGUN AND
AVAILABLE NO-DECOMPRESSION
TIME IS OVER 99 MINUTES SO NO
VALUE IS DISPLAYED.
This section contains instructions on how to operate the dive computer and interpret
its displays. The dive computer is easy to use and read. Each display shows only the
data relevant to that specific diving mode.
6.1. Diving in the AIR mode (DIVE Air)
This section contains information on diving with standard air. To activate the DIVE Air
mode, please refer to Section 5.10.1. Accessing DIVE mode.
NOTE
NOTE
The dive computer will remain in the SURFACE mode at depths
less than 1.2 m/4 ft. At depths greater than 1.2 m/4 ft the instrument will go into the DIVE mode automatically. However, it is recommended that you activate the SURFACE mode manually
before entering the water in order to perform the necessary dive
pre-checks.
The default fields shown on your dive computer in the DIVE mode
are the ones you select while in the SURFACE mode.
69
6.1.1. Basic dive data
DIVE DISPLAY - PRESENT DEPTH IS 15 M,
NO-DECOMPRESSION STOP TIME LIMIT 46 MIN.
MAXIMUM DEPTH DURING THIS DIVE WAS 21.5 M,
ELAPSED DIVE TIME 22 MIN.
During a No-decompression dive, the following information is displayed:
your present depth in meters/feet
•
the available no-decompression time in minutes as NO DEC TIME
•
the ascent rate presented as a bar graph on the right side
•
the Diver Attention Symbol if surface interval should be prolonged (see Table 7.1,
•
Alarms)
Alternative displays, by pressing the UP/DOWN buttons, show:
the elapsed dive time in minutes, shown as DIVE TIME
•
the water temperature in °C/°F
•
the maximum depth during this dive in meters/feet, indicated as MAX
•
the current time, shown as TIME
•
70
DOWN BUTTON TOGGLES
BETWEEN MAXIMUM DEPTH,
CURRENT TIME AND TANK
PRESSURE.
UP BUTTON TOGGLES
BETWEEN DIVE TIME AND
WATER TEMPERATURE.
6.1.2. Bookmark
It is possible to record bookmarks in the profile memory during a dive. These bookmarks
are displayed when scrolling the profile memory on the display. The bookmarks are
also shown as annotations in the downloadable Suunto DM4 with Movescount software.
The bookmark logs the depth, time, and water temperature, as well as compass
heading (if the compass has been enabled).
To make a bookmark in the profile memory during a dive, press the SELECT button.
A brief confirmation will be given.
71
A BOOKMARK IS PLACED
IN THE PROFILE MEMORY
DURING A DIVE BY PRESSING
THE SELECT BUTTON.
6.1.3. Tank pressure data
CURRENT TANK PRESSURE
IS 165 BAR AND THE REMAINING
AIR TIME IS 52 MINUTES.
When using the optional wireless pressure transmitter, the pressure of your scuba
cylinder in bars (or psi) is shown digitally in the lower left corner of the alternative display. Whenever you start a dive, the remaining air time calculation begins. After 30–60
seconds (sometimes more, depending on your air consumption), the first estimation
of remaining air time is shown in the left center window of the display. The calculation
is always based on the actual pressure drop in your cylinder and automatically adapts
to your cylinder size and current air consumption.
72
The change in your air consumption is based on constant one second interval pressure
measurements over 30–60 second periods. An increase in air consumption influences
the remaining air time rapidly, while a drop in air consumption increases the air time
slowly. In this way, an over optimistic air time estimation, caused by a temporary drop
in air consumption, is avoided.
The remaining air time calculation includes a 35 bar/500 psi safety reserve. This means
that when the instrument shows the air time to be zero, there is still about 35 bar/500
psi of pressure left in your cylinder, depending on your air consumption rate. With a
high consumption rate, the limit will be closer to 50 bar/700 psi and with a low rate
closer to 35 bar/500 psi.
NOTE
Filling your BC affects the air time calculation due to the temporary
increase in air consumption.
NOTE
NOTE
Low Air Pressure Warnings
The dive computer will warn you with three (3) audible double beeps and a blinking
pressure display when the cylinder pressure reaches 50 bar/700 psi.
The remaining air time is not displayed when either deep stops
or the decompression ceiling have been activated. You can recall
the remaining air time by long-pressing the DOWN button, but
the ceiling disappears.
A change of temperature will affect the cylinder pressure and
consequently the air time calculation.
73
Three (3) double beeps are also heard when the cylinder pressure goes down to the
NORMAL
ASCENT
RAT E.
ACTIVATED BACKLIGHT, ALARM
AND A BLINKING ASCENT RATE BAR
GRAPH INDICATE YOU ARE ASCENDING
FASTER THAN 10 M/MIN. YOU ARE ADVISED
TO MAKE A MANDATORY SAFETY STOP
WHEN YOU REACH A DEPTH OF 6 M.
user-selected alarm pressure, and when the remaining time reaches zero.
6.1.4. Ascent rate indicator
The ascent rate is displayed graphically along the right hand side with a vertical bar.
When the maximum allowed ascent rate is exceeded, the lower segment of the bar
starts to blink with the top segment staying solid, indicating that the maximum ascent
rate has been exceeded.
WARNING
74
DO NOT EXCEED THE MAXIMUM ASCENT RATE! Rapid ascents increase the risk of injury. You should always make the
Mandatory and Recommended Safety Stops after you have exceeded the maximum recommended ascent rate. If this Mandatory
Safety Stop is not completed, the decompression model will
penalize your next dive(s). Continuous ascent rate violations will
result in Mandatory Safety Stops. When Recommended Deep
Stop is enabled, the length is indicated in seconds.
6.1.5. Safety Stops
A three (3) minute Recommended Safety Stop is prompted after every dive to over
10 m.
6.1.6. Stopwatch (Timer)
You can also use a stopwatch during diving for various timing purposes. To activate
the stopwatch in the DIVE mode, long-press the MODE button, then start and stop it
by short-pressing the SELECT button.
6.1.7. Decompression dives
When your NO DEC TIME becomes zero, your dive changes into a decompression
dive. Therefore, you must perform one or more decompression stops on your way to
the surface. The NO DEC TIME on your display will be replaced by an ASC TIME,
and a CEILING notation will appear. An upward pointing arrow will also prompt you
to start your ascent.
If you exceed the no-decompression limits on a dive, the dive computer will provide
the decompression information required for ascent. After this, the instrument will
continue to provide subsequent interval and repetitive dive information.
75
Rather than requiring you to make stops at fixed depths, the dive computer lets you
decompress within a range of depths (continuous decompression).
The ascent time (ASC TIME) is the minimum amount of time needed to reach the
surface in a decompression dive. It includes:
the time needed at the deep stop
•
the time needed to ascend to the ceiling at an ascent rate of 10 m/33 ft per minute.
•
The ceiling is the shallowest depth to which you should ascend.
the time needed at the ceiling
•
the time needed at the Mandatory Safety Stop (if any)
•
the time needed to reach the surface after the ceiling and Safety Stops have been
•
completed
WARNING
Ceiling, ceiling zone, floor and decompression range
When in decompression, it is important that you understand the meaning of ceiling,
floor, and decompression range.
76
YOUR ACTUAL ASCENT TIME MAY BE LONGER THAN DISPLAYED BY THE INSTRUMENT! The ascent time will increase
if you:
•
remain at depth
•
ascend slower than 10 m/33 ft per minute or
•
make your decompression stop deeper than at the ceiling
These factors will also increase the amount of air required to
reach the surface.
The ceiling is the shallowest depth to which you should ascend when in decom-
•
pression. At this depth, or below, you must perform all stops.
The ceiling zone is the optimum decompression stop zone. It is the zone between
•
the minimum ceiling and 1.2 m/4 ft below the minimum ceiling.
The floor is the deepest depth at which the decompression stop time will not in-
•
crease. Decompression will start when you pass this depth during your ascent.
The decompression range is the depth range between the ceiling and floor. Within
•
this range, decompression takes place. However, it is important to remember that
the decompression will be very slow at, or close to, the floor.
The depth of the ceiling and floor depends on your dive profile. The ceiling depth will
be fairly shallow when you enter the decompression mode, but if you remain at depth,
it will move downward and the ascent time will increase. Likewise, the floor and ceiling
may change upwards while you are decompressing.
77
When conditions are rough, it may be difficult to maintain a constant depth near the
UPWARD POINTING ARROW, BLINKING ASC
TIME AND AN ALARM TELL YOU TO ASCEND.
MINIMUM TOTAL ASCENT TIME INCLUDING SAFETY
STOP IS 9 MINUTES. CEILING IS AT 3 M.
surface. In such cases, it is more manageable to maintain an additional distance below
the ceiling, to ensure that the waves do not lift you above the ceiling. Suunto recommends that decompression takes place deeper than 4 m/13 ft, even if the indicated
ceiling is shallower.
NOTE
It will take more time and more air to decompress below the ceiling
than at the ceiling.
WARNING
NEVER ASCEND ABOVE THE CEILING! You must not ascend
above the ceiling during your decompression. In order to avoid
doing so by accident, you should stay somewhat below the ceiling.
Display below the floor
The blinking ASC TIME sign and an upward pointing arrow indicate that you are below
the floor. You should start your ascent immediately. The ceiling depth is shown on the
left side, and the minimum total ascent time on the right side of the center window.
Below is an example of a decompression dive without Deep Stops, below the floor.
78
Display above the floor
UPWARD POINTING ARROW HAS
DISAPPEARED AND ASC TIME LABEL HAS
STOPPED BLINKING, MEANING YOU ARE IN
THE DECOMPRESSION RANGE.
TWO ARROWS POINT AT EACH OTHER
“HOUR GLASS”. YOU ARE IN THE OPTIMUM CEILING
ZONE AT 3 M AND YOUR MINIMUM ASCENT TIME IS
9 MINUTES.
When you ascend above the floor, the ASC TIME sign stops blinking and the upward
pointing arrow disappears. Below is an example of a decompression dive above the
floor.
Decompression will now begin, but is very slow. Therefore, you should continue your
ascent.
Display at the ceiling zone
When you reach the ceiling zone, the display will show you two arrows pointing at
each other (the “hour glass” icon). Below is an example of a decompression dive at
the ceiling zone.
79
During the decompression stop, ASC TIME will count down towards zero. When the
DECOMPRESSION DIVE, ABOVE CEILING.
NOTE DOWNWARD POINTING ARROW, ER WARNING
AND ALARM. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY (WITHIN
3 MINUTES) DESCEND TO OR BELOW CEILING.
ceiling moves upwards, you can ascend to the new ceiling. You may surface only after
the ASC TIME and CEILING labels have disappeared, which means that the decompression stop and any Mandatory Safety Stop have been completed. You are advised,
however, to stay until the STOP sign has also disappeared. This indicates that the
three (3) minute Recommended Safety Stop has also been completed.
Display above the ceiling
If you ascend above the ceiling during a decompression stop, a downward pointing
arrow will appear and a continuous beeping starts.
In addition, an Error warning (Er) reminds you that you have only three (3) minutes to
correct the situation. You must immediately descend to, or below, the ceiling.
If you continue to violate the decompression, the dive computer will go into a permanent
Error Mode. In this mode, the instrument can only be used as a depth gauge and timer.
You must not dive again for at least 48 hours. (Refer to Section 5.7. Error conditions).
6.2. Diving in the NITROX mode (DIVE Nitrox)
The NITROX mode (DIVE Nitrox) is the second dive mode available in Suunto D6i
and is used when using oxygen-enriched gas mixtures.
80
6.2.1. Before diving in the NITROX mode
If set to theNITROX mode, the correct oxygen percentage of the gas in your cylinder
must always be entered into the computer to ensure correct nitrogen and oxygen
calculations. The dive computer adjusts its mathematical nitrogen and oxygen calculation models accordingly. The dive computer will not accept fractional percentage
values of oxygen concentration. Do not round up fractional percentages. For example,
31.8% oxygen should be entered as 31%. Rounding up will cause nitrogen percentages
to be understated and will affect decompression calculations. If you want to adjust the
computer to provide more conservative calculations, use the personal adjustment
feature to affect decompression calculations, or reduce the PO2setting to affect oxygen
exposure according to the entered O2% and PO2values. Calculations based on nitrox
use result in longer no-decompression times and shallower maximum depths than
diving with air.
As a safety precaution, the oxygen calculations in the computer are made with an
oxygen percentage of 1% + set O2% .
When the dive computer is set in NITROX mode, the Dive Planning mode calculates
using the O2% and PO2values that are currently in the computer.
To set the nitrox mixes, refer to Section 5.9.1. Setting the nitrox values.
Default settings
In theNITROX mode, the Suunto D6i allows you to set 1 or 2 nitrox mixes containing
21–99% oxygen.
81
In the NITROX mode, the default setting for Mix1 is standard air (21% O2). It remains
NITROX DIVE MODE ACTIVATION.
MAXIMUM OPERATIONAL DEPTH BASED ON
SET O
2
% (21%) AND PO2 (1.4 BAR) IS 53.6 M.
in this setting until the O2% is adjusted to any other percentage of oxygen (22%–99%).
The default setting for maximum oxygen partial pressure is 1.4 bar, however you are
able to set it in the range of 0.5–1.6 bar.
Mix2 is set to OFF by default. To set Mix2 , refer to Section 6.2.4. Gas change and
multiple breathing gas mixes. Oxygen percentages and maximum oxygen partial
pressures for Mix2 are stored permanently.
6.2.2. Oxygen displays
When the NITROX mode is activated, the display will show the information in the figure
below. In the NITROX mode, the maximum operational depth is calculated based on
set O2% and PO2values.
If set to the NITROX mode, the Suunto D6i will additionally show on the alternative
display:
the oxygen percentage, labeled O2%
•
the set oxygen partial pressure limit, labeled PO
•
the current oxygen toxicity exposure, labeled OLF%
•
maximum depth
•
82
2
current time
DOWN BUTTON
TOGGLES BETWEEN
O
2
, MAXIMUM DEPTH
CURRENT TIME AND
TANK PRESSURE.
UP BUTTON
TOGGLES BETWEEN
PO
2
, OLF%, DIVE
TIME AND WATER
TEMPERATURE.
•
water temperature
•
dive time
•
6.2.3. Oxygen limit fraction (OLF%)
If set to the NITROX mode, in addition to tracking the diver's exposure to nitrogen, the
instrument tracks the exposure to oxygen. These calculations are treated as entirely
separate functions.
The dive computer calculates separately for Central Nervous System oxygen toxicity
(CNS) and Pulmonary Oxygen toxicity, the latter measured by the addition of Oxygen
Toxicity Units (OTU). Both fractions are scaled so that the maximum tolerated exposure
for each is expressed as 100%.
83
The Oxygen Limit Fraction (OLF%) displays only the value of the higher of the two
CHANGING GAS MIX.
SCROLL THROUGH
ENABLED MIXES BY
PRESSING THE UP OR
DOWN BUTTONS. SELECT
NEW MIX BY PRESSING
THE SELECT BUTTON.
calculations. The oxygen toxicity calculations are based on the factors listed in Section 10.3. Oxygen exposure .
6.2.4. Gas change and multiple breathing gas mixes
One of the special features in Suunto D6i is the possibility to set an additional nitrox
mix to be used during a dive. This feature can be activated by setting the Mix2 as a
Primary (or Secondary) gas, and entering other parameters in the same way as with
the Mix1 gas. Mix2 settings are held until you change them (they will not return to
default settings automatically). A dive is always started with Mix1. During the dive, the
Suunto D6i enables you change to another enabled mix, which is within the set maximum oxygen partial pressure. The tissue calculation during the dive is based on the
mixes you have selected as Primary gases.
The Suunto D6i allows gas changes to enabled gas mixes during the dive. Gas changes
are made by following the procedure below:
84
NOTE
Mix number, O2% and PO2for the mixes are shown when
scrolling. If the set PO2limit is exceeded , it will be shown with
the PO2value blinking. The dive computer does not allow you to
change to a gas whose set PO2is exceeded. In such a case, the
mix is shown but cannot be selected.
NOTE
If no button is pressed in 15 seconds, the dive computer will go
back to the dive display without changing the gas mix. Upon ascent, the computer prompts you to change gas when the PO
level you have set for the next mix allows a gas change. The
prompt is a low priority alarm followed by the "Change gas" beep,
sounded once. The Gas mix (O2%) value blinks.
6.3. Diving in the GAUGE mode (DIVE Gauge)
If set to the GAUGE mode, the dive computer can be used as a bottom timer.
In the GAUGE mode, the total dive time is always displayed in minutes in the lower
right corner. In addition, a Dive Timer in the center window displays time in minutes
and seconds. The center window Dive Timer is activated at the start of the dive and
it can be reset during the dive and used as a stopwatch by pressing the SELECT
button.
85
2
BY PRESSING THE SELECT
BUTTON DURING A DIVE, A BOOKMARK IS WRITTEN IN THE PROFILE
MEMORY, THE DIVE TIMER IS RESET,
AND THE PREVIOUSLY-TIMED
INTERVAL IS DISPLAYED BELOW.
NOTE
The GAUGE mode does not provide decompression information.
NOTE
NOTE
There is no ascent rate monitoring in the GAUGE mode.
If you dive with the GAUGE mode, it is not possible to change
between the modes before the no fly time has counted down.
6.3.1. Day History
The Day History function shows the free dive history of your latest diving day. In the
SURFACE mode you can enter the Day History by pressing the SELECT button.
86
The Day History function shows the average depth of all dives, the deepest depth of
the day as well as the time, the longest dive, and the cumulative dive time in hours
and minutes, as well as the number of dives made during the day.
NOTE
6.3.2. Free dive time limit
The FREE mode has a time limit of 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, Suunto D6i will
automatically change from Free Dive to Scuba Bottom Timer. After the dive, the nofly time will countdown from 48 hours. Also, you will not be able to dive in AIR or NITROX modes until the no-fly time has counted down to zero. You can only set the
DIVE mode to OFF.
NOTE
The first dive of the next day will reset the Day History function
and start a new one.
If you want to dive in AIR or NITROX mode after diving in FREE
mode, remember to switch to the correct mode. Otherwise, the
free dive time limit will activate after 10 minutes.
87
7. AFTER DIVING
IT IS 6 MINUTES SINCE YOU SURFACED FROM A 35-MINUTE DIVE.
THE MAXIMUM DEPTH WAS 21.5 M. THE PRESENT DEPTH IS 0.0 M. THE
AIRPLANE SYMBOL AND NO-FLY VALUE INDICATE THAT YOU SHOULD NOT FLY
FOR 14 HOURS, 28 MINUTES. THE DIVER ATTENTION SYMBOL INDICATES THAT
YOU SHOULD PROLONG YOUR SURFACE INTERVAL TIME.
Once back at the surface, Suunto D6i continues to provide post-dive safety information
and alarms. Calculations to enable repetitive dive planning also help to maximize diver
safety.
Table 7.1. Alarms
IndicationSymbol on display
Diver Attention Symbol - Extend Surface Interval
Violated Decompression Ceiling or Too Long Bottom
Time
Do Not Fly Symbol
7.1. Surface interval
An ascent to any depth shallower than 1.2 m/4 ft will cause the DIVE display to be
replaced by the SURFACE display:
88
Or, in the alternative displays, the following information will be shown:
maximum depth of last dive in meters/feet
•
dive time of last dive in minutes, shown as DIVE TIME
•
the current time, shown as TIME
•
the current temperature in °C/°F
•
cylinder pressure in bar/psi (if enabled)
•
If set to NITROX mode, the following information will also be shown:
the oxygen percentage labeled O2%
•
the oxygen partial pressure labeled PO
•
the current oxygen toxicity exposure labeled OLF%
•
2
7.2. Dive numbering
Several repetitive dives are considered to belong to the same repetitive dive series
when the dive computer has not counted the no-fly time to zero. Within each series,
the dives are given individual numbers. The first dive of the series will be numbered
as DIVE 1, the second as DIVE 2, the third as DIVE 3, and so on.
If you start a new dive with less than five (5) minutes of surface interval time, the dive
computer interprets this as a continuation of the previous dive and the dives are considered to be the same. The diving display will return, the dive number will remain
unchanged, and the dive time will begin where it left off. After five (5) minutes on the
surface, subsequent dives are, by definition, repetitive. The dive counter displayed in
the Planning mode will increment to the next number if another dive is made.
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7.2.1. FREE Dive
Each dive series includes dives that have been performed during one day. The day's
dive numbering and latest dive information resets to 0 at midnight, and each day there
is a new series of dives that is recorded in the log book.
The dive is completed once you ascend beyond 0.5 m. A new dive will be registered
in the log book immediately you descend once again.
7.3. Repetitive dive planning
The Suunto D6i includes a dive planner that allows you to review the no-decompression
limits on a subsequent dive, taking the residual nitrogen loading of previous dives into
consideration. The DIVE PLANNING mode is explained in Section 7.5. DIVE PLAN-
NING mode (PLAN NoDec).
7.4. Flying after diving
In the DIVE mode, the no-fly time is displayed in the center window next to the airplane
image. In the TIME mode, the airplane image is shown in the top left corner. Flying
or traveling to a higher altitude should be avoided at any time when the computer is
counting down the no-fly time.
The no-fly time is always at least 12 hours, or equivalent to the so-called desaturation
time (if longer than 12 hours). For desaturation times lower than 70 minutes, no nofly time is given.
In the Permanent Error mode and GAUGE mode, the no-fly time is 48 hours.
The Divers Alert Network (DAN) recommends the following on no-fly times:
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A minimum surface interval of 12 hours would be required in order to be reasonably
•
assured a diver will remain symptom free upon ascent to altitude in a commercial
jetliner (altitude up to 2,400 m/8,000 ft)
Divers who plan to make daily, multiple dives for several days, or make dives that
•
require decompression stops, should take special precautions and wait for an extended interval beyond 12 hours before a flight. Further, the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS) suggests divers using standard air cylinders and
exhibiting no symptoms of decompression illness wait 24 hours after their last dive
to fly in an aircraft with cabin pressure up to 2,400 m/8,000 ft. The only two exceptions to this recommendation are:
If a diver has less than 2 hours total accumulated dive time in the last 48 hours,
•
a 12 hour surface interval before flying is recommended
Following any dive that required a decompression stop, flying should be delayed
•
for at least 24 hours, and if possible, for 48 hours
Suunto recommends that flying is avoided until all the DAN and UHMS guidelines,
•
as well as the dive computer’s no-fly conditions, are satisfied
7.5. DIVE PLANNING mode (PLAN NoDec)
The DIVE PLANNING mode displays no-decompression times for a new dive, taking
into account the effects of previous dives.
When entering the DIVE PLANNING mode (PLAN NoDec) mode, the display first
briefly shows the remaining desaturation time before going into plan mode.
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By pressing the UP/DOWN buttons, you can scroll the no-decompression limits in 3
WHEN ENTERING THE PLAN MODE
THE DISPLAY FIRST BRIEFLY SHOWS THE
REMAINING DESATURATION TIME BEFORE
GOING INTO PLAN MODE. USE UP AND
DOWN BUTTONS TO SCROLL DIFFERENT
NO-DECOMPRESSION LIMITS.
NO-DECOMPRESSION LIMITS LONGER
THAN 99 MINUTES ARE DISPLAYED AS “–”.
m/10 ft increments ending at 45 m/150 ft. No-decompression limits longer than 99
minutes are displayed as “—“.If the O2% is too high for the planned depth, NA is displayed instead of a numerical no-decompression limit.
The Planning mode takes into account the following information from previous dives:
any calculated residual nitrogen
•
all dive history for the past four days
•
The no-decompression times given for different depths will therefore be shorter than
before your first “fresh” dive.
You can exit the DIVE PLANNING mode by pressing the MODE button.
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NOTE
Higher Altitude and conservative Personal Adjustment settings will shorten the nodecompression time limits. These limits at different Altitude and Personal Adjustment
setting selections are explained in Section 5.10.4. Diving at altitude and in Sec-
tion 5.10.5. Personal adjustments.
7.5.1. Dive numbering shown during dive planning
Dives belong to the same repetitive dive series if the instrument was still counting
down the no-fly time at the beginning of the dive.
The surface interval must be at least five (5) minutes for a dive to be considered a
repetitive dive. Otherwise, it is considered a continuation of the same dive. The dive
number will not change and the dive time will continue where it left off. (Refer also to
Section 7.2. Dive numbering ).
7.6. MEMORY mode
The memory options in the MEMORY mode include dive logbook (MEM Logbook)
and dive history (MEM History). They are accessed from the DIVE mode and you can
toggle between them by using the UP/DOWN buttons.
The DIVE PLANNING mode is disabled in GAUGE mode and in
Error mode (see Section 5.7. Error conditions).
The DIVE PLANNING mode calculates no-decompression times
for Mix1 only. If an additional mix is enabled in the Nitrox mode,
it does not affect the calculations in (PLAN NoDec) mode.
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The dive time and date are registered in the Logbook memory. Always check before
diving that the time and date are correctly set, especially after traveling between different time zones.
7.6.1. Dive logbook (MEM Logbook)
The Suunto D6i has a very sophisticated, high capacity Logbook and Profile Memory.
The data is recorded in the profile memory based on the selected sample rate.
Dives shorter than the recording interval are not registered (refer to Section 5.9.9.
Setting the sample rate).
The END OF LOGS text is displayed between the oldest and most recent dive. The
following information will be shown on three pages:
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THERE ARE THREE PAGES OF LOGBOOK DIVE INFORMATION. USE
SELECT BUTTON TO SCROLL BETWEEN LOGBOOK PAGES I, II, AND III.
THE DATA OF THE MOST RECENT DIVE IS SHOWN FIRST. YOU CAN
SCROLL THE GRAPHICAL DIVE PROFILE ON PAGE III WITH UP BUTTON.
Page I, main display
maximum depth
•
NOTE
Depending on the sampling rate, the reading may differ from
the maximum depth reading of the Dive History up to 0.3 m/1
ft.
date of dive
•
type of dive (AIR, NITROX, GAUGE, FREE)
•
dive start time
•
dive number
•
oxygen percentage for the first used gas mix
•
total dive time (in minutes in all modes)
•
Page II
maximum depth
•
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average depth
•
consumed pressure (if enabled)
•
warnings
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Page III
depth/time profile of the dive
•
water temperature
•
tank pressure (if enabled)
•
NOTE
The memory will retain approximately the last 36 hours of dive
time. After that, when new dives are added, the oldest dives are
deleted. The contents of the memory will remain when the battery
is changed (providing that the battery has been replaced according
to the instructions).
NOTE
7.6.2. Dive history (MEM History)
The dive history is a summary of all the dives recorded by the dive computer.
The following information will be shown on the display:
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Several repetitive dives are considered to belong to the same
repetitive dive series if the no-fly time has not ended. See Section 7.2. Dive numbering for further information.
DIVE HISTORY DISPLAY.
TOTAL NUMBER OF DIVES, DIVE
HOURS AND MAXIMUM DEPTH.
The Dive History Memory can hold a maximum of 999 dives and 999 diving hours.
When these maximum values are reached, the counters will start again from zero.
NOTE
The maximum depth can be reset to 0.0 m/0 ft using the PC Interface unit and the downloadable Suunto DM4 software.
Free Dive History
The Free Dive History shows the deepest and the longest dives of all free dives, and
the cumulative dive time in hours and minutes, as well as the total number of dives.
The Free Dive History can hold a maximum of 999 dives and 99 diving hours 59
minutes. When these maximum values are reached, the counters will start again from
zero.
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The Free Dive history gathers history of the entire sequence of free dives. Unlike the
day history, the Free Dive History is not reset.
NOTE
7.7. Suunto DM4 with Movescount
The Suunto DM4 with Movescount (DM4) is an optional software that greatly enhances
the functionality of your Suunto D6i. With the DM4 software, you can download dive
data from your dive computer to your laptop. After that, you can view and organize all
the data recorded with your Suunto D6i. You can plan dives (with Suunto Dive Planner),
print copies of your dive profiles, and also upload your dive logs to share with your
friends at http://www.movescount.com (see Section 7.8. Movescount). You can always
download the latest version of the DM4 from http://www.suunto.com. Please check
for updates regularly as new features are constantly being developed. The following
data is transferred from your dive computer to your laptop (optional, cable required):
• depth profile of the dive
• dive time
• preceding surface interval time
• dive number
• dive start time (year, month, day, and time)
• dive computer settings
• oxygen percentage settings and maximum OLF (in the MIXED mode)
• tissue calculation data
• real-time water temperature
• tank pressure data (if enabled)
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You can reset all free dive data within the free dive history with
the PC-Interface unit and the downloadable Suunto DM4 software.
• additional dive information (for example, SLOW and Mandatory Safety Stop violations, Diver Attention Symbol, Bookmark, Surfaced Mark, Decompression Stop
Mark, and Ceiling Error Mark)
• dive computer serial number
• personal information (30 characters)
By using the DM4, you are able to enter setup options such as:
input a personal, 30-character field into the Suunto D6i
•
reset the Scuba History's maximum depth to zero
•
reset all Free Dive History
•
manually add comments, multimedia and other personal information to the PC-
•
based dive data files
7.8. Movescount
Movescount is an online sports community that offers you a rich set of tools to manage
all you sports and create engaging stories about your diving experiences. Movescount
offers you new ways to get inspired and share your best dives with other community
members!
To connect to Movescount:
Go to www.movescount.com.
1.
Register and create your free Movescount account.
2.
Download and install the Suunto DM4 with Movescount software from the
3.
Movescount.com website if you do not already have the DM4 installed on your
laptop
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To transfer data:
Connect your dive computer to your laptop.
1.
Download your dives to the DM4 on your laptop.
2.
Follow the instructions on the DM4 on how to transfer your dives to your
3.
Movescount.com account.
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8. CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF MY SUUNTO DIVING COMPUTER
The SUUNTO dive computer is a sophisticated precision instrument. Although it is
designed to withstand the rigors of scuba diving, you must treat it with the same
proper care and caution as any other precision instrument.
WATER CONTACTS AND PUSH BUTTONS
•
Contamination or dirt on the water contacts/connector or push buttons may prevent
the automatic activation of the Dive Mode and cause problems during the data
transfer. Therefore, it is important that the water contacts and push buttons are
kept clean. If the water contacts are active (AC text remains on display) or the Dive
Mode activates on its own, the reason for this is probably contamination or invisible
marine growth, which may create an electric current between the contacts. It is
important that the dive computer is carefully washed in fresh water after the day’s
diving is completed. The contacts can be cleaned with fresh water and, if necessary,
a mild detergent and a soft brush. Sometimes it might be necessary to remove the
instrument from the protective boot for cleaning.
CARE OF YOUR DIVE COMPUTER
•
NEVER try to open the case of the dive computer.•
• Have your dive computer serviced every two years or after 200 dives (whichever
comes first) by an authorized dealer or distributor. This service will include a
general operational check, replacement of the battery, and water resistance
check. The service requires special tools and training. Therefore, it is advisable
to contact an authorized SUUNTO dealer or distributor for service. Do not attempt to do any servicing that you are not sure of.
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