SUUNTO S6-SL User Manual

EN

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

www.suunto.com

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PC-related questions [e-mail]
Suunto Website

www.suunto.com

1

T ABLE OF CONTENTS

1. GENERAL INFORMA TION ........................................................................................5

1.1. Checklist ................................................................................................5

1.2. Care and Maintenance.......................................................................... 5

1.3. Water Resistance .................................................................................6

1.4. Battery Replacement ............................................................................ 7

2. HOW TO USE YOUR SUUNTO S6 ...........................................................................9

2.1. Display ..................................................................................................9

2.1.1. Mode Symbols ..........................................................................9

2.1.2. Function Symbols ...................................................................10

2.2. Buttons ................................................................................................ 11

2.2.1. Short and Long Press ............................................................ 11

2.2.2. Start Button ............................................................................. 11

2.2.3. Stop/CL Button .......................................................................12

2.2.4. Suunto Button ........................................................................12

2.2.5. Arrow Buttons ....................................................................... 13

2.2.6. Button Lock ............................................................................13

2.3. Menus ................................................................................................14

2.3.1. Basic Menu Structure ............................................................ 14

3. MODES ................................................................................................16

2

2.3.2. Navigating in Menus ...............................................................14

3.1. General Information ............................................................................ 16

3.2. Time Mode ...........................................................................................17

3.2.1. Main Display ...........................................................................17

3.2.2. Alarm ......................................................................................18

3.2.3. Time ........................................................................................20

3.2.4. Date ........................................................................................21

3.2.5. General ...................................................................................22

3.2.6. Units .......................................................................................24

3.3. Compass Mode ...................................................................................28

3.3.1. Main Display ...........................................................................28

3.3.2. Use .........................................................................................29

3.3.3. Altitude/Sealevel ....................................................................31

3.3.4. Compass ................................................................................32

3.3.5. Slope ......................................................................................35

3.4. Weather Mode.....................................................................................36

3.4.1. Main Display ...........................................................................36

3.4.2. Use .........................................................................................37

3.4.3. Sealevel ..................................................................................37

3.4.4. Alarm ......................................................................................38

3.4.5. Memory ...................................................................................38

3.5. Skiing Mode .........................................................................................40

3.5.1. Main Display ...........................................................................40

3.5.2. Logbook ..................................................................................41

3.5.3. Use .........................................................................................45

3.5.4. Altitude ...................................................................................46

3.5.5. Alarms .................................................................................... 46

3.5.6. Reminder ................................................................................48

3.6. SkiChrono Mode ..................................................................................49

3.6.1. Main Display ...........................................................................49

3.6.2. Use .........................................................................................52

3

3.6.3. Altitude ...................................................................................53

3.6.4. Memory ...................................................................................53

4. EXAMPLES OF SUUNTO S6 USAGE..................................................................... 57

4.1. Ordinary Skiing/Snowboarding Day ...................................................57

4.2. Skiing/Snowboarding Day with Speed Measurement ........................ 58

4.3. Training on a Course ..........................................................................59

5. ADDITIONAL FEA TURES........................................................................................60

5.1. Datasnake ...........................................................................................60

5.1.1. Transferring Data ...................................................................60

5.1.2. Suunto Ski Manager ...............................................................61

5.2. Suuntosports.com .............................................................................. 64

5.2.1. System Requirements ............................................................64

5.2.2. SuuntoSports.com Sections ..................................................64

5.2.3. Getting Started .......................................................................66

6. TECHNICAL DAT A..................................................................................................67

7. COPYRIGHT AND TRADEMARK NOTICE...............................................................68

8. CE COMPLIANCE ...................................................................................................68

9. LIMITS OF LIABILITY AND ISO 9001 COMPLIANCE ..............................................69

4

1. GENERAL INFORMATION

Suunto S6 Wristop Computer is a reliable high precision electronic instrument that is
intended for recreational use.

NOTE: You should not use Suunto S6 to obtain measurements that require
professional or industrial precision or to obtain measurements when skydiving,
hang gliding, paragliding, gyrocopter riding or flying small aircraft.

1.1. CHECKLIST

After purchasing this instrument, make sure the package contains the following
items:

• Suunto S6

• Datasnake interface cable

• CD containing the Suunto Ski Manager software
Should any of these be missing from the package, contact the resale agent who sold

you the package.

1.2. CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Only perform the procedures described in this manual. Never attempt to disassemble
or service your Suunto S6. Protect your Suunto S6 from shocks, extreme heat and
prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. If not in use, your Suunto S6 should be stored
in a clean, dry environment at room temperature.

Suunto S6 can be wiped clean with a lightly moistened (warm water) cloth. If there
are stubborn stains or marks, you can apply mild soap to the area. Do not expose
Suunto S6 to strong chemicals such as gasoline, cleaning solvents, acetone, and
alcohol, insect repellents, adhesives and paint, as they will damage the unit’s seals,

5

case and finish. Keep the PC interface pins clean with e.g. a toothbrush. Make sure
the area around the sensor is kept free of dirt and sand. Never insert any objects into
the sensor opening.

1.3. WA TER RESIST ANCE

Suunto S6 is water-resistant. Its water resistance is tested to 100m/330ft according
to ISO 2281 standard (www.iso.ch).

Note: Suunto S6 wristop computer is not a diving instrument and therefore it should
not be used for diving or to obtain data under water.

6

1.4. BATTER Y REPLACEMENT

Suunto S6 operates on a 3-Volt lithium cell, type:
CR 2032. The life expectancy of the battery is
approximately 12 months in the Time/Weather
modes.

A low-battery warning indicator is activated on
the display when approximately 5–15 percent
of the battery capacity is still available. When
this occurs, you should replace the battery.
However, extremely cold weather may acti­vate the low-battery warning indicator even
though the battery is still fully operational. If the
battery-warning indicator is activated in tem­peratures above 10°C (50°F), replace the bat­tery.

NOTE: Heavy use of the backlight, altimeter
and compass will significantly reduce the
battery life.

To replace the battery:

1. Insert a coin into the slot located on the bat-

tery compartment cover on the backside of
Suunto S6.

2. Turn the coin

aligned with the open position marker, or
even slightly above it, for easy opening.

counterclockwise

until it is

➥

➥➥

➥➥

➦➦

➦

➦➦

7

3. Remove the battery compartment cover.
Ensure that the
clean and dry. Do not stretch the

4. Remove the old battery carefully.

➦➦

➦

➦➦

➥➥

➥

➥➥

8

5. Place the new battery into the battery com­partment with the positive side facing up.

6. With the O-ring in the correct position, attach
the battery compartment cover and turn it
with the coin
with the close position marker.

NOTE: Battery replacement should be per­formed with extreme care to ensure that Suunto
S6 remains water-resistant. Careless battery
replacement may void warranty.

O

-ring and all surfaces are

clockwise

until it is aligned

O-ring

.

2. HOW TO USE YOUR SUUNTO S6

2.1. DISPLAY

When your Suunto S6 leaves the factory, it is in
the sleep mode, and its display is blank. You
can then select which mode is displayed.

In addition to mode-specific information, the
Suunto S6 display includes several symbols:

2.1.1. Mode symbols

The mode symbols are located on the left side
of the display. The moving segment next to them
indicates the active mode.

Time
Compass
Weather

Skiing
SkiChrono

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2.1.2. Function symbols

The function symbols indicate that either a function (such as an Alarm) has been
activated or something needs to be done (battery symbol). The function symbols are:

Alarm

Active when at least one of the alarms is on.

Weather/Altitude alarm

Active when the weather alarm, altitude alarm or Asc/Dsc alarm is on.

Logbook

Active when the logbook is recording data.

Chrono

Active when SkiChrono/Chrono is recording data.

Use alti/baro

Indicates whether the air pressure sensor is used to measure altitude or used as a
barometer.

If you select the air pressure to be displayed as altitude, the symbol is next to the
Compass mode symbol. If you select the air pressure to be displayed as weather
information, the symbol is next to the Weather mode symbol.

Battery

Active when 5–15 percent of the battery capacity is left and the battery should be
replaced.

Button Lock

Active when the button lock is activated.

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2.2. BUTTONS

2.2.1. Short and Long Press

The buttons may have different functions
depending on how long you press them.

The ordinary

press

or

short press

means that

the button is pressed quickly.
The

long press

means that the button is pressed

for more than 2 seconds.

2.2.2. Start button
Short Press

• In the SkiChrono mode, it locks the slope
angle and starts the timing.

• In the normal chrono of the SkiChrono mode,
it starts the timing and saves and displays
the split/lap times.

• In the Skiing mode it saves the split/lap times.

• In the Compass mode, it starts the compass
again after it has switched to the power­saving mode.

Long Press

• Activates the backlight when the backlight is not set to the off position. The
backlight stays on as long as a selection is active and 5 seconds after the last
selection. For more information about the backlight settings, see page 23.

11

2.2.3. Stop/CL button
Short Press

• Returns to the previous menu level or to the previous selection

without accepting

the selection.

• In the SkiChrono mode, it stops timing.

• In the main mode displays, it acts as a shortcut button that toggles the lowest field
of the main display between three different alternatives. The selection stays
active even if the mode or menu level is changed.

Long Press

• Returns to the main display of the current mode

without accepting

the last selection.

• In the SkiChrono mode it resets the stopwatch.

2.2.4. Suunto Button

Short Press

• Scrolls to a lower menu level.

• Accepts the selections made with arrows and moves to the next phase.

• After the last selection, it returns to the settings menu.

• With two possible selections (e.g. light on/off), it activates the selection and
accepts the selections made with arrows.

Long Press

• Returns to the main display of the current mode and accepts the selection.

• With two possible selections (e.g. light on/off), it accepts the selection and returns
directly to the main display of the current mode.

12

2.2.5. Arrow Buttons
Short Press

• Changes modes in the main mode display.

• Scrolls the menus up and down, and the logbook and memory forward and back

• Changes the values. The
decreases the value.

• With two possible selections (e.g. light on/off), both arrows change the value.

2.2.6. Button Lock

The button lock prevents you from pushing the buttons accidentally. If the buttons are
locked and you try to press a button, the message “UNLOCK PRESS SUUNTO” is displayed.

Activating the button lock

To activate the button lock:

1. Press the

2. Press
current mode, and the button lock symbol appears on the upper right corner of the
display.

Unlocking the button lock

To unlock the button lock:

1. Press

2. Press
current mode and the buttons are unlocked.

Suunto

Start

Suunto

Start

button. Suunto S6 switches to the function menu.

within 2 seconds. Suunto S6 switches to the main display of the

. The following text is displayed: “NOW PRESS START”.

within 2 seconds. Suunto S6 switches to the main display of the

up

arrow increases the value and the

down

arrow

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2.3. MENUS

2.3.1. Basic Menu Structure

The menus are organized hierarchically under the modes. When you select a mode,
its main display appears. When you press Suunto in the mode’s main display, the
mode’s

function menu

of which include sub-functions or settings. This is called the hierarchical menu struc­ture. The figure on the opposite page presents the basic idea of the menu structure.

2.3.2. Navigating in Menus

You can scroll the menu items with the up and
of Suunto S6. Three menu items are displayed at the same time. The menu item that is
currently active and can thus be selected is displayed in reversed color. The indicator
bar on the right side of the display shows the total number of menu items. The number
of the active menu item is displayed next to the indicator bar.

To move deeper into the hierarchy, select a menu item and press
one step up in the hierarchy, press
the changes you made in the menu are not saved. First you have to accept the
changes with the

If you want to return directly to the main display of the active mode, press either
(saves the changes) or

Suunto S6 will guide you as much as possible when you navigate in the menus. When
you perform a function, Suunto S6 often automatically returns to the menu item you
are likely to use next. And if you try to do something that is impossible, Suunto S6 first
displays a message and then automatically recommends a function in reversed color
to help you to use the functions.

14

is displayed. The function menu includes several functions, all

down

arrows located on the right side

Suunto

. To return

Suunto

Stop/CL

. Remember that if you just press

button.

Stop/CL

(discards the last change) for more than 2 seconds.

Stop/CL

Suunto

,

15

3. MODES

3.1. GENERAL INFORMATION

Suunto S6 has five different modes: Time, Compass, Weather, Skiing and SkiChrono.
The symbols for each mode are displayed on the left of the display. When you select
a mode, the active mode indicator appears on the display next to the symbol of the
selected mode.

To select a mode, press either the up or
mode and scroll to the desired mode. During scrolling, the icon of the selected mode
and its name appear on the display. When you stop scrolling, the icon stays for a little
while and then the main display of that mode opens automatically.

NOTE: In addition to the active mode indicator, the Use indicator can also be
displayed next to the Compass or Weather mode symbols. If the Use is set to Alti,
the indicator is next to the Compass mode symbol and if the Use is set to Baro, the
indicator is next to the Weather mode symbol. For more information about the Alti or
Baro Use, see page 29.

16

down

arrow while in the main display of any

3.2. TIME MODE

3.2.1. Main Display

When you select the Time mode, the main display opens.
The main display has three rows:

Date

The first row displays the date in the selected format.
For more information about changing the date format,
see page 24.

Time

The second row displays the time in the selected format.
For more information about changing between 12- and
24-hour displays, see page 24.

Shortcuts

The third row displays alternatively the weekday, the
seconds or the dual time. Switch between these with

Stop/CL

.

• Weekday: Displays the current weekday.

• Seconds: Displays seconds.

• Dual time: Displays the dual time if it has been set.
For more information on setting the dual time, see
page 20.

17

3.2.2. Alarm

You can set up to three separate alarms. In addition to
time, you can also define a date when the alarm sounds.
If you do not define the date, the alarm will sound daily
as long as it is set to

When the alarm is set, the alarm symbol appears on
the lower right side of the display.

Activating alarms

To activate an alarm:

1. Press

2. In the function menu,

3. Scroll to the alarm you want to set and press

4. Press either the up or

18

Suunto

tion menu.
item. Press

plays the status of the alarms. When you open the
menu for the first time, the alarm indicators are set to

off

as default.

The alarm information is displayed on the screen
(status, time, date). The alarm status is active (in
reversed color).

alarm status to on. Press
appears on the display and the hour selection is ac­tivated.

on

.

in the main display to access the func-

Alarm

Suunto

to select it. The alarm menu dis-

is already the first menu

Suunto

down

arrow to change the

Suunto

. The alarm symbol

.

5. Set the correct
tion is activated.

6. Set the correct
selection is activated.

7. If you want the alarm to sound

Suunto

. (A long press takes you directly back to the main display. A short press
takes you to the function menu.) The alarm is set to sound every day and you
return to the function menu.

8. If you want to set the alarm for a specific date, set the day and month in the dd and

mm

fields with the arrow buttons and press
is now set to sound only once on the selected date and you return to the function
menu.

Deactivating alarms

To deactivate the alarm:

1. Press

2. In the function menu,

3. Scroll to the alarm you want to deactivate and press

4. Press either the up or

Acknowledging alarms

When you hear the alarm, you can acknowledge it by pressing any of the buttons.
If you do not do anything, the alarm will automatically stop after 30 seconds.

Suunto

select it.
is displayed on the screen (status, time, date). The alarm status is active (in

reversed color).

Suunto

. The alarm symbol disappears from the display.

hour

with the arrow buttons and press

minutes

with the arrow buttons and press

every day

, accept the

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

Alarm

is already the first menu item. Press

down

button to change the alarm status to

Suunto

dd.mm

to accept the date. The alarm

Suunto

. The alarm information

. The minute selec-

Suunto

. The month

format by pressing

Suunto

off

and press

to

19

3.2.3. Time

Time is displayed on the second row of the Time mode’s
main display. It functions like an ordinary clock and
displays the current time. If the time is displayed as a
12-hour clock, the symbol AM or PM is displayed on the
last row. (For more information about the 12/24-hour
clock, see page 24.)

The dual time can be displayed as a shortcut on the third
row of the Time mode’s main display. Dual time makes it
possible to keep track of another time, for example,
another time zone. To scroll to the dual time shortcut,
press

Stop/CL

in the main display.

Setting the time and the dual time

To set the time and the dual time:

1. Press

2. Scroll to

3. Scroll either to

4. Change the

5. Change the

20

Suunto

tion menu.
The menu with the Time and Dual time is displayed
The hour selection is activated.

Suunto.
Suunto

in the main display to access the func-

Time

in the function menu and press

Time

or

Dual time

hour

The minute selection is activated.

. The

with the arrow buttons and press

minutes

with the arrow buttons and press

second

selection is activated.

and press

Suunto
Suunto

.
.

Note: When you set the dual time, you can only set
hours and minutes. The seconds are retrieved from the
Time option. So, when you press Suunto in the Dual
time option, you automatically return to the function menu.

6. When you press the down arrow, the seconds are
zeroed. If you want to set specific seconds, press
the up arrow and the seconds start running. When
the settings are correct, press
cally return to the function menu.

3.2.4. Date

The date has three different formats: dd.mm, mm.dd or
day. For more information about changing the format,
see page 24.

Changing the date

To change the date:

1. Press

2. Scroll to

3. Change the value in the first field (either day or month

4. Change the value in the second field with the arrow

Suunto

tion menu.
The date menu is displayed with the first field active.
depending on the format) with the arrow buttons and

press
buttons and press

in the main display to access the func-

Date

in the function menu and press

Suunto

. The second field is activated.

Suunto

Suunto

. You automati-

Suunto

. The year field is activated.

.

21

5. Change the year with the arrow buttons and press

Suunto

. (All the years mean the 21st century.) You

automatically return to the function menu.

NOTE: The weekday is updated automatically on the
third row according to the set date.

3.2.5. General

The General function includes general settings for using
your Suunto S6. These settings include Tones, Icons
and Light, and they affect all the modes.

Setting the tones on or off

Tones are sounds that indicate that you have success­fully pressed the buttons. The tones can be set to the on
or off position.

To set the tones on or off:

1. Press

2. Scroll to

3. Scroll to

4. Change the field to either on or

22

Suunto

tion menu.

Suunto

displayed in reversed color.
buttons and press

in the main display to access the func-

General

. The General menu is displayed.

Tones

in the function menu and press

and press

Suunto

Suunto

. The on/off field is

off

. The tones are now set.

with the arrow

Setting the icons on or off

Icons are the mode logos that appear on the screen for a moment when you change
the mode. You can either show or hide the icons.

To set the icons on or off:

1. Press

2. Scroll to

3. Scroll to

4. Change the field to either on or off with the arrow buttons and press

Setting the light

Light is the backlight of the Suunto S6 display. It has three possible settings:

• Normal. The light switches on when you press

• Off. The light does not switch on from any button or during an alarm.

• Night Use. The light switches on when you press a button and stays on for

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

General

displayed.

The icons are now set.

The light is on for 5 seconds after the last press of a button.

5 seconds after the last press of a button.

in the function menu and press

Icons

and press

Suunto

. The on/off field is displayed in reversed color.

Suunto

. The General menu is

Start

for more than 2 seconds.

Suunto

NOTE: The backlight goes on when an alarm sounds in Normal and Night Use.

To change the light settings:

1. Press

2. Scroll to

3. Scroll to

Suunto

displayed.
color.

in the main display to access the function menu.

General

in the function menu and press

Light

and press

Suunto

. The current light setting is displayed in reversed

Suunto

. The General menu is

.

23

4. Select the suitable light setting with the arrow buttons and press
setting is set and you return to the function menu.

3.2.6. Units

This menu includes the units that are used with all the Suunto S6 functions and
settings. The settings include Time, Date, Temp, Pres, Elev, Asc/Dsc, Speed and
Slope, and they affect the way information is displayed in all the Suunto S6 modes.

Setting the time format

The time settings define whether the 12- or 24-hour display is used.
To change the time format:

1. Press

2. Scroll to

3. Scroll to

4. Select the correct time format with the arrow buttons and press

Setting the date format

The date settings define the format in which the date is displayed. The possible
formats are:

• MM.DD: Month before the day, e.g. 11.27.

• DD.MM: Day before the month, e.g. 27.11.

• Day: Only the day is displayed, e.g. 27.

To change the date format:

1. Press

2. Scroll to

24

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

Units

in the function menu and press

Time

and press

format is now set.

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

Units

in the function menu and press

Suunto

. The time format field is activated.

Suunto.

Suunto.

The Units menu is displayed.

The Units menu is displayed.

Suunto

Suunto.

. The light

The time

3. Scroll to

4. Select the correct date format with the arrow buttons and press
The format is set and you return to the function menu.

Setting the temperature unit

The Temp settings define the unit in which the temperature is displayed. The options
are Celsius (°C) and Fahrenheit (°F).

To change the temperature unit:

1. Press

2. Scroll to

3. Scroll to

4. Select the correct unit with the arrow buttons and press
unit is now set.

Setting the air pressure unit

The Pres settings define the unit in which the air pressure is displayed. The options
are

To change the air pressure unit:

1. Press

2. Scroll to

3. Scroll to

4. Select the correct unit with the arrow buttons and press
unit is now set.

hPa

Suunto

and

Suunto

Date

and press

in the main display to access the function menu.

Units

in the function menu and press

T emp

and press

inHg

.

in the main display to access the function menu.

Units

in the function menu and press

Pres

and press

Suunto

. The date format field is activated.

Suunto.

Suunto

. The temperature unit field is activated.

Suunto.

Suunto

. The air pressure unit field is activated.

Suunto

The Units menu is displayed.

Suunto

. The temperature

The Units menu is displayed.

Suunto

. The air pressure

.

25

Setting the elevation unit

The

Elev

meters (m) and feet (ft).
To change the elevation unit:

1. Press

2. Scroll to

3. Scroll to

4. Select the correct unit with the arrow buttons and press

Setting the ascent/descent rate unit

The Asc/Dsc settings define the way the ascent or descent rate is displayed.
The possible formats are:

• m/s

• m/min

• ft/s

• ft/min
To change the Asc/Dsc format:

1. Press

2. Scroll to

3. Scroll to

4. Select the correct format with the arrow buttons and press

26

settings define the unit in which the elevation is displayed. The options are

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

Units

in the function menu and press

Elev

and press

unit is now set.

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

Units

in the function menu and press

Asc/Dsc

set and you return to the Units menu.

Suunto

and press

. The elevation unit field is activated.

Suunto

Suunto.

The Units menu is displayed.

Suunto

. The elevation

Suunto.

.

The Units menu is displayed.

Suunto

. The format is

Setting the speed unit

The speed settings define the unit in which the speed is displayed. The options are
kilometers (km/h) and miles (mph).

To change the speed unit:

1. Press

2. Scroll to

3. Scroll to

4. Select the correct format with the arrow buttons and press

Setting the slope unit

The Slope settings define the unit in which the slope is displayed. The options are
degree (°) and percentage (%).

To change the slope unit:

1. Press

2. Scroll to

3. Scroll to

4. Select the correct unit with the arrow buttons and press

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

Units

in the function menu and press

Speed

and press

set and you return to the Units menu.

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

Units

in the function menu and press

Slope

and press

set.

Suunto.

Suunto

. The slope unit field is activated.

Suunto.

The Units menu is displayed.

Suunto

Suunto.

The Units menu is displayed.

Suunto

. The slope unit is

. The format is

27

3.3. COMPASS MODE

3.3.1. Main Display

When you select the Compass mode, the main display
opens. The main display has three rows.

Bearing

The first row displays the bearing pointed with the sight­ing marks of Suunto S6. The bearing is displayed in bold
when the compass is level. Level position is needed to
ensure accurate bearings.

Compass

The second row displays the heading of Suunto S6 as a
graphical presentation of a compass rose. The rose dis­plays the cardinal and half-cardinal points.

The magnetic sensor of the compass functions for
40 seconds at a time. After this period, the compass
moves into the power-saving mode and the message
“

START COMPASS” is displayed. To activate the compass

again, press

Start

.

Shortcuts

The third row contains shortcuts to three functions.
Press

Stop/CL

to switch between the functions.

• Altitude. In
and in

28

Alti

Baro

use, it displays the current altitude,

use, it displays the reference altitude.

• Bearing tracking. Bearing tracking helps you follow a certain bearing in terrain.
When you scroll to bearing tracking for the first time, it is 0°. To activate the search
for bearing, move your Suunto S6 horizontally until the chosen bearing is dis­played on the first row and press
third row until you select a new bearing. When you have selected the bearing
tracking, the compass rose in the middle row displays a dotted vertical line that
indicates the set bearing tracking.

Start

. The selected bearing is displayed on the

NOTE: When you scroll to bearing tracking the next time, it always displays the last
selected bearing.

• Time. The current time.

NOTE: The shortcuts function normally in the power-saving mode. When you select
the bearing tracking shortcut, the compass is automatically activated.

3.3.2. Use

The Use function allows you to define whether the air pressure measurement is used
to measure the altitude or to represent weather conditions.

If you select
atmospheric pressure changes are interpreted as changes in altitude.

When you select
modes changes but the atmospheric pressure (sea level) in the second row of the
Weather mode remains constant. The absolute pressure changes if it is selected as
a shortcut in the third row of the Weather mode.

If you select
information and all changes in atmospheric pressure are interpreted as being due to
a change in the weather.

Alti

(altimeter), the measured air pressure is displayed as altitude and all

Alti

, the altitude reading of the Compass, Skiing and SkiChrono

Baro

(barometer), the measured air pressure is displayed as weather

29

When you select
Compass, Skiing and SkiChrono modes remains constant.
The atmospheric pressure (sea level and absolute) in
the Weather mode changes.

Select the correct use according to what you want to
measure. For example, on a skiing trip, you can select

Alti

for the day to see how high you have climbed. When
you camp for the night, you can change to
sure that the weather changes do not catch you by
surprise.

To select either Altimeter use or Barometer use:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. Change the content of the field with the arrow buttons

30

Suunto

tion menu.

buttons and press

activated.

and press

menu.

Baro

, the altitude reading in the

Baro

to make

in the main display to access the func-

Use

Suunto

Suunto

. You then return to the function

with the arrow

. The Alti/Baro field is

3.3.3. Altitude/Sealevel

For the altimeter to function correctly, you need to set
the reference altitude. This means that you must set an
altitude reading equal to the real altitude. Set the refer­ence altitude in a place where you know the altitude, for
example, with the help of a topographical map. Suunto
S6 has a factory set reference altitude, which corre­sponds to the standard barometric pressure (1013 hPa/

29.90inHg at sea level). If you do not know your current
altitude or the correct sea level pressure, you can esti­mate your altitude by setting the sea level pressure to
1013hPa/29.90inHg.

In the Weather mode,
This functions and is set in the same way as Altitude.

To set the reference altitude:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. Set the reference altitude with the arrow buttons to

If you do not know the altitude of the place you are in,
you can use the air pressure to help determine the

Suunto

tion menu.
buttons and press

activated.
match the altitude of your current location and press

Suunto

. You return to the function menu.

Altitude

is replaced with

in the main display to access the func-

Altitude

Suunto

. The altitude field is

Sealevel

with the arrow

.

31

altitude. To do this, switch to the Weather mode and set the current sea level air
pressure. You can find out the sea level air pressure, for example, from the airport,
weather station or on the Internet weather pages.

3.3.4. Compass

The compass menu includes functions for either calibrating the compass or setting its
declination.

Calibrating the compass

You should calibrate the compass if it does not seem to work well, for example, when
it displays the wrong compass bearing or the bearing changes too slowly. You
should also calibrate the compass after replacing the Suunto S6 battery.

Strong electromagnetic fields, such as electric lines, loudspeakers and magnets, can
affect the compass calibration. Therefore you should calibrate the compass if your
Suunto S6 has been exposed to these fields.

You should also calibrate the compass before a long skiing trip.

NOTE: Calibrate the compass before using it for the first time.
NOTE: Remember to hold the Suunto S6 level during the calibration.

To calibrate the compass:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. In the compass menu, scroll to

4. The screen displays the text “ROTATE 360º” and begins a countdown from 5 to 0.

32

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

When the countdown reaches 0, the calibration starts. Hold Suunto S6 level and
slowly rotate the device in a full clockwise or counterclockwise circle.

Compass

with the arrow buttons and press

Calib

with the arrow buttons and press

Suunto

Suunto

.

.

• The level symbol indicates the ongoing calibration.
When the cross is in the middle of the symbol, Suunto
S6 is held level. The animation represents the progress
of the calibration.

• If the calibration succeeds, the “

COMPLETE” message is

displayed and Suunto S6 returns to the function menu.

• If the calibration fails, the “TRY AGAIN” message is dis­played and the process returns to the countdown for
a further attempt.

• If the calibration fails five times, the “FAILED, REFER

MANUAL

” message is displayed and Suunto S6 returns

to the compass menu.

If the calibration fails five times in a row, you may be in
an area that has sources of magnetism, such as large
metal objects, power lines, loudspeakers and electric
motors. Move to another location and try to calibrate the
compass again.

You can also remove the battery and then insert it again.
Also make sure, that the compass remains level during
the calibration. The calibration may fail if the level is un­stable.

If the calibration continues to fail, contact the authorized
Suunto service.

33

Setting the compass declination

You can compensate for the difference between true north and magnetic north by
adjusting the compass declination. You can find the declination, for example, in the
topographic maps of your local area.

To set the compass declination:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. In the compass menu, scroll to

4. Select the correct option (off/east/west) with the arrow buttons and press

5. Set the degree with the arrow buttons. The initial value is either 0.0° or the value

34

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

The first row of the next window is activated.
The degree field is activated.
accepted when last setting the declination. Press

menu.

Compass

Declin

with the arrow buttons and press

with the arrow buttons and press

Suunto

. Y ou return to the compass

Suunto
Suunto

Suunto

.
.

.

3.3.5. Slope

The slope function is intended for measuring the degree
of slope.

To measure the slope:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. When the angle is selected, lock it by pressing

4. Press

5. To move back to the function menu, press

Suunto

tion menu.
buttons and press

Suunto S6, it starts to display the angle indicating the
degree of slope on the screen. The sighting marks on
the ring help to point to the chosen direction.

in the main display to access the func-

Slope

Suunto

. When you incline the

with the arrow

Start

The angle remains on the display.

Start

the slope again.

to unlock the angle and to start measuring

Suunto

The declination is now set and you return to the func­tion menu.

NOTE: The measured value is not saved in the Suunto
S6 memory.

.

.

35

3.4. WEATHER MODE

3.4.1. Main Display

When you select the Weather mode, the main display
opens. The main display has three rows:

Temperature

The first row displays the temperature in the selected
unit. For more information on defining the temperature
unit, see page 25.

NOTE: Because the sensor is close to your wrist, you
have to keep Suunto S6 away from the body temperature
for at least 15 minutes to measure the correct
temperature. When you measure water temperature, less
time away from the body is required.

Air Pressure

The second row displays the air pressure at sea level.
(For more information on defining the air pressure unit,
see page 25.)

Shortcuts

The third row contains shortcuts to three functions.
Switch between these with

• Trend: A graphical presentation of the development
of the air pressure (sea level) during the last 6 hours
in 15-minute intervals. One step on the vertical axis

36

Stop/CL

.

represents one hPa and one step on the horizontal axis represents 15 minutes.

• Absolute air pressure: The absolute air pressure is the actual pressure in the
location you are at the moment.

• Time: Displays the current time.

3.4.2. Use

With the Use function you can define whether the air pressure measurement is used
to define the altitude or to represent the weather conditions. (For more information,
see page 29.)

NOTE: For most Weather mode functions the correct Use setting is Baro.

To select either Altimeter use or Barometer use:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. Change the content of the field with the arrow buttons and press

3.4.3. Sealevel

With this function you can set the sea level barometric pressure. This is the value of
barometric pressure at your current location reduced to sea level.

To set the sea level barometric pressure:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. Set the sea level pressure with the arrow buttons to match the current sea level

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.
Alti/Baro field is activated.
return to the function menu.

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.
The sea level field is activated.
barometric pressure and press

Use

with the arrow buttons and press

Sealevel

with the arrow buttons and press

Suunto

. You return to the function menu.

Suunto

Suunto

Suunto

. The
. You

.

37

3.4.4. Alarm

When active, the weather alarm informs you if the air pressure drops more than
4 hPa/0,118 inHg in 3 hours.

NOTE: You can only use the weather alarm when the Use function is set to Baro.

To activate or deactivate the weather alarm:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. Press

4. Change the field to either on or off with the arrow buttons and press
When the weather alarm goes on, the alarm symbol flashes and the backlight goes

on. To acknowledge the weather alarm, press any of the buttons.

3.4.5. Memory

The memory automatically stores weather-related information from the last 48 hours.
When you scroll through the stored information, it is presented in the following order:

• Maximum sea level air pressure during the period measured, time and date.

• Minimum sea level air pressure during the period measured, time and date.

• Maximum temperature during the period measured, time and date.

• Minimum temperature during the period measured, time and date.

• Sea level air pressure and temperature in relation to the time and date, starting

NOTE: If the Use function has been set to Alti (altimeter), the barometric value
stored in memory is always the same.

38

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

the alarm can be seen in the function menu.

Suunto

. The on/off field is activated.

from the current moment. The first 6 hours are displayed in 1-hour intervals, the
next 42 hours in 3-hour intervals.

Alarm

with the arrow buttons. The current status of

Suunto

.

To view the weather information stored in the memory:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. Scroll the information with the arrow buttons. (The

4. To stop viewing the memory content, press either

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

Memory

The first information page is displayed.
the

down

arrow backward.)

with the arrow buttons and press

Suunto

Suunto

up

arrow scrolls forward and

or

Stop/CL

at any time.

.

39

3.5. SKIING MODE

3.5.1. Main Display

When you select the Skiing mode, the main display opens.
The main display has three rows:

Vertical speed

The top row displays the ascent/descent speed in the
units you have defined. (For information on defining
the units, see page 26.)

Current altitude

The middle row displays the current altitude in relation to
the user-defined reference altitude. The altitude changes
if you have selected
selected

Baro

Alti

in the Use function. If you have

, this row displays the reference altitude.

(For more information on this, see page 29.)

Shortcuts

The third row contains shortcuts to three functions.
Press

Stop/CL

to switch between the functions.

• Total vertical: Number of runs and the total vertical
descent since the logbook was activated. A run is
counted for a descent followed by an ascent, both
with a vertical difference of at least 50m/150ft.

• Elapsed time: Time elapsed since the Logbook was
activated (hh:mm.ss)

• Time: Current time

40

3.5.2. Logbook

Logbook is a memory function that saves the altitude profile of the recorded activity
and all the extra information derived from it. Logbook is the default option and is
shown on the screen in reversed color.

Starting the logbook

To start the logbook:

1. Press

2. In the function menu,

3. Scroll to
If the logbook is not running and there is enough memory left, saving begins.

The message “LOGBOOK STARTED” is displayed and you return to the function menu.
If the logbook is already active, the message “LOGBOOK ALREADY RUNNING” is displayed and

you return to the function menu where the Stop field is displayed in reversed color.
If there is not enough memory left, the message “MEMORY FULL” is displayed and Suunto

S6 moves to a display that asks you to erase a logbook file.
To save a lap time in the logbook, go to the main display of the Skiing mode and press

Start

Stopping the logbook

To stop the logbook:

1. Press

2. In the function menu,

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

select it.

select it.

Start

and press

. The message “LAP TIME SAVED” is displayed. The number of lap times is not limited.

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

Logbook

Suunto

Logbook

is already the first menu item. Press

.

is already the first menu item. Press

Suunto

Suunto

to

to

41

3. Scroll to Stop and press
and the message “

Suunto

LOGBOOK STOPPED” is displayed. You

. The saving stops

automatically return to the function menu.

4. If the logbook was not running when you tried to stop
it, you just return to the function menu.

Viewing logbook files

The logbook list includes the logs saved in the Suunto S6
memory.

To view the logbook files:

1. Press

Suunto

in the main display to access the func-

tion menu.

2. In the function menu,
menu item. Press

3. Scroll to

View

and press

Suunto

Logbook

is already the first

to select it.

Suunto

. A list of all the saved
logbook files is displayed. The three latest saves are
shown on the screen. The newest is on the top in
reversed color.

4. Scroll the list with the arrow buttons until the logbook
file you want to view is active and press

Suunto

.

The first display of the logbook file is shown.

5. Press the up arrow to move to the next display.
The displays are shown in the following order:

• T otal: The total length of the saved Logbook files

(h:mm.ss), and the total number of runs (only those
with over 50 m altitude difference)

42

• Descent: The total vertical descent and the average descent rate in the units
that you have defined in the Time mode

• Ascent: The total vertical ascent and the average ascent rate in the units that
you have defined in the Time mode

• High Point: The highest point measured, and the date and time of the measure­ment

• Low Point: The lowest point measured, and the date and time of the measure-
ment

• Displays in recorded intervals:

- Top row: Elapsed time in recorded intervals

- Middle row left: Graphical display of altitude

- Middle row right: Vertical speed at the elapsed time shown on the top row.

- Bottom row: Altitude at the elapsed time shown on the top row.

Erasing logbook files

To erase the logbook files:

1. Press

2. In the function menu,

3. Scroll to

4. Scroll the list with the arrow buttons until the logbook file you want to erase is

5. If you want to accept the deletion, press

6. If you want to cancel the deletion, press

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

select it.

active and press

files.

Erase

and press

Logbook

Suunto

is already the first menu item. Press

Suunto

. A list of all the saved logbook files is displayed.

. Suunto S6 displays the file and the text “ERASE?”.

Suunto

. You return to the previous menu.

Stop/CL

. You return to the list of logbook

Suunto

to

43

Interval

With this function you can choose how often informa­tion is saved. Interval also defines the free memory
capacity. You can choose one of the following:

• 2 seconds (Free memory capacity 6 h 30 min.)

• 10 seconds (Free memory capacity 33 h.)

• 60 seconds (Free memory capacity 200 h.)
To change the interval:

1. Press

2. In the function menu,

3. Scroll to

4. Change the interval with the arrow buttons. The free

5. Press

44

Suunto

tion menu.
menu item. Press
val is displayed in reversed color.
memory capacity is displayed underneath the inter-

val.
the function menu.

in the main display to access the func-

Logbook

Suunto

Interval

and press

Suunto

to accept the selection. You return to

is already the first

to select it.

Suunto

. The current inter-

Viewing the logbook history

The logbook history contains the cumulative values of descents and ascents and the
highest point of all logbooks recorded during the Suunto S6 lifetime.

To view the history:

1. Press

2. In the function menu,

3. Scroll to

4. Press the up arrow to scroll the history information.

Resetting the logbook history

To reset the logbook history:

1. Connect your Suunto S6 to Suunto Ski Manager.

2. Click Wristop History Reset History. This will transfer the current history

3.5.3. Use

With the Use function you can define whether the air pressure measurement is used
to set the altitude or to represent the weather conditions. (For more information, see
page 29.)

To select either Altimeter or Barometer use:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

select it.

History

data to SKIM database and set the history values in the Wristop computer memory
to zero.

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

The Alti/Baro field is activated.

Logbook

and press

is already the first menu item. Press

Suunto

.

Use

with the arrow buttons and press

Suunto

Suunto

to

.

45

3. Change the content of the field with the arrow buttons and press
return to the function menu.

3.5.4. Altitude

You can use Altitude to set the reference altitude manually. The figure will be used to
update the altitude changes (Alti) and sea level air pressure changes (Baro). (For
more information on the reference altitude, see page 31.)

To set the reference altitude:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. Set the reference altitude with the arrow buttons to match the altitude of your

3.5.5. Alarms

You can use this function to set alarms related to your altitude and ascent/descent
rate. The altitude alarm warns you if you pass the preset altitude limit. The ascent/
descent alarm warns you if your ascent/descent rate is faster than the preset rate.
When the alarm sounds, you can acknowledge it by pressing any of the buttons.

NOTE: The alarms can be activated and are functional only when the Use function
is set to Alti.

Setting the Asc/Dsc alarm

To set the ascent/descent alarm:

1. Press

46

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

Altitude

The text
altitude is shown in reversed color.

current location and press

Reference Altitude

appears on the screen, and the current reference

Suunto

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

with the arrow buttons and press

. You return to the function menu.

Suunto

Suunto

. You

.

2. In the function menu, scroll to
The alarm menu is displayed.

3. Scroll to
vated.

4. Change the status of the alarm to either on or off with the arrow buttons and press

Suunto

5. Change the Asc/Dsc rate with the arrow buttons and press
the function menu.

NOTE: The ascent is displayed with positive values, the descent with negative
values.

Setting the altitude alarm

To set the altitude alarm:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to
The alarm menu is displayed.

3. Scroll to
vated.

4. Change the status of the alarm to either on or off with the arrow buttons and press

Suunto

5. Change the altitude with the arrow buttons and press
function menu.

Asc/Dsc

and press

. The rate field is activated.

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

Altitude

and press

. The altitude field is activated.

Alarms

with the arrow buttons and press

Suunto

. The on/off field of the next display is acti-

Suunto

Alarms

with the arrow buttons and press

Suunto

. The on/off field of the next display is acti-

Suunto

. You return to the

Suunto

. You return to

Suunto

.

.

47

3.5.6. Reminder

You can use this function to set alarms that are independent from the application’s
other functions. For, example, you can set the instrument to remind you of something
important every 5 minutes.

To set the Reminder:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. Scroll to

4. Set the minutes (0-59) with the arrow buttons and press

5. Set the seconds (0-59) with the arrow buttons and press

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

Int

and press
selection is activated.
activated.

Reminder

Suunto

. The minute selection is activated.

with the arrow buttons and press

Suunto

Suunto

. The second

. The

Start

Suunto

key is

.

NOTE: The minimum reminder time is 5 seconds. However, with times that are over
a minute long, you can set fewer seconds if you wish.

NOTE: If the function is already active, Stop is activated instead.

6. Press

Note: If the function is already active, the text “Reminder already started” is displayed
on the screen, and you return to the previous menu with Stop in reversed color.

To stop the Reminder:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. If the function is active,

48

Suunto

return to the Function menu.

, and the text

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

Reminder started

Reminder

Stop

Just press
You then return to the Function menu.

Suunto

, and the text

is already shown on the screen in reversed color.

Reminder stopped

is displayed on the screen. You then

with the arrow buttons and press

is displayed on the screen.

Suunto

.

3.6. SKICHRONO

3.6.1. Main Display

When you select the SkiChrono mode, the main display
opens. The main display has three rows:

Top row

• Current altitude: The top row displays the current
altitude in relation with the user-defined (m/ft) refer­ence altitude.

Middle row

• Elapsed time: The middle row displays the time
elapsed since SkiChrono or Chrono was activated.

Bottom row before activating the SkiChrono/
Chrono function

The bottom row contains shortcuts to three functions.
Press

Stop/CL

to switch between the functions.

• SkiChrono with slope angle measurement
The slope angle is in a continuous measurement

mode. It shows the inclination of your Suunto S6 along
the line of the sighting marks on the bezel. To lock the
slope angle, press
measure a new angle, press

Start

. To unlock the slope angle to

Stop/CL

.

You need the slope measurement function when you
want to measure your speed on a new slope or to
set a new slope angle value for the current slope.

49

• SkiChrono with a fixed slope angle
Suunto S6 remembers the previous slope angle that you locked with

Start

. It is

shown on reversed background.
You need the fixed slope angle when you want to use the previously measured

slope angle for your next run.

• Normal Chrono: 0.00,0
This is a stopwatch that you can use for timing events without using the speed

and slope angle measurement.

Bottom row after activating the SkiChrono/Chrono function

• In the SkiChrono mode, it displays the real-time average speed from the start of the
run. It is based on the slope angle measured before the activation and on the
vertical speed measured with the altimeter.

• In the Chrono mode, it displays the time of the current lap, i.e. the time from the point
when the previous split/lap time was saved. To save a split/lap time, go to Chrono
and press

Start

. When you save a split/lap, the time freezes for 3 seconds and

then continues.

Bottom Row after stopping the SkiChrono/Chrono function

• In the SkiChrono mode it displays the average and the top speed recorded during
the run.

• In the Chrono mode it displays the last Lap time.

NOTE: To change between SkiChrono and Chrono with a short press of Stop/CL,
you first need to reset the previous timing with a long press of Stop/CL.

50

Using the SkiChrono

To measure your speed on a slope:

1. Select the slope angle measurement shortcut on the bottom row.

2. Point to the bottom of the slope with Suunto S6.

3. Press

4. When you start your run, press

Start

to lock the slope angle.

Start

again to start the speed measurement.

Bottom row starts showing your average speed.

5. At the bottom of the slope, press

Stop/CL

. The bottom row shows the average

speed and the highest speed of the run.

6. If you continue riding the same slope and use the same slope angle, you can start
recording a new run directly by pressing Start. You do not need to reset the
SkiChrono or to measure the slope angle again.

7. If you ride a new slope and measure a new slope angle, reset the SkiChrono with
a long press of

Stop/CL.

Then press

Stop/CL

again to call the slope measurement

function and start again from step 1.

51

Using the Chrono

1. Press

2. Press

3. Press

4. Press

5. To start a new timing or to change from Chrono to SkiChrono function, reset the

Tips for the best results of speed measurement

• The average speed of a run corresponds very well with the real average speed

• Because of the calculation algorithm, Suunto S6 usually records the top speed on

• If you want to compare speeds with your friends, make sure that you all have the

3.6.2. Use

With the Use function you can define whether the air pressure measurement is used
to set the altitude or to represent the weather conditions. (For more information, see
page 29.)

To select either Altimeter or Barometer use:

1. Press

52

Stop/CL

to select the Chrono function.

Start

to start timing.

Start

to save split/lap times.

Stop/CL

Chrono with a long press of

as long as the measured slope is close to the average angle of the slope.
the steepest part of the slope. If this part is clearly steeper than the measured

average slope angle, the recorded top speed is higher than the real top speed. If
you are more interested in measuring the correct top speed than the average
speed, use the angle of the steepest part of the slope.

same slope angle before the run.

Suunto

to stop timing.

Stop/CL

.

in the main display to access the function menu.

2. In the function menu, scroll to
The Alti/Baro field is activated.

3. Change the content of the field with the arrow buttons and press
return to the function menu.

3.6.3. Altitude

You can use Altitude to set the reference altitude manually. The figure will be used to
update the altitude changes (Alti) and sea level air pressure changes (Baro). (For
more information on the reference altitude, see page 31.)

To set the reference altitude:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. Set the reference altitude with the arrow buttons to match the altitude of your

3.6.4. Memory

You can use Memory to view the files saved in the memory of your Suunto S6 with
the SkiChrono and Chrono functions. You can also use it to erase files when you
wish to free some memory space. The memory can include up to 40 SkiChrono files
and 15 Chrono files. Each Chrono file can include 20 Split/lap times. SkiChrono files do
not have Split/lap times.

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

The text
altitude is shown in reversed color.

current location and press

Reference Altitude

Use

with the arrow buttons and press

Altitude

appears on the screen, and the current reference

Suunto

with the arrow buttons and press

. You return to the function menu.

Suunto

Suunto

Suunto

. You

.

.

53

VIEW ski

One SkiChrono file includes information of one run.
To view SkiChrono files:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. Scroll to

4. Scroll to the desired file with the arrow buttons and

5. Scroll the displays with the arrow buttons. The fol-

54

Suunto

tion menu.
buttons and press

Suunto

press
lowing displays can be viewed:

• T otal: The total duration (h:mm.ss) and the total
vertical descent of the run in the unit of your choice
(m or ft).

• Speed: The average (Avg) and the maximum
(Max) speed of the run in the unit of your choice
(km/h or mph).

• Vert: The average (Avg) and the maximum (Max)
vertical speed of the run in the unit of your choice
(m/s, m/min, ft/s or ft/min).

• Start: The altitude measured when SkiChrono
was started, in the unit of your choice (m or ft),
and the date and the starting time of the run (same
as the one in the file list).

in the main display to access the func-

Memory

Suunto

View ski

. The list of saved SkiChrono files is displayed.

Suunto

. The first display opens.

.

with the arrow buttons and press

with the arrow

• Distance: The total distance of the run, in the unit of your choice (m or ft), and
the slope angle measured before the run in the unit of your choice (% or °).

• Finish: The altitude measured when SkiChrono was stopped, in the unit of
your choice (m or ft), and the total duration of the run (same as on the first
display).

VIEW chr

To view Chrono files:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. Scroll to

4. Scroll to the desired file with the arrow buttons and

5. Scroll the displays with the arrow buttons. The fol-

End/Lap #: The number of the last lap on the top row,
the total duration of the file in the middle and the last lap
time on the bottom row.

Suunto

tion menu.
row buttons and press

Suunto

press
lowing displays can be viewed:

• T otal: The total amount of recorded time (0.00,0)
and the number of split/lap times.

• Split/ Lap 1, 2, 3 etc: The split/lap number on the
top row, the corresponding split time in the middle
and the lap time on the bottom row.

in the main display to access the func-

Memory

View chr

. The list of saved Chrono files is displayed.

Suunto

with the arrow buttons and press

. The first display opens.

Suunto

with the ar-

.

55

Erase ski

To erase SkiChrono files:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. Scroll to

4. Scroll to the desired file with the arrow buttons and press

5. Press

6. If you do not wish to erase the file, press

Erase chr

To erase Chrono files:

1. Press

2. In the function menu, scroll to

3. Scroll to

4. Scroll to the desired file with the arrow buttons and press

5. Press

6. If you do not wish to erase the file, press

56

Suunto

in the main display to access the function menu.

Memory

SkiChrono files is displayed.

Erase ski

displays the file and the text “ERASE?”.

Suunto

without erasing the file.

Suunto

with the arrow buttons and press

to erase the file. You return to the function menu.

in the main display to access the function menu.

Memory

Chrono files is displayed.

Erase chr

displays the file and the text “ERASE?”.

Suunto

without erasing the file.

with the arrow buttons and press

to erase the file. You return to the function menu.

with the arrow buttons and press

Suunto

Stop/CL

and you return to the file list

with the arrow buttons and press

Suunto

Stop/CL

and you return to the file list

. The list of saved

Suunto

. Suunto S6

Suunto

. The list of saved

Suunto

. Suunto S6

Suunto

.

.

4. EXAMPLES OF SUUNTO S6 USAGE

This chapter describes three ideal situations in which you can use your Suunto S6.
These instructions are described very briefly and should be used when you have
familiarized yourself with Suunto S6 more thoroughly. More detailed instructions for
each procedure can be found in the earlier chapters.

4.1. ORDINARY SKIING/SNOWBOARDING DA Y
Before the start

1. Scroll to the Skiing mode.

2. Set the Reference altitude.

3. Set the logbook interval to 10s or 60s.

4. Start the logbook.

During the day

1. Save lap times in the logbook with the

2. View the shortcuts on the bottom row (total vertical/Elapsed time/Time).

After the day

1. Stop the logbook.

2. View the logbook information.

3. Transfer the logbook information to the Ski Manager for more detailed inspection.

Start

button.

57

4.2. SKIING/SNOWBOARDING DAY WITH SPEED MEASUREMENT
Before the start

1. Scroll to the Skiing mode.

2. Set the Reference altitude.

3. Set the logbook interval to 2s or 10s.

4. Start the logbook.

Speed measurement

1. Scroll to the SkiChrono mode.

2. Measure the slope angle (If there are people who wish to compare their speeds
with each other, they all have to set the same slope angle).

3. Press

4. Press

Start

when you begin the run.

Stop/CL

when you finish the run.

5. If you ski the same hill again (same slope angle), start the speed measurement
again with

Start.

6. If you go to a new hill, reset the SkiChrono and measure a new slope angle.

After the day

1. Stop the logbook.

2. View the logbook information.

3. View the speed information in the SkiChrono memory.

4. Transfer the logbook information to the Ski Manager for more detailed inspection.

58

4.3. TRAINING ON A COURSE
Before the practice session

1. Scroll to the Skiing mode.

2. Set the Reference altitude.

3. Set the Logbook interval to 2s.

4. Start the logbook.

5. During the first run, mark all the desired lap time spots:
Stop at every lap time gate and press

saved in the Suunto S6 memory.

Start

in the Skiing mode. The gate altitudes are

NOTE: You have to set the lap time spots at least 10 seconds apart from each other
so that the Ski Manager can handle them properly.

During the practice session

1. Scroll to the SkiChrono mode.

2. Measure the slope angle.

1. Press

2. Press

3. Because the slope angle is always the same, just press

After the practice session

1. Stop the logbook.

2. Transfer the logbook information to the Ski Manager for more detailed inspection.

3. Compare the runs with each other to find out e.g. which parts of the run you need

Start

when you begin the run.

Stop/CL

when you finish the run.

each subsequent run.

Ski Manager creates charts of all the individual runs and creates a comparison of
lap times at the altitudes recorded before the practice session.

to practice more.

Start

to start recording

59

5. ADDITIONAL FEA TURES

5.1. DAT ASNAKE

With the Datasnake interface cable you can transfer the
Suunto S6 logs to your PC and store them there. The
logs can be either skiing logs stored in the Skiing mode
memory, weather logs stored in the weather memory or
SkiChrono or Chrono logs stored in the SkiChrono
memory. When the data has been transferred, you can
easily organize, view and add related information in it
with the Suunto Ski Manager software.

The Datasnake and the Suunto Ski Manager software
are delivered in the same package with your Suunto S6.
The installation instructions for the software can be found
on the cover of the Suunto Ski Manager CD-ROM.

5.1.1. Transferring Data

To transfer data:

1. Make sure your computer has a free serial port.

2. Attach the cable to the computer serial port and plug
the other end in your Suunto S6.

3. Open the Suunto Ski Manager.

4. Click the
Suunto S6 logbooks are displayed in the log list.

5. Choose the logs you wish to save and click

6. Add the information required in the Download win-

60

Wristop

icon and then click

Connect

Download

. The

.

dow and click

Download

. The logs are now saved on the hard disk of your PC.

7. When you have uploaded the logs, you can delete them from Suunto S6 with
Suunto Ski Manager to create more space for new logs.

For more detailed information, refer to the Suunto Ski Manager Help. To access the
Help, click the help icon on the upper right corner of the display. You can also refer to
the Suunto Ski Manager Tutorial for step-by-step instructions. The tutorial is located
in the Suunto Ski Manager Help.

5.1.2. Suunto Ski Manager

Suunto Ski Manager (SKIM) software is included in your Suunto S6 package on a CD­ROM. The instructions for installing the software are displayed on the cover of
the CD. The newest version of the SKIM can always be downloaded from
www.suunto.com or www.suuntosports.com. Please check for updates regularly
as new features are continuously being developed.

User

You can create a list of your activities and your snow sport equipment. These lists
are used to define the activity and equipment of your logs in the Logs section. This
brings you the best benefits of the detailed analysis and statistics tools of the Logs
section.

Logs

When you have uploaded the logs from Suunto S6, you can organize and open them
in the Logs section. You can also create folders where you can store the logs. You
can sort the logs, move them between folders and delete them or search for the log
information. To edit log header information in the log list (log name, activity, equipment
etc.), click the field you wish to edit with the right mouse button.

61

T o upload logs on the SuuntoSport s.com site, select the logs and click the “Suuntosports”
icon. Then give your user name and password and click “Upload”.

Charts, Data and Analyze

To open one or more logs for closer examination, open the folders that contain
the logs you want to view. Then select the logs and click

Open logs

. The logs open
on a “CHART” page. The charts show the log data in graphic form. Skiing logs contain
altitude-related information and weather logs barometric pressure and temperature.
You can also add bookmarks to the charts. The bookmarks can either be text or
images.

To print a chart, modify the view to match your needs and then click
preview opens. When the preview is to your liking, click

Print

again.

Print

. Print

You can also view the log information as a data list where the values of the individual
samples are listed in chronological order. To do this, select the “DATA” page after
opening the logs. To export the data to another application, click

Copy data

.

When you open the “ANALYZE” page, the Ski Manager shows a statistical presenta­tion of the open logs. You will see, for instance, how much time you have been
training for each activity in different altitude zones. The results are displayed as 3-D
bar diagrams that you can rotate on the screen and print in the same way as charts.

NOTE: The Analyze section is not included in the SKIM 1.0.

62

Changing the Settings

You can also change some Suunto S6 settings with the Wristop Computer section of
the Suunto Ski Manager. You can modify the following settings:

• Light—select the light setting (Normal, NightUse, Off).

• Tones—set the buttons on or off.

• Icons—set the mode icons on or off.

• Time—select between 12- or 24-hour displays.

• Date—select the date format (day/month, month/day, day).

• Asc/Dsc—select the ascent/descent unit (m/s, m/min, ft/s, ft/min).

• Altitude—select the altitude unit (m or ft).

• Pressure—select the pressure unit (hPa or inHg).

• Temperature—select the temperature unit (°F or °C).

• Slope—select the slope unit (% or º).

• Speed—select the speed unit (km/h or mph).
For more detailed information and step-by-step instructions on these features, see

the SKIM Help or Tutorial.

63

5.2. SUUNTOSPORTS.COM

SuuntoSports.com is an international free web community where you can refine and
share the data that you have measured with your personal Suunto instrument and
analyzed with the sport-specific PC interface. SuuntoSports.com offers you a number
of features that help you get the most out of your sport and your Suunto S6.

If you already own a personal Suunto sports instrument, you can access all sport­specific functions through registration. If you do not have an instrument yet, you may
either log in as a guest or register yourself. As a guest you can view and read, but
registration gives you the right to use other functions and participate in discussions.

5.2.1. System Requirements

SuuntoSports.com has the following system requirements:

• Internet connection

• Modem: recommended 56k or faster

• Browser: IE 4.0 or better, Netscape 4.7x or newer

• Resolution: minimum 800 x 600, best viewed with 1024 x 768

5.2.2. SuuntoSports.com Sections

SuuntoSports.com includes three sections all of which have several functions.
The following paragraphs describe only the basic functions of SuuntoSports.com.
You can find detailed descriptions of all the site functions and activities and step-by­step instructions for using them in the site Help. The Help is available on each page
and its icon is located on the right side of the bar that divides the screen. The Help is
frequently updated as the site develops.

SuuntoSports.com offers several possibilities for searching the information on site.

64

In addition to the free search, you can search for groups, users, locations, logs and
sports.

The information published on the SuuntoSports.com contains internal links so that you
do not always have to search for the information from the very beginning.
For example, if you view a resort description, you can follow the links and view the
personal information of the one who sent the resort information, the logs related to
the resort and charts created from the logs if the sender has made this information
public.

My Suunto

This section is meant for your personal information. You can store information about
yourself, your wristop computer, your skiing activities, favorite locations etc. When
you upload your logs to SuuntoSports.com with Suunto Ski Manager , they are displayed
in your personal information but not shown to anybody else. In My Suunto you can
also manage the logs and decide whether they can be published within communities
or presented to all SuuntoSports users.

When you upload logs to SuuntoSports.com, you will see their altitude profiles on
the website. You can compare them with other users’ logs and add text and images
to them to create travel reports.

Communities

In the Communities section, SuuntoSports.com users can form and manage their own
groups or search for other groups. For example, you can create a group for all your
skiing or snowboarding friends, and share information about each other’s results,
give advice and discuss where and when you could go skiing or snowboarding
together. Groups can be either open or closed. Closed means that you have to apply
for membership and be accepted before you can participate in group activities.

65

All groups have a home page that displays information about group events and
includes news, a notice board and other information. Group members can also use
group-specific bulletin boards, chat rooms and group calendars, and add links and
create group activities. All registered SuuntoSports users are automatically members
of the World of SuuntoSports community.

Sport Forums

SuuntoSports.com has its own forum for each Suunto sport. The basic features and
functions are the same for all sport forums. Sport forums are public places open to all
visitors. The forums include news, discussions, presentations of locations related to
the sport, an event calendar, a list of published travel reports, ranking lists and links
to other websites. Users can suggest events, locations and links to be published.
The ranking lists rank the best locations, the most active users, the biggest groups
and other related information. For example you can have a list of users who have
collected the biggest total vertical during the season.

5.2.3. Getting Started

To join the SuuntoSports.com community, connect to the Internet, open your web
browser and go to
the

Register

www.suuntosports.com. When the opening page appears, click

icon and register yourself and your Suunto sports instrument. You can
change and update your personal and equipment profiles in the My Suunto section
afterwards.

After the registration you automatically enter the

SuuntoSports.com

home page that

introduces the site structure and functional principles.

NOTE: SuuntoSports.com is continuously developed further and its content is subject
to change.

66

6. TECHNICAL DAT A

General

• Operating temperature –20 °C to +50 °C/-5 °F to +120 °F

• Storage temperature –30 °C to +60 °C/-22 °F to +140 °F

• Weight 54 g

• Water resistant to 100m/330ft according to ISO 2281:1990CE

• Mineral crystal glass

• User replaceable battery CR2032

• PC interface with serial connector

• Extension strap

Altimeter

• Display range –500 m to 9000 m / -1600 ft to 29500 ft

• Resolution 1 m / 3 ft

Barometer

• Display range 300 to 1100 hPa / 8.90 to 32.40 inHg

• Resolution 1hPa / 0.05 inHg

Thermometer

• Display range -20°C to +60°C/-5°F to +140°F

• Resolution 1°C / 1°F

Compass

• Resolution 1°

Clinometer

• Display range 0° to 60°

• Resolution 1°

67

7. COPYRIGHT AND TRADEMARK NOTICE

This publication and its contents are proprietary to Suunto Oy and are intended solely
for the use of its clients to obtain knowledge and key information regarding
the operation of Suunto S6 products.

Its contents shall not be used or distributed for any other purpose and/or otherwise
communicated, disclosed or reproduced without the prior written consent of Suunto
Oy.

Suunto, Suunto S6 and their logos are all registered or unregistered trademarks of
Suunto Oy. All rights are reserved.

While we have taken great care to ensure that the information contained in this
documentation is both comprehensive and accurate, no warranty of accuracy is
expressed or implied. Its content is subject to change at any time without notice.
The newest version of this documentation can always be downloaded from
www.suunto.com.

8. CE

The CE mark is used to mark conformity with the European Union EMC directive
89/336/EEC.

68

9. LIMITS OF LIABILITY AND ISO 9001 COMPLIANCE

If this product should fail due to defects in materials or workmanship, Suunto Oy will,
at its sole option, repair or replace it with new or rebuilt parts, free of charge, for two
(2) years from the date of its purchase. This warranty is extended only to the original
purchaser and only covers failures due to defects in materials and workmanship that
occur during normal use while in the period of the warranty.

It does not cover battery replacement, damage or failures resulting from accident,
misuse, neglect, mishandling, alteration or modifications of the product, or any failure
caused by operation of the product outside the scope of its published specifications,
or any causes not covered by this warranty.

There are no express warranties except as listed above.
The client can exercise the right to repair under the warranty by contacting our

Customer Service department to obtain a repair authorization.
Suunto Oy and its subsidiaries shall in no event be liable for any incidental or conse-

quential damages arising from the use of or inability to use the product. Suunto Oy
and its subsidiaries do not assume any responsibility for losses or claims by third
parties that may arise through the use of this device.

Suunto’s Quality Assurance System is certified by Det Norske Veritas to be ISO 9001
compliant in all SUUNTO Oy’s operations (Quality Certificate No. 96-HEL-AQ-220).

69

www.suunto.com

Made in Finland