500AI ™ owner's guide
RESPONSIBLE COMPUTER DIVING • Always Plan Each Dive • Always Limit Your Dive to the Level of Your Training and Experience • Always Make Your Deepest Dive First • Always Make The Deepest Part of Every Dive First • Check Your Computer Often During the Dive • Do A Safety Stop on Every Dive • Allow Adequate Surface Interval Between Each Dive • Allow Adequate Surface Interval Between Each Day of Diving (12 Hours or Until Your Computer Clears) Read And Understand This Owner's Guide Thoroughly Before Using the 500
500AI Pay special attention to items marked with this Warning symbol. WARNINGS: • The 500AI is intended for use by recreational divers who have successfully completed a nationally recognized course in scuba diving, and diving with enriched nitrogen-oxygen (nitrox) mixtures. • It is intended only for no decompression diving, NOT intentional decompression diving.
LIMITED TWO-YEAR WARRANTY For details, refer to the Product Warranty Registration Card provided. COPYRIGHT NOTICE This owner’s guide is copyrighted, all rights are reserved. It may not, in whole or in part, be copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated, or reduced to any electronic medium or machine readable form without prior consent in writing from AERIS / 2002 Design. 500AI Owner's Guide, Doc. No. 12-7112 © 2002 Design 1999 2002 Davis Street San Leandro, Ca.
00AI CONTENTS FEATURES AND DISPLAYS .......................................................................................... 1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 2 Control Buttons ........................................................................................................................... 3 Informational Displays ........................................................................
CONTENTS (continued) ACTIVATION AND SETUP ........................................................................................... 21 Attachment to a Regulator ....................................................................................................... 22 Activating the Display ............................................................................................................... 22 Surface Mode ...........................................................................................
500AI CONTENTS (continued) No Decompression Dive Mode .................................................................................................. 40 Entering Decompression Dive Mode ........................................................................................ 41 Ascending to the Surface ........................................................................................................... 42 Altitude Diving ...............................................................................
CONTENTS (continued) Violation Modes ......................................................................................................................... 60 Oxygen Exposure ....................................................................................................................... 66 Partial Pressure of Oxygen ................................................................................................... 66 High PO2 Dive Mode ..............................................................
500AI FEATURES and DISPLAYS 1
INTRODUCTION Welcome to AERIS and thank you for choosing the 500AI! Your new 500AI is an integrated system that will be installed into a high pressure port of your regulator first stage. DI RESP O VER Your 500AI presents the information that you need before, during, and after your air (or nitrox) dives using an intuitive combination of easy to read displays and unique identification icons.
500AI Remember that the rules you learned in your basic scuba certification course still apply to the diving you will do while using a dive computer - some will become even more important. Technology is no substitute for common sense, and a dive computer only provides the person using it with data, not the knowledge to use it. NOTE: Throughout this owner's guide reference is made to the term 'breathing gas'. The rational being that the 500AI can be used for 'air' dives or 'nitrox' dives.
While on the surface, you can access the following Modes and perform the following operations using the control buttons: Responsible • Activate the Display Module • Activate the Backlight • View current Temperature, Time, and Date • Set FO2 to the percentage of oxygen in the nitrox mix being used. • View Time to Fly and Time to Desaturate • Scroll through the Plan mode to view no decompression limits. • Scroll through Log mode to view data from your recent dives. • Turn the FO2 50% Default on or off.
500AI INFORMATIONAL DISPLAYS Operational modes and status information is visually represented numerically and/or graphically and can be understood at a glance with the aide of Universal Icons (Fig. 2) that identify and bring quick focus to the displays. Also, segmented bar graphs will show how close you are to critical limits. In critical situations, an audible alarm sounds to alert you to check your display. Each numeric and graphic display represents a unique piece of information.
Nitrogen Bar Graph The Nitrogen Bar Graph (Fig. 4) represents nitrogen loading, showing your relative no decompression/decompression status. As your depth and elapsed dive time increase, segments will add to the graph beginning in the lower left portion of the screen. As you ascend to shallower depths, this bar graph will begin to recede, indicating that additional no decompression time is allowed for multilevel diving.
500AI WARNING: AERIS advocates responsible diving practices consistent with your individual level of formal training and experience, and does not recommend decompression diving or diving below 130 feet (39 m). Oxygen Accumulation (O2) Bar Graph NOTE: Displays associated with oxygen and the O2 bar graph will only appear if FO2 has been set at a value other than 'Air'. The Oxygen Accumulation (O2) Bar Graph (Fig.
ARI Segments = Ascent Speed 0 = 0 - 20 fpm (0 - 6 mpm) 1 = 21 - 30 fpm (6.5 - 9 mpm) 2 = 31 - 40 fpm (9.5 - 12 mpm) 3 = 41 - 50 fpm (12.5 - 15 mpm) 4 = 51 - 60 fpm (15.5 - 18 mpm) 5 = 61 + fpm (18.5 + mpm) (when 5, all segments will flash) Pressure BG Segments = • 250 PSI (17.5 BAR) - when below 1000 PSI (70 BAR) • 500 PSI (35 BAR) - when above 1000 PSI (70 BAR) a b 2000 3000 1000 140 70 0 0 Ascent Rate Indicator The Ascent Rate Indicator (Fig.
500AI ALPHA/NUMERIC DISPLAYS Tank Pressure Display 2000 While on the surface, tank pressure will also be displayed numerically below the bar graph (Fig. 7). 3000 1000 140 0 4000 210 280 70 0 350 5000 PSI During a dive, the numerical value can be viewed as an Alternate Display by pressing the Advance (Left) control button. Values of pressure are displayed from 10 PSI (.5 BAR) up to 5000 PSI (350 BAR) in increments of 10 PSI ( .5 BAR). Fig.
Time Displays a 2000 3000 1000 140 70 0 0 FT 4000 210 Time displays (Fig. 9 a, b, & c) are shown in hour:minute format (i.e. 1:02 represents one hour and two minutes, not 102 minutes!). 280 350 5000 FT MAX c b Fig. 9 - Time Displays The colon that separates hours and minutes blinks once per second when the display is indicating real time such as elapsed Surface Time, Elapsed Dive Time, or Time of Day.
500AI DIVE TIME REMAINING One of the most important pieces of information on the 500AI is the patented Dive Time Remaining numeric display (Fig. 11a). To numerically display Dive Time Remaining, the 500AI constantly monitors two critical pieces of information; no decompression status and oxygen accumulation status. The Dive Time Remaining display will indicate the time that is more critical for you at that particular moment (i.e.; whichever time is the least amount available of the two).
No Decompression Dive Time Remaining No Decompression Dive Time Remaining is the maximum amount of time that you can stay at your present depth before entering a decompression situation. It is calculated based on the amount of nitrogen absorbed by twelve hypothetical tissue compartments. The rates each of these compartments absorb and release nitrogen is mathematically modeled and compared against a maximum allowable nitrogen level.
500AI Oxygen Accumulation Time Remaining Oxygen accumulation (exposure) during a dive, or 24 hour period, appears graphically as the O2 Bar Graph (Fig. 13a). As time remaining before reaching the oxygen exposure limit decreases, segments are added to the O2 bar graph. When the amount of time remaining before reaching the oxygen limit becomes less than the No Decompression Dive Time Remaining, calculations for the dive will be controlled by oxygen.
Breathing gas consumption and depth are continuously monitored, and Breathing Gas Time Remaining reflects any change in your circumstances. For example, when a buddy starts breathing from your octopus or you suddenly find yourself swimming against a strong current and begin breathing more rapidly, the 500AI will recognize this change and adjust your Breathing Gas Time Remaining accordingly.
500AI BACKLIGHT FEATURE In addition to using a high contrast LCD for easy readability in low light conditions, the 500AI Backlight feature evenly and easily illuminates the full display. Upon activation the Backlight will illuminate the display while the unit performs its diagnostic check. To activate the Backlight while on the surface or during a dive, press the Select (Right) button (Fig. 15). On the surface the display will be illuminated for 10 seconds.
One Double Beep = Potential Danger P! BEE EP! BE During situations that may pose potential danger, one Double Beep is emitted from the 500AI. These situations include: • Entry into decompression. • Breathing Gas Time Remaining decreasing to 5 minutes. • Partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) equal to or greater than 1.40 ATA. Continuous One Beep per Second = Immediate Danger P... BEE EP... BE EP...
500AI Single Long Beep = Permanent Violation If you enter a Delayed or Immediate Violation Mode, a Single Long Beep will be emitted. This will occur if one of these Violation rules are broken: • Depth is shallower than the Required Stop Depth for more than 5 minutes. • 5 minutes after surfacing if shallower than a Required Stop Depth. • Required Stop Depth equal to or greater than 70 FT/ 21 M. • 5 minutes after surfacing from a dive in which a Delayed Violation occurred (described later).
OPERATING TEMPERATURE The 500AI will operate in almost any temperature diving environment in the world (Fig. 16) between 32° and 140°F (0° and 60°C). At extremely low temperatures, the LCD may become sluggish, but this will not affect it's accuracy. If stored or transported in extremely low temperature areas (below freezing), you should warm the module and its battery with body heat before diving. 140°F (60°C) 2000 3000 1000 140 70 0 0 FT 4000 210 280 350 5000 FT MAX 32°F (0°C) Fig.
500AI SHARING THE 500AI WARNING: Never participate in sharing or swapping of a dive computer. Doing so may result in injury or death. This rule applies to the use of all dive computers, but is especially important when using the 500AI, due to the personal information it provides. O DI RESP It is impossible for two divers to stay precisely together underwater, and your computer's dive profile tracking of previous dives will be pertinent to you only.
c k j l m b d 2000 3000 1000 140 70 a 0 0 M FT 4000 210 e 280 350 5000 O2 M FT MAX BAR PSI i f a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i. j. k. l. m. n. o. p.
500AI ACTIVATION and SETUP 21
ATTACHMENT TO A REGULATOR Before you dive with the 500AI for the first time, it must first be connected to a high pressure port of your regulator first stage. AERIS strongly recommends that installation be performed by an Authorized AERIS Dealer. NOTE: The 500AI is compatible with most regulator first stages, but cannot be guaranteed to fit certain models. Check with your Authorized AERIS Dealer to verify compatibility with your regulator first stage at the time of purchase.
500AI To activate the 500AI • press the Select (Right) button once and release. The 500AI will immediately enter Diagnostic Mode, displaying all “8’s”, followed by “dashes”, and then a countdown from 9 to 0 (Fig. 17). The backlight will illuminate the display throughout the diagnostic check as display functions and battery voltage are checked to ensure that everything is working properly. A single beep will be emitted to indicate successful completion.
WARNING: During activation, diagnostics, and operation, if any display varies from the information presented here, return the 500AI to your AERIS Dealer for inspection. SURFACE MODE Surface Mode, identified by the Surface Time icon (Fig. 18a), immediately follows Diagnostic Mode after initial activation. It also appears after a dive when you ascend shallower than 3 feet (1 meter).
500AI TO SET: FO2 50% DEFAULT ON/OFF (described on page 35) 'ON' - FO2 value set point reverts to 50% after dives (must be set each dive) 'OFF' - FO2 value set point remains at the % set until changed or shut down • • • • press BOTH buttons simultaneously, while in Surface Mode FO2 50 appears with 'On', or 'Off', flashing (Fig.
TO SET: DEPTH ALARM SET POINT The Depth Alarm can be set to values between 30 feet (10 meters) and 320 feet (97.5 meters) in 10 foot (3/3.5 meter) increments. • press BOTH buttons simultaneously, while in Surface Mode • press Advance (Left) button 2 times • Max Depth and Audible Alarm icons appear with the Max Depth value flashing (Fig.
500AI TO SET: TURN PRESSURE ALARM SET POINT The Turn Pressure Alarm can be set to values between 1000 PSI (68.5 BAR) and 3000 PSI (206.5 BAR) in 250 PSI (17 BAR) increments to alert you. • • • • • press BOTH buttons simultaneously, while in Surface Mode press Advance (Left) button 3 times the Alarm icon and 'trn' appear with the Pressure value flashing (Fig.
TO SET: UNITS OF MEASURE FT PSI FT Fig. 24 - Set Units • • • • • press BOTH buttons simultaneously, while in Surface Mode press Advance (Left) button 5 times the Units of Measure icons appear flashing (Fig.
500AI TO SET: DATE/HOUR FORMAT/TIME a Date (Year, Month, Day), Time Format, and Time (hour, minute) can be set in sequence as described here (once Year has been accessed), or any one can be accessed and modified by bypassing those you don't want to change. • press BOTH buttons simultaneously, while in Surface Mode • press Advance (Left) button 5 times • the Date appears with the Year setting (Fig.
• • • • • • the Time appears with the Hour setting (Fig. 28a) flashing press Select (Right) button until the correct Hour appears. press Advance (Left) button 1 time to accept the setting displayed the Minute setting (Fig. 28b) flashes press Select (Right) button until the correct Minute appears.
500AI TO SET: SAMPLING RATE • • • • • press BOTH buttons simultaneously, while in Surface Mode press Advance (Left) button 13 times the Rate setting appears flashing (Fig. 29) press Select (Right) button until the desired Rate appears. press Advance (Left) button to accept the setting displayed, and • revert to Surface Mode Fig.
SUMMARY OF SET MODES (settings entered by the factory appear in italics) To access a specific Set mode from the Surface Mode, press the button(s) as follows: SET MODE To access/set> TO ACCESS Both '1' time> TO VIEW TO SAVE • FO2 Default (On) • Audible Alarm (On) • Depth Alarm (320 ft) • Turn Pressure (3000 psi) • End Pressure (1500 psi) • Units (Imperial) • EA (download) • Year (1999) • Month (1) • Day (1) • Hour Format (12) • Hour (12) • Minute (00) • Sample Rate (10 FT) Left '0' times> Left '1' time>
500AI PRE DIVE and DIVE MODES 33
OPERATIONAL MODES While on the surface, the Control Buttons enable you to access operational modes and activate the backlight. During a dive, they enable you to view an Alternate display of information and activate the backlight. TEMPERATURE/TIME/DATE MODE To view Ambient Temperature/Time/Date (Fig. 30) while in Surface Mode: • Press the Advance (Left) button 1 time. • The backlight will illuminate the display for 10 seconds.
500AI FO2 50% Default If the Default is set to 'On' and FO2 is set to a value 'greater than 21%', the FO2 set point value will automatically revert to 50% 10 minutes after that dive (Fig. 31). The Maximum Depth that can be achieved with an oxygen partial pressure (PO2) of 1.60 ATA will also be displayed.
FO2 Set for an Air Dive 2000 1000 140 70 0 0 When set with an FO2 value of 'Air', the 500AI will perform calculations the same as if FO2 were set for 21% oxygen, internally accounting for oxygen loading for any subsequent Nitrox dives. However, oxygen related displays, warnings, and the O2 Bar Graph will not appear on the display for that dive (Fig. 32), or subsequent dives, unless FO2 is set for a numerical value (21 to 50%). 3000 FT 4000 210 280 350 5000 FT MAX Setting FO2 Fig.
500AI FO2 Set for a Nitrox Dive You can set the 500AI for nitrogen-oxygen (nitrox) mixtures of 21% to 50% oxygen (O2). If FO2 is set at a value of 21% (Fig. 34), the unit will remain set as a '21% nitrox computer' for subsequent nitrox dives until FO2 is set to a higher value, or until it automatically turns off and is reactivated. O2 FT MAX Once a dive is made with the Pro Plus set as a nitrox computer (FO2 set for a numerical value), it cannot be set for 'Air' until 24 hours after the last nitrox dive.
WARNING: The Planning Sequence predicts only no decompression times for subsequent dives. Depending on cylinder size, breathing gas consumption, and oxygen accumulation, you may have less time available than indicated because of breathing gas quantity or other limitations.
500AI Plan Mode Prior to a 'Repetitive Nitrox Dive' FT If the segments of the Nitrogen Bar Graph are displayed (Fig 37) during the Planning Sequence, that next dive is calculated to be controlled by nitrogen loading. If the segments of the O2 bar graph are displayed (Fig. 38), that next dive is calculated to be controlled by oxygen loading. The 500AI will store oxygen accumulation for up to 10 dives conducted during a 24 hour period.
NO DECOMPRESSION DIVE MODE a b 2000 3000 1000 140 FT 4000 210 280 70 0 0 350 As long as it is activated on the surface, the 500AI will enter the No Decompression Dive Mode when you descend deeper than 5 feet (1.5 meters), regardless of the operating mode it is in. 5000 FT MAX e c d Fig. 40 - Dive Mode (Main) To activate the backlight at any time* during a dive, press the Select (Right) button.
500AI Dive Mode Bar Graphs (Fig. 42) As your depth and/or elapsed dive time increase, the Nitrogen Bar Graph will fill with segments (green toward red) to represent the absorption of nitrogen; and if FO2 was set for a value other than 'Air', the O2 Bar Graph will fill with segments (green toward red) to represent oxygen accumulation for that dive, or 24 hour period, whichever is greater. The Tank Pressure Bar Graph will recede from green toward red as breathing gas is consumed.
VIOLATION AND GAUGE MODES The 500AI enters Violation Modes when it is unable to predict an ascent procedure. If the 500AI enters a Permanent Violation Mode, it will not display information relating to nitrogen or oxygen loading for the remainder of that dive or for subsequent dives conducted during the 24 hour period after surfacing. It will operate in a Gauge Mode displaying only Depth and Elapsed Time. NOTE: Violation Modes and Gauge Mode are described on pages 60 - 65.
500AI You should make every effort to complete all of your ascents with the Nitrogen Bar Graph inside of the green zone. If you inadvertently entered Decompression Mode, you must not complete your ascent until the Nitrogen Bar Graph is at least inside the yellow Caution Zone. While you cannot provide a guarantee against the occurrence of decompression sickness, you may choose your own personal zone of caution based upon your individual age, physique, excessive weight, training, experience, etc.
ALTITUDE DIVING The mathematical model within the 500AI accounts for the reduced No Decompression dive time available at higher elevations based on NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) guidelines. When diving in high altitude lakes or rivers from 2,000 to 14,000 feet (610 to 4,268 meters), the 500AI will adjust automatically, providing corrected depth and reduced No Decompression and Oxygen Exposure times.
500AI POST DIVE MODES 45
POST DIVE SURFACE MODE 2000 3000 1000 140 70 0 0 4000 210 When you ascend to 3 feet (1 meter) or shallower, the 500AI will enter Surface Mode and begin counting your surface interval. 280 350 5000 PSI TRANSITION PERIOD The first 10 minutes is, in affect, a Transition Period during which time the following information is displayed (Fig. 47): Fig. 47 - Transition Period • 'Number' of that dive • Surface Interval (colon flashing) and icon (flashing).
500AI To view that dive's Log (Fig. 49): • press Advance (Left) button 2 times (while in Surface Mode), or • press Advance (Left) button 1 time (while viewing Temp/Time/Date) • press Select (Right) button 1 time to view the Nitrogen data screen • press Select (Right) button again to view the Oxygen data screen • the unit will revert to Surface Mode after 2 minutes Data will not be stored in the unit's memory until the 10 minute Transition Period on the surface is completed.
O2 FT MAX Fig. 51 - FO2 (Default OFF) O2 FT MAX Fig. 52 - FO2 (Default ON) a To access FO2 Mode: • press the Advance (Left) button 2 times (while in Surface Mode) • If the FO2 Default was set OFF, the FO2 setting displayed will be the same value previously set (Fig. 51). • If the FO2 Default was set ON, the FO2 value displayed (Fig. 52) will be the 'default value' of 50 (%) and will have to be set for the breathing gas used for the next dive.
500AI If the Time to Desaturate is calculated to be greater than 9:59, the display will indicate 9:- - (Fig. 54) until it decreases to 9:59. If a violation occurred during the dive, Time to Desaturate will not be displayed and a single dash ( - ) will appear instead of the letters FLY (Fig. 55a).
LOG MODE Information from your 12 latest dives is stored in the Log for viewing. After 12 dives are accumulated, each subsequent dive will overwrite the oldest dive in the log (i.e., the most recent dive deletes the oldest). Log information will not be lost when the battery is removed, but factory service will delete data. Dives are displayed in a reverse sequence that starts with the dive most recently recorded back to the oldest of the 12 dives stored.
500AI To access a specific dive's log, press the Advance (Left) button repeatedly. To view the second screen for that dive (Nitrogen Log- Fig. 58): • press the Select (Right) button 1 time.
To exit Log Mode and return to the Surface Mode: • press the Advance (Left) button repeatedly to proceed through the remaining recorded dives. • the unit will automatically revert to Surface Mode after 2 minutes, if no button is pressed AFTER THE FIRST 2 HOURS Two hours after the last dive the Surface Mode will no longer be displayed. The Time to Fly and Desaturate countdown timers will be displayed continuously, giving the final countdowns from 22:00 and 9:xx to 0:00 (Fig. 60).
500AI DOWNLOADING DATA TO PC Using special linking hardware and a unique PC software program, data from your dives can be downloaded (copied) from your 500AI into an IBM compatible PC program running on a Windows® 95 or 98 operating system. Instructions for performing the interface and download are provided with the Dive Downloader for 500AI hardware and software package. The Dive Downloader program provides profile data sampled throughout the dive.
SUMMARY OF POST DIVE MODES During the first 2 hours after a dive* (after the 10 minute Transition Period has ended): MODES TO ACCESS TO VIEW Backlight press Right '1 time' Temperature/Time/Date press Left '1 time' FO2 set press Left '2 times' Fly/Desaturate press Left '3 times' Plan Sequence press Left '4 times' > press Right (hold or repetitive) Log Mode press Left '5 times' > press Right (hold or repetitive) Set Mode press Both '1 time' > Refer to page 32 of this Guide EA Mode press B
500AI HANDLING THE EXTREMES 55
EMERGENCY DECOMPRESSION The 500AI is a sophisticated instrument designed with capabilities that go beyond the range of recreational diving with compressed air. It will help you to avoid and, if necessary, manage decompression. NOTE: See pages 70 and 71 for additional safety information. NITROGEN BAR GRAPH The Nitrogen Bar Graph offers you a convenient way to consistently monitor how close you are coming to the No Decompression Limit.
500AI DECOMPRESSION DIVE MODE The 500AI is designed to help you by providing a complete representation of how close you are to entering decompression. Decompression Dive Mode activates when theoretical no decompression time/depth limits are exceeded.
To view an Alternate Display of information (Fig. 64), press the Left (Advance) button. Information appearing includes 2000 3000 1000 140 0 4000 210 280 70 0 350 5000 PSI FT MAX Fig. 64 - Alternate Display • • • • • • • water Temperature Time of Day and icon Elapsed Dive Time and icon Maximum Depth and icon Tank Pressure (digital display and Bar Graph) The Bar Graphs will continue to be displayed as applicable.
500AI When the Breathing Gas Time Remaining decreases to zero minutes, the Audible Alarm will continuously beep once per second* (Fig. 66), signaling the need for an immediate safe ascent to your first decompression stop. 2000 *If the Audible Alarm feature was set to OFF prior to the dive, only a double beep will be emitted to alert you. There is no need to panic.
Dive Time Remaining now appears in place of Total Ascent Time (Fig. 68) displaying No Decompression Dive Time Remaining or Oxygen Accumulation Time Remaining (whichever time is the least and in control). WARNING: If you exceed certain limits, the 500AI will not be able to tell you how to get safely back to the surface. These situations exceed tested limits and can result in loss of some 500AI functions for 24 hours after the dive in which a Violation occurred.
500AI CONDITIONAL VIOLATION MODE The 500AI will enter the Conditional Violation Mode if you ascend shallower (Fig. 69a) than the Required Decompression Ceiling Stop Depth displayed (Fig. 69b). The Audible Alarm will beep once per second* and the Total Ascent Time display (Fig. 69c) will flash until you descend below the Required Stop Depth. *If the Audible Alarm feature was set to OFF prior to the dive, only a double beep will be emitted to alert you.
DELAYED VIOLATION MODE a 2000 1000 140 FT 4000 210 280 70 0 Three conditions cause the 500AI to enter the Delayed Violation Mode: 3000 0 350 5000 1. You remain above the Required Ceiling Stop Depth for 'more than 5 minutes'. FT Fig. 70 - Delayed Violation (above ceiling >5min) The Audible Alarm will emit one long beep and the Total Ascent Time display will flash (Fig. 70a) until you descend below the Required Stop Depth.
500AI The 500AI cannot accurately calculate decompression times for Stop Depths much greater than 60FT (18M) and offers no indication of how much time spent underwater would result in the need for a greater stop depth. 3. You exceed the maximum operating depth (330 feet/99.5 meters). The Audible Alarm will beep once per second* when you descend deeper than the Depth Alarm set point that you selected (set). *If the Audible Alarm feature was set to OFF, only a double beep.
IMMEDIATE VIOLATION MODE AND GAUGE MODE WARNING: The 500AI enters Immediate Violation Mode when a situation totally exceeds its capacity to predict an ascent procedure. These dives represent gross excursions into decompression that are beyond the boundaries and spirit of the 500AI design, and a 500AI should not be used for the dives. During the Dive If a ceiling much greater than 60FT (18M) is required, an Immediate Violation Mode will be entered (Fig. 73).
500AI After the Dive The 500AI will also enter an Immediate Violation Mode five minutes after reaching the surface from a dive in which a Delayed Violation occurred. On the surface, Gauge Mode displays the Dive Number, Surface Interval, and Tank Pressure (digital and Bar Graph). It does not provide the FO2, Planning Sequence, or Time to Fly and Desaturate features (Fig. 74). The countdown timer that appears when you try to access Time to Fly does not represent 'Time to Fly'.
OXYGEN EXPOSURE The 500AI is a sophisticated instrument designed with capabilities that go beyond the range of recreational diving with compressed air. It will help you to avoid and manage excessive oxygen exposure. PARTIAL PRESSURE OF OXYGEN As depth increases during the dive, the partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) increases.
500AI When PO2 reaches a value of 1.60 ATA, the Audible Alarm will emit a double beep then one beep per second* as a warning until the level of PO2 decreases below 1.60 ATA. Also, the large red segment of the O2 bar graph, the PO2 value, and PO2 symbol will flash continuously (Fig. 76). *If the Audible Alarm feature was set to OFF, only a double beep.
The O2 Bar Graph provides you with a convenient graphic representation of your oxygen accumulation, displaying either oxygen accumulated during that dive, or during the repetitive dives you conduct during that 24 hour period, whichever of the two is greater at that time. The yellow Caution Zone of the O2 Bar Graph offers you a convenient way to consistently monitor how close you are coming to the limits of oxygen tolerance.
500AI WARNING: In the event that you exceed the maximum per dive allowable oxygen exposure (dose), it is recommended that you allow a surface interval of at least 2 hours before reentering the water. If you exceed the maximum 24 hour period allowable oxygen exposure (dose), you must allow a surface interval of at least 24 hours before reentering the water. AERIS suggests always leaving the water with the O2 Bar Graph in the green (normal) zone.
ADDITIONAL WARNINGS and SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS • There are few legitimate excuses for making unplanned Decompression dives, and the consequences of this type of diving can be severe. By making an unplanned Decompression dive without the necessary preparation and training, you will have placed yourself in an unnecessarily dangerous situation. Allow a surface interval of at least 24 hours before reentering the water in the event a dive requires emergency decompression.
500AI ADDITIONAL WARNINGS and SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS • Maximum limits for exposure to oxygen should not be exceeded, and the consequences of CNS (Central Nervous System) oxygen toxicity can be severe, resulting in Gran Mal convulsions and drowning. • Conducting repetitive dives using enriched nitrogen-oxygen mixtures can lead to oxygen buildup, reducing oxygen tolerance while increasing the risk of pulmonary oxygen toxicity.
SUMMARY OF EXTREME DIVE MODES WARNING: Avoid the extremes and make all ascents safely and controlled. Modes REASON ACTION Decompression NDL exceeded Decompress at Stop Depth indicated until it changes Conditional Violation above ceiling Descend below Stop Depth indicated and decompress Delayed Violation > 5 min above ceiling Descend below Stop Depth indicated and decompress 60-70 FT (18-21 M) ceiling Decompress at 60 FT (18 M) Stop Depth until it changes > 330 ft (99.
500AI CARE and MAINTENANCE 73
CARE AND CLEANING The 500AI is a sensitive electronic instrument. Although it has been designed to withstand the rigors of diving, it still must be handled carefully to protect it from shock, excessive heat, chemical attack, and tampering. Protect the lens against scratches with a transparent Instrument Lens Protector. Small scratches will naturally disappear underwater. CAUTION: Never spray aerosols of any kind on, or near, the 500AI. The propellants may chemically attack the plastic.
500AI ANNUAL INSPECTIONS AND SERVICE Your 500AI should be inspected annually by an Authorized AERIS Dealer who will perform a factory prescribed function check and inspection for damage or wear. To keep the 2 year limited warranty in effect, this inspection must be completed one year after purchase (+/- 30 days). AERIS recommends that you continue to have this inspection performed every year to ensure your 500AI is working properly.
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE Take your 500AI to an Authorized AERIS Dealer or send it to the nearest AERIS Regional Distributor Facility. To return your 500AI to AERIS: • Record all dive data in the Log and/or download the data in memory. All data will be erased when it receives factory service. • Remove the 500AI with the HP hose from the regulator. • Send only the 500AI with hose (do no attempt to remove the hose). • Package it using a protective cushioning material.
500AI BATTERY LIFE Battery consumption rate varies throughout periods of operation, which begin upon activation and continue for 24 hours after surfacing from a dive. The exact number of dives, or hours of operation, that you will obtain with a battery is subject to variables such as the number of dives conducted during an operational period, temperature, and the frequency and duration of backlight use. Tests and calculations indicate that a new Tadiran® 1/2AA model TL-2150, .95Ahr, 1.
If the unit did not display the Low Battery icon 'prior' to entering the Dive Mode, and a low battery condition occurs during a dive, you will be alerted by the Low Battery icon appearing on the display. There will be sufficient battery power to maintain unit operation 'for the remainder of that dive'. 78 DI RESP O VER NOTE: The 500AI will continue to function on real time for a period of 10 seconds after the battery is removed, maintaining Nitrogen and Oxygen calculations for a repetitive dive.
500AI BATTERY REPLACEMENT NOTE: The following procedure must be closely adhered to. Damage due to improper battery replacement is not covered by the limited 2 year warranty. PRELIMINARIES • Purge the regulator system of all pressure. • It is not necessary to remove the HP hose from the regulator or the 500AI from the HP hose. However, if the 500AI is fitted with a Quick Disconnect, disconnect it to allow removal of the boot.
BATTERY REMOVAL The battery compartment should only be opened in a dry and clean environment, with extreme care taken to prevent the entrance of moisture or dust. + + + a Fig. 80 - Case Back 80 Examine the case back to find the Battery Hatch (Fig. 80a): • Remove the three screws that secure the battery hatch to the housing by turning them counter clockwise with a small Philips head screwdriver. • Lift the hatch up and off of the housing.
500AI If water or corrosion is found in the battery compartment, it is best to have your unit inspected and cleaned by an Authorized AERIS Dealer Service Technician. If you are cleaning the unit • Inspect the lens and case to ensure they are not cracked or damaged. • Discard the battery and DO NOT attempt to reuse it. • Check the o-ring seating surfaces for damage (nicks, cuts, divots, etc.). • Flush the battery hatch and compartment with a solution of 50% white vinegar and 50% water.
• Carefully place the battery hatch with o-ring into position so that it seats on top of the raised flange located around the opening of the battery compartment, and while holding it in place with your finger, secure it with the three screws by turning them clockwise with a small Philips head screwdriver. DO NOT attempt to use any other screws. • Carefully tighten the screws until secure by alternately turning them each one turn at a time. DO NOT overtighten.
500AI REFERENCE 83
DECOMPRESSION MODEL The decompression model used by the 500AI is based on the no decompression multilevel repetitive dive schedules successfully tested by Dr. Ray Rogers and Dr. Michael Powell. These tests did not include repetitive dives deeper than 90 feet (27 m) or decompression dives. Due to the present unavailability of statistical data, 500AI decompression predictions are based on U.S. Navy theory.
500AI Display Seen by the Diver Tissue Half-Times etc. etc. 160 3 120 4 80 5 40 6 20 7 8 No. of Segments Fig. 83 - Tissue Compartment Control Display Seen by the Diver Tissue Half-Times 40 20 8^ 8v 8 No. of Segments Fig.
Depth feet (meters) 500AI NDL-mins. Eng (Metric) U.S.N. NDL mins.
500AI OXYGEN EXPOSURE LIMITS Predicted exposure limits and oxygen calculations of the 500AI are based on maximum exposure durations published by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in the October 1991 NOAA Diving Manual (Fig. 86). Maximum Exposure Time Both central nervous system (CNS) oxygen toxicity and pulmonary oxygen toxicity were taken into consideration when the limits were published by NOAA.
WARNING: Diving with enriched nitrogen-oxygen (nitrox) mixtures requires special knowledge of the variations imposed upon divers, their activities, and their equipment by the increased percentage of oxygen. AERIS recommends completion of a specialized Nitrox training course by a recognized training agency prior to diving with any enriched nitrogen-oxygen (nitrox) mixtures.
500AI Atmospheric pressure decreases as altitude increases above sea level. Weather systems and ambient temperature also affect barometric pressures. Consequently, depth reading instruments that do not compensate for the decrease in pressure indicate depth readings shallower than the depth they are actually at. The 500AI automatically compensates for decreased ambient pressure when activated at high altitudes up to 14,000 feet (4,267 meters).
FLYING AFTER DIVING In 1990 the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS) published a set of guidelines aimed at minimizing the possibility of decompression sickness due to flying too soon after diving. The UHMS suggests* divers using standard air cylinders and exhibiting no symptoms of decompression sickness wait 24 hours after their last dive to fly in aircraft with cabin pressures up to 8,000 feet (2,440 meters).
500AI Both the UHMS and DAN agree that “There can never be a flying after diving rule that is guaranteed to prevent decompression sickness completely. Rather, there can be a guideline that represents the best estimate for a conservative . . . surface interval for the vast majority of divers. There will always be an occasional diver whose physiological makeup or special diving circumstances will result in the bends”.
SPECIFICATIONS NO DECOMPRESSION MODEL OPERATIONAL MODES Basis: • Modified Haldanean Algorithm • 12 tissue compartments Modes: • Activation/Diagnostic • Surface • Temperature/Time/Date • FO2 Set • Time to Fly & Desaturate • Plan • Log • Backlight • Set • FO2 50% Default (on/off) • Audible Alarm (on/off) • Depth Alarm • Turn Pressure Alarm • End Pressure Alarm • Unit of Measure (imperial / metric) • Date (month, day, year) • Time (hour format, hour, minute) • Sampling Rate • EA (External Access) • No Decom
500AI SPECIFICATIONS (continued) DISPLAY RANGE/RESOLUTION BAR GRAPHS Numeric Displays: Nitrogen Bar Graph • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Dive Number Depth Maximum Depth FO2 Set Point PO2 Value Dive Time Remaining Gas Time Remaining No Decompression Time Decompression Stop Time Total Ascent Time Elapsed Dive Time Surface Time Dive Log Surface Interval Time to Fly • Time to Desaturate • Cylinder Pressure • Temperature Range: Resolution: 0-9 1 0 - 330 ft (0 - 99.5 m) 1 ft (.5 m) 330 ft (99.5 m) 1 ft (.
SPECIFICATIONS (continued) OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE Function • Depth • Cylinder Pressure • Timers Accuracy ± 1% of full scale ± 1% of full scale 1 second per day Dive Counter • Displays Dives #0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 (continues to #0 to #9) • Displays #0 for dives #10, 20, etc.
500AI GLOSSARY The following are diving terms to become familiar with. Some apply specifically to the 500AI. Air Dive - A dive conducted using air (approximately 21% oxygen & 79% nitrogen) as the breathing gas. Algorithm - A step-by-step mathematical formula designed to accomplish a particular result (i.e. Dive Time Remaining in the 500AI). Altitude Dive - A dive made at an elevation above sea level (2,000+ ft. / 610+ m.) where a different set of no decompression tables is used .
GLOSSARY (continued) Decompression Stop - The depth(s) at which a diver must pause during ascent to allow absorbed nitrogen to escape naturally from the tissues. Depth Sensor - an electro-mechanical device that converts water pressure into an electrical signal, that is converted to a visual depth display. Diagnostic Mode - The first display seen on dive computers after initial activation during which time a self–check for internal faults is performed. Display - A visual readout of information.
500AI GLOSSARY (continued) No Deco - Abbreviation for No Decompression. No Deco Time Remaining - The amount of dive time remaining based on no-decompression status. No Decompression - Any part of a dive where the diver can surface without requiring a decompression stop. O2 Bar Graph - A visual representation of oxygen accumulation on a dive computer display. OTU - Abbreviation for oxygen tolerance unit. A Hamilton's Repex method term for oxygen dose.
500AI SERVICE RECORD Serial Number _______________________________ Date of purchase _______________ Purchased from _______________________________ Below to be filled in by an Authorized AERIS Dealer: Date 98 Service Performed Dealer / Technician
500AI THE CODE OF THE RESPONSIBLE DIVER AS A RESPONSIBLE DIVER I UNDERSTAND AND ASSUME THE RISKS I MAY ENCOUNTER WHILE DIVING.
AERIS 14212 Doolittle Drive San Leandro, CA 94577 Tel: 510/346-0010 Fax: 510/346-0015 Web site: HTTP:/WWW.diveaeris.com E-mail: info@diveaeris.com © 2002 Design 1999 Doc. No.
