en COBRA3 USER’S GUIDE
Time Tank pressure
1. WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF SUUNTO DIVE COMPUTERS ................. 7 2. WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, AND NOTES .............................................. 8 3. SUUNTO USER INTERFACE ........................................................ 17 3.1. Navigating in the menus ......................................................... 17 3.2. Button symbols and functions ................................................... 19 4. GETTING STARTED .................................................................. 21 4.1.
5.6.1. Connecting Suunto Cobra3 to a regulator ................................ 5.7. DIVE mode settings .............................................................. 5.7.1. Setting the depth alarm ..................................................... 5.7.2. Setting the dive-time alarm ................................................ 5.7.3. Setting the nitrox values ................................................... 5.7.4. Setting the personal/altitude adjustments ................................ 5.7.5.
6.1.2. Bookmark .................................................................... 6.1.3. Tank pressure data .......................................................... 6.1.4. Ascent rate indicator ........................................................ 6.1.5. Safety Stops ................................................................. 6.1.6. Decompression dives ....................................................... 6.2. Diving in NITROX mode (DIVE Nitrox) ......................................... 6.2.
8. CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF MY SUUNTO DIVING COMPUTER .......... 88 9. BATTERY REPLACEMENT ........................................................... 91 9.1. Battery kit .......................................................................... 91 9.2. Required tools ..................................................................... 92 9.3. Replacing the battery ............................................................. 92 10. TECHNICAL DATA ............................................................
1. WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF SUUNTO DIVE COMPUTERS Suunto Cobra3 wristop dive computer is designed to help you get the most out of your diving. By reading this manual and becoming familiar with the functions of your dive computer, you can begin a new era in your diving.
2. WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, AND NOTES Throughout this user's guide, important safety icons are displayed.
WARNING NOT FOR PROFESSIONAL USE! Suunto dive computers are intended for recreational use only. The demands of commercial or professional diving may expose the diver to depths and conditions that tend to increase the risk of decompression illness (DCI). Therefore, Suunto strongly recommends that the device not be used for any commercial or professional diving activities.
WARNING SUUNTO STRONGLY RECOMMENDS THAT SPORT DIVERS LIMIT THEIR MAXIMUM DEPTH TO 40 M/130 FT OR TO THE DEPTH CALCULATED BY THE COMPUTER BASED ON THE SELECTED O2% AND A MAXIMUM PO2 OF 1.4 BAR! Exposure to greater depths increases the risk of oxygen toxicity and decompression illness. WARNING DIVES WITH REQUIRED DECOMPRESSION STOPS ARE NOT RECOMMENDED.
WARNING YOU ARE ADVISED TO AVOID FLYING ANY TIME THE COMPUTER COUNTS DOWN THE NO-FLY TIME. ALWAYS ACTIVATE THE COMPUTER TO CHECK THE REMAINING NO-FLY TIME PRIOR TO FLYING! Flying or traveling to a higher altitude within the no-fly time can greatly increase the risk of DCI. Review the recommendations given by Divers Alert Network (DAN).
WARNING THE DIVE COMPUTER WILL NOT ACCEPT FRACTIONAL PERCENTAGE VALUES OF OXYGEN CONCENTRATION. DO NOT ROUND UP FRACTIONAL PERCENTAGES! For example, 31.8% oxygen should be entered as 31%. Rounding up will cause nitrogen percentages to be understated and will affect decompression calculations.
WARNING SET THE CORRECT PERSONAL ADJUSTMENT MODE! Whenever it is believed that factors that tend to increase the possibility of DCI exist, it is recommended that you use this option to make the calculations more conservative. Failure to select the correct Personal Adjustment setting will result in erroneous dive and planning data. WARNING DO NOT EXCEED THE MAXIMUM ASCENT RATE! Rapid ascents increase the risk of injury.
WARNING NEVER ASCEND ABOVE THE CEILING! You must not ascend above the ceiling during your decompression. In order to avoid doing so by accident, you should stay somewhat below the ceiling. WARNING DO NOT DIVE WITH A CYLINDER OF ENRICHED AIR IF YOU HAVE NOT PERSONALLY VERIFIED ITS CONTENTS AND ENTERED THE ANALYSIS VALUE INTO YOUR DIVE COMPUTER! Failure to verify cylinder contents and enter the appropriate O2% into your dive computer will result in incorrect dive planning information.
WARNING Traveling to a higher elevation can temporarily cause a change in the equilibrium of dissolved nitrogen in the body. It is recommended that you acclimatize to the new altitude by waiting at least three hours before diving. WARNING WHEN THE OXYGEN LIMIT FRACTION INDICATES THAT THE MAXIMUM LIMIT IS REACHED, YOU MUST IMMEDIATELY TAKE ACTION TO REDUCE OXYGEN EXPOSURE.
WARNING Always use realistic SAC rates and conservative turn pressures during dive planning. Overly optimistic or erroneous gas planning can result in the exhaustion of breathing gas during decompression or in a cave or a wreck. WARNING ENSURE THE WATER RESISTANCE OF THE DEVICE! Moisture inside the device or battery compartment will seriously damage the unit. Only an authorized SUUNTO dealer or distributor should do service activities.
3. SUUNTO USER INTERFACE 3.1. Navigating in the menus Suunto Cobra3 has four main operating modes - TIME mode (TIME), DIVE mode (DIVE), PLAN mode (PLAN), and MEMORY mode (MEMORY) – as well as the COMPASS submode, which can be activated from either TIME or DIVE modes. To toggle between the main modes, press the MODE button. To select a submode in DIVE, PLAN and MEMORY modes, press the UP/DOWN buttons.
3.2. Button symbols and functions The table below explains the main functions of the dive computer's buttons. The buttons and their use is explained in more detail in the relevant sections of the user's guide. Table 3.1.
Symbol 20 Button Press Main functions UP Short Toggle between alternative displays Change submode Increase values UP Long Activate gas switching in NITROX mode DOWN Short Toggle between alternative displays Change submode Decrease values DOWN Long Enter Setting mode Toggle between ceiling and remaining air time display
4. GETTING STARTED To get the most out of your Suunto Cobra3, use some time to personalize it and really make it YOUR computer. Set the correct time and date, as well as the alarms and tones, unit and backlight settings. Then, calibrate and test the compass function. Suunto Cobra3 is a very user-friendly dive computer, and you will quickly become familiar with its functions. Make absolutely sure that you know your computer and have it set up as you want it BEFORE getting into the water. 4.1.
4.1.1. Setting the alarm The dive computer has a daily alarm function. When the daily alarm activates, the screen blinks and the alarm sounds for 60 seconds. Press any button to stop the alarm. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 4.1.2. Setting the time In the Time setting mode, you are able to set the hour, minute, and second, as well as choose between a 12 and 24 hour display. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON.
4.1.3. Setting the date In the Date setting mode, you are able to set the year, month, and day. The day of the week is automatically calculated in accordance with the date. In metric units the date is presented as DD/MM, and in imperial units as MM/DD. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 4.1.4. Setting the backlight In the Backlight setting mode, you are able to turn the backlight ON or OFF and to define how long it stays on for (5, 10, 20, 30, or 60 seconds).
4.1.5. Setting the tones In the Tones setting mode, you are able to activate or deactivate the tones. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. NOTE When the tones are off, there are no audible alarms. 4.2. AC water contacts The water and data transfer contact is located on the rear of the case. When submerged, the water contact poles are connected by the conductivity of the water and the “AC” symbol appears on the display. The AC text is shown until the water contact deactivates.
AC APPEARS IN THE TOP RIGHT CORNER OF THE DISPLAY, WHEN THE DIVE COMPUTER IS IN CONTACT WITH WATER. THIS ALSO ACTIVATES THE DIVE MODE. Contamination or dirt on the water contact may prevent this automatic activation. Therefore, it is important that the water contact is kept clean. The contact can be cleaned with fresh water and a soft brush, for example a tooth brush. 4.3.
IF ACCESSED FROM TIME MODE, TIME AND BEARING ARE DISPLAYED AT THE BOTTOM OF THE SCREEN. IF ACCESSED FROM DIVE MODE, CURRENT DEPTH AND TIME OR MAXIMUM DEPTH, AS WELL AS BEARING OR DIVE TIME OR TEMPERATURE ARE DISPLAYED. NOTE When accessed from DIVE mode, toggle between the alternative displays by pressing the UP/DOWN buttons. 4.3.1. Compass display The Suunto Cobra3 displays the compass as a graphical representation of a compass rose.
4.3.2. Locking a bearing A bearing can be locked to help you follow a selected course, and directional arrows point towards the locked bearing. The last locked bearing is stored and is available the next time the compass is activated. In the DIVE mode the locked bearings are also stored in the log. TO LOCK A BEARING, PRESS SELECT. The Suunto Cobra3 also provides help for navigating square and triangular patterns, as well as navigating a return heading.
Symbol Explanation You are 180 degrees from the locked bearing You are 120 (or 240) degrees from the locked bearing 4.3.3. Compass settings You can define the compass settings (Calibration, Declination and Timeout) in the COMPASS mode: Calibration Because of changes in the surrounding magnetic field, the Suunto Cobra3 electronic compass occasionally needs to be re-calibrated. During the calibration process, the compass adjusts itself to the surrounding magnetic field and to tilting.
First the compass is level calibrated and after a successful level calibration, the compass is tilt calibrated. The tilt calibration compensates for tilting the compass in any direction in angles of up to 45°. Strong electromagnetic fields, such as power lines, stereo speakers, and magnets can affect the compass calibration. Therefore, it is advisable to calibrate the compass if your Suunto Cobra3 has been exposed to these fields.
To calibrate the compass: HOLD THE DEVICE LEVEL AND SLOWLY ROTATE 360°. HOLD THE DEVICE STILL AND SLOWLY TILT 90° VERTICALLY. If the calibration fails several times in a row, it is possible that you are in an area with sources of magnetism, such as large metal objects, power lines or electric appliances. Move to another location and try to calibrate the compass again. If the calibration continues to fail, contact an authorized Suunto service center.
ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. Time-out You can set the compass time-out to 1, 3, or 5 minutes. After the set time has passed from the latest button press, the dive computer returns to the TIME or DIVE mode from the COMPASS mode. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. You can exit the COMPASS mode also by long pressing the SELECT button.
5. BEFORE DIVING Do not attempt to use the dive computer without reading this user's guide in its entirety, including all the warnings. Make sure that you fully understand the use, displays and limitations of the instrument. If you have any questions about the manual or the dive computer, contact your SUUNTO dealer before diving with the dive computer.
The Suunto Cobra3 uses traditional recommended safety stops as well as deep stops. YOU ARE ADVISED TO MAKE A DEEPSTOP AT 18 M. THE SECOND INDICATOR SHOWS THAT YOU HAVE 110 SECONDS LEFT OF YOUR DEEPSTOP. In order to optimize the response to different increased risk situations, an additional category of stop, referred to as a Mandatory Safety Stop, has been introduced. The combination of stop types depends on the user settings and the specific dive situation.
5.3. Dive computer limitations While the dive computer is based on current decompression research and technology, you must realize that the computer cannot monitor the actual physiological functions of an individual diver. All decompression schedules currently known to the authors, including the U.S. Navy Tables, are based on theoretical mathematical models, which are intended to serve as a guide to reduce the probability of decompression illness. 5.4.
Alarm type Three beeps with a three second interval Alarm reason Cylinder pressure reaches 50 bar/725 psi. The cylinder pressure display will start to blink. Cylinder pressure reaches the selected alarm pressure. Calculated remaining air time reaches zero. Three beeps with a three No-decompression dive turns into a decompression second interval and activated stop dive. An arrow pointing upwards and the blinking backlight ascent warning ASC TIME will appear.
Table 5.2. Preset alarm types Alarm type Alarm reason Continuous beep series for 24 seconds Maximum depth blinks as long as the current depth value exceeds the preset value. Preset maximum depth has been exceeded. Continuous beep series for 24 seconds or until any button is pressed. Dive time blinks for one minute. Preset dive time has been exceeded. Continuous beep series for 24 seconds or until any button is pressed. Current time blinks for one minute Preset alarm time is reached. Table 5.3.
NOTE When the backlight is turned OFF, it does not illuminate when an alarm is activated. WARNING WHEN THE OXYGEN LIMIT FRACTION INDICATES THAT THE MAXIMUM LIMIT IS REACHED, YOU MUST IMMEDIATELY TAKE ACTION TO REDUCE OXYGEN EXPOSURE. Failure to take action to reduce oxygen exposure after the warning is given can rapidly increase the risk of oxygen toxicity, injury, or death. 5.5.
When the dive computer is in the permanent Error mode, only the Er warning is shown in the center window. The dive computer does not show times for ascent or stops. However, all the other displays function as before to provide information for ascent. You must immediately ascend to a depth of 3 to 6 m/10 to 20 ft and remain at this depth until air supply limitations require you to surface. After surfacing, you should not dive for a minimum of 48 hours.
5.7. DIVE mode settings Suunto Cobra3 has several user-definable functions, as well as depth and time-related alarms that you can set according to your personal preferences. The DIVE mode settings are dependent on the dive submode chosen (AIR, NITROX, GAUGE), so that, for example, nitrox settings are only available in the NITROX submode. The figure below shows how to enter the DIVE mode settings menu.
5.7.1. Setting the depth alarm ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. The depth alarm is factory-set to 30 m/100 ft, but you can adjust it according to your personal preference, or switch it off altogether. The depth range can be set from 3 m to 100 m/9 ft to 328 ft. 5.7.2. Setting the dive-time alarm The Dive Time Alarm setting can be activated and used for several purposes to add to your diving safety. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON.
5.7.3. Setting the nitrox values If set to the NITROX mode, the correct oxygen percentage of the gas in your cylinder (and additional gases) must always be entered into the computer to ensure correct nitrogen and oxygen calculations. In addition, the oxygen partial pressure limit must be set. When in the NITROX setting mode, the maximum operating depth (MOD), based on the chosen setting, will also be displayed.
NOTE If MIX2 is set ON, settings for all mixes are stored until changed. If MIX2 has an oxygen content of 22% or greater, settings for all mixes are stored until changed. 5.7.4. Setting the personal/altitude adjustments The current Altitude and Personal Adjustment settings are displayed in the startup screen when entering the DIVE mode. If the mode does not match the altitude or personal conditions (refer to Section 5.8.4. Diving at altitude and Section 5.8.5.
ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 5.7.6. Setting the Safety Stops/deep stops In the AIR mode in the Deep Stops setting mode, the Deep stops can be set “ON” or “OFF” depending on whether the Deep stops are used or not. The Deep Stop setting allows you to view deep stops. If deep stops are set OFF, only the traditional Safety Stop calculation is used. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 5.7.7.
ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 5.7.8. Setting the units In the Unit settings you are able to choose between metric (meters/Celsius/bar) and imperial (feet/Fahrenheit/psi) units. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 5.7.9. Setting the tank pressure alarm The tank pressure alarm can be set "ON" or "OFF" and in the range of 10–200 bar. The alarm is the secondary cylinder pressure alarm point.
ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 5.8. Activation and pre-checks This section describes how to activate the DIVE mode and explains the pre-checks that it is highly recommended you perform before you get into the water. 5.8.1. Accessing DIVE mode The Suunto Cobra3 has three diving modes: AIR mode for diving with standard air only, NITROX mode for diving with oxygen enriched mixtures, and GAUGE mode for use as a bottom timer and for freediving.
5.8.2. DIVE mode activation The dive computer activates automatically when submerged deeper than 0.5 m/1.5 ft. However, it is necessary to activate the DIVE mode BEFORE diving to check the altitude and personal adjustment settings, battery condition, oxygen settings, and so on. After activation, all graphical display elements are turned ON, and the backlight and the beep are activated. After this, the selected altitude and personal settings are displayed, as well as the RGBM and Deep Stop status.
the instrument operates in the correct mode and provides a complete display (AIR/NITROX/GAUGE mode) • the battery level is ok. • the altitude, personal adjustment, Deep stops, and RGBM settings are correct. • the instrument displays correct units of measurement (Metric/Imperial). • the instrument displays the correct temperature and depth (0.0 m/0 ft).
If the battery symbol is displayed in the Surface mode, or if the display is faded or weak, the battery may be too low to operate the dive computer, and battery replacement is recommended. NOTE For safety reasons, the backlight cannot be activated when the low battery warning is indicated by the battery symbol. 5.8.4. Diving at altitude The dive computer can be adjusted both for diving at altitude and also to increase the conservatism of the mathematical nitrogen model.
Table 5.4. Altitude Adjustment settings Alt. adjustment Altitude range value A0 0–300 m / 0–1000 ft A1 300–1500 m / 1000–5000 ft A2 1500–3000 m / 5000–10 000 ft NOTE Section 5.7.4. Setting the personal/altitude adjustments describes how the Altitude value is set. WARNING Traveling to a higher elevation can temporarily cause a change in the equilibrium of dissolved nitrogen in the body. It is recommended that you acclimatize to the new altitude by waiting at least three (3) hours before diving. 5.8.
The personal factors which tend to increase the possibility of DCI include, but are not limited to: • cold exposure —water temperature less than 20 °C/68 °F • below average physical fitness level • fatigue • dehydration • previous history of DCI • stress • obesity • patent foramen ovale (PFO) • exercise on or after dive This feature is used to adjust the computer to be more conservative, according to personal preference, by entering the suitable Personal Adjustment setting with the help of Table 5.
Table 5.5. Personal Adjustment settings Personal adjust- Condition ment value Desired tables P0 Ideal conditions Default P1 Some risk factors or conditions Progressively more conservative exist P2 Several risk factors or conditions exist The Suunto Cobra3 also allows experienced divers who are willing to accept a greater level of risk to adjust the RGBM model. The default setting is 100%, which gives full RGBM effect. Suunto strongly advises you to use full RGBM effect.
RGBM setting Desired Tables Effect 50% Attenuated RGBM model Smaller RGBM effects, higher risk! 5.9. Safety Stops Safety Stops are widely considered good diving practice for recreational diving, and are an integral part of most dive tables. The reasons for performing a Safety Stop include: reducing sub-clinical DCI, microbubble reduction, ascent control, and orientation before surfacing. The Suunto Cobra3 displays two different types of Safety Stops: Recommended Safety Stop and Mandatory Safety Stop.
WHEN STOP IS DISPLAYED, MAKE A RECOMMENDED SAFETY STOP FOR 3 MINUTES. NOTE The Recommended Safety Stop, as the name implies, is recommended. If it is ignored, there is no penalty applied to the following surface intervals and dives. 5.9.2. Mandatory Safety Stops When the ascent rate exceeds 10 m/33 ft per minute continuously for more than five (5) seconds, the microbubble build-up is predicted to be more than is allowed for in the decompression model.
WHEN CEILING AND STOP ARE DISPLAYED, MAKE A ONE MINUTE MANDATORY SAFETY STOP IN THE DEPTH ZONE BETWEEN 6 M AND 3 M. You must not ascend shallower than 3 m/10 ft with the Mandatory Safety Stop warning on. If you ascend above the Mandatory Safety Stop ceiling, a downward pointing arrow will appear and a continuous beeping starts. You should immediately descend to, or below, the Mandatory Safety Stop ceiling depth.
5.10. Deep stops Deep stops are safety stops that occur deeper than traditional stops, with the purpose of minimizing microbubble formation and excitation. The Suunto RGBM model calculates deep stops iteratively, placing the first stop about halfway between the maximum depth and the ceiling depth. After the first Deep stop is completed, another Deep stop will be prompted halfway to the ceiling, and so on until the ceiling depth is reached. The Deep Stop length can be set to 1 or 2 minutes.
6. DIVING This section contains instructions on how to operate the dive computer and interpret its displays. The dive computer is easy to use and read. Each display shows only the data relevant to that specific diving mode. 6.1. Diving in the AIR mode (DIVE Air) This section contains information on diving with standard air. To activate the DIVE Air mode, please refer to Section 5.8.1. Accessing DIVE mode. DIVE HAS JUST BEGUN AND AVAILABLE NO-DECOMPRESSION TIME IS OVER 99 MINUTES SO NO VALUE IS DISPLAYED.
• • • • • • your present depth in meters/feet the available no-decompression time in minutes as NO DEC TIME the ascent rate presented as a bar graph on the right side the Diver Attention Symbol if surface interval should be prolonged (see Table 7.1, Alarms) the Deep Stop depth, if activated the Remaining air time DIVE DISPLAY - PRESENT DEPTH IS 15 M, NO-DECOMPRESSION STOP TIME LIMIT IS 38 MIN. ELAPSED DIVE TIME IS 13 MIN. 99 MINUTES OF REMAINING AIR TIME AND 202 BAR TANK PRESSURE.
DOWN BUTTON TOGGLES BETWEEN MAXIMUM DEPTH, CURRENT TIME AND TANK PRESSURE. UP BUTTON TOGGLES BETWEEN DIVE TIME AND WATER TEMPERATURE. 6.1.2. Bookmark It is possible to record bookmarks in the profile memory during a dive. These bookmarks are displayed when scrolling the profile memory on the display. The bookmarks are also shown as annotations in the downloadable Suunto DM4 with Movescount software.
A BOOKMARK IS PLACED IN THE PROFILE MEMORY DURING A DIVE BY PRESSING THE SELECT BUTTON. 6.1.3. Tank pressure data The pressure of your scuba cylinder in bars (or psi) is shown digitally in the lower left corner of the alternative display. Whenever you start a dive, the remaining air time calculation begins. After 30–60 seconds (sometimes more, depending on your air consumption), the first estimation of remaining air time will be shown in the left center window of the display.
The change in your air consumption is based on constant one second interval pressure measurements over 30–60 second periods. An increase in air consumption influences the remaining air time rapidly, while a drop in air consumption increases the air time slowly. In this way, an over optimistic air time estimation, caused by a temporary drop in air consumption, is avoided. The remaining air time calculation includes a 35 bar/500 psi safety reserve.
6.1.4. Ascent rate indicator The ascent rate is shown graphically along the right hand side. When the maximum allowed ascent rate is exceeded, the lower segments start to blink with the top segment staying solid, indicating that the maximum ascent rate has been exceeded continuously or that the current ascent rate is significantly above the allowed rate. Continuous ascent rate violations will result in Mandatory Safety Stops. When Recommended Deep Stop is enabled, the length is indicated in seconds.
6.1.5. Safety Stops A three (3) minute Recommended Safety Stop is prompted after every dive to over 10 m. 6.1.6. Decompression dives When your NO DEC TIME becomes zero, your dive changes into a decompression dive. Therefore, you must perform one or more decompression stops on your way to the surface. The NO DEC TIME on your display will be replaced by an ASC TIME, and a CEILING notation will appear. An upward pointing arrow will also prompt you to start your ascent.
NOTE In addition, there may also be Mandatory Safety Stops which are not displayed in ASC TIME. WARNING YOUR ACTUAL ASCENT TIME MAY BE LONGER THAN DISPLAYED BY THE INSTRUMENT! The ascent time will increase if you: • remain at depth • ascend slower than 10 m/33 ft per minute or • make your decompression stop deeper than at the ceiling These factors will also increase the amount of air required to reach the surface.
The depth of the ceiling and floor depends on your dive profile. The ceiling depth will be fairly shallow when you enter the decompression mode, but if you remain at depth, it will move downward and the ascent time will increase. Likewise, the floor and ceiling may change upwards while you are decompressing. When conditions are rough, it may be difficult to maintain a constant depth near the surface.
Display below the floor The blinking ASC TIME sign and an upward pointing arrow indicate that you are below the floor. You should start your ascent immediately. The ceiling depth is shown on the left side, and the minimum total ascent time on the right side of the center window. Below is an example of a decompression dive without Deep Stops, below the floor. UPWARD POINTING ARROW, BLINKING ASC TIME AND AN ALARM TELL YOU TO ASCEND. MINIMUM TOTAL ASCENT TIME INCLUDING MANDATORY SAFETY STOP IS 15 MINUTES.
Decompression will now begin, but is very slow. Therefore, you should continue your ascent. Display at the ceiling zone When you reach the ceiling zone, the display will show you two arrows pointing at each other (the “hour glass” icon). Below is an example of a decompression dive at the ceiling zone. TWO ARROWS POINT AT EACH OTHER “HOUR GLASS”. YOU ARE IN THE OPTIMUM CEILING ZONE AT 3 M. AND YOUR MINIMUM ASCENT TIME IS 15 MINUTES. During the decompression stop, ASC TIME will count down towards zero.
DECOMPRESSION DIVE, ABOVE CEILING. NOTE DOWNWARD POINTING ARROW, ER WARNING AND ALARM. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATLY (WITHIN 3 MINUTES) DES CEND TO OR BELOW CEILING. In addition, an Error warning (Er) reminds you that you have only three (3) minutes to correct the situation. You must immediately descend to, or below, the ceiling. If you continue to violate the decompression, the dive computer will go into a permanent Error Mode. In this mode, the instrument can only be used as a depth gauge and timer.
to be understated and will affect decompression calculations. If you want to adjust the computer to provide more conservative calculations, use the personal adjustment feature to affect decompression calculations, or reduce the PO2 setting to affect oxygen exposure according to the entered O2% and PO2 values. Calculations based on nitrox use result in longer no-decompression times and shallower maximum depths than diving with air.
6.2.2. Oxygen displays When the NITROX mode is activated, the display will show the information in the figure below. In the NITROX mode, the maximum operational depth is calculated based on set O2% and PO2 values. NITROX DIVE MODE ACTIVATION. MAXIMUM OPERATIONAL DEPTH BASED ON SET O2% (21%) AND PO2 (1.4 BAR) IS 56.7 M.
DOWN BUTTON TOGGLES BETWEEN O2, MAXIMUM DEPTH TANK PRESSURE AND CURRENT TIME. UP BUTTON TOGGLES BETWEEN PO2, OLF, DIVE TIME AND WATER TEMPERATURE. 6.2.3. Oxygen limit fraction (OLF%) If set to the NITROX mode, in addition to tracking the diver's exposure to nitrogen, the instrument tracks the exposure to oxygen. These calculations are treated as entirely separate functions.
The Oxygen Limit Fraction (OLF%) displays only the value of the higher of the two calculations. The oxygen toxicity calculations are based on the factors listed in Section 10.3. Oxygen exposure . 6.2.4. Gas change and multiple breathing gas mixes The Suunto Cobra3 allows gas changes to enabled gas mixes during the dive. Gas changes are made by following the procedure below: CHANGING GAS MIX. SCROLL THROUGH ENABLED MIXES BY PRESSING THE UP OR DOWN BUTTONS. SELECT NEW MIX BY PRESSING THE SELECT BUTTON.
NOTE If no button is pressed in 15 seconds, the dive computer will go back to the dive display without changing the gas mix. Upon ascent, the computer prompts you to change gas when the PO2 level you have set for the next mix allows a gas change. The prompt is an audible 3 beeps and the current O2mix starts to blink. 6.3. Diving in the GAUGE mode (DIVE Gauge) If set to the GAUGE mode, the dive computer can be used as a bottom timer.
NOTE The GAUGE mode does not provide decompression information. NOTE There is no ascent rate monitoring in the GAUGE mode. NOTE If you dive with the GAUGE mode, it is not possible to change between the modes before the no fly time has counted down.
7. AFTER DIVING Once back at the surface, Suunto Cobra3 continues to provide post-dive safety information and alarms. Calculations to enable repetitive dive planning also help to maximize diver safety. Table 7.1. Alarms Symbol on display Indication Diver Attention Symbol - Extend Surface Interval Violated Decompression Ceiling or Too Long Bottom Time Do Not Fly Symbol 7.1. Surface interval An ascent to any depth shallower than 1.
Or, in the alternative displays, the following information will be shown: • maximum depth of last dive in meters/feet • dive time of last dive in minutes, shown as DIVE TIME • the current time, shown as TIME • the current temperature in °C/°F • tank pressure If set to NITROX mode, the following information will also be shown: • the oxygen percentage labeled O2% • the oxygen partial pressure labeled PO2 • the current oxygen toxicity exposure labeled OLF% 7.2.
7.3. Repetitive dive planning The Suunto Cobra3 includes a dive planner that allows you to review the no-decompression limits on a subsequent dive, taking the residual nitrogen loading of previous dives into consideration. The DIVE PLANNING mode is explained in Section 7.5.1. DIVE PLANNING mode (PLAN NoDec). 7.4. Flying after diving In the DIVE mode, the no-fly time is displayed in the center window next to the airplane image. In the TIME mode, the airplane image is shown in the top left corner.
• • Divers who plan to make daily, multiple dives for several days, or make dives that require decompression stops, should take special precautions and wait for an extended interval beyond 12 hours before a flight. Further, the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS) suggests divers using standard air cylinders and exhibiting no symptoms of decompression illness wait 24 hours after their last dive to fly in an aircraft with cabin pressure up to 2,400 m/8,000 ft.
7.5.1. DIVE PLANNING mode (PLAN NoDec) The DIVE PLANNING mode displays no-decompression times for a new dive, taking into account the effects of previous dives. When entering the PLAN nodec mode, the display first briefly shows the remaining desaturation time before going into plan mode. By pressing the UP/DOWN buttons, you can scroll the no-decompression limits in 3 m/10 ft increments ending at 45 m/150 ft. No-decompression limits longer than 99 min are displayed as “—“.
WHEN ENTERING THE PLANNODEC MODE THE DISPLAY FIRST BRIEFLY SHOWS TISSUE LOADING, THE REMAINING DESATURATION TIME BEFORE GOING INTO PLAN MODE. USE UP AND DOWN BUTTONS TO SCROLL DIFFERENT NO-DECOMPRESSION LIMITS. NO-DECOMPRESSION LIMITS LONGER THAN 99 MINUTES ARE DISPLAYED AS “–”.
Higher Altitude and conservative Personal Adjustment settings will shorten the nodecompression time limits. These limits at different Altitude and Personal Adjustment setting selections are explained in Section 5.8.4. Diving at altitude and in Section 5.8.5. Personal adjustments Dive numbering shown during dive planning Dives belong to the same repetitive dive series if the instrument was still counting down the no-fly time at the beginning of the dive.
PRESS UP OR DOWN BUTTONS TO DESCEND OR ASCEND. The mode can also be used to add the desired surface intervals for dive simulations. Add the desired surface interval increments to the present surface interval by pressing the UP and DOWN buttons. ADD SURFACE TIME IN 15 MINUTES INCREMENTS. 7.6. MEMORY mode The memory options include a dive logbook (MEM Logbook) and dive history (MEM History). The dive entry time and date is registered in the Logbook memory.
7.6.1. Dive logbook (MEM Logbook) The Suunto Cobra3 has a very sophisticated, high capacity Logbook and Profile Memory. The data is recorded in the profile memory based on the selected sample rate. The END OF LOGS text is displayed between the oldest and most recent dive.
THERE ARE THREE PAGES OF LOGBOOK DIVE INFORMATION. USE SELECT BUTTON TO SCROLL BETWEEN LOGBOOK PAGES I, II, AND III. THE DATA OF THE MOST RECENT DIVE IS SHOWN FIRST.
• warnings • consumed tank pressure Page III • water temperature • tank pressure NOTE The memory will retain approximately the last 42 hours of dive time. After that, when new dives are added, the oldest dives are deleted. The contents of the memory will remain when the battery is changed (providing that the battery has been replaced according to the instructions). NOTE Several repetitive dives are considered to belong to the same repetitive dive series if the no-fly time has not ended. See Section 7.2.
DIVE HISTORY DISPLAY. TOTAL NUMBER OF DIVES, DIVE HOURS AND MAXIMUM DEPTH. The Dive History Memory can hold a maximum of 999 dives and 999 diving hours. When these maximum values are reached, the counters will start again from zero. NOTE The maximum depth can be reset to 0.0 m/0 ft using the PC Interface unit and the downloadable Suunto DM4 Dive Manager software. 7.7.
• • • • • • • • • • • depth profile of the dive dive time preceding surface interval time dive number dive start time (year, month, day, and time) dive computer settings oxygen percentage settings and maximum OLF (in the NITROX mode) tissue calculation data real-time water temperature tank pressure data (if enabled) additional dive information (for example, SLOW and Mandatory Safety Stop violations, Diver Attention Symbol, Bookmark, Surfaced Mark, Decompression Stop Mark, and Ceiling Error Mark) • dive com
7.8. Movescount Movescount is an online sports community that offers you a rich set of tools to manage all you sports and create engaging stories about your diving experiences. Movescount offers you new ways to get inspired and share your best dives with other community members! To connect to Movescount: 1. Go to www.movescount.com. 2. Register and create your free Movescount account. 3. Download and install the Suunto DM4 with Movescount software from the Movescount.
8. CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF MY SUUNTO DIVING COMPUTER The SUUNTO dive computer is a sophisticated precision instrument. Although it is designed to withstand the rigors of scuba diving, you must treat it with the same proper care and caution as any other precision instrument. • WATER CONTACTS AND PUSH BUTTONS Contamination or dirt on the water contacts/connector or push buttons may prevent the automatic activation of the Dive Mode and cause problems during the data transfer.
• • • • • • • Should moisture appear inside the case or battery compartment, immediately have the instrument checked by your SUUNTO dealer or distributor. Should you detect scratches, cracks or other such flaws on the display that may impair its durability, immediately have it replaced by your SUUNTO dealer or distributor. Wash and rinse the unit in fresh water after every use. Protect the unit from shock, extreme heat, direct sunlight, and chemical attack.
MAINTENANCE The instrument should be soaked, thoroughly rinsed with fresh water, then dried with a soft towel after each dive. Make sure that all salt crystals and sand particles have been flushed out. Check the display and the transparent battery compartment cover for possible moisture or water. DO NOT use the dive computer if you detect any moisture or water inside. In order to limit corrosion damage, remove the battery and moisture from the battery compartment.
9. BATTERY REPLACEMENT NOTE It is advisable to contact an authorized Suunto representative for battery replacement. It is imperative that the change is made in a proper manner to avoid any leakage of water into the battery compartment or computer. CAUTION When the battery is changed, all nitrogen and oxygen uptake data is lost. Therefore, the no-fly time shown by the computer should have reached zero or you must wait for 48 hours, or preferably up to 100 hours, before you dive again.
9.2. Required tools • A Phillips-head screwdriver. • Soft cloth for cleaning. • Needlenose pliers or small screwdriver for turning securing ring. 9.3. Replacing the battery The battery and the buzzer are located in the back of the instrument in a separate compartment. To change the battery: 1. Unscrew the four screws at the back of the elastomer console and remove the back cover of the console. 2. Thoroughly rinse and dry the computer. 3.
8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. Check for any traces of flooding, particularly between the beeper and the lid, or for any other damage. In case of a leak or any other damage, bring the dive computer to an authorized SUUNTO dealer or distributor for check and repair. Check the condition of the O-ring; a defective O-ring may indicate sealing or other problems. Dispose the old O-ring, even if it seems to be in good condition. Check that the battery compartment, battery holder and lid are clean.
CAUTION 94 Check after the first dives for possible moisture under the transparent battery compartment lid, indicating a leak.
10. TECHNICAL DATA 10.1. Technical specifications Dimensions and weight: • Diameter: width 73 mm/2.85 in, length 165 mm/6.50 in • Thickness: 35 mm/1.40 in • Weight: 210 g/7.
• Ceiling depths: 3.0 to 100 m /10 to 328 ft • Air time: 0 to 99 min (- - after 99) Temperature display: • Resolution: 1°C/1°F • Display range: -20 to +50°C/-9 to +122°F Display range: -9 to +50°C/-9 to +122°F • Accuracy: ± 2°C/± 3.6°F within 20 minutes of temperature change Displays only in NITROX mode: • Oxygen %: 21–99 • Oxygen partial pressure display: 0.2–3.0 bar.
Tissue calculation model: • Suunto RGBM algorithm (developed by Suunto and Bruce R. Wienke, BSc, MSc, PhD) • 9 tissue compartments • Tissue compartment halftimes: 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, 120, 240, and 480 minutes (on gassing). The off gassing halftimes are slowed down • Reduced gradient (variable) "M" values based on diving habit and dive violations. The "M" values are tracked up to 100 hours after a dive • The EAN and oxygen exposure calculations are based on recommendations by R.W.
• • • The use of the compass The quality of the battery. (Some lithium batteries may exhaust unexpectedly, which cannot be tested in advance) The time the dive computer has been stored until it gets to the customer. (The battery is installed in the unit at the factory) NOTE Low temperature or an internal oxidation of the battery may activate the battery warning even though the battery has enough capacity. In this case, the warning usually disappears when the DIVE mode is activated again. 10.2.
• Incorporating consistency with real physical laws for gas kinetics 10.2.1. Suunto RGBM adaptive decompression The Suunto RGBM algorithm adapts its predictions of both the effects of microbubble build-up and adverse dive profiles in the current dive series. It also changes these calculations according to the personal adjustment you select. The pattern and speed of decompression at the surface is adjusted according to microbubble influence.
10.2.2. No-decompression limits for air The no-decompression limits displayed by the dive computer for the first dive to a single depth (see Table 10.1, No-decompression time limits for various depths (m) and Table 10.2, No-decompression time limits for various depths (ft) .), are slightly more conservative than those permitted by the U.S. Navy tables. Table 10.1.
No-decompression time limits (mins) for various depths (m) for the first dive of a series Depth (m) 36 39 42 45 Personal Mode / Altitude Mode P0/A0 10 8 6 5 P0/A1 P0/A2 P1/A0 P1/A1 P1/A2 P2/A0 P2/A1 P2/A2 6 5 4 3 4 3 3 2 9 8 6 5 5 4 4 3 3 3 3 2 9 7 5 4 5 4 3 3 3 3 2 2 Table 10.2.
No-decompression time limits (mins) for various depths (ft) for the first dive of a series Depth (ft) Personal Mode / Altitude Mode P0/A0 P0/A1 P0/A2 P1/A0 P1/A1 P1/A2 P2/A0 P2/A1 P2/A2 90 100 110 21 17 12 13 10 7 8 5 4 19 15 11 11 9 7 7 5 4 18 13 10 10 8 6 6 5 4 120 130 140 150 10 8 6 5 6 5 4 3 4 3 3 2 9 7 6 5 5 4 4 3 3 3 2 2 8 6 5 4 5 4 3 3 3 3 2 2 10.2.3. Altitude diving The atmospheric pressure is lower at high altitudes than at sea level.
As a result, the allowed no-decompression-stop limits are considerably reduced. 10.3. Oxygen exposure The oxygen exposure calculations are based on currently accepted exposure time limit tables and principles. In addition to this, the dive computer uses several methods to conservatively estimate the oxygen exposure. For example: • The displayed oxygen exposure calculations are raised to the next higher percentage value. • The CNS % limits up to1.
11. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY 11.1. Trademark Suunto is a registered trademark of Suunto Oy. 11.2. Copyright © Suunto Oy 08/2011. All rights reserved. 11.3. Patent notice Patents have been issued or applied for one or several features of this product.
12. DISCLAIMERS 12.1. CE The CE mark is used to mark conformity with the European Union EMC directive 89/336/EEC. 12.2. EN 13319 EN 13319 is a European diving depth gauge standard. Suunto dive computers are designed to comply with this standard. 12.3. EN 250 / FIOH The tank pressure gauge and dive instrument parts used in measuring the tank pressure meet the requirements set in the section of the European Standard EN 250 that concern tank pressure measurements. FIOH, notified body no.
13. SUUNTO LIMITED WARRANTY Suunto warrants that during the Warranty Period Suunto or a Suunto Authorized Service Center (hereinafter Service Center) will, at its sole discretion, remedy defects in materials or workmanship free of charge either by a) repairing, or b) replacing, or c) refunding, subject to the terms and conditions of this Limited Warranty. This Limited Warranty is only valid and enforceable in the country of purchase, unless local law stipulates otherwise.
serial number has been removed, altered or made illegible in any way, as determined at the sole discretion of Suunto; 4. has been exposed to chemicals including but not limited to mosquito repellents. Suunto does not warrant that the operation of the Product will be uninterrupted or error free, or that the Product will work in combination with any hardware or software provided by a third party. Access to Suunto warranty service Register your item at www.suunto.
14. DISPOSAL OF THE DEVICE Please dispose of the device in an appropriate way, treating it as electronic waste. Do not throw it in the garbage. If you wish, you may return the device to your nearest Suunto representative.
GLOSSARY Air time The amount of dive time remaining, based on a calculation of cylinder pressure and ambient pressure and present air consumption. Altitude dive A dive made at an elevation greater than 300 m/1000 ft above sea level. Ascent rate The speed at which the diver ascends toward the surface. ASC RATE Abbreviation for ascent rate. Ascent time The minimum amount of time needed to reach the surface on a decompression stop dive. ASC TIME Abbreviation for ascent time.
DM4 Suunto DM4 with Movescount, a software for managing your dives Decompression Time spent at a decompression stop, or range, before surfacing, to allow absorbed nitrogen to escape naturally from tissues Decompression range On a decompression stop dive, the depth range between the floor and the ceiling within which a diver must stop for some time during ascent.
Half time After a change in ambient pressure, the amount of time required for the partial pressure of nitrogen in a theoretical compartment to go half way from its previous value to saturation at the new ambient pressure. HP Abbreviation for high pressure (= cylinder pressure). MOD The maximum operating depth of a breathing gas is the depth at which the partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) of the gas mix exceeds a safe limit.
Oxygen limit fraction A term used by Suunto for the values displayed in the oxygen toxicity bar graph. The value is either the CNS% or the OTU%. O2% Oxygen percentage or oxygen fraction in the breathing gas. Standard air has 21% oxygen. Oxygen partial pressure Limits the maximum depth to which the nitrox mixture can be safely used. The maximum partial pressure limit for enriched air diving is 1.4 bar. The contingency partial pressure limit is 1.6 bar.
Whole-body toxicity Another form of oxygen toxicity, which is caused by prolonged exposure to high oxygen partial pressures. The most common symptoms are irritation in the lungs, a burning sensation in the chest, coughing and reduction of the vital capacity. Also called Pulmonary Oxygen Toxicity. See also OTU.
SUUNTO HELP DESK Global USA (toll free) Canada (toll free) +358 2 284 1160 +1-800-543-9124 +1-800-267-7506 www.suunto.com Copyright © Suunto Oy 09/2008, 10/2008, 11/2008, 08/2011. Suunto is a registered trademark of Suunto Oy. All Rights reserved.
