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1. WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF SUUNTO DIVING INSTRUMENTS ............ 7 2. WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, AND NOTES .............................................. 9 3. SUUNTO D6 AT A GLANCE .......................................................... 15 3.1. Navigating in the menus ......................................................... 16 3.2. Button symbols and functions ................................................... 17 4. GETTING STARTED WITH YOUR SUUNTO D6 .................................. 19 4.1.
5.4. Nitrox ............................................................................... 5.5. Freediving ......................................................................... 5.6. Audible and visual alarms ....................................................... 5.7. Error conditions ................................................................... 5.8. DIVE mode settings .............................................................. 5.8.1. Setting the depth alarm ...................................
6.1.1. Basic dive data .............................................................. 6.1.2. Bookmark .................................................................... 6.1.3. Ascent rate indicator ........................................................ 6.1.4. Safety Stops and Deep Stops ............................................. 6.1.5. Decompression dives ....................................................... 6.2. Diving in NITROX mode (DIVEean) ........................................... 6.2.1.
8.4. Water resistance inspection ..................................................... 86 8.5. Battery replacement .............................................................. 87 9. TECHNICAL DATA ..................................................................... 88 9.1. Technical specifications .......................................................... 88 9.2. RGBM .............................................................................. 91 9.2.1. Suunto RGBM adaptive decompression ..............
1. WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF SUUNTO DIVING INSTRUMENTS Suunto D6 was designed to help you get the most out of your diving. After reading this manual and becoming familiar with the functions of your dive computer, you'll be ready to take the plunge into a whole new world of diving.
With integrated digital compass and gas switching, Suunto D6 simplifies your diving experience because all the information you need relating to depth, time, decompression status, and direction is available on one easy-to-read screen – not hanging off you in a tangle of different gauges. To get the most out of your Suunto D6, please read this instruction manual carefully and make sure you understand the use, displays, and limitations of the instrument before using it.
2. WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, AND NOTES Throughout this manual, 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 is not 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! WARNING DIVES THAT REQUIRE DECOMPRESSION STOPS ARE NOT RECOMMENDED. YOU SHOULD ASCEND AND BEGIN DECOMPRESSION IMMEDIATELY WHEN THE DIVE COMPUTER SHOWS YOU THAT A DECOMPRESSION STOP IS REQUIRED! Note the blinking ASC TIME symbol and the upward pointing arrow.
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 NOFLY 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 Diver’s Alert Network (DAN) in Section 7.1.4. Flying after diving.
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. 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.
WARNING This device contains a Lithium cell battery. To reduce the risk of fire or burns, do not disassemble, crush, puncture, short external contacts, or dispose of in fire or water. Replace only with manufacturer-specified batteries. Recycle or dispose of used batteries properly. NOTE It is not possible to change between AIR, NITROX and GAUGE modes before the instrument has counted down the no-fly time. There is one exception to this: You can change from AIR to NITROX mode even during the no-fly time.
3.
3.1. Navigating in the menus Suunto D6 has three main operating modes - TIME mode (TIME), DIVE mode (DIVE), and MEMORY mode (MEM) – 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 and MEM mode, 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 will be explained in more detail in the relevant sections of the manual. Table 3.1.
Symbol 18 Button Press Main functions UP Short Toggle between alternative displays Change submode Increase values UP Long Enable gas switching in NITROX mode DOWN Short Toggle between alternative displays Change submode Decrease values DOWN Long Enter Setting mode
4. GETTING STARTED WITH YOUR SUUNTO D6 To get the most out of your Suunto D6, take 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 D6 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.
NOTE The display is illuminated by holding down the MODE button for more than 2 seconds. Now that you know how to toggle between the shortcuts, you can start to set them. The following figure shows how to enter the TIME SETTINGS menu. USE UP AND DOWN BUTTONS TO TOGGLE BETWEEN ALARM, TIME, DUAL TIME, DATE, UNITS, BACKLIGHT AND TONES. 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 24 seconds.
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 12 and 24 hour display. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 4.1.3. Setting the dual time In the DUAL TIME SETTING mode you can select the hour and minute of a dual time - useful when traveling to a different time zone.
ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 4.1.4. Setting the date Use the DATE SETTING mode to set the year, month, and day. The day of the week is automatically calculated in accordance with the date. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 4.1.5. Setting the units In the UNITS SETTING mode you can choose to have the units displayed in either the metric or imperial system - meters/feet, Celsius/Fahrenheit etc.
ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 4.1.6. Setting the backlight Use the BACKLIGHT SETTING mode to turn the backlight on or off and to define how long it stays on for (5, 10, 20, 30, or 60 seconds). When the backlight is turned off, it does not illuminate when an alarm sounds. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 4.1.7. Setting the tones The TONE SETTING mode allows you to activate or deactivate the tones.
ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 4.2. Stopwatch The Suunto D6’s stopwatch measures elapsed and split times. A separate stopwatch (dive timer) can also be used when in GAUGE mode. See Section 6.3. Diving in GAUGE mode (DIVEgauge) . USE DOWN BUTTON TO START STOPWATCH AND TAKE A SPLIT TIME. THE UP BUTTON STOPS THE STOPWATCH AND LONG PRESSING IT RESETS IT.
4.3. AC water contacts The water and data transfer contact is located on the right side of the case. When submerged, the water contact is connected to the casing (which is the other pole of the water contact) 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.
NOTE Water or moisture build-up around the water contact may cause the contact to activate automatically. This can happen, for example, when washing your hands or sweating. If the water contact activates in the TIME mode, the AC symbol will appear on the display, and will be shown until the water contact deactivates. To save battery power, you should deactivate the water contact by cleaning it and/or drying it with a soft towel. 4.4.
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. NOTE In order to save battery power, the compass display will automatically return to the TIME or DIVE mode 60 seconds after the last button-press. 4.4.1.
4.4.2. Locking a bearing A bearing can be locked to help you follow a selected course, and directional arrows point towards the locked bearing. Locked bearings are stored in the memory for later analysis and are available the next time the compass is activated. TO LOCK A BEARING, PRESS SELECT. The Suunto D6 also provides help for navigating square and triangular patterns, as well as navigating a return heading.
Symbol Explanation You are 120 (or 240) degrees from the locked bearing 4.4.3. Compass settings You can define the compass settings (declination and calibration) when in COMPASS mode: Declination You can compensate for the difference between true north and magnetic north by adjusting the compass declination. The declination can be found, for example, from sea charts or topographic maps of the local area.
ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN. ACCEPT WITH SELECT. Calibration Because of changes in the surrounding magnetic field, the Suunto D6 electronic compass occasionally needs to be re-calibrated. During the calibration process, the compass adjusts itself to the surrounding magnetic field. As a basic rule, you should calibrate the compass whenever it doesn’t seem to operate properly, or after replacing the dive computer's battery.
HOLD THE DEVICE LEVEL AND SLOWLY ROTATE 360°. 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, powerlines 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.
5. BEFORE DIVING Do not attempt to use the dive computer without reading this user's manual 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 Suunto D6, please contact your Suunto representative before diving with the dive computer.
5.1. The Suunto RGBM/Deep Stop Algorithm Suunto’s Reduced Gradient Bubble Model (RGBM), utilized in the Suunto D6, predicts both dissolved and free gas in the blood and tissues of divers. It is a significant advance on the classic Haldane models, which do not predict free gas. The advantage of Suunto RGBM is additional safety through its ability to adapt to a variety of situations and dive profiles. The Suunto D6 allows you to choose between a traditional Recommended Safety Stop and Deep Stops.
5.3. Dive computer limitations While the dive computer's calculations are based on current decompression research and technology, it is important to 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.
Anyone who engages in any form of breathhold diving is in danger of shallow-water blackout (SWB), that is, the sudden loss of consciousness caused by oxygen starvation. Any breathhold diving results in some nitrogen build-up in the blood and other fast tissues. Due to the short time spent at depth, this build-up is generally not significant. Therefore, provided the effort involved in freediving has not been severe, there is little risk in diving after breathhold diving.
Table 5.1. Audible and visual alarm types Alarm type Short single beep Alarm reason Dive computer is activated. Dive computer automatically returns to the TIME mode. 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. Continuous beeps and activated backlight Maximum allowed ascent rate, 10 m per min/33 ft per min, is exceeded.
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 is reached. Continuous beep series for 24 seconds or until any button is pressed. Dive time blinks for one minute. Preset dive time is reached. Current time is shown 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. Oxygen alarms in NITROX mode Alarm type Continuous beeps for 3 minutes and activated backlight Alarm reason Set oxygen partial pressure limit is exceeded. The alternative display is replaced with a current blinking PO2 value. You should immediately ascend above the PO2 depth limit. OLF value reaches 80%. The OLF value will start to blink. OLF value reaches 100%. The OLF value will blink. NOTE When the backlight is turned OFF, it does not illuminate when an alarm is activated.
5.7. Error conditions The dive computer has warning indicators that alert you to react to certain situations that would significantly increase the risk of DCI. If you do not respond to its warnings, the dive computer will enter an Error mode, indicating that the risk of DCI has greatly increased. If you understand the dive computer and operate it sensibly, it is very unlikely you will ever put the instrument into the Error mode. Omitted decompression The Error mode results from omitted decompression, i.e.
5.8. DIVE mode settings Suunto D6 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 sub-mode chosen (AIR, EAN, GAUGE), so that, for example, nitrox settings are only available in the DIVEean sub-mode. The table below shows what dive settings are available in each DIVE submode. Table 5.4.
USE UP AND DOWN BUTTONS TO TOGGLE BETWEEN DIVE SETTINGS. NOTE The settings cannot be activated until 5 minutes has elapsed after the dive. 5.8.1. Setting the depth alarm You can set a depth alarm in the dive computer. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON.
The depth alarm is factory-set to 40 m/131 ft, but you can adjust it according to your personal preference, or switch it off altogether. The depth range can be set from 3m to 100 m/9 ft to 328 ft. 5.8.2. Setting the dive-time alarm The Suunto D6 has a dive-time alarm setting which, when activated, can be used for several purposes to add to your diving safety. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON.
In order to minimize the risk of error during a dive, it is highly recommended that the mixes are set in the proper order. This means that as the mix number rises, so does oxygen content, and this is the order they are usually used during the dive. Before a dive, only set to “ON” the mixes you actually have available and remember to check the set values to make sure they are correct. The default oxygen percentage (O2%) setting is 21% (air) and oxygen partial pressure (PO2) setting 1.4 bar.
5.8.4. 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 (see Section 5.9.4. Diving at altitude and Section 5.9.5. Personal adjustments), it is imperative that you enter the correct selection before diving. Use Altitude Adjustment to select the correct altitude and use Personal Adjustment to add an extra level of conservatism.
5.8.6. Setting the Safety Stops/Deep Stops The Deep Stop setting allows you to choose between traditional Safety Stops or Deep Stops. If Deep Stops are set to OFF, the traditional Safety Stop calculation is used. If set to ON, iterative Deep Stops will be prompted instead. The length of the individual Deep Stops can be set to 1 or 2 minutes. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 5.8.7.
5.9. 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. 5.9.1. Accessing DIVE mode The Suunto D6 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. The OFF mode disables the DIVE mode, and allows the TIME mode to be used underwater.
After activation, all display elements turn on showing mostly figure 8s and graphical elements, 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. A few seconds later the battery power indicator is shown.
For more information on the NITROX mode, refer to Section 6.2. Diving in NITROX mode (DIVEean) . The dive computer is now ready for diving. 5.9.3. Battery power indication Temperature or internal oxidation of the battery affect the battery voltage. If the instrument is stored for a long period, or used in cold temperatures, the low battery warning may be displayed even though the battery has enough capacity. In these cases, re-enter DIVE mode to receive the battery power indication.
5.9.4. 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. When programming the instrument for the correct altitude, you need to select the correct Altitude Adjustment settings according to Table 5.5, Altitude Adjustment settings. The dive computer will adjust its mathematical model according to the entered altitude setting, giving shorter no-decompression times at higher altitudes (see Table 9.
5.9.5. Personal adjustments There are personal factors that can affect your susceptibility to DCI, which you can predict in advance, and input into the decompression model. Such factors vary between divers and also for the same diver from one day to another. The three-step Personal Adjustment setting is available if a more conservative dive plan is desired and, for very experienced divers, a two step adjustment for RGBM effect on repetitive dives is available.
Table 5.6. Personal Adjustment settings Personal Condition adjustment value Desired tables P0 Ideal conditions Default P1 Some risk factors or conditions exist Progressively more conservative P2 Several risk factors or conditions exist The Suunto D6 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! 5.10. 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 D6 displays two different types of Safety Stops: Recommended Safety Stop and Mandatory Safety Stop. 5.
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. 5.10.2. Mandatory Safety Stops When the ascent rate exceeds 12 m/40 ft per minute momentarily, or 10 meters/33ft per minute continuously, the microbubble build-up is predicted to be more than is allowed for in the decompression model.
The STOP sign appears in the display and when you reach the depth zone between 6 m and 3 m/20 ft and 10 ft, the CEILING label, ceiling depth, and the calculated Safety Stop time also appear in the display. You should wait until the Mandatory Safety Stop warning disappears. The total length of the Mandatory Safety Stop time depends on the seriousness of the ascent rate violation. WHEN CEILING AND STOP ARE DISPLAYED, MAKE A ONE MINUTE MANDATORY SAFETY STOP IN THE DEPTH ZONE BETWEEN 6 M AND 3 M.
WHEN CEILING AND STOP ARE DISPLAYED, IMMEDIATELY (WITHIN 3 MINUTES) DESCEND TO OR BELOW CEILING. If you continue to violate the Mandatory Safety Stop, the tissue calculation model is affected and the dive computer shortens the available no-decompression time for your next dive. In this situation, it is recommended that you prolong your surface interval time before your next dive. 5.11. Deep stops The Suunto D6 allows you to choose a Deep Stop algorithm instead of the traditional Recommended Safety Stop.
6. DIVING This section contains instructions on how to operate the dive computer and interpret its displays. You’ll find that this dive computer is easy to use and read. Each display shows only the data relevant to that specific diving mode. 6.1. Diving in AIR mode (DIVEair) In this section, we look at how to make the most of the dive computer when diving with standard air. To activate DIVEair mode, please see Section 5.9.1. Accessing DIVE mode.
• • • • 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) DIVE DISPLAY - PRESENT DEPTH IS 15 M, NO-DECOMPRESSION STOP TIME LIMIT IS 61 MIN. MAXIMUM DEPTH DURING THIS DIVE WAS 21.5 M, ELAPSED DIVE TIME IS 5 MIN.
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 will also be shown as annotations in the downloadable Suunto Dive Manager PC software. The bookmark logs the depth, time, and water temperature, as well as compass heading (if the compass has been enabled).
6.1.3. Ascent rate indicator The ascent rate is shown graphically along the right side of the display. When the maximum allowed ascent rate is exceeded, the fifth SLOW warning segment and the STOP sign appear and the depth reading starts to blink, indicating that the maximum ascent rate has been exceeded continuously or that the current ascent rate is significantly above the allowed rate. NORMAL ASCENT RATE.
6.1.4. Safety Stops and Deep Stops If Deep Stops are not used, a 3 minute Recommended Safety Stop is prompted after every dive to over 10m. YOU ARE ADVISED TO MAKE A DEEPSTOP AT 12 M. THE SECOND INDICATOR SHOWS THAT YOU HAVE 58 SECONDS LEFT OF YOUR DEEPSTOP. 6.1.5. Decompression dives When your NO DEC TIME becomes zero, your dive becomes a decompression dive so you must perform one or more decompression stops on your way to the surface.
• • • the time needed at the ceiling the time needed at the Mandatory Safety Stop (if any) the time needed to reach the surface after the ceiling and Safety Stops have been completed WARNING 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 • make your decompression stop deeper than at the ceiling These factors will also increase the amount of air required to reach the surface.
• The decompression range is the depth range between the ceiling and floor. Within this range, decompression takes place. However, it is important to remember that the decompression will be very slow at, or close to, the floor The depth of the ceiling and floor will depend 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.
WARNING NEVER ASCEND ABOVE THE CEILING! You must not ascend above the ceiling during your decompression. In order to avoid doing so by accident, you should stay somewhat below the ceiling. Display below the floor The blinking ASC TIME 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.
UPWARD POINTING ARROW HAS DISAPPEARED AND ASC TIME LABEL HAS STOPPED BLINKING, MEANING YOU ARE IN THE DECOMPRESSION RANGE. Decompression will now begin, but is very slow. You should therefore 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”.
During the decompression stop, ASC TIME will count down towards zero. When the ceiling moves upwards, you can ascend to the new ceiling. You may surface only after the ASC TIME and CEILING labels have disappeared, which means that the decompression stop and any Mandatory Safety Stop have been completed. You are advised, however, to stay until the STOP sign has also disappeared. This indicates that the three minute Recommended Safety Stop has also been completed.
6.2.1. Before diving in NITROX mode If set to the NITROX mode, the correct oxygen percentage of the gas in your cylinder must always be entered into the computer to ensure correct nitrogen and oxygen calculations. The dive computer adjusts its mathematical nitrogen and oxygen calculation models accordingly. The dive computer will not accept fractional percentage values of oxygen concentration. Do not round up fractional percentages. For example, 31.8% oxygen should be entered as 31%.
In the NITROX mode, the default setting for MIX1 is standard air (21% O2). It remains in this setting until the O2% is adjusted to any other percentage of oxygen (22% 100%). The default setting for maximum oxygen partial pressure is 1.4 bar, however you are able to set it in the range of 0.5 - 1.6 bar. MIX2 is set to OFF by default. To set MIX2 , refer to Section 6.2.4. Gas change and multiple breathing gas mixes. Oxygen percentages and maximum oxygen partial pressures for MIX2 are stored permanently.
NITROX DIVE MODE ACTIVATION. MAXIMUM OPERATIONAL DEPTH BASED ON SET O2% (21%) AND PO2 (1.4 BAR) IS 56.7 M. If set to NITROX mode, the Suunto D6 will additionally show on the alternative display: • the oxygen percentage, labeled O2% • the set oxygen partial pressure limit, labeled PO2 • the current oxygen toxicity exposure, labeled OLF • maximum depth • current time • water temperature • dive time DOWN BUTTON TOGGLES BETWEEN O2, MAXIMUM DEPTH AND CURRENT TIME.
UP BUTTON TOGGLES BETWEEN PO2, OLF, DIVE TIME AND WATER TEMPERATURE. 6.2.3. Oxygen limit fraction (OLF) If set to NITROX mode, in addition to tracking the diver's exposure to nitrogen, the instrument tracks the exposure to oxygen. These calculations are treated as entirely separate functions. The dive computer calculates separately for Central Nervous System oxygen toxicity (CNS) and Pulmonary Oxygen toxicity, the latter measured by the addition of Oxygen Toxicity Units (OTU).
6.2.4. Gas change and multiple breathing gas mixes One of Suunto D6’s special features is the possibility to set an additional nitrox mix to be used during a dive. This feature can be activated by setting the MIX2 to ON and entering other parameters in the same way as with the primary gas. Mix 2 settings are held until you change them (they will not return to default settings automatically). A dive is always started with MIX1.
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 O2 mix starts to blink. 6.3. Diving in GAUGE mode (DIVEgauge) If set to GAUGE mode, the dive computer can be used as a bottom timer or as a freediving instrument.
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 7.1. At the surface Once back at the surface, Suunto D6 continues to provide post-dive safety information and alarms. Calculations to enable repetitive dive planning also help to maximize diver safety. 7.1.1. Surface interval An ascent to any depth shallower than 1.2 m/4 ft will cause the DIVING display to be replaced by the SURFACE display: IT IS 6 MINUTES SINCE YOU SURFACED FROM A 35-MINUTE DIVE. THE MAXIMUM DEPTH WAS 21.5 M. THE PRESENT DEPTH IS 0.0 M.
• • the oxygen partial pressure labeled PO2 the current oxygen toxicity exposure labeled OLF 7.1.2. Dive numbering Several repetitive dives are considered to belong to the same repetitive dive series when the dive computer has not counted the no-fly time to zero. Within each series, the dives are given individual numbers. The first dive of the series will be numbered as DIVE 1, the second as DIVE 2, the third as DIVE 3, etc.
7.1.3. Repetitive dive planning The Suunto D6 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 Dive Planning mode (MEMplan) in Section 7.1.5. MEMORY mode . 7.1.4. Flying after diving The no-fly time is shown in the center window next to the airplane image.
If a diver has less than 2 hours total accumulated dive time in the last 48 hours, a 12 hour surface interval before flying is recommended • Following any dive that required a decompression stop, flying should be delayed for at least 24 hours, and if possible, for 48 hours Suunto recommends that flying is avoided until all the DAN and UHMS guidelines, as well as the dive computer’s no-fly conditions, are satisfied • • 7.1.5.
When entering the MEMplan 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 99min are displayed as “—“. WHEN ENTERING THE MEMPLAN MODE THE DISPLAY FIRST BRIEFLY SHOWS THE REMAINING DESATURATION TIME BEFORE GOING INTO PLAN MODE. USE UP AND DOWN BUTTONS TO SCROLL DIFFERENT NO-DECOMPRESSION LIMITS.
NOTE The Planning mode is disabled in GAUGE mode and in Error mode (see Section 5.7. Error conditions). The planning mode calculates no-decompression times for MIX1 only. If an additional mix is enabled in the NITROX mode, it does not affect the calculations in MEMplan mode. 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 5.9.4.
The END OF LOGS text is displayed between the oldest and most recent dive. The following information will be shown on three pages: 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. Page I, main display • Maximum depth (NOTE! Depending on the sampling rate, the reading may differ from the maximum depth reading of the Dive History up to 0.3 m/1 ft.
• surface time before previous dive • warnings Page III • depth/time profile of the dive • real-time water temperature The memory will retain approximately the last 36 hours of dive time. After that, when new dives are added, the oldest dives are deleted. The contents of the memory will remain when the battery is changed (providing that the battery has been replaced according to the instructions).
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 PCInterface unit and the downloadable Suunto Dive Manager software. 7.1.6. Suunto Dive Manager (SDM) Suunto Dive Manager (SDM) is optional PC software that greatly enhances the functionality of your Suunto D6.
real-time water temperature additional dive information (e.g.
The Communities section is meeting a place for smaller groups of SuuntoSports.com members. Here you can create and manage your own communities and search for others. All communities have a home page that lists the latest group activities. Community members can also use group-specific bulletin boards and calendars, create their own link lists and group activities. All registered SuuntoSports.com users automatically become members of the ‘World of Suunto Sports’ community.
8. CARE AND MAINTENANCE The Suunto D6 dive computer is a sophisticated precision instrument. Though designed to withstand the rigors of scuba diving, you must handle your Suunto D6 with care, and follow the advice below on how to maximize its service life. 8.1. Water contacts and buttons Contamination or dirt on the water contacts/connector or buttons may prevent the automatic activation of the DIVE mode and cause problems during data transfer.
• • • • • • • If you detect scratches, cracks or other such flaws on the display that may impair its durability, have it replaced immediately by your Suunto representative Check the strap and the buckle for flaws. If needed, have them replaced by your Suunto representative Wash and rinse the unit in fresh water after every use Protect the unit from shock, extreme heat, direct sunlight, and chemical corrosion.
IMPORTANT: Your Suunto D6 should be soaked, then thoroughly rinsed with fresh water and dried with a soft towel after each dive. Make sure that all salt crystals and sand particles have been flushed out. Check the display for possible moisture or water, and do not use the Suunto D6 if you detect any moisture or water inside. CAUTION • • • Do not use compressed air to blow water off the unit. Do not use solvents or other cleaning fluids that might cause damage.
8.5. 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 Defects caused by improper battery installation are not covered by the warranty. CAUTION When the battery is changed, all nitrogen and oxygen uptake data is lost.
9. TECHNICAL DATA 9.1. Technical specifications Dimensions and weight: • Diameter: 50.0 mm/1.97 in • Thickness: 16.0 mm/0.61 in • Weight: 113g/3.
Displays only in NITROX mode: • Oxygen %: 21 - 99 • Oxygen partial pressure display: 0.2 - 3.0 bar, depending on the limit setting • Oxygen Limit Fraction: 1 - 200% with 1% resolution Logbook/dive profile memory: • Recording interval: 20 seconds adjustable (1,10,20,30,60s). Records the maximum depth and minimum temperature of each interval • Memory capacity: approximately 36 hours of diving with 20 second recording interval • Depth accuracy: 0.
• 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.
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. 9.2. RGBM The Suunto Reduced Gradient Bubble Model (RGBM) is a modern algorithm for predicting both dissolved and free gas in the tissues and blood of divers. It was developed in co-operation between Suunto and Bruce R. Wienke BSc, MSc, PhD.
9.2.1. 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. On repetitive dives, adjustment may also be applied to the maximum allowable nitrogen overpressure in each theoretical tissue group.
9.2.2. No-decompression limits The no-decompression limits displayed by the dive computer for the first dive to a single depth (see Table 9.1, No-decompression time limits for various depths (m) and Table 9.2, No-decompression time limits for various depths (ft) .), are slightly more conservative than those permitted by the U.S. Navy tables. Table 9.1.
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 11 9 7 6 P0/A1 P0/A2 P1/A0 P1/A1 P1/A2 P2/A0 P2/A1 P2/A2 9 7 6 5 8 6 5 5 9 7 6 5 8 6 5 5 6 5 4 4 8 6 5 5 6 5 4 4 5 4 4 3 Table 9.2.
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 22 17 13 18 14 11 15 11 9 18 14 11 15 11 9 11 9 7 15 11 9 11 9 7 9 7 6 120 130 140 150 10 9 7 6 9 7 6 5 8 6 5 4 9 7 6 5 8 6 5 4 6 5 4 4 8 6 5 4 6 5 4 4 5 4 4 3 9.2.3. 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. 9.3. 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 • for recreational scuba diving, the recommended upper limit of 1.
10. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY 10.1. Copyright This user's manual is copyrighted and all rights are reserved. It may not, in whole or in part, be copied, photocopied, reproduced, or translated to any media without prior written consent from Suunto. 10.2. Trademark Suunto, D6, Consumed Bottom Time (CBT), Oxygen Limit Fraction (OLF), Suunto Reduced Gradient Bubble Model (RGBM), and Continuous Decompression and their logos are all registered or unregistered trademarks of Suunto. All rights are reserved. 10.3.
11. DISCLAIMERS 11.1. User’s responsibility This instrument is intended for recreational use only. Suunto D6 must not be used for obtaining measurements that require professional or industrial precision. 11.2. Limits of liability and ISO 9001 compliance Suunto Oy does not assume any responsibility for losses or claims by third parties, which may arise through the use of this device. Due to continuous product development, the Suunto D6 is subject to change without notice.
11.3. After sales service If a claim under warranty appears to be necessary, return the product, freight prepaid, to your Suunto representative, who is responsible for having your product repaired or replaced. Depending on the requirements in your country, include your name, address, proof of purchase and/or Warranty card, which can be found at the back of this manual.
12. WARRANTY NOTE Warranty arrangements vary from country to country. The dive computer packaging contains information regarding the warranty benefits and requirements applicable to your purchase.
This warranty does not cover any representation or warranty made by representatives beyond the provisions of this warranty. No Suunto representative is authorized to make any modifications to this warranty or to make any additional warranty. Battery replacement is not covered by this warranty. This User's Guide should be kept with your dive computer. Suunto's dive computers and wristop computers can be registered online at www.suunto.com.
13. 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 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. Ceiling On a decompression stop dive, the shallowest depth to which a diver may ascend based on computed nitrogen load.
Decompression illness Any of a variety of maladies resulting either directly or indirectly from the formation of nitrogen bubbles in tissues or body fluids, as a result of inadequately controlled decompression. Commonly called "the bends" or "DCI". Dive series A group of repetitive dives between which the dive computer indicates some nitrogen loading is present. When nitrogen loading reaches zero the dive computer deactivates.
Nitrox In sports diving, refers to any mix with a higher fraction of oxygen than standard air. NOAA United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. No decompression time The maximum amount of time a diver may remain at a particular depth without having to make decompression stops during the subsequent ascent. No decompression dive Any dive which permits a direct, uninterrupted ascent to the surface at any time. NO DEC TIME Abbreviation for no decompression time limit.
Reduced Gradient Bubble Model Modern algorithm for tracking both dissolved and free gas in divers. Repetitive dive Any dive whose decompression time limits are affected by residual nitrogen absorbed during previous dives. Residual nitrogen The amount of excess nitrogen remaining in a diver after one or more dives. SURF TIME Abbreviation for surface interval time. Surface interval time Elapsed time between surfacing from a dive and beginning a descent for the subsequent repetitive dive.
Model of Wristop computer: Date of purchase Serial number: Store Country Place of purchase/Store name Store City Store stamp with date of purchase Name City E-mail Country Address Telephone Signature
