en HelO2 USER’S GUIDE
Present Depth Daily Alarm Indicator Active Water Contact Indicator Dive Alarm Indicator Diver Attention Symbol No-Fly Icon Current Time Display Mode Indicator No-Decompression Time Total Ascent Time Ceiling Depth Deep Stop Ceiling Safety/Deep Stop Time Surface Interval Time No-Fly Time Gas Mix Selection Safety Stop Indicator Tank Pressure Bar Graph Wireless Transmitter Indicator Date Maximum Depth O2% │He% (Mixed Gas Mode) Time Tank Pressure Ascent Rate Bar Graph Low Battery Weekday Dive Time Temp
1. WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF SUUNTO DIVE COMPUTERS ................. 8 1.1. Using HelO2 with Dive Manager and Dive Planner ............................ 9 2. WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, AND NOTES ............................................ 10 3. SUUNTO HelO2 USER INTERFACE ................................................ 19 3.1. Navigating in the menus ......................................................... 19 3.2. Button symbols and functions ................................................... 20 4.
5.7.3. Transmitting data ............................................................ 5.8. MIXED GAS DIVE mode settings ............................................... 5.8.1. Setting the gases ............................................................ 5.8.2. Setting the depth alarm ..................................................... 5.8.3. Setting the dive-time alarm ................................................ 5.8.4. Setting the personal/altitude adjustments ................................ 5.8.5.
6.1.2. Bookmark .................................................................... 6.1.3. Ascent rate indicator ........................................................ 6.1.4. Safety Stops ................................................................. 6.1.5. Decompression dives ....................................................... 6.2. Diving in MIXED GAS mode .................................................... 6.2.1. Before diving in the MIXED GAS mode .................................. 6.2.2.
9. BATTERY REPLACEMENT ........................................................... 91 9.1. Battery kit .......................................................................... 91 9.2. Required tools ..................................................................... 91 9.3. Replacing the battery ............................................................. 92 9.4. Wireless transmitter battery replacement ...................................... 95 9.4.1. Transmitter battery kit ...........................
14. DISPOSAL OF THE DEVICE ...................................................... 111 GLOSSARY ..............................................................................
1. WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF SUUNTO DIVE COMPUTERS Suunto HelO2 wristop dive computer is designed to help you get the most out of your diving. With easy-to-use PC dive planner and gas switching, Suunto HelO2 simplifies your diving experience because all the information you need relating to depth, time, tank pressure, and decompression status is available on one easy-to-read screen.
1.1. Using HelO2 with Dive Manager and Dive Planner Suunto HelO2 is designed to be used together with Suunto Dive Planner and Suunto Dive Manager. They both are PC programs for planning and managing your dive data. While HelO2 is used during a dive, the Dive Manager is used for uploading the dive data to your PC and the Dive Planner for planning any subsequent dives using the uploaded dive data as a basis.
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 Using the Suunto Dive Planner software is not a substitute for proper dive training. Diving with mixed gases has dangers that are not familiar to divers diving with air. To dive with trimix, triox, heliox and nitrox or all of them, divers must have specialized training for the type of diving they are doing. WARNING Always use realistic SAC rates and conservative turn pressures during dive planning.
3. SUUNTO HELO2 USER INTERFACE 3.1. Navigating in the menus Suunto HelO2 has four main operating modes: 1. TIME mode 2. DIVE mode (MIXED GAS, GAUGE) 3. PLAN mode (NODEC) 4. MEMORY mode (HISTORY, LOGBOOK) To toggle between the main modes, press the MODE button. To select a submode in DIVE 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 Button Press Main functions UP Long Activate gas switching in MIXED GAS mode DOWN Short Toggle between alternative displays Change submode Decrease values DOWN Long Enter Setting mode 21
4. GETTING STARTED To get the most out of your Suunto HelO2, use some time to personalize it and really make it YOUR computer. Set the correct time and date, tones, unit and backlight settings. Suunto HelO2 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 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. 4.1.2. 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.
4.1.3. Setting the units In the Units setting mode, you are able to choose whether the units are displayed in either the metric or imperial system (meters/feet, Celsius/Fahrenheit, and so on). 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). When the backlight is turned OFF, it does not illuminate when an alarm sounds.
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. 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.
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.
5.1. Planning your dives The Suunto HelO2 is designed for computer-aided technical diving. You plan and modify your dive profiles with Suunto Dive Planner and download the gases required for the profile to the dive computer. During a dive, the dive computer alerts you about the gas switches and stops, as well as monitors the dive. The dive computer records data of the actual dive.
When creating a dive series, the real tissue pressures are calculated by uploading the actual dives to the Suunto Dive Planner with the Suunto Dive Manager. You can then plan the next dive based on this information. 5.2. The Suunto Technical RGBM Suunto’s Technical RGBM, utilized in the Suunto HelO2, 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.
5.3. Emergency ascents Before you dive, you must have the dive plan created with the Suunto Dive Planner printed out on a slate. You must also have a back-up plan for lost gases. In the unlikely event that the dive computer malfunctions during a dive, start using an alternative depth gauge and timer and following the ascent schedule and gas switches that are on the slate. If you dive using only air, follow these steps: 1. Assess the situation calmly and then move promptly to less than 18 m/60 ft. 2.
5.4. 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. 5.5.
Alarm indication Alarm reason Three beeps with a one second interval PO2 value is smaller than 0.18 bar. The for the maximum of 24 seconds. The PO2 depth is too shallow and the ambient value blinks. pressure is too low for the current gas. The oxygen content is too low to keep you conscious. You should immediately switch the gas. Two beeps with a one-and-a-half second In MIXED GAS mode, the OLF value interval. The OLF% value blinks if the PO2 reaches the fixed 80% or 100%. You can acknowledge the alarm.
Alarm indication Alarm reason Two beeps with a one-and-a-half second Cylinder pressure reaches the selected interval. Tank pressure blinks. alarm pressure, 10–200 bar. Cylinder pressure reaches the fixed alarm pressure, 50 bar. Two beeps with a one-and-a-half second No-decompression dive turns into a decominterval for 24 seconds. ASC TIME blinks pression stop dive. and an arrow points upwards. Depth is below the decompression floor level. You should immediately ascend to, or above, the floor.
Alarm indication Three beeps with a one second interval for 24 seconds. Maximum depth blinks. Alarm reason The selected depth (3–120 m / 10–394 ft) is exceeded. The fixed maximum depth (120 m / 394 ft) is exceeded. Three beeps with a one second interval for 24 seconds. Dive time blinks. The selected dive time (1–999 min) is exceeded. NOTE When the backlight is turned OFF, it does not illuminate when an alarm is activated.
Out of calculation limits Suunto uses state of the art memory and microprocessors, however, there are limitations to the memory capacity of decompression calculations. Therefore Suunto must limit the maximum saturation of tissues on Suunto HelO2 and limit the maximum bottom times on dives performed using the dive computer. The bottom times include decompression calculation.
Omitted decompression The Error mode results from omitted decompression, for example, when you stay above the ceiling for more than three minutes. During this three-minute period the Er warning is shown and the audible alarm beeps. After this, the dive computer enters a permanent Error mode. The instrument will continue to function normally if you descend below the ceiling within this three-minute period.
However, if you decide to attach it yourself, do the following: 1. Remove the high pressure (HP) port plug on the first stage of your regulator using an appropriate tool. 2. Thread the high pressure transmitter of the Suunto into the HP port of your regulator with your fingers. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN! Maximum torque is 6 Nm/4.4 lbsft or 53 lbsin. The seal is based on a static O-ring, not force! 3. Attach the regulator to the scuba cylinder and slowly open the valve.
NOTE The pairing procedure only needs to performed once, before the first use, and you do not need to repair it. To pair the transmitter and the Suunto HelO2 dive computer: 1. Ensure that the transmitter is properly attached to the regulator’s HP port and that the regulator is properly attached to the cylinder. 2. Ensure that the Suunto HelO2 is turned on, and that the wireless integration is enabled in the Suunto HelO2 settings (HP set ON, refer to Section 5.8.8. Setting the HP code).
After this, the transmitter selects a new code. The Suunto HelO2 must be in “cd:--“ mode to pair on the new code. This procedure can be used if, for example, your dive buddy has the same code and you need to change it. NOTE In order to save battery energy, the transmitter enters power saving mode with slower data transmission rate if the tank pressure remains unchanged for more than five (5) minutes. The transmitter continues transmitting with the saved code when any pressure change is measured. 5.7.3.
Display Indication Figure FAIL Pressure reading has not been updated for more than one minute. The latest valid pressure reading is displayed intermittently. After five minutes, "FAIL" is displayed intermittently with "---". Transmitter is out of range, in power saving mode or on another channel. Activate the transmitter by breathing off the regulator, and recode the wrist if necessary. C LOb Pressure transmitter battery voltage is low. The pressure reading is displayed intermittently.
5.8. MIXED GAS DIVE mode settings Suunto HelO2 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 (MIXED GAS, GAUGE), so that, for example, gas mix settings are only available in the MIXED GAS submode. With Suunto HelO2, most of the settings are planned with the Suunto Dive Planner and downloaded to the dive computer. If necessary, they can be changed manually.
5.8.1. Setting the gases If set to the MIXED GAS mode, the correct oxygen and helium percentages of the gas in your cylinders (and additional gases) must always be entered into the dive computer to ensure correct tissue and oxygen calculation. In addition, the oxygen partial pressure limit must be set. You can either modify the dive plan with the Suunto Dive Planner or enter the correct values directly into the dive computer after analyzing the gas mixes in your cylinders. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS.
The ASC time is calculated based on the assumption that you start the ascent profile immediately and all the PRIMARY gases are changed as soon as their maximum operating depth allows it. That is, using the gases that are set as primary, the most optimal ascent schedule for the moment is calculated.
The depth alarm is factory-set to 50 m/160 ft, but you can adjust it according to your personal preference, or switch it off altogether. The depth range can be set from 3 m to 120 m/10 ft to 394 ft. 5.8.3. 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. NOTE With a range of 1–999 minutes, the alarm can be set to your planned bottom time, for example. 5.8.4.
ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 5.8.5. Setting the sample rate The Sample Rate setting controls how often the depth, tank pressure (if enabled), and water temperature is stored in the memory. You can set the dive profile sample rate to 10, 20, 30, or 60 seconds. The factory default setting is 20 seconds. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 5.8.6.
The 50 bar/700 psi alarm, however, is fixed and cannot be changed. You cannot acknowledge this alarm. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 5.8.7. Setting the tank pressure The wireless transmission can be set “ON” or “OFF” depending whether the wireless pressure transmitter is used or not. No cylinder pressure-related data is shown, nor data reception made, when this selection is “OFF”. ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. 5.8.8.
ADJUST WITH UP AND DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT WITH SELECT BUTTON. SELECT TANK PRESSURE ON. 5.8.9. 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. 5.9. 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 HelO2 has two diving modes: MIXED GAS mode for diving with gas mixes and GAUGE mode for use as a bottom timer. The chosen dive mode is displayed when the DIVE mode is accessed, and you can toggle between the submodes by pressing the UP/DOWN buttons. 5.9.2. DIVE mode activation The dive computer activates automatically when submerged deeper than 0.5 m/1.5 ft.
At this time, perform your pre-checks, and ensure that: • the instrument operates in the correct mode and provides a complete display (MIXED GAS/GAUGE mode) • the battery level is ok. • the altitude and personal adjustment settings are correct. • the instrument displays correct units of measurement (Metric/Imperial). • the instrument displays the correct temperature and depth (0.0 m/0 ft).
the correct number of mixes is set and that the oxygen and helium percentages are adjusted according to the measured gas blends in your cylinders • the oxygen partial pressure limits are set correctly For more information on the MIXED GAS mode, please refer to Section 6.2. Diving in MIXED GAS mode . 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.
NOTE For safety reasons, the backlight cannot be activated when the low battery warning is indicated by the battery symbol. The optional wireless pressure transmitter sends out a low battery (batt) warning when its battery voltage is getting low. This is shown intermittently instead of the pressure reading. When you get this warning, the pressure transmitter's battery needs to be replaced. 5.9.4.
NOTE Section 5.8.4. 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. 5.9.5.
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 5.5, Personal Adjustment settings. In ideal conditions, retain the default setting, P0. If conditions are more difficult, or any of the factors which tend to increase the possibility of DCI exist, select P1, or even the most conservative P2.
Personal adjust- Condition ment value Desired tables P1 Some risk factors or conditions Progressively more conservative exist P2 Several risk factors or conditions exist WARNING Personal adjustment setting P0–P-2 causes a high risk of DCI, or other personal injury, and death. 5.10. Safety Stops Safety Stops are widely considered good diving practice for recreational and technical diving, and are an integral part of most dive tables.
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 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.
5.11. Deep stops The most significant factor limiting the ascent is the ceiling depth. It is the maximum depth a diver can ascend to before tissue pressures have decreased low enough. In addition, separate safety stops are used. Their purpose is to increase the safety margin even if decreasing the tissue pressures does not require them. Such stops are safety stop when surfacing and deep stops. According to UHMS, deep stops are stops that occur deeper than the traditional decompression model suggests.
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-related information This section contains information on diving with gas mixes. To activate the MIXED GAS DIVE mode, please refer to Section 5.9.1. Accessing DIVE mode. DIVE HAS JUST BEGUN AND AVAILABLE NO-DECOMPRESSION TIME IS OVER 199 MINUTES SO NO VALUE IS DISPLAYED.
6.1.1. Basic dive data During a No-decompression dive, the following information is displayed: • your present depth in meters/feet • the available no-decompression time in minutes as NO DEC TIME • the ascent rate presented as a bar graph on the right side DIVE DISPLAY - PRESENT DEPTH IS 15 M, MAX DEPTH OF DIVE IS 33.5 M AND NO-DECOMPRESSION STOP TIME LIMIT IS 38 MIN. ELAPSED DIVE TIME IS 13 MIN.
In addition, with the optional wireless transmission enabled: • the cylinder pressure in bar (or psi) displayed in the lower left corner • the cylinder pressure graphically displayed on the left side 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.
Continuous ascent rate violations will result in Mandatory Safety Stops. When Recommended Deep Stop is enabled, the length is indicated in seconds. NORMAL ASCENT RATE. WARNING ACTIVATED BACKLIGHT, ALARM AND A BLINKING ASCENT RATE BAR GRAPH INDICATE YOU ARE ASCENDING FASTER THAN 10 M/MIN. YOU ARE ADVISED TO MAKE A MANDATORY SAFETY STOP WHEN YOU REACH A DEPTH OF 6 M. DO NOT EXCEED THE MAXIMUM ASCENT RATE! Rapid ascents increase the risk of injury.
6.1.5. Decompression dives When your NO DEC TIME becomes zero, your dive changes into a decompression dive. Therefore, you must perform one or more decompression stops on your way to the surface. The NO DEC TIME on your display will be replaced by an ASC TIME, and a CEILING notation will appear. An upward pointing arrow will also prompt you to start your ascent. If you exceed the no-decompression limits on a dive, the dive computer will provide the decompression information required for ascent.
WARNING YOUR ACTUAL ASCENT TIME MAY BE LONGER THAN DISPLAYED BY THE INSTRUMENT! The ascent time will increase if you: • do not use optimal decompression gas • 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 gas 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. 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 above 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. CEILING IS AT 3 M.
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) DESCEND 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.
will cause inert gas 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 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.
MIXED GAS DIVE MODE ACTIVATION, MAXIMUM OPERATIONAL DEPTH BASED ON SET O2% (14%), HE2% (32%), AND PO2 (1.4) IS 83.3 M.
DOWN BUTTON TOGGLES BETWEEN O2:HE, 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 MIXED GAS mode, in addition to tracking the diver's exposure to inert gas, 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 HelO2 allows gas changes to enabled gas mixes during the dive. When the maximum operating depth allows for a gas change, the dive computer prompts you to change the gas.
NOTE Mix number, O2%, He and PO2 for the mixes are shown when scrolling. If the set PO2 limit is exceeded , it will be shown with the PO2 value blinking. The dive computer does not allow you to change to a gas whose set PO2 is exceeded. In such a case, the mix is shown but cannot be selected. If the PO2 is less than 0.18 bar, the dive computer gives an alarm. NOTE If no button is pressed in 15 seconds, the dive computer will go back to the dive display without changing the gas mix.
BY PRESSING THE SELECT BUTTON DURING A DIVE, A BOOKMARK IS WRITTEN IN THE PROFILE MEMORY, THE DIVE TIMER IS RESET, AND THE PREVIOUSLY-TIMED INTERVAL IS DISPLAYED BELOW. Tank pressure (if enabled) is also displayed during the dive. NOTE The GAUGE mode does not provide decompression information. NOTE If you dive with the GAUGE mode, it is not possible to change between the modes before the no fly time (48 h) has counted down.
7. AFTER DIVING Once back at the surface, Suunto HelO 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 If set to MIXED GAS mode, the following information will also be shown: • the oxygen percentage labeled O2% • the helium percentage labeled He% • the oxygen partial pressure labeled PO2 • the current oxygen toxicity exposure labeled OLF% 7.2.
7.3. Repetitive dive planning The Suunto HelO2 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 plan mode is not meant for technical dive planning which the Suunto Dive Planner PC software is meant for. However, the dive plan mode can be used to plan short recreational dives.
• • • A minimum surface interval of 12 hours would be required in order to be reasonably assured a diver will remain symptom free upon ascent to altitude in a commercial jetliner (altitude up to 2,400 m/8,000 ft). Divers who plan to make daily, multiple dives for several days, or make dives that require decompression stops, should take special precautions and wait for an extended interval beyond 12 hours before a flight.
7.5. PLAN mode The PLAN mode includes a dive planner (PLAN Nodec). 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. No-decompression times are calculated by using the bottom gas. When entering the PLAN nodec mode, the display first briefly shows the remaining desaturation time and no-decompression time at the depth of 9 m/30 ft before going into plan mode.
WHEN ENTERING THE PLANNODEC MODE THE DISPLAY FIRST BRIEFLY SHOWS THE REMAINING DESATURATION TIME BEFORE GOING INTO PLAN MODE. USE UP AND DOWN BUTTONS TO SCROLL DIFFERENT NO-DECOMPRESSION LIMITS. NO-DECOMPRESSION LIMITS LONGER THAN 99 MINUTES ARE DISPLAYED AS “–”.
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. Diving at altitude and in Section 5.9.5. 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.
7.6.1. Dive logbook (MEM Logbook) The Suunto HelO2 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.
Page II • maximum depth • surface time after previous dive • warnings • consumed tank pressure • OLF percentage of MIXED GAS dive Page III • scrolling • dive profile (temperature, depth, tank pressure, gases) 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).
DIVE HISTORY DISPLAY. TOTAL NUMBER OF DIVES, DIVE HOURS AND MAXIMUM DEPTH. 7.7. Suunto Dive Planner (SDP) Suunto Dive Planner is an essential part of your dive. It is used for creating dive plans. WARNING Using the Suunto Dive Planner software is not a substitute for proper dive training. Diving with mixed gases has dangers that are not familiar to divers diving with air.
WARNING Always use realistic SAC rates and conservative turn pressures during dive planning. An over-optimistic or erroneous gas planning can result in the exhaustion of breathing gas during decompression or in a cave or a wreck. After you finish planning your dive with Suunto Dive Planner, download the gases, settings and alarms into your dive computer. You can use your Suunto HelO2 to finetune the settings and gases manually.
7.8. Suunto DM4 with Movescount The Suunto DM4 with Movescount (DM4) is an optional software that greatly enhances the functionality of your Suunto . With the DM4 software, you can download dive data from your dive computer to your laptop. After that, you can view and organize all the data recorded with your Suunto . You can plan dives (with Suunto Dive Planner), print copies of your dive profiles, and also upload your dive logs to share with your friends at http://www.movescount.com (see Section 7.9.
By using the DM4, you are able to enter setup options such as: • input a personal, 30-character field into the Suunto instrument. • reset the Scuba History's maximum depth to zero • reset all Free Dive History • manually add comments, multimedia and other personal information to the PCbased dive data files 7.9. 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.
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, 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 for possible moisture or water. DO NOT use the dive computer if you detect any moisture or water inside. Contact an authorized Suunto dealer for battery replacement or other service. CAUTION! • Do not use compressed air to blow water off the unit.
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.
9.3. 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. Thoroughly rinse and dry the computer. 2. Open the securing ring of the battery compartment lid by pushing it down and rotating it clockwise. You may use a pointed nose pliers or a small screwdriver as an aid in the rotating.
11. Check that the new lubricated O-ring is in good condition. Put it in the right position on the battery compartment lid. Be very careful not to get any dirt on the o-ring or its sealing surfaces. 12. Carefully press the lid onto the battery compartment with your thumb, while making sure that the O-ring is not at any point protruding out on the edge. 13. Put your other thumb through the locking ring. Press this thumb firmly against the lid and release the other one.
Securing Ring HelO2 Battery Compartment Lid with buzzer Battery O-Ring Battery Retainer 94
9.4. Wireless transmitter battery replacement NOTE It is advisable to contact an authorized Suunto representative for transmitter battery replacement. It is imperative that the change is made in a proper manner to avoid any leakage of water into the transmitter. 9.4.1. Transmitter battery kit The transmitter battery kit includes a 3.0 V CR ½ AA lithium cell battery and a lubricated O-ring. When handling the battery, do not make contact with both of the poles at the same time.
9.4.2. Required tools • A Phillips-head screwdriver • Soft cloth for cleaning 9.4.3. Replacing the transmitter battery To change the transmitter battery: 1. Remove the transmitter from the regulator HP port. 2. Unscrew and remove the four Phillips screws on the back of the transmitter. 3. Pull off the transmitter cover. 4. Carefully remove the O-ring. Be careful not to damage the sealing surfaces. 5. Carefully remove the battery. Do not touch the electrical contacts or the circuit board.
When the battery is re-installed, the transmitter sends an overpressure (“---“) signal on code 12 for 10 seconds, after which it goes to normal operation, and shuts down after five (5) minutes. 9. Check that the new lubricated O-ring is in good condition. Put it in the right position in the O-ring groove. Be very careful not to get any dirt on the O-ring or its sealing surfaces. 10. Carefully put the transmitter cover into place. Note that the cover will only fit in one position.
10. TECHNICAL DATA 10.1. Technical specifications Dimensions and weight: • Diameter: 61.0 mm/2.4 in • Thickness: 28 mm/1.1 in • Weight: 68 g/2.4 oz Transmitter: • Max. diameter: 40 mm/1.57 in • Length: 80 mm/3.15 in • Weight: 118 g/4.
Other displays • Dive time: 0 to 999 min, counting starts and stops at 1.2 m /4 ft depth • Surface time: 0 to 99 h 59 min • Dive counter: 0 to 99 for repetitive dives • No-decompression time: 0 to 199 min (- - after 199) • Ascent time: 0 to 199 min (- - after 199) • 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.
• Operating temperature: 0°C to 40°C/32°F to 104°F • Storage temperature: -20°C to +50°C/ -4°F to +122°F It is recommended that the instrument be stored in a dry place at room temperature. NOTE Do not leave the dive computer in direct sunlight! 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).
Transmitter: • One 3V lithium battery: 1/2AA (K5546) and O-ring 2.00 mm x 2.
10.2. 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. It is based on both laboratory experiments and diving data, including data from DAN. It is a significant advance on the classical Haldane models, which do not predict free gas (microbubbles).
Suunto Technical RGBM model is a modified version of the M-value model. Calculation of the M-value model can be found in common dive literature. Modifications have been made to have the model follow RGBM theory as closely as possible. The modifications have been conducted with the help of Dr. Bruce Wienke. Functionality of Suunto Technical RGBM has been validated and verified to the depth of 120 m/393 ft with hundreds of test dives both in the field and in laboratory.
10.2.2. Diver safety and Suunto Technical RGBM model Because any decompression model is purely theoretical and does not monitor the actual body of a diver, no decompression model can guarantee the absence of DCI. Suunto Technical RGBM model has many features that reduce the risk of DCI. The Suunto Technical RGBM algorithm adapts its predictions of both the effects of microbubble build-up and adverse dive profiles in the current dive series.
10.2.3. Altitude diving The atmospheric pressure is lower at high altitudes than at sea level. After traveling to a higher altitude, you will have additional nitrogen in your body, compared to the equilibrium situation at the original altitude. This "additional" nitrogen is released gradually over time and equilibrium is restored. It is recommended that you acclimatize to a new altitude by waiting at least three hours before making a dive.
• • • • • The selected O2% on the alternative display OLF% alternative display for either CNS% or OTU% (whichever is larger) Audible alarms are given and the OLF value starts to blink when the 80% and 100% limits are exceeded. Audible alarms are given and the actual PO2 value blinks when it exceeds the preset limit. In dive planning, the maximum depth according to the O2% and maximum PO2 selected.
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 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.
Multi level dive A single or repetitive dive that includes time spent at various depths and whose no decompression limits are therefore not determined solely by the maximum depth attained. 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.
PFO Abbreviation for patent foramen ovale. It is a form of congenital heart defect that enables blood flow between the left and right atria via the interatrial septum. PO2 Abbreviation for oxygen partial pressure. RGBM Abbreviation for Reduced Gradient Bubble Model. 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.
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 04/2009, 08/2011. Suunto is a registered trademark of Suunto Oy. All Rights reserved.
