I own a wireless wrist computer and love it. I trust in Alec's opioion and will take it in to the shop when the time comes to replace the battery. Thanks for another great video Alec.
Some of the less expensive wrist computers are pretty easy and safe to change but if you love your computer, take it to a dive doctor for service. Thanks Peter. Alec
I would trust anything Alec says with my life. A guy that has been diving this long and sharing the wealth of knowledge he has with us all is invaluable to me. I've watched all of his videos and go back to them for reference from time to time. I get what people are talking about in regards to redundancy. My entire career in IT is all about redundancy. But the dive computer is the replacement for the SPG. But, if you want to carry and SPG for additional safety, by all means do so. Just some of us don't. Thanks Alec!!
If you've got a ScubaPro G2 transmitter, I'd recommend replacing the battery annually or before every big diving trip. My factory G2 transmitter battery was throwing low battery alerts after less than a year (14 dives), and the replacement battery had a similar lifespan before beginning to alert. I carry spare batteries with me now :)
That's a bit fast. Next time you can live without for a few weeks, (Scubapro isn't fast) have it returned to the factory for a test. Carrying spare batteries is always a good idea. You often can't get computer batteries on a dive trip. There are no Walmarts in Mexico or the South Pacific. Take care. Alec
Thanks Alec! I have a Suunto Viper Nuvo wrist computer and tank transmitter. The Suunto Viper computer battery is user replaceable, but the transmitter battery is not. The computer has a battery check to OK every time you turn it to dive mode. Surprisingly, there is no battery check for the Suunto transmitter. I was diving in Bonaire last week and after a half dozen dives the PSI bar on my computer flashed BATT to show the transmitter battery was dead, with no psi, so I ended my dive. If I had a redundant SPG I could have continued. Before my next dive I added a redundant SPG console, that I will always now use as a backup. And, Alec is right that the transmitter should only be serviced by a Suunto service center. The cap must be replaced, and Suunto only sells that kit to Service centers. My dive buddy is a tech at a Suunto service center, and he confirmed that the transmitter can flood without a new cap. Suunto battery service at my center costs $55.
I hope all makers change to fully user replaceable OR rechargeable units. Nothing worse than ending a great dive like Bonaire due to a battery issue. A
Just a little more info...btw, I have a Shearwater Perdix with a Shearwater transmitter. Both the Perdix and the transmitter are not low end computers. The Perdix was $1300, the transmitter was $300 or so (been about 3 years, so don't rightly remember). Both the computer and the transmitter have coin slots for user battery replacement. The computer uses a disposable AA. The transmitter is a CR2 lithium. Just an FYI for other Perdix or Shearwater transmitter users. I wear my wristwatch on my left wrist, so when I wear the Perdix, which is too big to use as a wristwatch anyway, I wear it on my right wrist. This adds one benefit for me: during ascents, when I want to look at depth and ascent rate, my left hand is on my LPI to manage air in my BCD. With my computer on my right hand, I don't have to lower my hose to look at it. This still allows me to use my SMB, since I don't have to worry about raising my right hand above my BCD to manage that line. Just a convenience for me. Everyone has their preference.
I have the Aqua Lung i450T watch/computer with tank transmitter and literally the night before we were due to leave on our dive vacation I got the low battery indicator on the watch. It's a "user changeable" battery and I had the correct replacement battery and followed the battery change process to the letter but on every dive I was anxious that the computer would flood on me. And with no spg back up, my diving would've been done. Luckily, I had no issues but from now on I'll be taking it in to the service center for battery replacement. Thanks for the advice, Mr. Peirce. Love your tech tips!
Check your owner's manual for the expected life of the watch AFTER the low battery sign appears. It's usually many hours, more than enough to make a dozen dives or more. Better to change it but there's no need to panic if the Low Battery sign comes on. Take care. Alec
I can attest to the reliability of hose type air integrated computers. I have an Oceanic Datamax Pro Plus that is 19 years old and still going strong. This thing just won't die, and the calendar only went to 2008, so Oceanic only thought it would last 10 years. The only thing I have replaced is the battery cover o-ring each time I replace the battery. I just upgraded to a Shearwater Teric (awesome computer and well worth the $$$) and the old girl is now my back-up. I've never felt the need to have a backup SPG. One could argue that its just another point of failure. I simply love having one less hose using the Teric with a transmitter. Horses for courses I guess.
The Oceanic Datamax was one of the earliest AI (that's air-integrated - NOT artificial intelligence!) dive computers and was built to last. I sold thousands of them and I'll bet 1/2 of them are still working. Once you've used a good AI computer, the SPG becomes almost silly. It would be like setting down your iPhone to use a dial phone (do they still have dial phones??) - no contact list, no speed dial, 10 seconds to dial the number, no history, etc, etc. Picture this - you're looking at your Datamax or Teric screen with all of the information it provides about your dive status, then, drop it and look at your SPG. Nothing!! Tank pressure only - a number that simply tells you there's air in your tank. You know that! You're still breathing!!! As I've said many times, the SPG was an incredible leap forward in the safety of scuba diving - in 1962!!!!! Hello out there! Take care. Alec
I don't have access to Mares parts catalogues anymore but suggest this web site, scubagaskets.com, ask for the o-ring to fit the HP port. Note there is also a large o-ring for the battery compartment. Good luck. A
Hi Alec. Interesting video as always. I thought that the pressure testing chamber was a neat thing, I don't recall seeing one on the bench at your old place? Just wondering if it is dry or full of water then pressurized? I could see using this to test flashlights too. Always a good day when you learn something new (and don't have a scar to show for it! :)Thanks Owen M
We had one but quite frankly didn't use it very much. You can dry test many items but it's usually best to put them in water. If testing dive computers you MUST have them submerged. I probably used out tester to compress foam coffee cups more than anything else. It was fun to watch a medium coffee cup turn in to a tiny coffee cup as the pressure increased!! It really drove home the effects of pressure to new divers. Take care. Alec
Alec, how did you know if there was a small water leak ? is the device that precise to know a change in water volume/pressure - air bubble ? not like you gonna open to watch and see if it's getting wet, as you would have to re-open it again. Don't know that I ever seen these before...
Alec Would it be possible to do a video about pressure testing dive computer/watch/transmitter after changing the battery so that we know it will not leak on a dive when it is needed.
I considered it but other than watching it closely on the first dive after a battery change, there is little a diver can do. A few dive stores have pressure test device you put a dive computer in then pressurize it to say 100'. Don't know what they would charge but its primarily for peace of mind. Alec
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Maybe I used the wrong word of "pressure testing". I really meant "watertightness testing". There are pressure testers available on Amazon which are very similar to what I saw being used in a dive store. If you don't feel that a video is possible, should you keep the watch in the air, pressurise the container, wait a few minutes, immerse the watch and then release the pressure OR keep the watch in the air, pressurise the container, wait a few minutes, release the pressure and then immediately immerse the watch? Or some other sequence? I have had the batteries of several dive computers changed at divestores and then leak on the first dive of a 2 week scuba diving holiday. I even had one dive computer that had its battery changed at a divestore, I did one dive in fresh water to test it out and no problems showed but on the first dive in sea water, the computer started acting up so I inspected it - the o-ring had not been seated properly and was sticking out of its "door" - I opened the "door" and re-positioned the o-ring and the computer worked fine for the next two weeks of my holiday. Naturally, as soon as I got back from my holiday I went back to the divestore and complained and the computer was sent back to the manufacturer where something was done to it. That was about 10 years ago and the computer is still working fine and I now change the battery myself, hence the question of how to correctly test it.
Consider yourself in the upper levels of skills. As a long time service tech, I repaired almost as many bad battery changes as dive computers sold. I should have kept pictures as proof of how some DIY battery changers messed up: wrong battery, no o-ring, screws not tight/missing, etc. Hope you find something else to watch and learn from. A
Hi Alec! I would like to know more about metal that screws into plastic... Speaking about the transmitter, you said to use a new cap because they have metal screws into plastic cap and, after you unscrew them, it will never be the same. Got it. My question is: what about a power inflator or even a dry suit inflator? They both have metal nipple (I mean the one that it's connected to the inflator hose) that screw into plastic... I always take it apart when servicing the power inflator/dry suit inflator because I want to change the o-ring behind it. Is it bad? Should I use some teflon when doing that? I hope you can understand, English is not my first language :) A fan from Italy
Your English is great, not a problem. I'm reading 2 questions here; first is some transmitters have one use screws. When replacing batteries the screws lose the glue/adhesive that locks them in place so like the battery, they are used ones and replaced. Not all makers do this but Mares does and replacement batteries come with replacement screws. Second, power inflater valves are very different from brand to brand but generally either have one screw to disassemble the unit or plastic clips to open them up. Teflon tape should only be used if the maker advises it otherwise there is too much pressure/resistance on the thread into plastic and can strip off the threads. Always follow the makers service instructions otherwise you may be liable for damages to customer gear for not following service procedures. Take care Mattia.
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Thank you for the explanation! I haven't thought about the possibility of teflon putting too much pressure on the threads before! It's so nice to have a discussion and learn from a Pro like you! Now i'll be more cautious when disassembly my unit! As always, you're great!
Some people swear by Suunto. I've used them and sold hundreds but I never became a big fan. Whether or not they are less reliable or have a shorter life I can not say but I do know they are a nuisance to get serviced. Alec
How long does the battery last? I got my transmitter 2 years ago but haven’t done with it yet. The watch batteries do seem to die rather quickly. Is there a way to tell if I need to replace the transmitter battery?
All the wrist transmitters I know of have a internal battery check and when connected to a transmitter, its battery check. Some have a scale others are just a OK. No one wants a battery go dead on a dive so there is some checking ability. Check the owners manual or if shopping, check the features for this. Before I buy, I like to download the user manual of the products I'm interested in to see how easy it is to use. Good luck shopping Loren.
No it is not, and the wireless transmitter and computer shouldnt take the place of your SPG. You can downgrade your console to a small 1.5in or 2 in SPG, but never get rid of it. Many times Ive seen transmitters lose connectivity during a dive, (thats fine and all it will reconnect after a few seconds within range), but sometimes it doesnt reconnect or the battery dies or something happens. A simple SPG is great, an air integrated console computer, is much more reliable, than wireless. Radio frequencies (RF) that go from the 1st stage transmitter to your wrist computer have a difficult time traveling through water. RF has a very hard time going through any solid objects, even submarines need to surface or get very close to the surface to send or receive any communications.
Well, let me weigh in here guys. Your question was whether a wireless (called hoseless) dive computer was more reliable than a hose style. The answer is not quite that easy. I would say that a hoseless computer is not more reliable but a hose style is more subject to failure. if that sounds like double-talk, let me explain. A modern hoseless computer, less than 5 years old, if properly maintained and treated with care, is completely reliable. Setting aside obvious mistakes like low battery, poorly done battery change, abuse, etc, a wireless computer will not let you down. Yes, they will lose connectivity regularly just like your cell phone but, unlike your cell phone, they reconnect in seconds. That is part of their nature and is not a failing. Dive computers use a low frequency wave (5.3KHz +or-), the same as submarines, heart rate monitors, time signals, etc. Radio waves are much higher - between 300 and 3000 KHz (AM) or 30 to 300 MHz for FM or TV. That low frequency travels just fine through water for up to 15 or 20 meters. Your transmitter will be less than 1 meter from your wrist! Hose style dive computers are also very reliable but, they have many more points of failure. The hose itself is a weak point and Hgh Pressure hoses commonly fail. Manufacturers recommend in the manual that they be replaced every 5 years. Few divers do that. As well, the swivel pin in the hose end must be serviced, that's cleaned and replaced, every year or they are sure to fail. Most hose style dive computers use a Quick Disconnect which has a whole host of problems just waiting to happen. Generally, a hoseless computer is more expensive than a hose style. Given the additional service cost of the hose style, over a period of time that difference will even out. Only you can decide what is best and that may be dictated by your pocketbook. With care, either will serve you well. And if you don't buy an SPG, you can put that money towards the hoseless!! Alec
Thank you so much for the detailed information!! Hose style is definitely cheaper than hoseless. Life will be so much easier If there is a hose style air integrated dive computer, because I don't need a SPG no more. Most of the hoseless computer is way to expensive. Maybe you can make a video on the hoseless and hose diving computer and SPG. I feel like it's a very useful topic and love to hear more about dive computers:) Thank you !! Great channel love it:))
Well, there are less parts to fail but you can get transmission issues but Alex is right about the unlikelihood, unless battery gets low, if that happens you will know immediately and can check you backup to figure out how to best return to shore. If you do proper equipment checks it should never be an issue. You are more likely to have a leaky hose issue then an issue with this equipment.
this is a different DIY! actually it's the opposite... I've changed the battery on multiple Cobras and have no issues (well other than depth sensor going bad, but that's a known separate issue) but after 2 years and 80+ dives still says full battery so not like I have to do it often :) I have another (to be sold) wireless/watch AI one - decided to keep the wired one (with compass) so I can keep jamming my hands grabbing lobsters.. speaking of which it's the season. I'm out of here...
The Cobra was one of the best. Sold and used a lot of them. Nice to hear yours is hanging in. Others haven't been so lucky. Speaking of luck, have fun with the lobsters. Alec
yeah apparently there is a lawsuit that Suunto settled for depth sensor issues, but only a limited time range - www.suuntodivecomputersettlement.com/ leisurepro are selling the older cobra for half off now.
Probably on-line but all you can do is shop around. A dive store might cost a few dollars more but then you have an easy place to go if there's a problem. Many on-line purchases are "you bought - you own it. Good luck". Good luck. Alec
Many watch repair centers can do a fine job of replacing batteries in dive watches. Few have much experience with dive computers. Fewer can or will get factory replacement parts. Even less have a pressure chamber. They certainly won't test under water. And, if less than 2 years old, your warranty is over if you don't use a factory service center. Going to a watch center can save money but I want you to know the difference. Alec
No dive computer floods until it does. Shearwater makes a nice product but I guarantee it can be flooded. There is no dive computer made that is guaranteed to not flood just as there is no computer that won't fail. Even Shearwater says so in their manuals. However, with careful use and fastidious maintenance, a dive computer is simply the best safety device that has appeared on the market since the Safe Second. Alec
Yep. I changed the batteries of my Perdix AI a couple of times already, and the transmitter battery also. Some newer systems are specifically designed to be user operated, most older systems were not. My Suunto Viper II always went back to the dive store for a battery change.
Change dive stores! It's hardly fair to complain about your LDS if you continue to go there. That's a bit like complaining about MacDonald's as you chomp on their burgers! O-Rings in bulk are quite cheap. An LDS buys in bulk to make up for the lost revenue from filling tanks. You can do the same if you have a use for 250 O-Rings of the same size. Normal mark-up on a special part would be 3X Regular Dealer Price. Regular Dealer Price on a non-specialized O-Ring would be $1.10 so should cost the diver maybe $3.00. Some, like the valve face O-Ring, are cheaper; lots, like the square-shaped ones for a DataPlus, are much more. If a dive store is large enough to buy in bulk and so pay a lot less for their O-Rings, the Mark-Up process is the same, so they can make a bit of extra money. Surely you're not upset that your LDS is making an extra $1 to $2 once in a while! I'm sure they've done lots for you and not charged you anything or very much. Lawyers ask $250 or more per hour to discuss your case! How much does your LDS charge to discuss your dive computer problems?? Alec
Some are pretty amazing all right! Dive computers are only using battery power when in use, other than a few that use a tiny amount all the time. Some computers seem to last forever; others not so much. I haven't noticed any pattern. It seems random. Alec
Interesting point Marco but the title does not say 'how too', but what to be careful of when a store, or yourself changes batteries. There are dozens of methods of changing batteries so there is no way I can show all but advise on the common points to watch for. Hope this helps and keep watching, lots to learn.
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter it is true that it does not say „how to“, but i still think with this title there will be other disappointed viewers... i like the way you do videos. Just wanted to spare others of watching 12 minutes and not getting to see how a battery change was done. Cheers and happy bubbles to you!
A factory authorized service center replaces the seal. If your computer is still under warranty, you need to be sure that your LDS is authorized to service it. Not all stores can service all computers. The seal is just one way of knowing that the computer was serviced properly. There are other less obvious signs. Alec
New computers are MORE reliable than SPGs Bill. Add to that the tremendous advantages that a computer gives a diver and the sooner SPGs are gone the better. If it makes you feel better to carry an SPG, go for it. But please don't say it's necessary. Alec
Last month in Bonaire the (1 year old) flex hose of my SPG started leaking. I removed it, capped it, and used my computer only for pressure readings. Only time I really missed the SPG was during the tripple check breathing out of my second stage before getting off the boat. I always do a few quick breaths to check for a moving needle. I just need to remember to turn on the computer before entering the water, just to do that check. Otherwise, the set is easier to assemble (I have a BCD which routes the SPG and inflater hose though the BCD), and leaner in the water without the SPG. I never checked the SPG during dives since I have my AI computer, anyways. So during a dive you'll not miss it at all. And the new AI systems are extremely reliable.
Agree with ditching the spg. Redundancy for air shouldn’t be needed. If your checking your air constantly like you should and suddenly you find your transmitter is not working or your spg is not working you just end the dive. If your method of measuring air fails and you have NO idea how much air you have left it means you don’t check your air often enough.
Ironic that you speak about diving safely when you suggest replacing an analog SPG for a transmitter. Transmitter compliments the analog SPG, but never should replace it. Reinforcing the concept of relying on a computer for safe diving rather than planning a dive is a very bad advice.
Dive computers are mandatory at every dive location, live aboard and resort i have been to in the last 3-5 years primarily for safer diving. No one asks for SPG's as it is now a personal choice, not required. Enjoy your SPG but don't dismiss dive computers.
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter I think you're missing the point of my comment. I didnt dismiss the dive computer as a tool for safe diving. I'm concerned that you give advice which is unsafe in its nature. The dive charter isnt there to make you dive in a safe manner, and relying on the rules set by the charter is dangerous to the dive. It should be your concern to plan the dive, and dive the plan. Having an analog SPG is a matter of safety, as computers can become unpaired, or signal interference can prevent transmission of cylinder pressure information, or if you lose the computer during the dive, or it can flood. You suggest putting all of your eggs in one basket, and I'm voicing my opinion that you give that advice without thinking about the safety of the people who hear this advice.
Agree with Sergej. Always an analog SPG as backup. Some computers do not alert about battery level on transmitters, or it could happen that it could be unpaired during a dive. You don't want to be in a situation during a dive when you don't know how much air you have on the tank.
@@BrutalMilkman I dive with two computers that are both air integrated(mostly because I'm waiting on my old one to stop working) but even if you only have one dive computer and no SPG you can end the dive if your computers pressure sensor goes out or it runs out of battery. The more redundancy the better but I'm not sure it could be considered reckless to just have one air integrated computer or one SPG, either can break.
@@mhilyard1 The problem is preaching the mindset that a battery operated device substitutes an analog SPG. It's 100 dollars that you're not spending on a piece of kit detrimental to divers safety. I've known strokes who didnt invest in a spool and died inside a wreck, and strokes who didnt have bailout while diving ccr. It's the mindset that id dangerous, and Alec here propagates it.
Is this the same Chirana that uses a Shearwater Dive Computer? Dive computers are hardly an add-on gimmick any more than your cell phone is a toy! 1. It's not a gimmick. Dive Computers have made diving easier and a lot safer. 2. It's hardly an add-on. Most diver training programs now use dive computers from day 1. Many dive centers worldwide make dive computers mandatory gear to dive with them. Alec
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Of course Alec. I was joking. Wireless transmiter is of course nice to have but will not replace the SPG. Of course the anticipation of time remaining underwater and correct display of RMV is crucial. Adding a heart rate monitor is even better. All my best Alec and keep up the advice and tech tips.
Spg’s are not needed if you have a wireless transmitter. If your spg ever failed would it be a drama? Nope because you would know how much air you had when you last checked so you just end the dive. Do the same if your wireless transmitter failed🤷🏼♂️ I laugh at people that have the wireless AND a spg. Before you got a wireless transmitter did you run 2 spg’s?!?! To each there own but it’s certainly safe to not run an spg if u run a wireless!
@@geoffclarke5901 Have you ever had a SPG stuck. I had at 150 bar at 40 meter with deco obligation. Good luck in ending that dive. SPG can get unstuck by multiple actions. Wireless transmitter not. I do not say that new tech is bad but why would you introduce another fail point in your equipment. I run a non AI shearwater computer with 2 spg for my doubles. I think this is pretty straightforward and simple approach. And by the way: when shit happends it is a very shitty situation no matter on how redundant is our gear. Only thing that matters than is if you end the dive dead or alive with or without the dreadded gear.
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I own a wireless wrist computer and love it. I trust in Alec's opioion and will take it in to the shop when the time comes to replace the battery. Thanks for another great video Alec.
Some of the less expensive wrist computers are pretty easy and safe to change but if you love your computer, take it to a dive doctor for service.
Thanks Peter.
Alec
I would trust anything Alec says with my life. A guy that has been diving this long and sharing the wealth of knowledge he has with us all is invaluable to me. I've watched all of his videos and go back to them for reference from time to time. I get what people are talking about in regards to redundancy. My entire career in IT is all about redundancy. But the dive computer is the replacement for the SPG. But, if you want to carry and SPG for additional safety, by all means do so. Just some of us don't. Thanks Alec!!
Good comment Bobby.
Thanks for your support.
Take care.
Alec
If you've got a ScubaPro G2 transmitter, I'd recommend replacing the battery annually or before every big diving trip. My factory G2 transmitter battery was throwing low battery alerts after less than a year (14 dives), and the replacement battery had a similar lifespan before beginning to alert. I carry spare batteries with me now :)
That's a bit fast. Next time you can live without for a few weeks, (Scubapro isn't fast) have it returned to the factory for a test.
Carrying spare batteries is always a good idea. You often can't get computer batteries on a dive trip. There are no Walmarts in Mexico or the South Pacific.
Take care.
Alec
Thanks Alec! I have a Suunto Viper Nuvo wrist computer and tank transmitter. The Suunto Viper computer battery is user replaceable, but the transmitter battery is not. The computer has a battery check to OK every time you turn it to dive mode. Surprisingly, there is no battery check for the Suunto transmitter. I was diving in Bonaire last week and after a half dozen dives the PSI bar on my computer flashed BATT to show the transmitter battery was dead, with no psi, so I ended my dive. If I had a redundant SPG I could have continued. Before my next dive I added a redundant SPG console, that I will always now use as a backup. And, Alec is right that the transmitter should only be serviced by a Suunto service center. The cap must be replaced, and Suunto only sells that kit to Service centers. My dive buddy is a tech at a Suunto service center, and he confirmed that the transmitter can flood without a new cap. Suunto battery service at my center costs $55.
I hope all makers change to fully user replaceable OR rechargeable units. Nothing worse than ending a great dive like Bonaire due to a battery issue.
A
Just a little more info...btw, I have a Shearwater Perdix with a Shearwater transmitter. Both the Perdix and the transmitter are not low end computers. The Perdix was $1300, the transmitter was $300 or so (been about 3 years, so don't rightly remember). Both the computer and the transmitter have coin slots for user battery replacement. The computer uses a disposable AA. The transmitter is a CR2 lithium. Just an FYI for other Perdix or Shearwater transmitter users.
I wear my wristwatch on my left wrist, so when I wear the Perdix, which is too big to use as a wristwatch anyway, I wear it on my right wrist. This adds one benefit for me: during ascents, when I want to look at depth and ascent rate, my left hand is on my LPI to manage air in my BCD. With my computer on my right hand, I don't have to lower my hose to look at it. This still allows me to use my SMB, since I don't have to worry about raising my right hand above my BCD to manage that line. Just a convenience for me. Everyone has their preference.
Exactly John, everyone is different, has preferences but still dives safe. Thanks for the feedback sir.
I have the Aqua Lung i450T watch/computer with tank transmitter and literally the night before we were due to leave on our dive vacation I got the low battery indicator on the watch. It's a "user changeable" battery and I had the correct replacement battery and followed the battery change process to the letter but on every dive I was anxious that the computer would flood on me. And with no spg back up, my diving would've been done. Luckily, I had no issues but from now on I'll be taking it in to the service center for battery replacement. Thanks for the advice, Mr. Peirce. Love your tech tips!
Check your owner's manual for the expected life of the watch AFTER the low battery sign appears. It's usually many hours, more than enough to make a dozen dives or more.
Better to change it but there's no need to panic if the Low Battery sign comes on.
Take care.
Alec
I can attest to the reliability of hose type air integrated computers. I have an Oceanic Datamax Pro Plus that is 19 years old and still going strong. This thing just won't die, and the calendar only went to 2008, so Oceanic only thought it would last 10 years. The only thing I have replaced is the battery cover o-ring each time I replace the battery. I just upgraded to a Shearwater Teric (awesome computer and well worth the $$$) and the old girl is now my back-up. I've never felt the need to have a backup SPG. One could argue that its just another point of failure. I simply love having one less hose using the Teric with a transmitter. Horses for courses I guess.
The Oceanic Datamax was one of the earliest AI (that's air-integrated - NOT artificial intelligence!) dive computers and was built to last. I sold thousands of them and I'll bet 1/2 of them are still working.
Once you've used a good AI computer, the SPG becomes almost silly. It would be like setting down your iPhone to use a dial phone (do they still have dial phones??) - no contact list, no speed dial, 10 seconds to dial the number, no history, etc, etc.
Picture this - you're looking at your Datamax or Teric screen with all of the information it provides about your dive status, then, drop it and look at your SPG. Nothing!! Tank pressure only - a number that simply tells you there's air in your tank. You know that! You're still breathing!!!
As I've said many times, the SPG was an incredible leap forward in the safety of scuba diving - in 1962!!!!! Hello out there!
Take care.
Alec
Hello Sir, I want to ask for transmitter mares LED TANK MODULE NFC WHAT’s theO-ring size we can use it ?? thank you
I don't have access to Mares parts catalogues anymore but suggest this web site, scubagaskets.com, ask for the o-ring to fit the HP port. Note there is also a large o-ring for the battery compartment. Good luck.
A
Hi Alec. Interesting video as always. I thought that the pressure testing chamber was a neat thing, I don't recall seeing one on the bench at your old place? Just wondering if it is dry or full of water then pressurized? I could see using this to test flashlights too. Always a good day when you learn something new (and don't have a scar to show for it! :)Thanks Owen M
We had one but quite frankly didn't use it very much.
You can dry test many items but it's usually best to put them in water. If testing dive computers you MUST have them submerged.
I probably used out tester to compress foam coffee cups more than anything else. It was fun to watch a medium coffee cup turn in to a tiny coffee cup as the pressure increased!! It really drove home the effects of pressure to new divers.
Take care.
Alec
Alec, how did you know if there was a small water leak ? is the device that precise to know a change in water volume/pressure - air bubble ? not like you gonna open to watch and see if it's getting wet, as you would have to re-open it again. Don't know that I ever seen these before...
deep things are my favs. Cool.
Alec
Would it be possible to do a video about pressure testing dive computer/watch/transmitter after changing the battery so that we know it will not leak on a dive when it is needed.
I considered it but other than watching it closely on the first dive after a battery change, there is little a diver can do. A few dive stores have pressure test device you put a dive computer in then pressurize it to say 100'. Don't know what they would charge but its primarily for peace of mind.
Alec
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Maybe I used the wrong word of "pressure testing". I really meant "watertightness testing". There are pressure testers available on Amazon which are very similar to what I saw being used in a dive store. If you don't feel that a video is possible, should you keep the watch in the air, pressurise the container, wait a few minutes, immerse the watch and then release the pressure OR keep the watch in the air, pressurise the container, wait a few minutes, release the pressure and then immediately immerse the watch? Or some other sequence? I have had the batteries of several dive computers changed at divestores and then leak on the first dive of a 2 week scuba diving holiday. I even had one dive computer that had its battery changed at a divestore, I did one dive in fresh water to test it out and no problems showed but on the first dive in sea water, the computer started acting up so I inspected it - the o-ring had not been seated properly and was sticking out of its "door" - I opened the "door" and re-positioned the o-ring and the computer worked fine for the next two weeks of my holiday. Naturally, as soon as I got back from my holiday I went back to the divestore and complained and the computer was sent back to the manufacturer where something was done to it. That was about 10 years ago and the computer is still working fine and I now change the battery myself, hence the question of how to correctly test it.
First time in your your channel, amazing explanation definitely another subscriber by me...
Thank Ismaeil. Hope there is more for you to learn and share with others.
Alec
I like Alec's videos but this is on of the weaker ones. I change the battery on my G2 transmitter myself and no problem.
Consider yourself in the upper levels of skills. As a long time service tech, I repaired almost as many bad battery changes as dive computers sold. I should have kept pictures as proof of how some DIY battery changers messed up: wrong battery, no o-ring, screws not tight/missing, etc. Hope you find something else to watch and learn from.
A
Hi Alec! I would like to know more about metal that screws into plastic...
Speaking about the transmitter, you said to use a new cap because they have metal screws into plastic cap and, after you unscrew them, it will never be the same. Got it. My question is: what about a power inflator or even a dry suit inflator? They both have metal nipple (I mean the one that it's connected to the inflator hose) that screw into plastic... I always take it apart when servicing the power inflator/dry suit inflator because I want to change the o-ring behind it. Is it bad? Should I use some teflon when doing that? I hope you can understand, English is not my first language :)
A fan from Italy
Your English is great, not a problem. I'm reading 2 questions here; first is some transmitters have one use screws. When replacing batteries the screws lose the glue/adhesive that locks them in place so like the battery, they are used ones and replaced. Not all makers do this but Mares does and replacement batteries come with replacement screws. Second, power inflater valves are very different from brand to brand but generally either have one screw to disassemble the unit or plastic clips to open them up. Teflon tape should only be used if the maker advises it otherwise there is too much pressure/resistance on the thread into plastic and can strip off the threads. Always follow the makers service instructions otherwise you may be liable for damages to customer gear for not following service procedures. Take care Mattia.
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Thank you for the explanation! I haven't thought about the possibility of teflon putting too much pressure on the threads before! It's so nice to have a discussion and learn from a Pro like you! Now i'll be more cautious when disassembly my unit!
As always, you're great!
The Suunto D series Dive Computer / Watches only last about 2 years.
Some people swear by Suunto. I've used them and sold hundreds but I never became a big fan.
Whether or not they are less reliable or have a shorter life I can not say but I do know they are a nuisance to get serviced.
Alec
How long does the battery last? I got my transmitter 2 years ago but haven’t done with it yet. The watch batteries do seem to die rather quickly. Is there a way to tell if I need to replace the transmitter battery?
All the wrist transmitters I know of have a internal battery check and when connected to a transmitter, its battery check. Some have a scale others are just a OK. No one wants a battery go dead on a dive so there is some checking ability. Check the owners manual or if shopping, check the features for this. Before I buy, I like to download the user manual of the products I'm interested in to see how easy it is to use. Good luck shopping Loren.
ALL VERY GOOD ADVICE!!!! Thanks Alec.
under surface stuff are awsome. Cool.
You are so right.
Alec
is the Wireless computer more reliable than a normal air intergrated dive computer that connects to the tank?
No it is not, and the wireless transmitter and computer shouldnt take the place of your SPG. You can downgrade your console to a small 1.5in or 2 in SPG, but never get rid of it. Many times Ive seen transmitters lose connectivity during a dive, (thats fine and all it will reconnect after a few seconds within range), but sometimes it doesnt reconnect or the battery dies or something happens. A simple SPG is great, an air integrated console computer, is much more reliable, than wireless. Radio frequencies (RF) that go from the 1st stage transmitter to your wrist computer have a difficult time traveling through water. RF has a very hard time going through any solid objects, even submarines need to surface or get very close to the surface to send or receive any communications.
Is the wireless computer often more expensive than the simple SPG? A simple air integrated console computer maybe is more reliable.
Well, let me weigh in here guys.
Your question was whether a wireless (called hoseless) dive computer was more reliable than a hose style.
The answer is not quite that easy. I would say that a hoseless computer is not more reliable but a hose style is more subject to failure. if that sounds like double-talk, let me explain.
A modern hoseless computer, less than 5 years old, if properly maintained and treated with care, is completely reliable. Setting aside obvious mistakes like low battery, poorly done battery change, abuse, etc, a wireless computer will not let you down. Yes, they will lose connectivity regularly just like your cell phone but, unlike your cell phone, they reconnect in seconds. That is part of their nature and is not a failing.
Dive computers use a low frequency wave (5.3KHz +or-), the same as submarines, heart rate monitors, time signals, etc. Radio waves are much higher - between 300 and 3000 KHz (AM) or 30 to 300 MHz for FM or TV.
That low frequency travels just fine through water for up to 15 or 20 meters. Your transmitter will be less than 1 meter from your wrist!
Hose style dive computers are also very reliable but, they have many more points of failure. The hose itself is a weak point and Hgh Pressure hoses commonly fail. Manufacturers recommend in the manual that they be replaced every 5 years. Few divers do that. As well, the swivel pin in the hose end must be serviced, that's cleaned and replaced, every year or they are sure to fail. Most hose style dive computers use a Quick Disconnect which has a whole host of problems just waiting to happen.
Generally, a hoseless computer is more expensive than a hose style. Given the additional service cost of the hose style, over a period of time that difference will even out.
Only you can decide what is best and that may be dictated by your pocketbook. With care, either will serve you well.
And if you don't buy an SPG, you can put that money towards the hoseless!!
Alec
Thank you so much for the detailed information!! Hose style is definitely cheaper than hoseless. Life will be so much easier If there is a hose style air integrated dive computer, because I don't need a SPG no more. Most of the hoseless computer is way to expensive. Maybe you can make a video on the hoseless and hose diving computer and SPG. I feel like it's a very useful topic and love to hear more about dive computers:) Thank you !! Great channel love it:))
Well, there are less parts to fail but you can get transmission issues but Alex is right about the unlikelihood, unless battery gets low, if that happens you will know immediately and can check you backup to figure out how to best return to shore. If you do proper equipment checks it should never be an issue. You are more likely to have a leaky hose issue then an issue with this equipment.
this is a different DIY! actually it's the opposite... I've changed the battery on multiple Cobras and have no issues (well other than depth sensor going bad, but that's a known separate issue) but after 2 years and 80+ dives still says full battery so not like I have to do it often :)
I have another (to be sold) wireless/watch AI one - decided to keep the wired one (with compass) so I can keep jamming my hands grabbing lobsters.. speaking of which it's the season. I'm out of here...
The Cobra was one of the best. Sold and used a lot of them. Nice to hear yours is hanging in. Others haven't been so lucky.
Speaking of luck, have fun with the lobsters.
Alec
yeah apparently there is a lawsuit that Suunto settled for depth sensor issues, but only a limited time range - www.suuntodivecomputersettlement.com/
leisurepro are selling the older cobra for half off now.
Cobras are easy. Just replace the o-ring at the same time.
My dive shop definitely has not such pressure chamber. I have seen where they work. Lots of parts and tools but nothing like that device.
They have a lot of important uses - watches, computers, camera housings, depth gauges, etc.
Alec
Sorta random question but where is the cheapest place to buy a spare air
Probably on-line but all you can do is shop around.
A dive store might cost a few dollars more but then you have an easy place to go if there's a problem. Many on-line purchases are "you bought - you own it. Good luck".
Good luck.
Alec
Take the dive computer itself to a watch repair shop. That is what I have been doing with my Dive watch. The will charge you less then half as much.
Many watch repair centers can do a fine job of replacing batteries in dive watches.
Few have much experience with dive computers.
Fewer can or will get factory replacement parts.
Even less have a pressure chamber.
They certainly won't test under water.
And, if less than 2 years old, your warranty is over if you don't use a factory service center.
Going to a watch center can save money but I want you to know the difference.
Alec
Shearwater + coin + oring + lube = always works. No floods.
No dive computer floods until it does.
Shearwater makes a nice product but I guarantee it can be flooded.
There is no dive computer made that is guaranteed to not flood just as there is no computer that won't fail.
Even Shearwater says so in their manuals.
However, with careful use and fastidious maintenance, a dive computer is simply the best safety device that has appeared on the market since the Safe Second.
Alec
Yep. I changed the batteries of my Perdix AI a couple of times already, and the transmitter battery also. Some newer systems are specifically designed to be user operated, most older systems were not. My Suunto Viper II always went back to the dive store for a battery change.
Yep, 17 cents worth that the store will charge you 5 bucks for.
Change dive stores!
It's hardly fair to complain about your LDS if you continue to go there.
That's a bit like complaining about MacDonald's as you chomp on their burgers!
O-Rings in bulk are quite cheap. An LDS buys in bulk to make up for the lost revenue from filling tanks.
You can do the same if you have a use for 250 O-Rings of the same size.
Normal mark-up on a special part would be 3X Regular Dealer Price.
Regular Dealer Price on a non-specialized O-Ring would be $1.10 so should cost the diver maybe $3.00.
Some, like the valve face O-Ring, are cheaper; lots, like the square-shaped ones for a DataPlus, are much more.
If a dive store is large enough to buy in bulk and so pay a lot less for their O-Rings, the Mark-Up process is the same, so they can make a bit of extra money.
Surely you're not upset that your LDS is making an extra $1 to $2 once in a while!
I'm sure they've done lots for you and not charged you anything or very much.
Lawyers ask $250 or more per hour to discuss your case! How much does your LDS charge to discuss your dive computer problems??
Alec
My watch has lasted longer then I can remember on one battery.
Some are pretty amazing all right!
Dive computers are only using battery power when in use, other than a few that use a tiny amount all the time.
Some computers seem to last forever; others not so much.
I haven't noticed any pattern. It seems random.
Alec
This is clickbait! Dot watch it! He does not show how to change the battery!
Interesting point Marco but the title does not say 'how too', but what to be careful of when a store, or yourself changes batteries. There are dozens of methods of changing batteries so there is no way I can show all but advise on the common points to watch for. Hope this helps and keep watching, lots to learn.
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter it is true that it does not say „how to“, but i still think with this title there will be other disappointed viewers...
i like the way you do videos. Just wanted to spare others of watching 12 minutes and not getting to see how a battery change was done.
Cheers and happy bubbles to you!
Wouldn't the red wax be gone if the store did it too!!!
A factory authorized service center replaces the seal. If your computer is still under warranty, you need to be sure that your LDS is authorized to service it. Not all stores can service all computers.
The seal is just one way of knowing that the computer was serviced properly. There are other less obvious signs.
Alec
I hope everyone knows to use an SPG in concert with a computer! Redundancy will save your life.
New computers are MORE reliable than SPGs Bill.
Add to that the tremendous advantages that a computer gives a diver and the sooner SPGs are gone the better.
If it makes you feel better to carry an SPG, go for it. But please don't say it's necessary.
Alec
Last month in Bonaire the (1 year old) flex hose of my SPG started leaking. I removed it, capped it, and used my computer only for pressure readings.
Only time I really missed the SPG was during the tripple check breathing out of my second stage before getting off the boat. I always do a few quick breaths to check for a moving needle.
I just need to remember to turn on the computer before entering the water, just to do that check.
Otherwise, the set is easier to assemble (I have a BCD which routes the SPG and inflater hose though the BCD), and leaner in the water without the SPG. I never checked the SPG during dives since I have my AI computer, anyways. So during a dive you'll not miss it at all. And the new AI systems are extremely reliable.
Huh... I learn something new all the time here.
Agree with ditching the spg. Redundancy for air shouldn’t be needed. If your checking your air constantly like you should and suddenly you find your transmitter is not working or your spg is not working you just end the dive. If your method of measuring air fails and you have NO idea how much air you have left it means you don’t check your air often enough.
I use an analog backup.
Ironic that you speak about diving safely when you suggest replacing an analog SPG for a transmitter. Transmitter compliments the analog SPG, but never should replace it. Reinforcing the concept of relying on a computer for safe diving rather than planning a dive is a very bad advice.
Dive computers are mandatory at every dive location, live aboard and resort i have been to in the last 3-5 years primarily for safer diving. No one asks for SPG's as it is now a personal choice, not required. Enjoy your SPG but don't dismiss dive computers.
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter I think you're missing the point of my comment. I didnt dismiss the dive computer as a tool for safe diving. I'm concerned that you give advice which is unsafe in its nature. The dive charter isnt there to make you dive in a safe manner, and relying on the rules set by the charter is dangerous to the dive. It should be your concern to plan the dive, and dive the plan. Having an analog SPG is a matter of safety, as computers can become unpaired, or signal interference can prevent transmission of cylinder pressure information, or if you lose the computer during the dive, or it can flood. You suggest putting all of your eggs in one basket, and I'm voicing my opinion that you give that advice without thinking about the safety of the people who hear this advice.
Agree with Sergej. Always an analog SPG as backup. Some computers do not alert about battery level on transmitters, or it could happen that it could be unpaired during a dive. You don't want to be in a situation during a dive when you don't know how much air you have on the tank.
@@BrutalMilkman I dive with two computers that are both air integrated(mostly because I'm waiting on my old one to stop working) but even if you only have one dive computer and no SPG you can end the dive if your computers pressure sensor goes out or it runs out of battery. The more redundancy the better but I'm not sure it could be considered reckless to just have one air integrated computer or one SPG, either can break.
@@mhilyard1 The problem is preaching the mindset that a battery operated device substitutes an analog SPG. It's 100 dollars that you're not spending on a piece of kit detrimental to divers safety. I've known strokes who didnt invest in a spool and died inside a wreck, and strokes who didnt have bailout while diving ccr. It's the mindset that id dangerous, and Alec here propagates it.
Covered waste of time. Please the title
Lot's more to enjoy.
Does NOT takes the place of the SPG. It is just an addon gimmick. :)))))
Is this the same Chirana that uses a Shearwater Dive Computer?
Dive computers are hardly an add-on gimmick any more than your cell phone is a toy!
1. It's not a gimmick. Dive Computers have made diving easier and a lot safer.
2. It's hardly an add-on. Most diver training programs now use dive computers from day 1. Many dive centers worldwide make dive computers mandatory gear to dive with them.
Alec
@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Of course Alec. I was joking. Wireless transmiter is of course nice to have but will not replace the SPG. Of course the anticipation of time remaining underwater and correct display of RMV is crucial. Adding a heart rate monitor is even better.
All my best Alec and keep up the advice and tech tips.
Spg’s are not needed if you have a wireless transmitter. If your spg ever failed would it be a drama? Nope because you would know how much air you had when you last checked so you just end the dive. Do the same if your wireless transmitter failed🤷🏼♂️ I laugh at people that have the wireless AND a spg. Before you got a wireless transmitter did you run 2 spg’s?!?! To each there own but it’s certainly safe to not run an spg if u run a wireless!
@@geoffclarke5901 Have you ever had a SPG stuck. I had at 150 bar at 40 meter with deco obligation. Good luck in ending that dive. SPG can get unstuck by multiple actions. Wireless transmitter not. I do not say that new tech is bad but why would you introduce another fail point in your equipment. I run a non AI shearwater computer with 2 spg for my doubles. I think this is pretty straightforward and simple approach. And by the way: when shit happends it is a very shitty situation no matter on how redundant is our gear. Only thing that matters than is if you end the dive dead or alive with or without the dreadded gear.
@@chiranagheorghitaeugeniuth98 - You are horrible at jokes then and should STOP.