Bühlmann Adaptive Decompression Algorithm

UWATEC understands that divers may encounter many external forces while diving, thus creating factors that can dramatically affect microbubble development and alter decompression information. As a result, UWATEC has developed a unique adaptive decompression algorithm called ZH L8 ADT and includes this technology across the entire line of dive computers.

This unique feature recognizes circumstances that may create microbubbles (bounce dive profile, rapid ascents, cold water, workload and repetitive diving) and adapts the decompression profile accordingly. During a potentially risky situation such as a rapid ascent or missed decompression stop, microbubbles can form within the body and prevent efficient out-gassing of nitrogen. This can ultimately lead to long-term bodily damage or decompression illness. The adaptive decompression model takes the worry out of planning by automatically compensating for temperature, workload, altitude, and diver behaviour.

Advanced Microbubble Suppression Technology

Continuing the evolution of dive computers, UWATEC has undertaken a joint project with DAN Europe, called the Diving Safety Laboratory (DSL) to research the effects of microbubble production in sport divers. Where previous decompression theory has relied on the testing of Navy or commercial divers, the DSL members have for the first time collected a vast amount of data from sport divers including both analog and Doppler recordings. Much of this research revealed a high incidence of microbubble production on repetitive dives. As a result UWATEC has introduced a series of level stops for each ascent profile in order to make diving even safer. This unique algorithm, called the ZH-L8 ADT MB is designed to prevent the formation of microbubbles to avoid any longterm damage. All Smart computers are equipped with the ZH-L8 ADT MB algorithm.

Uwatec Smart Computers

UWATEC’s Smart dive computers take advantage of state-of-the-art technology such as ultra-fast 32-bit processors that capture and display real time updates to a dive profile. Smart dive computers have an increased memory capacity of 1 million bits – over ten times more than any competitors’ product. A four-second sampling rate and memory capacity equates to 100 hours of stored dive profile information on Smart PRO and 50 hours on Smart COM.

As a result of the DSL research conducted in conjunction with DAN, the Smart dive computers feature six easy to set adjustment levels to each dive profile for microbubble suppression. The research indicated an increase in microbubble production on repetitive dives resulting in a recommendation for new ascent behavior with level stops for all dive profiles. Research determined a 37% incidence of microbubble production on all the monitored dives and, more significantly, a 67% incidence of microbubbles on repetitive dives. Of the six microbubble suppression levels the diver can select from level 0, which is the standard setting with no suppression, to level 5, where there is maximum suppression and the most possible safety. Experiments with level stops were proven to reduce microbubbles by up to 61% and in some cases eliminate them entirely.

UWATEC dive computers are renowned for their large screen size and easy to read displays. The new Smart dive computers take this feature one step further by increasing the screen size by 35% for easy viewing at any angle.

A unique tap screen backlight now has a user adjustable setting to control how long the backlight stays on. Divers wishing to receive an indicator of their maximum depth can now set a maximum depth alarm where a visual and audible alarm will sound to warn the diver not to exceed the predetermined limit. In addition the Smart dive computers can be used asa digital gauge to avoid a lock out violation on extended range dives.

Nitrox

Making the switch from Nitrox dives to air dives has never been easier. There is no longer the need for a separate computer or dedicated Nitrox mode when using Oxygen-enriched mixtures. Nitrox can be adjusted in 1% increments up to 100% on Smart computers, and 21%-50% in 2% increments in most other computers for a full range of Nitrox diving.

Battery Life

All UWATEC dive computers feature a lifetime battery that is estimated to last for up to 500-1000 dives, depending on the quantity of dives per year and the use of the backlight. A battery life indicator clearly displays the battery life percentage available.

PC Interface

When purchasing any UWATEC computer, divers can be assured of saving all their pertinent dive information. Data TRAK can be used to store up to 66 hours of dive profile information for all UWATEC computers except Smart systems.
The new Smart COM computer can store up to 50 hours of profile information (Smart PRO stores 100) without the need to use any external peripherals. Smart computers transfer dive profile information via infrared (IrDA) connection thus eliminating the need for any cables. Smart TRAK takes dive computer software into a new realm with the ability to personalize the logbook by importing photographs and marking points of interest in the dive profile. The 4-second sampling rate produces an extremely detailed and accurate dive profile and temperature curve. Smart TRAK software is also compatible with the existing range of many UWATEC dive computers via logbook import functions.