Unlock Professional Gas Analysis: Integrating an Oxygen Analyzer with Your iDive or iX3M Dive Computer
For serious scuba divers and technical divers, precise gas analysis is paramount for safe and accurate dive planning. The ability to verify the oxygen content of your breathing gas mixes adds an extra layer of security and confidence to every dive. Did you know that using the wrong gas mixture is one of the leading causes of diving accidents?
This article will explore how you can transform your iDive or iX3M dive computer into a fully automatic gas mix analyzer using a dedicated oxygen analyzer.
The Importance of Oxygen Analysis in Diving
Before diving with enriched air nitrox or other specialized gas mixtures, knowing the exact oxygen percentage is crucial. This information is essential for:
- Calculating Maximum Operating Depth (MOD): Ensures you don't exceed the safe partial pressure of oxygen at depth, preventing oxygen toxicity.
- Optimizing Dive Planning: Accurate gas analysis allows for precise decompression planning and gas consumption calculations.
- Verifying Gas Fills: Confirming the contents of your cylinders match what you expect and are labeled, reducing the risk of using the wrong mix.
Transforming Your iDive or iX3M into a Gas Analyzer
RATIO Computers offers an Oxygen Analyzer designed to seamlessly integrate with your existing iDive or iX3M dive computer. This accessory transforms your dive computer into a professional-grade gas analysis tool.
The key benefits include:
- Full Automation: The analyzer automatically communicates with your dive computer.
- Real-time Analysis: Provides instant and accurate oxygen percentage readings.
- Data Logging: Stores gas analysis data for future reference (check iDive/iX3M model capabilities).
Key Features and Specifications
- Sensor Compatibility: Compatible with Electrochemical sensors such as Vandagraph R-22VAN or Analytical Industries PSR-11-39-MD oxygen cells ( sold separately).
- Range: Measures oxygen concentration from 0.1% to 100%.
- Resolution: Displays readings with a resolution of 0.1%.
- Accuracy: Offers an accuracy of +/- 1%.
- Operating Temperature: Functional in temperatures from 0°C to +40°C.
- Storage Temperature: Should be stored in temperatures from 0°C to +50°C.
- Sensor Lifetime: The oxygen sensor lasts approximately 36 months (at 25°C, 50% R.H., sea level, with protection cap plugged).
- User-Replaceable Sensor: Allows for easy sensor replacement. Consider purchasing a Replacement Oxygen Cell to have on hand.
- Update Time: Sensor update time of approximately 10 seconds.
- Battery: Powered by a standard 1.5V type N battery (LR1, MN9100, AM5, 4001).
- Automatic Calibration and Validation: Simplifies the analysis process and ensures accuracy.
What's Included in the Box
When you purchase the RATIO Computers Oxygen Analyzer, you'll receive:
- Oxygen analyzer unit.
- 1.5V type N battery (LR1, MN9100, AM5, 4001).
- Protective cap for the sensor.
Note: The oxygen cell (sensor) is NOT included and must be purchased separately.
Step by Step Using your Oxygen Analyzer
- Purchase a Compatible Oxygen Cell: Before you can use the Oxygen Analyzer, you'll need to purchase a compatible oxygen sensor, such as the Vandagraph R-22VAN.
- Connect the Analyzer: Attach the oxygen analyzer to your iDive or iX3M dive computer according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Calibrate the Sensor: Follow the instructions to calibrate the sensor. The RATIO analyzer features automatic calibration, simplifying this step.
- Analyze Your Gas: Introduce the gas you want to analyze to the sensor. The reading will be displayed on your iDive or iX3M screen.
Enhancing Dive Safety and Accuracy
Investing in an oxygen analyzer for your iDive or iX3M dive computer is a significant step towards enhancing dive safety and accuracy. By ensuring the precise oxygen content of your breathing gases, you can confidently plan and execute dives, knowing you've taken the necessary precautions.
