Atomic Colbalt computer stuck on planning screen - paging RonR

[whysocold]

I'm on a dive trip and my Colbalt has locked up. I was explaining deco to another diver using the planning screen and when the computer showed the calculating message, it never finished. It's been over a day and the screen won't turn off, no buttons produce any response, holding combinations of buttons doesn't so anything, and the computer does not enter into dive mode if I take it diving.

The FAQ on Atomic's site makes it sound like the computer will reset if the battery runs dead and I connect the AC adaptor but I don't know how long the battery will last and I only have a USB cable with me to charge it. I would also, of course, like to use it while diving right now.

An an instructor here suggested removing the battery to reset it, but we don't have the tools on hand and I don't know if this will void the warranty.

 

[RonR]

Very sorry for this- it sounds like a problem with the firmware. I would really like to know what version you are running. Some older versions locked out sampling in the planner, so they wouldn't start dives. If it's possible for you to take a picture of the screen, so we can see the dive time/ depth, etc. in the planner we would really appreciate it.

The way to solve your immediate problem is with a hard reset. The only ways to do that on the Cobalt 1 are to 1) remove the battery and reinstall it; or 2) let it run down and use the A/C charger. After replacing the battery the Cobalt will come back up to the time date screen, and you will need to reset the time. You won't lose any memory or settings.

Removing the battery won't alter your warranty, it's easy, and it won't expose the electronics- the battery is in a sealed compartment. It does need a small allen wrench or a torx screwdriver (3/32", 2.5mm, or a T-9) to remove the four screws. I'm sending you via PM links to a PDF that describes the process in detail. It's about like putting a camera into a housing. I hope you can locate the tools to do this- they aren't uncommon.

Ron