Please, this thread isn't to debate the merits of Gas analyzing, Nitrox or Carbon Monoxide. It's just a how-to of my latest process. There are other threads for debating the merits of testing.
My current hardware:
The El Cheapo II from Qxycheq is a DIY kit. If you have soldering skills, you can save some money. The boxes are cheap ones from Piranha Dive Mfg. The CO analyzer is the Analox unit. The BC hose adapter is from Oxycheq also. I've been using the Nitrox analyzer first, then unscrewing the oxygen sensor from the black dome and holding that over the CO analyzer dome. It worked, but didn't seem 'correct'. I was considering different size tubing and adapters to step the hose barb on the adapter to a hose that would fit into the Analox dome, like the bump test straw :headscratch: .
Then this idea surfaced:
The straw fits snugly right into the barbed end of the BC adapter!!!
Even better:
The vinyl hose fights right over the straw. I just have to pull the hose off the barb, and instantly, it's ready to test CO. I'm rather pleased with myself, lol. The best part is this requires no additional equipment, or even modification of existing items. Oh yea, no more cash outlay either.
I like using the adapter because it restricts the flow to a very low level, wasting little gas. If your BC and reg is already installed by the dive op, you don't need to disconnect the reg. The Quick Disconnect on the BC hose is simple, just remember to double check your inflator after the gas checks, to insure proper operation.
My current hardware:
The El Cheapo II from Qxycheq is a DIY kit. If you have soldering skills, you can save some money. The boxes are cheap ones from Piranha Dive Mfg. The CO analyzer is the Analox unit. The BC hose adapter is from Oxycheq also. I've been using the Nitrox analyzer first, then unscrewing the oxygen sensor from the black dome and holding that over the CO analyzer dome. It worked, but didn't seem 'correct'. I was considering different size tubing and adapters to step the hose barb on the adapter to a hose that would fit into the Analox dome, like the bump test straw :headscratch: .
Then this idea surfaced:
The straw fits snugly right into the barbed end of the BC adapter!!!
Even better:
The vinyl hose fights right over the straw. I just have to pull the hose off the barb, and instantly, it's ready to test CO. I'm rather pleased with myself, lol. The best part is this requires no additional equipment, or even modification of existing items. Oh yea, no more cash outlay either.
I like using the adapter because it restricts the flow to a very low level, wasting little gas. If your BC and reg is already installed by the dive op, you don't need to disconnect the reg. The Quick Disconnect on the BC hose is simple, just remember to double check your inflator after the gas checks, to insure proper operation.
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