Info iX3M (1) Sticky buttons.

[HeXx]

Hi.
I just wanted to share with you guys a common problem with the iX3M and how I solved it.
So the first version of the computer had round buttons (in my opinion superior to the square ones) But they do require some extra "maintenance".
So What i suggest is you unscrew each button after every x dives (in my case after about the 20th dive) you disassemble the buttons to properly wash them and lube. Mine started to stick after the 20th dive so I designed a simple tool to unscrew the buttons (see attached STL for 3d printing. Resize 105% in xyz).

Hope it helps.
Cheers.

 

[HeXx]

For those interested, bellow are some photos of the hole procedure for cleaning those buttons.
Note that each button has 3 orings, 2 of the same size and one smaller.
The two orings should go in the computer where the button pin will slide and seal.
The other oring goes with the buttons and seem to help hold the button assembly.

I have to say, the buttons feel like when they computer first arrived.

 

[HeXx]

And some more photos.

For cleaning, a ultrasonic bath of about 30 minutes was used with warm water dish soap and phosphoric acid

 

[plj]

Thanks for the post. This is great info. I always soak my IX3M after each dive to try and prevent issues with the buttons. FWIW, I like the round buttons much better than the square ones too. The square ones activate too easy.

 

[HeXx]

Thanks for the post. This is great info. I always soak my IX3M after each dive to try and prevent issues with the buttons. FWIW, I like the round buttons much better than the square ones too. The square ones activate too easy.

I always clean my gear very well after every dive day. Rinse well at the dive center and then again at home. But my buttons still rusted a bit.

 

[gone4diving]

I had the problem of stiff buttons with my 2.5-year-old iX3M 2 (so out of warranty). I emailed support, received a recommendation to send it in, and got it back for free after 2 weeks. Perfect...

 

[giddyupca]

great info im lucky most dives a fresh water but no vis i have had nothing but good communication from ratio excellent dive computer they just seen to spent more energy and focus on europe not a strong folloeing in america we have 6 in our dive group all work perfect