New Diver (PADI 2011) and Husband Returning to Diving (SSI 1987)

[cannon]

Hey! I'm new to diving and my husband has been diving for years but we have a lot of questions about using our new dive computer/gauge. We just bought an Aeris XR2 and since he learned using tables and I am new and didn't learn (much) during my training....we are reading the manual and could use some advice on this thing.

What exactly is the F02 telling us? It says to set the computer at 32% O2, and we wonder if that is a safety measure. Thoughts...The tables he learned on offer the data assuming you are an 18 year old, Navy diver. Does setting the F02 at 32% take into account I'm a 41 year old (not Navy diver?) Kind of providing a safety net so I have more Oxygen and less Nitrogen?

Thanks

 

[mala]

the fo2 is the % of 02 in the cylinders.

 

[ktomlinson]

A little more info... The Fo2 should be set to the actual Fo2 (percent of oxygen) that is in your tanks. If you are breathing air it should be set to 21 (or your computer may have an air setting), if you are breathing enriched air you should test the tank and use the percent you get to input into your computer.

 

[oly5050user]

If you purchased computer at a LDS I suggest read the manual and THEN go to LDS with any questions you have.We operate that way with dive computer sale to customers.This way they are forced to read the manual as they should.Many never do. If you purchased online you can ask at the LS but be prepared to pay something.

 

[ktomlinson]

If you aren't already nitrox certified it would be a good class for you and your husband to take together. The class is usually cheap ($100 around here), will give you more dive theory and help you better understand what you started in your first class, not to mention longer no deco times and shorter surface intervals compared to air. You already have a nitrox computer you might as well put it to use

 

[cannon]

Thanks for so much information, everyone. We have read through the manual and also talked with a (not so local, but very patient) dive shop...they offer a computer class, which will be great for us, and also the nitrox class. We signed up for four specialty classes and can't wait to learn more!

 

[ktomlinson]

Awesome! I am sure you will be happy with your choice. Enjoy your time underwater!