Suunto Cobra Depth Error

[Steve Lawson]

Yesterday, I made a deep dive with two buddies that each had a Suunto Cobra and Favor. We dived the same location together for the same time, yet my Cobra understated the depth by over 30'--my max depth was 30' less than those listed on their four computers. Needless to say, the deco time listed on my computer was significantly less than theirs. I followed the profile on their computers and completed the dive without incident.

My battery indicator has moved from the green to the yellow band and I will replace the battery. However, I don't believe the depth rating error was based on a weak battery and I'm concerned about using the Cobra on future dives. Is anyone familiar with depth reading errors on the Cobra? Can the Cobra be serviced for such a problem, or is replacement the only solution?

I'm in the process of adding a Vyper to my gear as a back up computer.

Thanks,

Steve

 

[Diver Dennis]

Hmmm. I carry an AI Cobra along with the D9 and transmitter and have never had a problem like that. Actually first time I've heard of it. Perhaps it IS the battery.

 

[lifeisfullofgooddives]

might be the battery...But to be safe(and keep your sanity) have it checked out by someone who knows what they are doing...hopefully that's your authorized dealer!

Either way I would definatly take back up or at least make sure you check your spg more frequently next time.

 

[1gromit]

Under NO circumstances should a low (yellow) battery cause that problem; that is a severe malfunction. Someone here better call a spade a spade.... If that were my computer, I'd have it serviced immediately; in fact, I'd demand a replacement. Suunto has already recalled other models for errors in depth calculation, but never the cobra; this sounds like a problem unique to your computer. I wouldn't mess around with it.

 

[wnctarheel]

My lds just sent my cobra off. the computer was reading that i was on a dive all the time. I had to take the battery out so that it would cut off.

 

[ghost8404]

Under NO circumstances should a low (yellow) battery cause that problem; that is a severe malfunction. Someone here better call a spade a spade.... If that were my computer, I'd have it serviced immediately; in fact, I'd demand a replacement. Suunto has already recalled other models for errors in depth calculation, but never the cobra; this sounds like a problem unique to your computer. I wouldn't mess around with it.

I totally agree. The only reason that we dive with computers is because they do deco and tables for us. Who honestly uses their computer in gauge mode? Computer error, no matter how slight, is nothing to mess around with. If it is going to be a money problem to get it serviced or buy another, then deco diving is out of the question. I use a Cobra2 and I don't even let the low battery light come on. Inattention to detail in diving can cause injury or death. More so with deep and deco. Don't take this lightly. Get it fixed and be agressive with it. You were lucky. Don't test it again.