VR3 v Cochran Commander for CCR?

[DrySuitDave]

Ok gang,

I want to know what your opinions are beween teh two for an Inspiration rebreather....

I understand the VR3 will have a wireless feature soon.....

 

[wheezy]

What about the Cochran Navy???

Never used one of the units, but A LOT of the guys around here are trading in thier Cobra's/Vypers for the new Cochran's..

Most of the guys I've seen are going with the Gemini.... However, quite honestly I don't know squat about them other than they are picking up popularity very quickly and are priced to go... and of course made in the good ol' US of A ... TEXAS none the less

 

[DrySuitDave]

Well, Cochran's info states; "The Navy is a wrist mounted dive computer based on the U.S. Navy’s extensively tested VVAL-18 constant PO2 algorithm. This algorithm was developed for their Closed Circuit Rebreathers. "

I would have to call Cochran, but the Inspiration uses variable p02 setpoints, not constant p02. I am not sure if this conflicts....

 

[padiscubapro]

The cochran navy is only sold to the military they will not sell it to the civilian. The navy does use multiple setpoints but their deco schedules are EXTREMELY agressive.. The navy doesn't mind a few percent getting bent. I spoke to a contact in cochram a while back and if I remember during testing they frequently were using 1.8 as the po2 setpoint.. Its basically the same (hardware) as the commander but with different deco software

I have the following po2 capable computers I'll list them in the order of preferance

Abysmal explorer trimix

Cochran commander with constant Po2

Vr3 - new version

The buddy nexus I don't own but have used is a very basic constant PO2 capable computer for Nitrogen only.

The abysmal is the easiest to program, largest display, in Po2 mode it has 5 programable gasesfor Po2 and % programable OC bailout gasses with various setpoints and new setpoints can be set underwater. The major short comming is about 1 year lead time getting a unit. Some of the earlier annoyances have been corrected.. there is much better battery life, and the latest units habve an auto on.
The cochran commander with the PO2 addition is the simplest only uses 2 setpoints that are switched automatically based on programming (normal PO2 and Deco PO2) also there is no oc bailout available , very rugged and the best logging but no helium mixes. I have a version that is was not originally available to the general public - mine does 1 second logging for 550 logged hours, the normal unit logs 100 (which catches ascent violation that others miss) . There are a few annoyances and if you are contemplating the unit we can get into more detail..
The new Vr3 is trimix capable and OC bailout capable but the display is way too small and programming is a pain in the ass, the PO2 link is nice but I don't think it overcomes the shortcomings, If they go wireless (on PO2 link)I think it would make a worthwhile backup. The computer should come with the d/l software and interface but thats an extra charge and without it the computer is difficult to program and one is forced to either use another computer for the logging or shell out extra $$ for the interface and software.

 

[DrySuitDave]

I did notice that the VR3 has a p02 interface for real time deco on the computer.

Unless ones setpoints stick tight, and one never forgets to change their computers setpoints to match changing the controller's setpoints real time does seem interesting...

Now if Cochran gets theirs....

 

[narced_1]

here is a website for cochran if you didn't have it already....of course it is the cochran website...but check it out and you may be suprised.


www.divecochran.com

 

[DrySuitDave]

I just got off the phone with Larry at Cochran and in about 4-6 months they will have a Lifeguarg Gemini that has realtime p02 sensing as well as a single tank pressure sensing and a breathing flow rate sensing capability, all wireless.

That seems like the unit to get......

 

[wheezy]

for over $2,000 Yeahh... that would be nice wouldn't it... ohh yah, don't forget the $300 software package for it and a masters in computer science to program the thing.

They are sweet though, no doubt about it...

 

[DrySuitDave]

I see you are out of Laguna Beach....I used to dive alot at Shaw's Cove with my brother.......interesting dive spot.....

I just ordered a new Viking drysuit to replace my 20 year old moodel, and am buying all new equipment including an Inspiration closed circuit rebreather....

I make deals with some dive stores where we barter some services for equipment, so cost isn't as much of an issue is as is the whiz-bang factor.....