Trimix computer

[John63]

I am relatively new to trimix diving and so far have used tables exclusively. I would like to begin using a computer and wondered what the opinions are.

The VR3 seems to be the most popular but other models (eg Shearwater) have their following too. The latest version VR3 ( 5.03 software ) allows switching between the Bühlmann ZH-L16 and Varying Permeability Model B/E algorithms; is this more flexibility or just additional complexity?

I have heard some negative comments on the VR3 regarding switching off/resetting during dives, and switch reliabiity. Was this on early models and if so has it been rectified.

If I was to opt for the VR3, is the colour screen the way to go - ie is it a real benefit in terms of clarity and data presentation or just a gimmick to make it look pretty.

Appreciate everyones comments.

Cheers,

[nigelH]

Originally Posted by 802DO

The VR3 seems to be the most popular but other models (eg Shearwater) have their following too. The latest version VR3 ( 5.03 software ) allows switching between the Bühlmann ZH-L16 and Varying Permeability Model B/E algorithms; is this more flexibility or just additional complexity?

I can only comment on the VR3 but, even after five years, I still like it.
I only use it in Bühlmann mode because I never saw the reason to pay for an upgrade to supply a deco model I don't care about.

I have heard some negative comments on the VR3 regarding switching off/resetting during dives, and switch reliabiity. Was this on early models and if so has it been rectified.

I dropped it and broke one of the switches, just the plastic plunger. A new one came in two days and fitted easily. It has never stopped during a dive on me.

If I was to opt for the VR3, is the colour screen the way to go - ie is it a real benefit in terms of clarity and data presentation or just a gimmick to make it look pretty.

I paid for that as an upgrade and it is easier on my poor old eyes. OK it is pretty too.
Add in the USB plug in interface. The old IR system was a total pain if there was too much light, or worse a flourescent light, about.

[NotDeadYet]

I've got a Shearwater, only been using it for a few weeks but I like it. It's straightforward enough though the manual is shite. It might be overkill if you are diving OC though. Nice simple display, some nice features. Runs on Buhlmann GF, can handle various gas switches and combos.

[Peter M]

I can only comment on the VR£ but i have been using mine on OC for the past 3 years and its never stopped yet, now i am moving to CCR it can do that to all be it for a small change of money ! love the colour screen and i think its easy to use

[scribley]

Originally Posted by NotDeadYet

I've got a Shearwater, only been using it for a few weeks but I like it. It's straightforward enough though the manual is shite. It might be overkill if you are diving OC though. Nice simple display, some nice features. Runs on Buhlmann GF, can handle various gas switches and combos.

I love my shearwater - it's simple and does exactly what you need it to. It's also proved to be reliable so far. Bruce now does several different version of the Shearwater I believe, so you can buy an OC version for less (and upgrade to CCr version should you ever need to)

[Depth-junkie]

My VR3 has been on my wrist every dive for the last 5yrs.

It has gone from OC mix diving to CCR mix diving, and is now plumbed in to a 4th cell on my inspo vision as and independent PO2 monitor and intergrated deco. It works as good today as it did when i bought it new.

It has never got me bent (my avg dives are in the 60-100m region), hence why i've stuck with it, and will continue to do till it breaks. Until then it will always have a place on my wrist.

I like my VR3 that much that when i purchased my vison in 2005, i only got the basic timer handset with temp stick. I did not want the vison deco software as i already had my VR3, and as i siad it has never bent me and works well.




ATB
Gareth

[Silent Diver]

Originally Posted by nigelH

Add in the USB plug in interface. The old IR system was a total pain if there was too much light, or worse a flourescent light, about.

The new models dont even have the IR system built in anymore as I found out last year when I bought my VR3 Spectrum spent 2 days trying to get the IR link working eventually gave up and phoned Delta P and after lots of effort one of the techs finally asked how old the VR3 was and when I told him errr 2 days old m8 he laughed and politely informed me that the IR function isnt fitted anymore and then told me to send them the IR cable and they swapped it for the USB cable free of charge and a refund of the postage.

[Rob Dobson]

For OC trimix I use my brain and a couple of BTs. Nothing is getting me bent except me and touch wood I haven't managed it yet. A lot cheaper than an OC trimix computer and I'd argue a lot more reliable. More flexible than tables and a lot more context aware (i.e I know how I'm feeling and how hard I have or have not had to work on a dive, how cold I am feeling etc).

On CCR I have gone with the Shearwater Pursuit to read cells and provide online deco, although I am tempted by an X1 to use a constant PPo2 back/up because they are so small and yet very easy to read.

The Shearwater is very good but real estate on my arm is limited and the X1 is about 1/3 of the size of the Shearwater.

V-Planner is available on the X1 today and hopefully on the Shearwater very soon (not a fan of GF deco).

[Bottle Maker]

Hijacking this thread

If I buy a VR3 should I bother with the colour screen or put the money saved towards the new torch budget?

[G man]

I have a colour and my mates have mono screens, allthough mine is easy to see, if I purchased again I would get a mono and just set the light on all the time.

G.