Z Nitrox

Supplement to Aladin Air Z manual
The Aladin Air Z Nitrox diving computer has been designed for diving on Nitrox (oxygen/ nitrogen mix with a max. of 50% O2 ) and air (21% O2). The diving computer displays the level of oxygen toxicity (CNS O2 %) and gives out warnings on oxygen toxicity and on high oxygen partial pressure (ppO2). Without exchanging the diving computer a diver can dive on different mixtures (Nitrox and compressed air) during the day. Using the dive planner a diver can determine the best mix for a certain maximum depth and/ or find out the maximum operation depth (MOD) for a given mix.

Nitrox Information

The selected percentage of oxygen (O2% Mix) is displayed on the surface and during the first five minutes of a dive, until a first maximum depth is reached, which will then be displayed. After the dive the display of oxygen percentage and maximum depth will alternate for a five-minute-waiting-period (Wait-Mode). The danger of oxygen toxicity symptoms increases as the shown oxygen toxicity percentage (CNS O2% LIMIT) approaches 100%.

O2 % MIX

max. depth

max. depth max. de

CNS O2 LIMIT
The figures for the set maximum allowable partial pressure of oxygen (ppO2 max) will not be shown. However, the Aladin Air Z Nitrox warns the diver as soon as he reaches the depth in which the maximum allowable partial pressure of oxygen will be reached.
Setting the gas mixture (O2% Mix)
Bridge and then to switch from ready- or surface-mode to the O2%-mix-mode (Add). Bridge and to select a level of O2 between 21% and 50% (2% steps). Bridge to confirm your entry. If you do not confirm your entry the O2%-mix-mode will turn off automatically after 3 minutes and your entry will not be accepted!

Dive Planner

Press 2x and 1x to activate your dive planner. The oxygen toxicity is not taken into account by calculations of the dive planner. Planning a No-Stop Dive The dive planner will only display depths which lie within the limits of the maximum allowable partial pressure of oxygen (ppO2 max). Planning a Nitrox-dive The dive planner of the Aladin Air Z Nitrox always plans dives based on the selected oxygen percentage. It can be used to: Calculate the maximum depth (MOD, Max. Operation Depth) to be reached with a given mixture. Calculate the necessary mixture (Best Mix) for a dive with a given depth. Calculating the Max. Operation Depth (MOD) Set the desired percentage of oxygen and activate the dive planner as described on page 66/67 of the Air Z manual. Observe the depth indications and memorize the greatest depth displayed. This is your maximum depth for a dive with the set mixture and the set maximum partial pressure of oxygen. Calculating of the mixture for a given depth (Best Mix) Activate the dive planner (Air Z page 66/67) and observe the maximum depth displayed. If the desired depth is not reached or exceeded, leave the dive planner, alter the percentage of oxygen and return to the scrolling no-stop times. Repeat this procedure until the desired depth appears as the maximum depth. The ideal percentage of oxygen for this depth will now be displayed in the ready-mode.
Uwatec Aladin Air Z Nitrox
Nitrox Attention messages

and Alarms

Partial pressure of oxygen reaches limit (->ppO2 max) Messages: If the partial pressure of oxygen reaches the set value, the Ala4 sec din Air Z Nitrox gives an acoustic warning and the depth indication is flashing. depth Response: Ascend to a lower depth in order to diminish the danger of oxygen toxicity. Observe <CNS O2%-value> carefully.

S L O W

<CNS O2%-value> reaches 75% Messages: An acoustic signal can be heard, the symbol <CNS O2 LIMIT> 4 sec flashes continuously.

depth d

Response: Avoid a further increase by beginning the ascent.
<CNS O2%-value> reaches 100% Oxygen toxicity reaching 100% can lead to dangerous neurological symptoms. depth dive time
Messages: A visual alarm appears and an acoustic warning can be heard every 4 seconds. The CNS O2%-value and its symbol are flashing. Response: Ascend immediately until the buzzer stops (ppO2 is then less than 0.5 bar). If the ascent speed is displayed and if the CNS O2 % value does not increase anymore (due to a lower partial pressure of oxygen), the acoustic warning will be suppressed.
Operating scheme for surface functions

Sleep Surface Sleep

Input stage

DIVEPLAN

(or 3min)
Ready or Surface automatically

(or 3m

LOGBOOK

min) (or 3 c 3 se

5 sec.

Battery capacity

dive time

DO NOT FLY LOGBOOK

NO STOP

tank data

deco info

English

Oxygen toxicity (CNS O2% LIMIT) Oxygen toxicity is calculated on line as a function of depth values and the preset gas mixture. If the partial pressure of oxygen rises above 0.5 bar, the CNS O2 value increases, if the partial pressure of oxygen is below 0.5 bar, the CNS O2 value decreases. The CNS O2 status will only be displayed if higher than 5%. During the ascent the display of the oxygen toxicity is replaced by the ascent rate. See also ->Nitrox. Maximum allowable partial pressure of oxygen (ppO2 max) The higher the percentage of oxygen in the used mixture, the sooner you will reach the limit of your allowable dive depth, as defined by your partial pressure of oxygen (ppO2 max) settings. The maximum partial pressure of oxygen can be adjusted with the DataTalk Software between 1.20 and 1.95 bar. Standard value is 1,5 bar. A ppO2 of more than 1.6 bar should not be set for safety reasons and is not recommended. The CNS O2%-value and -alarm is not influenced by the selected ppO2 max. - setting. Partial pressure of oxygen (ppO2) The set value and the information about the actual ppO2 are not displayed. See -> Maximum allowable partial pressure of oxygen. Surface-mode In the surface-mode the dive computer measures the build-up of micro gas bubbles and the nitrogen saturation als well as the oxygen toxicity of the tissue. The desaturation time is determined either by oxygen- or nitrogen saturation, depending on which gas takes longer. Oxygen saturation <CNS O2 %> is displayed and adjusted until the value declines to 0%. For calculations of the desaturation and No Fly Time it is assumed that the diver inhales air. Wait-mode If you need to change cylinders in this phase, make sure that the new mixture is exactly the same as the one previously used. If you want to dive with another mixture, you must have a 5-minute break at the surface to allow the Aladin Air Z Nitrox to conclude the dive. You can then adjust the settings to the new mixture. Disregarding these rules causes the Aladin Air Z Nitrox to calculate with wrong mixture data. This can lead to injury or death. Nitrox Nitrox is a gas mixture consisting of nitrogen and oxygen. The kind of air used for diving with compressed air is the same as the normal air of the earths atmosphere (78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen and 1% inert gases). Therefore, normal air is also Nitrox! However, Nitrox as a breathing gas for diving contains a higher percentage of oxygen than normal air. A higher percentage of oxygen (and therefore a reduced amount of nitrogen) has the advantage of lengthening the nostop phase (or reducing the decompression phase), since less nitrogen is dissolved in the divers body during the dive. The higher percentage of oxygen in the Nitrox-mixture can cause additional physiological problems because of the toxic effects of a hightened partial pressure of oxygen (ppO2). When breathing oxygen at a higher partial pressure, two kinds of oxygen toxicity can occur: CNS damages: Symptoms of intoxication can occur at short notice in the central nervous system (CNS). Such symptoms are: irritation of the respiratory organs, sickness, headache, pulmonary oedema, cramps, unconsciousness. The symptoms can occur at a ppO2 of essentially more than 1 bar and they depend on the length of exposure and on the partial pressure of oxygen. Damages of the lungs: Symptoms of pulmonary intoxication are long-term effects and may not accur immediately. The symptoms can occur at ppO2 rates from 0.5 bar and higher and due to long time exposure in the range of several hours/ days. Aladin Air Z Nitrox considers the short term toxic effects of oxygen (CNS damages) by means of the so called "oxygen- clock". It is based on a list which shows the units of toxicity for oxygen per unit of time and is dependent on the ppO2. The indication of toxicity is shown as "CNS O2 %" (= relative toxicity of oxygen for the central nervous system). CNS O2 = 0% reflects a normal physical state before the first dive, CNS O2 = 100% reflec-

ts the critical upper limit. The list, initially published by the US Navy, is nowadays known as the IANTD- list. We modified this list for the use with Aladin Air Z Nitrox in cooperation with Dr. Bill Hamilton, Hamilton Research Ltd. (Tarrytown, NY), a well-known specialist. Since long term oxygen intoxication is almost irrelevant for diving with independent diving equipment it is therefore not considered in the calculations of Aladin Air Z Nitrox.

Safety Considerations

The Aladin Air Z Nitrox is designed for dives with Nitrox (max.50% O2) and compressed air (21% O2) only. Do not use the Aladin Air Z Nitrox for dives with other breathing mixes. It is essential to check the O2 settings of your computer before each dive and to compare them with the gas mixture you are using. Always remember: Wrong mixture settings can result in insufficient calculations of decompression time and oxygen-toxicity, which can be fatal! The danger of nitrogen narcosis must always be taken into consideration, regardless of the gas mixture you are using. The Aladin Air Z Nitrox gives no warning about this. Always check the diving limits considering the oxygen content and standard sports diving procedures. Do not dive deeper than 40 metres (130 feet). If the CNS O2 status reaches 75% you must ascent immediatly! Only dive with Nitrox after you have been thoroughly instructed by a recognised institution. When diving with Nitrox only use components that have been authorized for diving with Nitrox equipment. Only use Aladin Air Z Nitrox with open breathing systems. Aladin Air Z Nitrox must be set for a determined gas mixture. In semi-closed and closed systems the gas mixture can vary considerably. The calculations may yield results different from those necessary for the actual mixture. Only use Aladin Air Z Nitrox for diving with an independent breathing apparatus. Aladin Air Z Nitrox is not designed for long-term exposure to Nitrox. Make sure your surface interval is long enough (just like diving with compressed air). Oxygen, too, needs sufficient time to leave the body. Do not start your next dive before your CNS O2 % status has dropped below 40%.
This operating manual makes use of the following icons to indicate especially important comments: Remarks: Informations and tips which are important for optimal use of the functions of your Aladin Air Z Nitrox. Informations and tips which are important for optimal use of the functions of your Aladin Air Z Nitrox.

Attention:

Danger!
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

December 2000, Copyright by Uwatec Switzerland

Dealer address:

(Dealer to affix stamp)
Printed in Switzerland 12/00

4 II 1

III Diving with Aladin Air Z ____________Terminology/Symbols 1.1 Display during no-stop phase ________34 1.2 Display during decompression phase__Attention Messages and Alarms ____________ 2.1 Attention messages ________________36 2.2 Alarms ___________________________37
VI Dive Planner ________________________Survey _______________________________Selection and Activation from Ready-Mode__________________________Selection and Activation from Surface-Mode ________________________Planning a No-Stop Dive ______________Planning a Decompression Dive _________Leaving the Dive-Plan-Mode ____________71 VII Communication Software for Windows _______________________MemoMouse, DataTrak and DataTalk 1.1 Personal programming of the dive computer (DataTalk) ___________ 74 1.2 Analysis and storage of real dives (DataTrak)___________________ 74 1.3 Updates (DataTrak, DataTalk)________ 74 VIII Trouble Shooting ____________________Trouble Shooting ______________________76 IX Appendix ___________________________79 Maintenance _________________________80 Technical Information _________________ 81 Conversion of Tank Pressure ____________82 Warranty ____________________________83 4.1 Recognition of warranty ____________83 4.2 Scope of the warranty______________83 4.3 Warranty period and claim __________83 Serial No. / Dealer address ______________86

I Introduction

3 Aladin Air Z More Safety in Diving Aladin Air Z Your Personal Companion The Calculation Model ZH-L8 ADT
_________________________________________10 _________________________________________10 3.1 Description ____________________________12 3.2 Advantages____________________________13 _________________________________________14

Safety in Diving

I Uwatec Aladin Air Z
1 Aladin Air Z More Safety in Diving
What can further increase your diving pleasure? The good feeling of having the greatest possible freedom of movement plus the highest possible safety. A dive computer which constantly monitors the data of your dive and your individual conduct meets these requirements. Aladin Air Z watches over the gas saturation of your body without interruption. With Aladin Air Z you dive more safely than ever before, although you can make more of your diving time thanks to the exact calculation of the air-supply. In addition, Aladin Air Z offers unmatched comfort and ease of operation. Aladin Air Z gives you increased safety due to the new calculation model. All the information necessary for safe diving are combined in one instrument.
2 Aladin Air Z Your Personal Companion
By considering your individual conduct, workload and temperature changes, Aladin Air Z is your personal control instrument. Aladin Air Z relies on the latest results of medical and physiological research for the calculation of decompression. This research has helped in the development of an adaptive calculation model unique to the present day. Aladin Air Z was exclusively developed for diving with compressed air and distinguishes itself from other commercial diving computers by a number of new functions: The new calculation model ZH-L8 ADT considers for the first time 8 body tissues, the divers conduct and the ambient conditions. Therefore, a more precise decompression indication is possible for risk situations, which increases safety in these cases. The measurements of scuba tank pressure are transmitted to Aladin Air Z by means of a transmitter. Faulty transmission of data between transmitter and Aladin Air Z is prevented by a number of precautions. Tank pressure can easily be checked at any time. In addition, the pressure rates allow calculation of the divers air consumption and a prediction of the remaining air time at the current depth. The calculation for RBT (Remaining Bottom Time) the time left to the diver until he must start the ascent according to the calculated decompression programme therefore includes consideration of tank pressure and the individual divers rate of air consumption.

Where a reserve valve is used in order to get correct air-time-calculations diving has to be done with an open reserve valve! Alarms are given optically and acoustically. The reason for the acoustic alarm can be distinguished by the characteristics of the sound. By means of the logbook, the diver can directly call up the information of the last 19 dives. Via interface to the PC, 37 dives and 200 minutes of precise dive-profile in intervals of 20 seconds can be read out. The dive planner allows the advance planning of no-stop dives and decompression dives with freely determinable surface intervals. The proven way of carrying the dive computer on ones wrist, giving maximum freedom of movement and easy operation, plus a clearly arranged display of the data, are the prominent points of comfort of Aladin Air Z.
3 Calculation Model ZH-L8 ADT
3.1 Description The Model ZH-L8 ADT (8 compartments with a nominal half-time period from 5 to 640 minutes) differs considerably from other models by the consideration of additional physiological processes: 1.Blood perfusion of the organs is not constant. Skin and muscles in particular are subject to considerable changes of blood perfusion depending on temperature and workload. A change in blood perfusion also causes a change of the saturation tolerance. The model takes these effects into account. Therefore, skin and muscle compartments show variable half-time periods and saturation tolerances. The necessary decompression times are calculated according to the divers workload and the decreasing skin temperature. The decrease of skin temperature is estimated based on the water temperature and the dive time. At the surface, the divers physical performance is lower than during the dive. By considering the differences in physical performance the no fly time becomes considerably longer. 2.The model considers inert gas not only in the dissolved state, but also in the gaseous phase (microbubbles). Formation of microbubbles is calculated with allowance for the different influences in arterial and venous blood. With normal ascents gas bubbles mainly form in venous blood, with fast ascents also in arterial blood and on ignoring decompression stops in the tissues. As the model calculates microbubbles, those physiological processes are reconstructed which actually occur. The bubbles on the venous side of the circulation are carried into the lungs where they change the arterial nitrogen pressure. This influences mainly repetitive dives, dives with very long decompression times and the no fly time. Gross disregard of the ascent rate, exceeding the decompression depth and repeated ascents to the surface (yoyo dives), can all cause microbubbles to form on the arterial side and in tissues. Where the bubbles partially impair circulation, the rate of gas diffusion and the saturation tolerance are changed. Decompression time, and if necessary decompression depth, are adjusted so that existing bubbles stop growing. In addition, altered decompression assures that the tissue desaturates sufficiently if microbubbles impair circulation locally. The calculation of the gas bubbles results in a new ascent instruction. The ascent rate near the surface is reduced down to 7m/min. This prevents with high reliability the formation of microbubbles in the arterial circulation and minimizes the formation of microbubbles in the venous circulation after the dive.

Transmitter Dive Computer

4.1 4.2

Mounting of the transmitter _________________29 Pairing of transmitter and dive computer ______31

II Uwatec Aladin Air Z

1 Description
1.1 System hardware The Aladin Air Z system consists of three units: 1 The transmitter is installed at the high pressure outlet of the regulator. It measures tank pressure and radio-transmits the results to the dive computer, where they are also used for the calculation of air consumption and dive data. 2 The dive computer displays only the important dive data. The 2 part display shows general dive- and decompression data in the upper part; data calculated on the basis of the measured tank pressure are displayed in the lower part. 3 The dive computer has a data memory which stores the dive data. The data can be downloaded out into a MemoMouse from where they can be transmitted to a Windows personal computer with the logbook program DataTrak. MemoMouse and DataTrak are available as an option. It is possible to use Aladin Air Z as a conventional dive computer. In this case calculations depending on air data are not possible and the lower part of the display does not show air data.

dive time

1.2 Safety of transmission Data transmission from transmitter to receiver is supported by various levels of safety in order to ensure continuous and reliable reception: 1.Each transmitter works with an allocated address. This address is communicated to the dive computer on pairing. There are more than 60,000 addresses. This assures that no two transmitters send on the same channel. The pairing of transmitter and receiver is also carried out by a process with various safety levels in order to prevent faulty pairing. 2.Data are transmitted with an average interval of 5 seconds. The exact point in time of the transmission is variable. This prevents two transmitters from disturbing each other for longer periods. 3.Together with the pressure data additional informations are transmitted. This allows reconstruction of faulty data and, on the other hand, where this is no longer possible, recognition of useless data.
By means of these safety measures, faulty transmission is almost impossible. In spite of that, the transmitted measurements are subjected to an additional plausibility check. Only such data are used which are sensible in the current situation.

7.In case of faulty pairing, the display <FAIL> appears instead of <PAIr>. In that case, completely depressurise the regulator and repeat the pairing procedure. This is only possible after at least 15 seconds.
Pairing of transmitter and dive computer remains valid until a new pairing procedure is carried out. Pairing of transmitter and dive computer can therefore be carried out at home and need only be executed once, before the first use. A new pairing procedure is always necessary when a new transmitter or a new dive computer is used and after changing the battery. Tank pressure shown in the lower part of the display of the dive computer should be checked prior to every dive.
III Diving with Aladin Air Z
1 Terminology/Symbols 1.1 1.2 2.1 2.2 2.3
Display during no-stop phase ________________34 Display during decompression phase __________35 Attention messages ________________________36 Alarms ___________________________________37 Alarm low battery__________________________38 _________________________________________38 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 Dive time _________________________________40 Dive depth ________________________________40 Maximum depth ___________________________40 Ascent rate _______________________________41 Decompression information _________________43 Tank pressure (only with transmitter) __________45 Remaining bottom time RBT _________________46 End of a dive ______________________________48 Desaturation time __________________________48 No fly time________________________________49 Warning of bubbles ________________________49 _________________________________________50
2 Attention Messages and Alarms
3 Preparation for the Dive 4 Functions during the Dive

5 Surface Functions

6 Diving in Mountain Lakes

III Uwatec Aladin Air Z

1 Terminology/Symbols
The information display of the Aladin Air Z varies depending on the kind of dive and the dive phase. 1.1 Display during no-stop phase No-stop phase: Dive time: RBT: Dive phase, during which ascent is allowed without decompression stops. Time of the dive below depth of 1.2 m. (Remaining Bottom Time) Time, for which the air supply is sufficient at the current depth, until ascent must be started.

no-stop phase

decompression phase

D current depth A C

C 24min
B D dive time no-stop time
1.2 Display during decompression phase RBT: (Remaining Bottom Time) Time, for which the air supply is sufficient at the current depth, until ascent must be started. Decompression depth: Lowest stage is displayed. Decompression time: Prescribed duration of the decompression stop at the displayed decompression stage. Total ascent time to surface: Total ascent time including decompression stops.

3 Preparation for the Dive
The following description of the preparation of a dive is based on the assumption that the transmitter is fitted correctly to the HP-outlet of the regulator (see pages 29 - 30) and that it is paired with Aladin Air Z (see page 31). 1. Mount regulator with transmitter on tank.
2.If you have one, check the reserve valve of your tank. The reserve valve must be open. 3.Switching on Aladin Air Z manually: Bridge contacts B and E with moistened fingers. Check test display: are all displays lit? 4. Open valve (transmitter switches on automatically).
5.Check transmission from transmitter to dive computer. Check tank pressure (after approx. 10 seconds), if not enough pressure is indicated, change tank.
6.The Aladin Air Z is now in ready-mode. It switches on automatically on being submerged in water and activates divemode, when a depth of more than 0.5 metres is reached. The first indication of the depth may be a little delayed.
In extremely pure freshwater, it may occur that automatic activation of divemode does not work. In such cases, Aladin Air Z must be switched on manually.
4 Functions during the Dive

4.1 Dive time

The whole time spent below a depth of 1.2 metres is displayed as dive time in minutes. While the dive time is running, the colon on the right of the figures is flashing up at 1 second intervals. Maximum dive time displayed is 199 minutes. If a dive lasts longer than 199 minutes, dive time starts again at 0 minutes.

4.2 Current depth

Current depth is given in 10 cm increments. On switching on and at a diving depth of less than 0.5 m the void display <---> appears.
Depth measurement is based on freshwater. Therefore, Aladin Air Z shows a slightly greater depth than actually true when diving in salt water, depending on the salinity of the water.

4.3 Maximum depth

The maximum depth is only displayed if it exceeds the current depth by more than one metre. This is to prevent the display changing very frequently when diving in the vicinity of the maximum depth.

decompression range

no-stop time

7min RBT 21min

Ensure that you have enough Air for the Ascent. Do not use the RBT to the limit if prolonged ascents or an increased rate of breathing (currents) are expected.
The RBT must never reach <0:> (alarm signal), because a minimal reserve pressure at the surface would not be guaranteed. Danger of insufficient air supply for the ascent!
Correct calculation of the RBT is only possible if the valve of any reserve function is open during the dive.
The acoustic alarm on exceeding the RBT is suppressed at depths less than 7 m if Aladin Air Z is in the no-stop phase.
Messages: If the RBT drops below three minutes, an acoustic attention signal is activated and the RBT (only figures) starts flashing.
When the last minute has passed (RBT=0) an acoustic alarm is activated every 4 seconds. The RBT is flashing.

Procedure:

Start ascent at once.

5.1 End of a dive

After reaching the surface, Aladin Air Z switches into wait-mode automatically for five minutes. This is the time span necessary to recognize the end of the dive. The delay allows for coming to the surface for orientation and the resumption of the dive afterwards. When the dive is closed after 5 minutes in wait-mode, it is entered into the logbook and Aladin Air Z switches into surface-mode. In surface-mode, Aladin Air Z shows desaturation time and no fly time.

5.2 Desaturation time

Aladin Air Z is in surface-mode. The arrow DESATURATION appears; beside it desaturation time in hours and minutes is displayed. Desaturation time is continually indicated until the next dive or until it reaches zero. The display is switched off to save energy 3 minutes after the last manipulation (surfacesleep-mode). Desaturation calculations continue to be made in the background.
In some cases, desaturation times of Aladin Air Z are considerably longer than those of other models, because the calculation model assumes reduced physical activity at the surface and calculates with shorter half-time periods. If desaturation time reaches the value 0, all tissues are desaturated. Aladin Air Z switches into sleep-mode.

Aladin Air Z can be used as decompression computer up to an altitude of 4000 m. If atmospheric pressure is below 620 mbar (higher altitude than 4000 m above sea level), no decompression information is displayed any more. The indication of the RBT is also impossible, since decompression data are necessary for its calculation (tank pressure is still displayed, of course). Diveplan-mode can no longer be started, since no decompression information is available. Beside the display of the altitude section 3, <HI> (=high) appears to tell the diver that he will not get any decompression information for the dive. Very small differences in the pressure sensors can cause an indication of different altitude sections of two dive computers at the same altitude on the fringes of the altitude ranges. These differences are not meaningful and do not interfere with the safety of Aladin Air Z. But if an altitude section is displayed at sea level or the altitude informations of two computers differ by more than one altitude section (e.g. section 2 instead of 0), there may be a defect of the computer. In this case, send your computer back to your retailer for checking.
Diving at Low Risk with Aladin Air Z
Diving at Low Risk with Aladin Air Z 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4
Dive at low risk ____________________________54 Minimizing risks on first dives ________________54 Minimizing risks on repetitive dives ___________55 Action in risk situations _____________________56

IV Uwatec Aladin Air Z

1 Diving at Low Risk with Aladin Air Z
1.1 Dive at low risk Aladin Air Z recognizes and reacts intelligently to certain risk situations, although of course it is much better that each individual diver avoid these higher risk situations altogether. If a decompression accident does occur, the optional MemoMouse and DataTrak software allows the analysis of the dive profile and certain risk parameters to provide for more complete information for treatment purposes. Analysis of the most recent results of decompression research and statistical analysis of diving accidents involving decompression sickness supports the following guidelines for diving with a reduced risk of decompression sickness. The following suggestions are highly recommended: Neither the Aladin Air Z nor any other diving computer or decompression table can guarantee that decompression sickness will not occur even if the computer or table is used correctly and all of the following precautions are followed. 1.2 Minimizing risk on first dives The risk can be diminished on first dives by avoiding risk situations and by the selection of a dive profile 'low in bubbles'. This leads to the following recommendations: Due to the danger of nitrogen narcosis do not dive deeper than 40 m. Aladin Air Z does not warn you in this respect. On all dives with the Aladin Air Z, make a safety stop for at least one to three minutes within the 3 to 5 metre zone. Always make the deepest dive of the day first when repetitive dives are planned, and for each successive dive make sure that the deepest portion of that dive is done at the beginning of the dive. The Aladin Air Z is designed for dives made with compressed air only. Do not use the Aladin Air Z for dives made with nitrox or other mixed gases. If your diving cylinder is equipped with a reserve or J-type valve, make certain that the reserve is in an open (down) position. Failure to keep the reserve open will result in the improper calculation of dive data depending on tank pressure. All divers using dive computers to plan dives and indicate or determine decompression status must use their own computer which they take with them on all dives.

On any given dive, all divers in a buddy group must follow the most conservative dive computer for that particular dive. If the Aladin Air Z fails at any time during the dive, the dive must be terminated, and appropriate surfacing procedures should be initiated immediately. You MUST follow the ascent rates as indicated by the Aladin Air Z and if the computer should fail for any reason, you must ascend at a rate of no greater than 10 metres per minute. You MUST be familiar with all signs and symptoms of decompression sickness before using the Aladin Air Z! Seek IMMEDIATE treatment for decompression sickness should any of these signs or symptoms occur after a dive! There is a direct correlation between the effectiveness of treatment and the delay between the onset of symptoms and the treatment for decompression sickness. Always observe the visual and acoustic alarm signals of the Aladin Air Z. Avoid situations of increased risk which are marked with a warning sign in this operating manual. Avoid repeated ascents and descents (yo-yo diving). Avoid exertion at depth Plan shorter duration for dives in cold water After completion of the decompression or at the end of no-stop dives, ascend the last metres to the surface very slowly. Ensure that you have enough Air for the Ascent. Do not use the RBT to the limit if prolonged ascents or an increased rate of breathing (currents) are expected. 1.3 Minimizing risks on repetitive dives There is still excess nitrogen in the body due to the history of the preceding dives. Depending on the duration of the surface interval, there may even be gaseous nitrogen (microbubbles). You can minimize the risk by observing certain rules: observe the same rules for repetitive dives as on your first dive plan repetitive dives at a smaller depth than the first dive plan a sufficient duration of the surface interval (min. 3 - 4 hours) only go on repetitive dives, if no indication <Atn> is visible on the display plan a day without diving once a week repetitive dives after exchanging the dive computer: Wait at least 24 hour before you start with the repetitive dive.
1.4 Action in risk situations If the dive includes a risk situation, Aladin Air Z reacts automatically and appropriately to the situation. A change of decompression is indicated if it is actually necessary to minimize the risk. The diver can further reduce the risk through sensible conduct on the next dive and at the same time prevent long decompression stops. A few examples on the following pages: Situation 1: Reaction of computer: The diver ascends much too rapidly: The model calculates the formation of bubbles due to the excessively rapid ascent. No-stop time is shortened or a longer (and eventually at greater depth) decompression prescription is displayed in order to assure sufficient decompression.
Recommended action of the diver During the dive: Observe the new decompression instruction of Aladin Air Z.

After the dive:

Watch out for symptoms of an arterial gas embolism and decompression sickness. Before the next dive, plan a sufficiently long interval (display <Atn> should have disappeared).

Situation 2:

The diver disregards the prescribed decompression depth for some time. The model calculates the formation of bubbles due to ignoring decompression. A longer (and eventually at lower depth) decompression is displayed in order to assure sufficient time for desaturation.

Reaction of computer:

Recommended action of the diver During the dive: Descend to the prescribed decompression depth at once. Do not descend to greater depths any more. Observe the decompression instruction of Aladin Air Z.
Watch out for symptoms of arterial gas embolism and decompression sickness. Before the next dive, plan a sufficiently long interval (display <Atn> should have disappeared).
Situation 3: Reaction of computer: The diver is exposed to exertion for a long period (e.g. in a current). An extension of the decompression is indicated, if the muscle tissues are relevant for the decompression of the dive.
Recommended action of the diver During the dive: Avoid further physical exertion if possible. Make a break for relaxation. Check the decompression information and the RBT frequently on your Aladin Air Z. Decompression time can increase and RBT can decrease considerably. Refrain from intense physical exertion on your next dive. In addition, a longer surface interval can shorten the decompression of the next dive. It is impossible to have a sufficient surface interval so that the indication <Atn> would extinguish prior to the next dive (e.g. on organized diving trips from a boat). Aladin Air Z calculates a more conservative no-stop time or decompression prescription in order to allow nitrogen in the vicinity of bubbles enough time for desaturation.

Situation 4:

Recommended action of the diver During the dive: Be careful to have a profile 'low in bubbles' on your next dive (limit depth to 25 m max., slow ascent). Before the next dive, plan a sufficiently long interval (display <Atn> should have disappeared).

V Logbook

5 Survey Selection and Activation Selection of Dive Leaving Logbook-Mode Output on PC
_________________________________________60 _________________________________________61 _________________________________________62 _________________________________________63 _________________________________________64

V Uwatec Aladin Air Z

1 Survey
The Aladin Air Z records the last 37 dives and the dive profiles of the last 200 minutes of diving (see Output on PC page 64). The last 19 dives can be displayed directly on the dive computer. A dive is only entered in the logbook if the dive time is longer than 2 minutes. Displayed information of the dive:

Presetting the surface interval (only during desaturation)
Planning of no-stop dives
Planning of decompression dives
2 Selection and Activation from Ready-Mode
max. depth max. depth deco info max. depth deco info
1. From ready-mode, you switch into the dive-plan input stage with contacts B and.
2. The display shows <DIVEPLAN>. You return to ready-mode by B and +.
3. Contacts B and E afterwards activate the planning mode.
4. The display shows no-stop times for increasing depths (scrolling no-stop times).
3 Selection and Activation from Surface-Mode
1. From surface-mode, you switch into the dive-plan input stage by B and.
2. The display shows <DIVEPLAN>. You return to surface mode by B and +.
3. After confirming by B and E, the display shows <Add>, <Int> and the interval (flashing). Aladin Air Z expects your input for the duration of the dive interval.
4 Planning a No-Stop Dive
Aladin Air Z expects your input for the duration of the dive interval.
4a If no surface interval is to be entered, (diving at the present moment), confirm this with contacts B and E, and you switch into no-stop planning. 4b You can extend the interval with contacts B and +. B and shorten the interval.
5 You confirm the new interval with B and E and get to no-stop planning. After confirming the surface interval (if possible), no-stop times are displayed in 3-metre-increments. The process starts at the deepest depth where the nostop time is for the first time less than 99 minutes. The no-stop time for every 3-metre-increment is displayed for about 3 seconds (scrolling no-stop times). The Aladin Air Za calculates according to the planned surface interval the expected production of microbubbles. The diver should increase the surface interval if <Atn> (Attention) is displayed. This will reduce the risk of micro bubble production in the pulmonary system.
By repeated recalculations of the dive-plan with varying surface intervals the minimum interval can be found out. When diving in spite of the display <Atn>, a clear shortening of the no-stop time and an extension of decompression has to be expected. If a dive is made during <Atn> -time, the <Atn>-time following the dive can increase considerably.
5 Planning a Decompression Dive
1.In order to plan a dive that requires decompression, wait until the scrolling no-stop time shows the desired depth. 2.By means of contacts B and E you can switch into decompression planning. Dive time is now one minute longer than no-stop time, and the appropriate decompression information appears. 3.<Add> demands that you set the time. This is done with contacts B and +, B and respectively. As soon as the contacts are no longer bridged, Aladin Air Z calculates the decompression information for this set time. This calculation takes some time. If you wish to plan a dive requiring decompression at another depth, switch from decompression planning to no-stop planning by means of B and E. Aladin Air Z again shows the scrolling no-stop times. Now you can switch between no-stop planning and decompression planning at will with contacts B and E.

VIII Trouble Shooting

1 Trouble Shooting
________________________________________ 76

VIII Uwatec Aladin Air Z

symptom No reception of tank pressure data. possible reason(s) Transmitter and computer are not tuned to each other (paired). Transmitter or receiver in the computer are defective. procedure(s) Pair transmitter and computer (see chapter II 4). If the pairing is not possible with another transmitter, the receiver in the computer is defective. Have transmitter or dive computer repaired. Change the pressure by breathing from the regulator. Tank data will reappear. Mount transmitter correctly (see chapter II 4) If the pairing is not possible with another transmitter, the receiver in the computer is defective. Have transmitter or dive computer repaired. Make comparison at 20 C or check the tank pressure compensated to the atmospheric pressure for comparison (see appendix, chapter IX).
In surface mode if there is no decrease in pressure for 3 minutes the pressure data will not display. Bad reception of tank pressure data. Transmitter is not mounted correctly. Transmitter, or receiver in the computer are defective.
Displayed tank pressure does not correspond to pressure measured by a manometer (pressure gauge).
By compensating the temperature, the pressure displayed is valid at 20 C. If air- or water-temperature differ from this value, a difference to the value given by a pressure gauge is possible. Tank and transmitter do not have the same temperature (only possible in air). Manometer/pressure gauge is not accurate (temperature 20 C).
Leave the tank with the regulator mounted in the open air for 5 -10 minutes. Measure tank pressure with another manometer/pressure gauge (at 20 C).
symptom The logbook does not show any air consumption (dp) for a certain dive. Altitude section does not correspond to the current altitude. possible reason(s) No tank pressure signal was received at the beginning or end of the dive. Transmitter and dive computer were not paired before the dive started. Atmospheric pressure is especially high or low. Air pressure measured by the computer is wrong. procedure(s) Mount transmitter correctly (see chapter II 4). Pair transmitter and computer (see chapter II 4).
Check meteorological information. Send in dive computer for servicing (only if altitude section is wrong by more than one section, see chapter III 6). Study chapter III 5 very carefully. Plan sufficiently long surface interval and dives at lower risk.
Desaturation time and/ or no fly time are very long.
Slow tissue and/or little workload at the surface. Many repetitive dives, yoyo-diving or disregard of decompression stops have caused a large number of microbubbles, which have to decrease first. Many repetitive dives, too fast ascents, yoyo-diving or disregard of decompression stops have caused a large number of microbubbles, which have to decrease first. Too rapid ascent or ignoring decompression stops have caused a large number of microbubbles, which leads to an attention message (warning of bubbles).

<Atn> appears

Plan sufficiently long surface interval and dives at lower risk. Study chapters III 5 and IV very carefully.
An unexpected decompression stop appears in place of no-stop time or decompression increases in leaps.
symptom Attention messages are not given acoustically. Remaining bottom time (RBT) always very short. possible reason(s) The acoustic signal of the attention messages is switched off. Remaining pressure is set too high (standard setting 40 bar). procedure(s) Reactivate these attention messages by means of the interface. Alter the remaining pressure setting by means of the interface. Always open reserve valve when using Aladin Air Z.

IX Appendix

Maintenance Technical Information Conversion of Tank Pressure Warranty 4.1 4.2 4.Serial No. / Dealer address
_________________________________________80 _________________________________________81 _________________________________________82 _________________________________________83 Recognition of warranty ____________________83 Scope of the warranty ______________________83 Warranty period and claim __________________83 ________________________________________ 86

IX Uwatec Aladin Air Z

1 Maintenance of Aladin Air Z Dive Computer
Your Aladin Air Z is virtually maintenance free. All you need to do is to rinse it carefully with fresh water after each use and to have the batteries changed when needed. To avoid possible problems with your Aladin Air Z, the following recommendations will help assure that it will give you years of trouble free service: Avoid dropping or jarring your Aladin Air Z. Do not allow your Aladin Air Z to be exposed to direct, intense sunlight. Rinse your Aladin Air Z thoroughly with fresh water after each dive. Do not store your Aladin Air Z in an gas mixture-tight area; make sure there is free ventilation. If there are problems with operating the contacts, the surface of your Aladin Air Z housing can be treated with silicone grease. Use soapy water to clean the Aladin Air Z before using silicone grease and dry it thoroughly. Never pressure the Aladin Air Z out of water. There are borings in two of the contacts for the reception of the PC interface connection (MemoMouse). Free these borings from dirt with a needle if necessary.
Take the dive computer or the transmitter to an authorized Uwatec dealer in order to change the batteries. The actual change of the batteries is made at the manufacturer or the importer. The computer is checked for its technical functioning at the same time. Do not attempt to have the batteries changed by anyone other than an authorized dealer.