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

THE SYSTEM

OPERATING MANUAL

Active Light

English

SWISS MADE BY UWATEC AG

Operating scheme
Operating scheme for surface functions

B and E

B and +

B and

Sleep Surface Sleep

Input stage

DIVEPLAN

(or 3min)

Ready or Surface

LOGBOOK

automatically

(or 3s

(or 3m in)

Battery capacity

depth depth

dive time dive time

NO STOP

max. depth

tank data

deco info

Uwatec Aladin Air Z
Important remarks concerning signal words and symbols
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.

Attention!

Information which draws your attention to situations and special features important for your diving comfort and the early avoidance of risk situations.

Danger!

Alarms which indicate risk situations and dangers. Ignoring these warnings can lead to situations involving danger to life and limb. These alarms must be obeyed!
The following symbols are used in the operating manual: Flashing display
Acoustic alarm signal -+E B Operating instruction for manual input Example: bridging contacts B and E
January 2000, Copyright by Uwatec Switzerland Uwatec Aladin Air Z

Safety considerations

You must carefully read this entire manual before using your Aladin Air Z. Diving has many inherent risks. Decompression sickness is among the most serious of those risks. Even if you follow the instructions of this manual in a careful manner, it is still possible that you may be seriously injured or die from decompression sickness or some other inherent risk of scuba diving. Unless you are fully aware of these risks and are willing to personally accept and assume responsibility for those risks, do not use the Aladin Air Z! The Aladin Air Z is a sophisticated dive computer to assist a trained and certified diver in making decisions concerning dive planning and execution. As with any tool, the Aladin Air Z may be misused if the following safety and operational precautions are not strictly followed. If they are followed, careful use of the Aladin Air Z can increase your diving enjoyment and reduce your risk of decompression sickness. If they are not, you will be placing yourself at serious risk for decompression sickness. While the Aladin Air Z is a technically advanced tool based on a mathematical model of decompression sickness, neither it nor any other diving computer (or table) can exactly monitor the physiological changes that occur in your body as you dive. In addition, each diver will vary in his or her susceptibility to decompression sickness and each diver will vary in his or her susceptibility to decompression sickness. In addition to this, each individual divers own susceptibility may vary from day to day. Combined with the fact that decompression modelling is an inexact science, and must be based to some extend on certain unproven assumptions, it is emphasis on you, the individual diver, to dive responsibly and to carefully follow all standard safe diving practices as well as the recommendations contained in this manual. Guidelines for the use of Aladin Air Z: The following guidelines for using Aladin Air Z are derived from the latest medical research for diving with diving computers. Following these guidelines will greatly increase your safety while diving, but cannot guarantee that decompression sickness will not occur. 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. 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. 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. Repetitive dives after exchanging the dive computer: Wait at least 24 hour before you start with the repetitive 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. On any given dive, all divers in a buddy group must follow the most conservative dive computer for that particular dive. Always observe the optical and acouctic alarm signals of the Aladin Air Z. Avoid situations of increased risk for decompression sickness which are marked with a warning sign in this operating manual. 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. 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. See also page 54-55 and 84.

with transmitter

without transmitter

2 Dive Computer

3.1 Operation Switching on display: automatically, on submerging in water or when adaptation to atmospheric pressure is necessary. manually by operating contacts on housing. Switching off display: automatically, after three minutes without operation. Aladin Air Z has 4 operating contacts B, E, +, on the outside of the housing. For manual operation touch base contact B and any one of the other three contacts above the display with moistened fingers.
Contact B: Base contact, which has to be touched for all operations. Contact E: Enter contact. It serves to switch on the computer, to activate the logbook and dive-plan mode and to switch between no-stop and decompression planning. It is also used to confirm inputs and is therefore comparable to the ENTER- or RETURN-key of a computer. + / contacts: They serve to select the logbook and dive-plan as well as to set values (time, depth, dive-number etc.).

3 Operating

Active backlight The display of the Aladin Air Z can be illuminated both on the surface and underwater. The backlight can be switched on by pressing the unit above the display. The light will turn off automatically after 7 seconds. The backlight can only be activated if the computer display is on. The active backlight is no substitute for a dive torch. When diving at night or at increased depth we recommend the use of a dive torch. Replace the battery if the battery warning appears.

3 Dive Computer

On page 2 of the English manual you will find a reference guide. On page 3 of the German manual you will find an openable operating scheme. 1. Aladin Air Z is in a state of rest; no information is displayed (>sleep-mode or >surface-sleep-mode).
2. Bridging B and E activates the computer >readymode or >surface-mode.

depth dive time depth

DO NOT FLY

DESATURATION

3. A second bridging of contacts B and E activates the display of the remaining battery capacity for approximately 5 seconds. As soon as the battery capacity is 0%, a battery alarm is sent. There is still a small reserve left at bAt 0%.

Ready-mode

Surface-mode

depth dive time

4a Selecting the logbook function: B and + Cancel: B and or automatically after three minutes without operation
4b Activating the logbook: B and E. Aladin Air Z shows the most recent dive.
4c Leaving the logbook: B and E or automatically after three minutes without operation.
Surface-mode or after 3 minutes
5a Selecting the dive-plan function: B and. Cancel: B and + or automatically after three minutes without operation.
5b Activating the dive-plan B and E. Der Aladin Air Z starts by listing no-stop times. If the dive-plan is activated out of the surfacemode, first enter the desired interval by B and + or B and. Confirmation with B and E.

or after 3 minutes

5c Leaving the dive-plan: B and E for approx. 3 seconds or automatically after three minutes.

3.2 Operating modes

Aladin Air Z works in various operating modes: Sleep-mode: Activation: automatically When Aladin Air Z is not used it is in the so called sleep-mode. In this case, the electronics are sleeping for the most part, the display does not show any information. The computer is briefly activated once every minute to measure atmospheric pressure. The display remains switched off. If a change in altitude is recognized, Aladin Air Z switches to > surface-mode for 3 minutes.
DO NOT FLY DIVEPLAN LOGBOOK

S L O W

DECOSTOP

ft h m

psi bar
Ready-mode: Activation: By touching contacts B and E from sleep-mode. To check the display, all signs light up for 5 seconds. Aladin Air Z switches into ready-mode afterwards. In ready-mode, the display is switched on and in certain circumstances altitude sections are also displayed. If the paired transmitter is switched on and located within transmitting distance, the tank-pressure is displayed, in other cases only <--->. On touching contacts B and E in ready-mode once more, Aladin Air Z displays the remaining battery capacity in percent. Three minutes after activating readymode, Aladin Air Z falls back into > sleep-mode.

tank data tank data

Dive-mode: Activation: automatically, when depth more than 0.5 m. In dive-mode all diving functions are monitored: i. e. depth and dive time are displayed, maximum depth is stored, saturation of tissues is calculated with allowance for performance and temperature, nostop time or decompression prognosis is determined, ascent rate is controlled and displayed and the correctness of the decompression procedure is supervised.
Wait-mode: Activation: automatically on reaching the surface. The wait-mode is activated when the surface is reached after a dive. At the surface, the dive is not closed and entered into the logbook for an interval of 5 minutes. This allows a short surfacing for the purpose of orientation.
Surface-mode: Activation: automatically after a dive or when changing altitude. After a dive has been closed, Aladin Air Z is in surface-mode. All data belonging to the surface interval are calculated: Calculations are made on microbubble formation, on state of saturation of tissues after allowing for skin temperature and the assumed diver performance on the surface, on desaturation time and on no fly interval time.

4 Setting Up (Transmitter and Dive Computer)
4.1 Mounting of transmitter The transmitter is mounted at the high pressure (HP) outlet of the regulators first stage before the first dive. Procedure: (Adaptor)
Do not hold the transmitter by its plastic part.
Fit the transmitter to the HP outlet. If the threads do not match, get an adaptor from your diving retailer.
Tighten the transmitter by means of a size 19 wrench.
The transmitter is best mounted laterally on the regulator.
It is advisable to mount the transmitter on that side of the regulator on which the diver wears the dive computer on his wrist. This is the optimal position for transmission.
Position of the transmitter for left-handers.
Position of the transmitter for right-handers.
Position of the transmitter for lefthanders, if there is no connection possible on the left hand side.
Position of the transmitter for righthanders, if there is no connection possible on the right hand side.
How to check that transmitter and computer are paired correctly: tank data 1.Switch on the computer manually (B and E) and bring it into transmitting range of the transmitter. bar 2.Open the tank valve while the regulator is closed. The transmitter switches on automatically. pairing ok 3.Check the display in the lower part of Aladin Air Z: Pairing has been carried out correctly if the pressure is displayed within 5-10 seconds.
If there is no pairing of transmitter and computer, <---> is displayed instead of the pressure. In that case, transmitter and computer have to be paired. pairing not correct Pairing of transmitter and dive computer: 1.Shut the valve, depressurise the regulator and wait for 15 seconds. 2.Switch on the dive computer (contacts B and E) and move it into the position shown below.
Transmitter and dive computer must be in physical contact during the entire pairing procedure.
4.2 Pairing (tuning) of transmitter and dive computer The computer and transmitter must be tuned to each other in order to be sure that Aladin Air Z receives and uses the data of its own transmitter. Pairing is necessary before the first use of Aladin Air Z with the transmitter. if you use a new transmitter or a new computer. after changing the battery.
3.Open the tank valve. The transmitter briefly sends a pairing sequence to the computer.
4.The dive computer shows a flashing <PAIr> in the display-position of tank pressure shortly after the valve has been opened.
5.In order to confirm the pairing the B- and E- contacts have to be bridged. A bleep confirms the input and <PAIr> is displayed permanently. The computer and transmitter must remain in physical contact until the confirmation has been done. 10 s

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.

4.4 Ascent rate

The prescribed ascent rate must be observed at all times! Exceeding the prescribed ascent rate can lead to microbubbles in the arterial circulation which can lead to serious injury or death due to decompression sickness.
It is possible that Aladin Air Z demands a decompression stop within the no-stop phase because of the danger of the formation of microbubbles. Decompression time necessary for the prevention of microbubbles can increase massively, if the ascent rate is exceeded. From great depth, too slow an ascent causes super-saturation of tissues and an extension of decompression time and total ascent time. From little depth, shortening of decompression times is possible because the tissues already start desaturating during the ascent.
Optimal ascent rate varies between 7 and 20 m/min dependent on the depth. It is displayed in percent of the set value. If the ascent rate is bigger than 100% of the set value, the black arrow <SLOW> appears. If the ascent rate exceeds 140%, the arrow starts flashing. An acoustic alarm occurs from 110%, its intensity depending on the amount of excess.
Messages: Ascent rate Optical alarm

Acoustic alarm

Excessive ascent rates of longer periods are entered in the logbook. Action: Reduce ascent rate
4.5 Decompression information No-stop time is displayed, if no decompression stops are necessary yet. The arrow (NO STOP) is visible. The figures indicate no-stop time in minutes.
No-stop display <99:> means remaining time of 99 minutes or more. No-stop time is calculated assuming normal workload and current water temperature.

Messages:

There is an acoustic alarm, if no-stop time is less than 1 minute. In this last minute, the no-stop display shows the flashing value <0>.

Action:

In order to prevent a decompression dive, you have to ascend a few metres after this message.

Decompression values

On entering the decompression phase, the arrow <NO STOP> extinguishes. The arrow <DECOSTOP> appears. Right beside the arrow, the lowest decompression stage in metres is displayed. Beside the decompression depth, the decompression time of the displayed stage in minutes appears. The display <9m 3:> means that a decompression stop of 3 minutes at a depth of 9 m has to be made. When a decompression stop has been finished, the next higher is displayed. When all decompression stops have been made, the arrow <DECOSTOP> extinguishes and the arrow <NO STOP> reappears. The indication of time on the lower right shows the no-stop time again.

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.

5.3 No fly time

The waiting period until the next flight is indicated as follows: <DO NOT FLY>; beside, time in hours. In some cases the no fly time is longer than with other models (reason: see desaturation time).
The no fly time must be strictly observed because of the danger of the formation of gas bubbles.
5.4 Warning of bubbles Through repetitive dives microbubbles accumulate in the lungs if the surface interval is not long enough. Ignoring decompression or an excessive ascent rate depth dive time can also lead to bubbles in tissues. In certain circumstances, in order to reduce h the risk through further repetitive dives, an extended surface interval should be planned. The prognosis on the formation of bubbles during the surface interval allows Aladin Air Z to advise the diver to extend the surface interval. h If the display <Atn> (=attention) is visible instead of the depth during the max. depth deco info surface interval (surface-mode), the diver should not undertake another dive. The extension of the interval prevents a high concentration of bubbles in the lungs during the planned dive and avoids a risk situation.

DO NOT FLY DESATURATION

If the dive has to be made during <Atn> time, the <Atn> time of the following dive can increase considerably. If the dive is made in spite of the display <Atn>, the diver must cope with a clearly shorter no-stop time and an extension of decompression.
Aladin Air Z also measures the atmospheric pressure in sleep-mode. If the computer detects a higher altitude section, it switches into surface-mode automatically. Desaturation time indicated at this moment refers to adaptation time at this altitude. If diving starts within this adaptation time, Aladin Air Z treats it as a repetitive dive, since the body still has a higher saturation.
The entire altitude range is divided into four sections which are influenced by meteorological circumstances. That is why the following altitude sections overlap on their fringes. The altitude section is indicated at the surface, in the logbook and in the dive planner by stylized mountains, if a mountain lake altitude is reached. Section 0 is not indicated. In the following, you can see the approximate altitude ranges of the four sections:

4000 m 3000 m

switching at approx. 610 mbar switching at approx. 725 mbar switching at approx. 815 mbar switching at approx. 905 mbar

2000 m

1000 m
In order to assure optimal decompression also at higher altitudes, the 3 m decompression stage is divided into a 4 m stage and a 2 m stage (the prescribed decompression depths are in consequence 2 m, 4 m, 6 m, 9 m.).
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

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:

alarms during the dive

altitude sections if any maximum depth

dive number

air consumed during this dive out of breath warning made during the dive
duration of surface interval (only with repetitive dives)

dP=differential pressure

If a dive is started within adaptation time (after a change of altitude), the adaptation time is displayed instead of the surface interval.
2 Selection and Activation
1. The logbook is selected by bridging contacts B and + in ready- or surface-mode. Indication <LOGBUCH> appears. If Aladin Air Z has been in surface-mode before, the surface interval appears as well. You go back into ready- or surface-mode by B and.
2. In order to activate the logbook, bridge contacts B and E. The most recent dive is displayed (DIVE 1).

3 Selection of Dive

1. Bridge contacts B and + to get the information of the dive preceding the most recent one. Display <DIVE 2> appears.
2. On every further bridging B and + the logbook jumps to the next older dive (DIVE 3).
3. On constant bridging of the contacts all dives are displayed successively.
4. Bridging contacts B and effects switching back from older dives to more recent ones.
4 Leaving the Logbook-Mode
Touch contacts B and E. Aladin Air Z switches back into ready- or surfacemode. This also happens 3 minutes after activating logbook-mode.

5 Output on PC

By means of a PC-interface and the DataTrak software, both available as an accessory, the information of the last 37 dives can be read out. In the same way, the dive profiles of the last dives, up to a total of 200 minutes, can be reproduced. Time and date of the dive are entered automatically, based on the clock of the PC-system when the data are transferred via interface. The possibilities and the procedure of this data transfer are described in a separate manual.

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.

2 Technical Information

Operating altitude: with decompression information: without decompression information:
sea level up to approx. 4000 m unlimited

Operating depth:

no limitation in the permitted range of diving with compressed air no limit for recreational dives. Do not dive deeper than 40 m.
Maximum operating pressure: 13 bar Clock: Power supply: Life of the battery: quartz timer, display up to 199 minutes Special battery Uwatec LR07 (standard values) For an average diving time of 60 minutes and a surface interval of 20 hours after every dive: Number of dives per year dive computer (years) 7 5.2.5 transmitter (years) 11 9.6 Operating temperature: -10C to +50C
3 Conversion of Tank Pressure
Tank pressure indicated in the lower display may diverge from the information given by a manometer/pressure gauge. Aladin Air Z displays pressure always converted to a temperature of 20 C, whereas the mechanical pressure gauge displays the actual pressure influenced by temperature. The figure on the right allows you to compare the information given by a conventional pressure gauge and by Aladin Air Z at six different temperatures.
Display pressure gauge 150
35o C 30o C 20o C 10o C 5o C 0o C

230 bar

Display Aladin Air Z

4 Warranty

Please pay attention to the following remarks on warranty claims: 4.1 Recognition of warranty: 4.2 Scope of the warranty:
The warranty only covers dive computers, which have been provably bought from an authorized retailer or from the manufacturer. The manufacturer undertakes to rectify all defects which are provably traceable to defects of material or faults in production. The manufacturer decides about the qualification of a warranty claim and about the way of mending possible defects. This may be by repair of the computer free of charge, the replacement of faulty parts or replacement of the entire computer. Excluded are faults or defects which go back to: Unqualified operation or strain Exterior influences, e.g. transport damages, damages due to bumping and hitting, meteorological influences or other natural phenomena. Servicing, repairs or the opening of the dive computer by anybody not authorized by the manufacturer. This especially concerns the change of batteries of both the transmitter and the dive computer. Pressure tests which do not take place in water Diving accidents
4.3 Warranty period and claim

The warranty is given for a period of 12 months. Repairs or replacements during the warranty period do not extend the original warranty period. In order to put forward a warranty claim, send the dive computer together with a dated receipt of the purchase to your authorized retailer or an authorized servicing point. The manufacturer does not have to accept extensions of the warranty granted by national importers.

5 Safety considerations

The Aladin Air Z offers a high measure of comfort and safety to the diver but the dive computer does not replace a profound dive training. Pay strict attention to the optical and acoustic alarm signals emitted by Aladin Air Z. Avoid risk situations, which are marked or in this manual. Always observe the basic diving rules, which are also valid when diving with Aladin Air Z: Never dive alone Aladin Air Z does not replace a diving partner! Always dive according to your level or training. Aladin Air Z does not increase your abilities as a diver! Due to the danger of nitrogen narcosis, do not dive lower than 40 metres. Aladin Air Z does not warn you in this respect. The safety concept of Aladin Air Z includes this extensive operating manual. Confirm with your signature below that you have read this operating manual carefully and completely.
Place: ________________ Date: ______________
Signature: ____________________
5 Serial No. / Dealer address
Serial No. of your Aladin Air Z
Printed in Switzerland 1/00

Dealer address:

(Dealer to affix stamp)