Jetsam Displays 3 + VR3 or 2+VR3

Craig69

Following on from a thread I posted yesterday about VR3 computers and linking them to a CK I have learnt that it can be done either through P-port (and retain the original block of 3 02 sensors +1 for the VR3) or with a factory fitted wire so you have two displays + the VR3.

Whats the best option, and before I go any further I haven't had any training yet- I'm just trying to spec out the equipment I need before I start (there that should cover me for stupid questions ) ?

The way I see it is that the three original displays plus VR3 could lead to confusion if one or more cells go down (you could have two good or two bad, which is which?) but with 2 displays and the VR3 it could be difficult to get an accurate picture of the current Pp02 because the VR3 reacts more slowly than the Jetsam displays.

At the end of the day I suspect it may be down to personal choice but I would like to here some for / against arguaments from people with experience in this area.

Thanks.

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Craig.

www.thornebsac.co.uk

Peter Piemonte

Craig: This has been discussed here before so for additional information check out the archives. However, I have run my Classic KISS both ways and have been very happy with the addition of the VR3 to the handsets. I run 2 KISS displays and a VR3 on my unit. I do not find the slower update speed of the VR3 to be a significant disadvantage.
If for some reason you end up running your unit semi closed, having the VR3 integrated would be very helpful. Peter

Craig69

Thanks Peter,

I'ver had a look and it seems that 2 displays and the VR3 is the waty to go, but if anyone could tell me why I shouldn't do this I'd be most grateful.

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Craig.

www.thornebsac.co.uk

onetime

I dive my CK without a computer but if I wanted to add a VR3 I'd go the 2 display + computer route. The three displays together are a bit of a bother size-wise if on the wrist and I wouldn't want to add much more size to it. That's just my opinion though. As you said it's more personal choice than anything else.

louisrankin

Craig,

Do you own a VR3?

If not I would look at Bruce Partridge shearwater computer they are getting very good reviews and then you can replace the kiss handsets or keep them as a backup in my opinion they are the only bad bit on the kiss

http://www.rebreather.ca

Louis

PS I run my vr3 via the P-port but I am going to buy a HH and still keep the VR3

JanR

I totaly agree on that. I had thoughts of replacing one display on my SK with a VR3 next year or so but then my displays flooded so I had to do something right away. I don't quite know the pricing on VR3:s but I don't think it's that much difference. Of course I had to add import taxes for the Shearwater but it's well worth it I think. I love it more and more for every dive. You have everything you need on one display, cells, depth, time and much moore. And you still have two ports free for other configurations like one ore two Jetsam displays or a HUD.

Jan

Andy Del

I considered this for a while, and decided to not plumb my VR3 into the unit. My reasons were:

1. Keeping things KISS, why add complexity/complacency? I decide on a setpoint and set the computer, then make myself keep the unit at that setpoint. With a VR3 plumbed in, I have the option of allow the setoint to wander, and me deco is accordingly adjusted, which is the lazy way out.
2. In the event of a cell(s) going awry, it's more work to make sure the VR3 isn't getting crap information. (note to self - time to get 1 new cell...)

Of course, this suits me, and may not work for everyone. The Shearwater package looks great, so too does a locally made digital display which is very compact.

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Craig69

The shearwater set up looks interesting. I'll have to look through the archives for some more info.

As far as I can tell the price of the shearwater will only be about £100 GBP more than a VR3 with colour screen so its quite comparable and a serious option. Could I still get trained on a KISS unit if I had a shearwater fromt he off? Or do you have to learn to dive the unit on tables and Pp02 sensors first?

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Craig.

www.thornebsac.co.uk

Dutchy

I know my SK was modded before entering the course. All my instructor said was I can't promise you you can I want to see your mods myself first.....

Find an instructor that will allow you. Emphasis in entry level training is on getting your buoancy right while maintaining your ppO2 within certain limits even when stressed. If your setup doesn't prevent that, then my guess is that instructors will allow you to have a VR3 but not a hud. (As you have to get into the habit of checking your ppO2 frequently and after every change in the loop (other depth, activated ADV etc etc).... Any electronics other that ppO2 measurement (and deco sw) such as solenoids will void the KISS specific character.

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Ben Field

My Shearwaters still in the post but I've been diving the SK for a year on the original displays (when they've not been "water cooled")

Firstly I would say Keep It Simple Stupid, much easier to learn the KISS diving method with just the displays without having to learn a new computer too!

Secondly you will have to go with what your instructor will allow.

I'd say just add the shearwater/VR3/whatever when you start diving dives that need deco information, which won't be for a little while if you are about to do Mod1 I'd imagine?

BEN

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Know your PPO2, Pre-breath, Use checklists, Validate cells at 6mtrs, Use pure O2 at or near surface, Use a BOV, Don't dive Solo, Change Slime and Cells as recommended by Manufacturer and RTFM!





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