Continuous VR3 Issue

Barrie Law · 14th April 2008, 12:27

Quote: (Originally Posted by colinj)

How long (daft question, rough answers accepted with thanks!) do these last on Lithium batteries as i am using standard AA so far, average dive 30-50mins currently, backlight only on button press. Maybe this is the issue and I am expecting too much?

Hi Colin,

You should be getting a lot longer than 50 mins from a standard AA battery I would have though at least 20 hours but I would need to look that up to be sure.

There where a few units several years ago that suffered with a similar problem and if I remember correctly that was something to do with the wiring from the battery compartment I think an earth wire was mentioned but again don't quote me and I am sure Delta P would check that?

The other possibility that can cause the problem of constantly flat batteries is if the left hand button has snapped in two as it is a magnetic switch when it breaks (seldom granted) the magnetic part often sits in the on position causing the Vr3 to fire up repeatedly until the battery dies.

To check this simply remove the cir clip on the back of the Vr3 and allow the Spring & the button to be removed, keep your thumb on the button as you remove the circlip to stop it popping out and shooting across the room. Check the button is intact and then refit it the reverse of removing it and also check the right hand button while your at it and give them a light coating of oil when replacing them. Clean them with running water if necessary if any evidence of Sand or other debris is present.

Did you get a report from Delta P with the previous visits to the factory as that should list any problems they found and the action they took to rectify it but if all else fails give Al Wright a call on +44 1202 624478 he is the product support guy for Delta P.

colinj · 14th April 2008, 13:38

Thanks Barrie, I will wait for the upcoming report from DP, I don't remember getting one last time (but it went through Stoney Cove as that was where I was diving when it first packed in so it has been returned via them each time since as i haven't considered the problem resolved as yet). DP have been fine so far, no issues apart from the time to return the unit but... whatever they have to do to sort it etc. I will do a little checking on the buttons in the manner you mention to get my hand in when I get it back thoough thanks for the tips.

aainslie · 15th April 2008, 01:06

It might be a contact issue. The VR3 is very sensitive to the type of battery,and doesn't make great contact. My most fun moment was when one switched off with an hour of deco left... and then came back on restarting the dive with no deco!

Keep the battery compartment clean - I used a bit of alcohol and some swabs - and if it doesn't fire up just change the battery and see what happens.

I agree that it should last well over 1 hour - many people have done single dives over 6 hours on these (me NOT included, my max is around 4 hours) with a normal AA. But it does help to set up the light to only go on when a button is pressed, I forget the code for this, rather than always on.

Lithium batteries have some downsides - 1) the voltage cahracteristics are such that when the VR3 reports low voltage you don't ahve much time to change them. This could really lead to fun on a long dive. 2) These are the ones that occasionally need trimming of the bottom to ensure contact. Overall I think you're better off with normal AA's.

Sutty · 15th April 2008, 20:20

I use the 3.6 lithium batteries and they last ages!! One word of warning though - they have a VERY steep discharge curve at the end of their life (It would be nice to be able to specify the voltage at which low battery warning appears). From my experience they decay quickly once they get down to about 3.1-3.2V so I change them then. When you are used to seeing the voltages for 1.5V cells it would be easy to leave it too late.

Neil

colinj · 22nd April 2008, 22:34

OK, First report back from DP via Stoney is that the battery fitted in both previous returns to (and back from) DP was a 1.5VAA as this is what they do, apparently, as standard unless asked for a 3.5V (How you are supposed to know to ask is beyond me but I'm learning fast!) They (DP) expect this to last about what I am getting now (so far anything from approx 80mins to maybe 120mins or 2 - 3 dives max) so I reckon no one should be using 1.5V AA and doing any real deco just in case!
Second, mine is a C2 which only upgrades so far? Can't do Spectrum, Can't do very latest software etc...(The only computer you will ever need?) so I figure the Shearwater is looking nicer by the minute (still can't afford that avenue) as to be honest I'm not that impressed, despite a kind offer to upgrade to 4th cell for £250 (less the cable & cell). Luckily there is no problem with the unit so I guess it's E Bay for this rather disgruntled soon to be ex-owner. Any takers?

Andy Del · 24th April 2008, 00:07

Quote: (Originally Posted by colinj)

OK, First report back from DP via Stoney is that the battery fitted in both previous returns to (and back from) DP was a 1.5VAA as this is what they do, apparently, as standard unless asked for a 3.5V (How you are supposed to know to ask is beyond me but I'm learning fast!) They (DP) expect this to last about what I am getting now (so far anything from approx 80mins to maybe 120mins or 2 - 3 dives max) so I reckon no one should be using 1.5V AA and doing any real deco just in case!

You are joking! An AA battery will give much more than 1-2 dives. Can you find out who told this load of BS? FWIW, there is one local diver here with the same problem on a new model, but this hasn't been resolved either. I can use a 1.5vAA for at least 10-12 hours of diving. From what they are saying, there should be a warnng for those planning a dive longer than 60 minutes to use lithium 3.6v, or that a VR3 using 1.5vAA cells is unsuitable for deco diving.

Brainx3 · 24th April 2008, 04:54

Hi,

It's really unfortunate to see you letting your VR3 go. I know it's a frustrating issue to have so many problems with it so far but some units had battery and consumption problems. Nevertheless, if I were in your shoes I would insist on using the 3.6v Lithium batteries instead of 1.5v as they do indeed last much longer and seems to cause less problems according to my personal research.

Best Regards. Wael

Drmike · 24th April 2008, 06:00

Quote: (Originally Posted by aainslie)

. My most fun moment was when one switched off with an hour of deco left... and then came back on restarting the dive with no deco!

cool! some would call that a design feature

Quote:

I agree that it should last well over 1 hour - many people have done single dives over 6 hours on these (me NOT included, my max is around 4 hours) with a normal AA. But it does help to set up the light to only go on when a button is pressed, I forget the code for this, rather than always on.

Lithium batteries have some downsides - 1) the voltage cahracteristics are such that when the VR3 reports low voltage you don't ahve much time to change them. This could really lead to fun on a long dive. 2) These are the ones that occasionally need trimming of the bottom to ensure contact. Overall I think you're better off with normal AA's.

I use normal AAs and 3.6v Lithiums when I can get them. Never had issues with either on 8-10hr long dives. i preffer the lithium cos they last and last and last and........

I know a few people have issues with them but fwiw my VR3s are my most reliable bit of dive kit (and Ive got a lot of dive kit!).

Lancer4545 · 24th April 2008, 06:13

Hi Colin,

I am sure this is an isolated occurance as I have had many hassle free hours diving with my VR3s.

I always use lithium cells as they last for ages even with the back light on. Alkaline cells are cheap and just don't have enough Oomph to be suitable, youre life is depending on them so why put cheap batteries in it.......

I have 3 VR3s, dive with 2 and have the third as a back-up, back-up and have never needed it..........

Personally I wouldn't get rid of it......try the lithium cells and then decide.

Regards,

Lance

colinj · 24th April 2008, 07:32

I asked them to put Lithium 3.5v in this time and will at least give the thing another try but I have to admit with the non upgrade status and the issues I have had, I am just not impressed so far.

14th April 2008, 12:27	#11 (permalink)
Barrie Law RebreatherWorld Sponsor Current Rebreather/s: Inspiration Classic Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Ireland Posts: 726	Re: Continuous VR3 Issue Quote: (Originally Posted by colinj) How long (daft question, rough answers accepted with thanks!) do these last on Lithium batteries as i am using standard AA so far, average dive 30-50mins currently, backlight only on button press. Maybe this is the issue and I am expecting too much? Hi Colin, You should be getting a lot longer than 50 mins from a standard AA battery I would have though at least 20 hours but I would need to look that up to be sure. There where a few units several years ago that suffered with a similar problem and if I remember correctly that was something to do with the wiring from the battery compartment I think an earth wire was mentioned but again don't quote me and I am sure Delta P would check that? The other possibility that can cause the problem of constantly flat batteries is if the left hand button has snapped in two as it is a magnetic switch when it breaks (seldom granted) the magnetic part often sits in the on position causing the Vr3 to fire up repeatedly until the battery dies. To check this simply remove the cir clip on the back of the Vr3 and allow the Spring & the button to be removed, keep your thumb on the button as you remove the circlip to stop it popping out and shooting across the room. Check the button is intact and then refit it the reverse of removing it and also check the right hand button while your at it and give them a light coating of oil when replacing them. Clean them with running water if necessary if any evidence of Sand or other debris is present. Did you get a report from Delta P with the previous visits to the factory as that should list any problems they found and the action they took to rectify it but if all else fails give Al Wright a call on +44 1202 624478 he is the product support guy for Delta P. __________________ Barrie Law Rebreather World Store Supplying the Rebreather World Tel:US +19548403892 Fax:US+19543333792 Tel:EU+442071930496 Fax:EU+442077606344 Mobile+353876880628 Skype:barrielaw Email: barrie@rebreatherworldstore.com
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14th April 2008, 13:38	#12 (permalink)
colinj New Member Current Rebreather/s: Inspiration Classic Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Uttoxeter Posts: 68	Re: Continuous VR3 Issue Thanks Barrie, I will wait for the upcoming report from DP, I don't remember getting one last time (but it went through Stoney Cove as that was where I was diving when it first packed in so it has been returned via them each time since as i haven't considered the problem resolved as yet). DP have been fine so far, no issues apart from the time to return the unit but... whatever they have to do to sort it etc. I will do a little checking on the buttons in the manner you mention to get my hand in when I get it back thoough thanks for the tips.
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15th April 2008, 01:06	#13 (permalink)
aainslie New Member Current Rebreather/s: Inspiration Vision Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: LA Posts: 88	Re: Continuous VR3 Issue It might be a contact issue. The VR3 is very sensitive to the type of battery,and doesn't make great contact. My most fun moment was when one switched off with an hour of deco left... and then came back on restarting the dive with no deco! Keep the battery compartment clean - I used a bit of alcohol and some swabs - and if it doesn't fire up just change the battery and see what happens. I agree that it should last well over 1 hour - many people have done single dives over 6 hours on these (me NOT included, my max is around 4 hours) with a normal AA. But it does help to set up the light to only go on when a button is pressed, I forget the code for this, rather than always on. Lithium batteries have some downsides - 1) the voltage cahracteristics are such that when the VR3 reports low voltage you don't ahve much time to change them. This could really lead to fun on a long dive. 2) These are the ones that occasionally need trimming of the bottom to ensure contact. Overall I think you're better off with normal AA's. __________________ Andrew Ainslie Last edited by aainslie : 15th April 2008 at 01:11.
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15th April 2008, 20:20	#14 (permalink)
Sutty Classic Kiss diver Current Rebreather/s: Classic Kiss Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Glossop, Derbyshire, UK Posts: 775	Re: Continuous VR3 Issue I use the 3.6 lithium batteries and they last ages!! One word of warning though - they have a VERY steep discharge curve at the end of their life (It would be nice to be able to specify the voltage at which low battery warning appears). From my experience they decay quickly once they get down to about 3.1-3.2V so I change them then. When you are used to seeing the voltages for 1.5V cells it would be easy to leave it too late. Neil __________________ Never forget that life is a finite resource.
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22nd April 2008, 22:34	#15 (permalink)
colinj New Member Current Rebreather/s: Inspiration Classic Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Uttoxeter Posts: 68	Re: Continuous VR3 Issue OK, First report back from DP via Stoney is that the battery fitted in both previous returns to (and back from) DP was a 1.5VAA as this is what they do, apparently, as standard unless asked for a 3.5V (How you are supposed to know to ask is beyond me but I'm learning fast!) They (DP) expect this to last about what I am getting now (so far anything from approx 80mins to maybe 120mins or 2 - 3 dives max) so I reckon no one should be using 1.5V AA and doing any real deco just in case! Second, mine is a C2 which only upgrades so far? Can't do Spectrum, Can't do very latest software etc...(The only computer you will ever need?) so I figure the Shearwater is looking nicer by the minute (still can't afford that avenue) as to be honest I'm not that impressed, despite a kind offer to upgrade to 4th cell for £250 (less the cable & cell). Luckily there is no problem with the unit so I guess it's E Bay for this rather disgruntled soon to be ex-owner. Any takers?
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24th April 2008, 00:07	#16 (permalink)
Andy Del Classic KISSer Current Rebreather/s: Sport Kiss Classic Kiss Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Australia, Sunny Sydney Posts: 391	Re: Continuous VR3 Issue Quote: (Originally Posted by colinj) OK, First report back from DP via Stoney is that the battery fitted in both previous returns to (and back from) DP was a 1.5VAA as this is what they do, apparently, as standard unless asked for a 3.5V (How you are supposed to know to ask is beyond me but I'm learning fast!) They (DP) expect this to last about what I am getting now (so far anything from approx 80mins to maybe 120mins or 2 - 3 dives max) so I reckon no one should be using 1.5V AA and doing any real deco just in case! You are joking! An AA battery will give much more than 1-2 dives. Can you find out who told this load of BS? FWIW, there is one local diver here with the same problem on a new model, but this hasn't been resolved either. I can use a 1.5vAA for at least 10-12 hours of diving. From what they are saying, there should be a warnng for those planning a dive longer than 60 minutes to use lithium 3.6v, or that a VR3 using 1.5vAA cells is unsuitable for deco diving. __________________ Yellow - the colour of greatness!
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24th April 2008, 04:54	#17 (permalink)
Brainx3 Temporary Read only mode for site infractions Current Rebreather/s: Inspiration Vision Other Rebreather/s: Inspiration Classic Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Borås, Sweden Posts: 274	Re: Continuous VR3 Issue Hi, It's really unfortunate to see you letting your VR3 go. I know it's a frustrating issue to have so many problems with it so far but some units had battery and consumption problems. Nevertheless, if I were in your shoes I would insist on using the 3.6v Lithium batteries instead of 1.5v as they do indeed last much longer and seems to cause less problems according to my personal research. Best Regards. Wael
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24th April 2008, 06:00	#18 (permalink)
Drmike Custom Title Allowed! Current Rebreather/s: MK 15.X Ouroboros Other CCR Home Build Other Rebreather/s: Inspiration Classic Other CCR Home Build Join Date: Feb 2005 Posts: 3,128	Re: Continuous VR3 Issue Quote: (Originally Posted by aainslie) . My most fun moment was when one switched off with an hour of deco left... and then came back on restarting the dive with no deco! cool! some would call that a design feature Quote: I agree that it should last well over 1 hour - many people have done single dives over 6 hours on these (me NOT included, my max is around 4 hours) with a normal AA. But it does help to set up the light to only go on when a button is pressed, I forget the code for this, rather than always on. Lithium batteries have some downsides - 1) the voltage cahracteristics are such that when the VR3 reports low voltage you don't ahve much time to change them. This could really lead to fun on a long dive. 2) These are the ones that occasionally need trimming of the bottom to ensure contact. Overall I think you're better off with normal AA's. I use normal AAs and 3.6v Lithiums when I can get them. Never had issues with either on 8-10hr long dives. i preffer the lithium cos they last and last and last and........ I know a few people have issues with them but fwiw my VR3s are my most reliable bit of dive kit (and Ive got a lot of dive kit!). __________________ Get a girlfriend you sad twat - a Rebreather is an unfaithful mistress - dont blind yourself to her faults just because she goes down on you Last edited by Drmike : 24th April 2008 at 06:05.
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24th April 2008, 06:13	#19 (permalink)
Lancer4545 Closed Circuit Divers Aus Current Rebreather/s: Megalodon Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Cairns QLD Australia Posts: 574	Re: Continuous VR3 Issue Hi Colin, I am sure this is an isolated occurance as I have had many hassle free hours diving with my VR3s. I always use lithium cells as they last for ages even with the back light on. Alkaline cells are cheap and just don't have enough Oomph to be suitable, youre life is depending on them so why put cheap batteries in it....... I have 3 VR3s, dive with 2 and have the third as a back-up, back-up and have never needed it.......... Personally I wouldn't get rid of it......try the lithium cells and then decide. Regards, Lance __________________ You can run but you can't hide! ISC Appointed Megalodon Dealer for East Australia http://www.closedcircuitdivers.com.au info@closedcircuitdivers.com.au
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24th April 2008, 07:32	#20 (permalink)
colinj New Member Current Rebreather/s: Inspiration Classic Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Uttoxeter Posts: 68	Re: Continuous VR3 Issue I asked them to put Lithium 3.5v in this time and will at least give the thing another try but I have to admit with the non upgrade status and the issues I have had, I am just not impressed so far.
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