VR3 History for use with CCR

Craig69 · 11th July 2006, 12:14

Hi,

I'm starting to look around for a VR3 to use with a KISS rebreather (still to be bought).

As I understand it I can have the VR3 either connected to a P port or just standalone where it assumes a certain Pp02 and does all the calcs based on that.

Are there any VR3 models that I should avoid like the plague? I know that there have been many updates and some now cannot be updated any further.

I'm currently considering both new and second hand and would just like a brief overview of how they are developed and what is the most suitable for CCR use.

Also, is the download kit worth getting? I will be using a vytech in D timer mode as a back up timer which is really easy to download and record dives on.

Thanks.

Dan · 11th July 2006, 12:57

Quote: (Originally Posted by Craig69)

Hi,

... As I understand it I can have the VR3 either connected to a P port or just standalone where it assumes a certain Pp02 and does all the calcs based on that.

Are there any VR3 models that I should avoid like the plague? I know that there have been many updates and some now cannot be updated any further.

I'm currently considering both new and second hand and would just like a brief overview of how they are developed and what is the most suitable for CCR use.

Also, is the download kit worth getting? I will be using a vytech in D timer mode as a back up timer which is really easy to download and record dives on.

Thanks.

You don't have to use a P-port if you can live with just two of Jetsam's displays. If you haven't bought the KISS yet you can order it with two displays and one cable for the VR3.
IMO you should buy a new VR3 as you get the new software which make it easier to make upgrades.

BUT - if you are used to Suunto download - don't go for VR3 download kit, if you don't miss old DOS-program! At least it looks like that!

IT cost you extra, you can only download 10 dives at one time and it is a pain in the ass to hold the IR-transmitter in the right place!

If you have interface for Suunto - use it!
If you don't - buy a pen!

Otherwise I love my VR3, especially after connecting it to my CK!

//Regards

diverklondike · 11th July 2006, 13:39

Quote: (Originally Posted by Dan)

BUT - if you are used to Suunto download - don't go for VR3 download kit, if you don't miss old DOS-program! At least it looks like that!

IT cost you extra, you can only download 10 dives at one time and it is a pain in the ass to hold the IR-transmitter in the right place!

Hmmmm.... "Hold the IR-transmitter in the right place".... I simply sit it up on it's side next to my laptop and it aligns perfectly....

Dinspiration · 11th July 2006, 14:06

Hello,

They are several VR3 versions on the market:

First “new” design VR3
The IR beam port is at the top. They have a two pin I/O connector. The Control Switches are not removable. This Version requires a complete change for a VPM upgrade, which is very expensive!

Second VR3
The IR beam port is on the right side. They have a six pin I/O connector. From time to time you see VR3 with and without an I/O connector. The I/O connector is required for reading the O2 of an external O2 cell. If you don’t need this feature, you don’t need the I/O connector. But, if you need it and there is no I/O connector on your VR3 you have to send it back to the factory. With an I/O Connector you need just a PIN to activate the external O2 cell reading. The Control Switches are removable. This version supports the HP link and direct download link.

Depending on the production date (please refer the VPM announcement on the Delta P homepage) the VPM Upgrade is more or less expensive. Less expensive in this case means the VR3 has already the new circuit board (more memory, faster CPU) and only requires firmware update.

If you don’t care on VPM you can buy a second hand VR3 (second edition) with the latest firmware 3.1 xxxx (for monochrome displays). If you consider upgrading to VPM you have to control the VR3 for the new circuit board.

The easiest solution is buying a new one. I prefer the color version an I am very happy with my VR3.

Kind regards
DINspiration

Dan · 11th July 2006, 20:50

Quote: (Originally Posted by diverklondike)

Hmmmm.... "Hold the IR-transmitter in the right place".... I simply sit it up on it's side next to my laptop and it aligns perfectly....

Yes, but it took you a while, didn't it?

Anyway, compare to Suunto's interface with a "click in" connection it isn't that easy!

Rumour says that DeltaP is planing a Fischer-to-USB cable.

//Regards

***jradomski*** · 11th July 2006, 21:04

Quote: (Originally Posted by Dinspiration)

Hello,

They are several VR3 versions on the market:

First “new” design VR3
The IR beam port is at the top. They have a two pin I/O connector. The Control Switches are not removable. This Version requires a complete change for a VPM upgrade, which is very expensive!

Second VR3
The IR beam port is on the right side. They have a six pin I/O connector. From time to time you see VR3 with and without an I/O connector. The I/O connector is required for reading the O2 of an external O2 cell. If you don’t need this feature, you don’t need the I/O connector. But, if you need it and there is no I/O connector on your VR3 you have to send it back to the factory. With an I/O Connector you need just a PIN to activate the external O2 cell reading. The Control Switches are removable. This version supports the HP link and direct download link.

Depending on the production date (please refer the VPM announcement on the Delta P homepage) the VPM Upgrade is more or less expensive. Less expensive in this case means the VR3 has already the new circuit board (more memory, faster CPU) and only requires firmware update.

If you don’t care on VPM you can buy a second hand VR3 (second edition) with the latest firmware 3.1 xxxx (for monochrome displays). If you consider upgrading to VPM you have to control the VR3 for the new circuit board.

The easiest solution is buying a new one. I prefer the color version an I am very happy with my VR3.

Kind regards
DINspiration

There is at least another version.. There are 2 pin versions with removable buttons.. (not sure where the Ir interface is)

***Beanie*** · 12th July 2006, 08:33

Quote: (Originally Posted by Dan)

Rumour says that DeltaP is planing a Fischer-to-USB cable.

Thought it was out already?

this?

Dinspiration · 12th July 2006, 09:27

Hello

As far as I know it is not a fischer-to-USB cable. The hardwire download cable is a fischer-to-serial cable. If it is a serial cable you will need a USB-to-serial converter as well.....

Kind regards

DINspiration

Dan · 12th July 2006, 11:54

Quote: (Originally Posted by Dinspiration)

Hello

As far as I know it is not a fischer-to-USB cable. The hardwire download cable is a fischer-to-serial cable. If it is a serial cable you will need a USB-to-serial converter as well.....

Kind regards

DINspiration

Yes, that is what I have been told to!

//Regards

munerot · 4th October 2007, 22:25

Do you have some news about the USB cable ? I hear that the data uses the same 2 wires that for the sensor connection (Fischer connection N° 2 and 7) ...But how is connected the USB connection ?

11th July 2006, 12:14	#1 (permalink)
Craig69 Custom Title Allowed! Current Rebreather/s: Classic Kiss Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Barnsley, South Yorkshire (Gods Own County), England. Posts: 123	VR3 History for use with CCR Hi, I'm starting to look around for a VR3 to use with a KISS rebreather (still to be bought). As I understand it I can have the VR3 either connected to a P port or just standalone where it assumes a certain Pp02 and does all the calcs based on that. Are there any VR3 models that I should avoid like the plague? I know that there have been many updates and some now cannot be updated any further. I'm currently considering both new and second hand and would just like a brief overview of how they are developed and what is the most suitable for CCR use. Also, is the download kit worth getting? I will be using a vytech in D timer mode as a back up timer which is really easy to download and record dives on. Thanks. __________________ Craig. www.thornebsac.co.uk
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11th July 2006, 12:57	#2 (permalink)
Dan New Member Current Rebreather/s: Classic Kiss Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: May 2005 Location: SWEDEN Posts: 71	Re: VR3 History for use with CCR Quote: (Originally Posted by Craig69) Hi, ... As I understand it I can have the VR3 either connected to a P port or just standalone where it assumes a certain Pp02 and does all the calcs based on that. Are there any VR3 models that I should avoid like the plague? I know that there have been many updates and some now cannot be updated any further. I'm currently considering both new and second hand and would just like a brief overview of how they are developed and what is the most suitable for CCR use. Also, is the download kit worth getting? I will be using a vytech in D timer mode as a back up timer which is really easy to download and record dives on. Thanks. You don't have to use a P-port if you can live with just two of Jetsam's displays. If you haven't bought the KISS yet you can order it with two displays and one cable for the VR3. IMO you should buy a new VR3 as you get the new software which make it easier to make upgrades. BUT - if you are used to Suunto download - don't go for VR3 download kit, if you don't miss old DOS-program! At least it looks like that! IT cost you extra, you can only download 10 dives at one time and it is a pain in the ass to hold the IR-transmitter in the right place! If you have interface for Suunto - use it! If you don't - buy a pen! Otherwise I love my VR3, especially after connecting it to my CK! //Regards
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11th July 2006, 13:39	#3 (permalink)
diverklondike Just one of the Peasants Current Rebreather/s: Inspiration Classic Other CCR Other Rebreather/s: Inspiration Classic Other CCR Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Delaware, USA Posts: 1,613	Re: VR3 History for use with CCR Quote: (Originally Posted by Dan) BUT - if you are used to Suunto download - don't go for VR3 download kit, if you don't miss old DOS-program! At least it looks like that! IT cost you extra, you can only download 10 dives at one time and it is a pain in the ass to hold the IR-transmitter in the right place! Hmmmm.... "Hold the IR-transmitter in the right place".... I simply sit it up on it's side next to my laptop and it aligns perfectly....
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11th July 2006, 14:06	#4 (permalink)
Dinspiration Custom Title Allowed! Current Rebreather/s: Inspiration Classic Other CCR Other Rebreather/s: Not Bought Yet Other CCR Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Switzerland Posts: 209	Re: VR3 History for use with CCR Hello, They are several VR3 versions on the market: First “new” design VR3 The IR beam port is at the top. They have a two pin I/O connector. The Control Switches are not removable. This Version requires a complete change for a VPM upgrade, which is very expensive! Second VR3 The IR beam port is on the right side. They have a six pin I/O connector. From time to time you see VR3 with and without an I/O connector. The I/O connector is required for reading the O2 of an external O2 cell. If you don’t need this feature, you don’t need the I/O connector. But, if you need it and there is no I/O connector on your VR3 you have to send it back to the factory. With an I/O Connector you need just a PIN to activate the external O2 cell reading. The Control Switches are removable. This version supports the HP link and direct download link. Depending on the production date (please refer the VPM announcement on the Delta P homepage) the VPM Upgrade is more or less expensive. Less expensive in this case means the VR3 has already the new circuit board (more memory, faster CPU) and only requires firmware update. If you don’t care on VPM you can buy a second hand VR3 (second edition) with the latest firmware 3.1 xxxx (for monochrome displays). If you consider upgrading to VPM you have to control the VR3 for the new circuit board. The easiest solution is buying a new one. I prefer the color version an I am very happy with my VR3. Kind regards DINspiration
(Offline)

11th July 2006, 20:50	#5 (permalink)
Dan New Member Current Rebreather/s: Classic Kiss Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: May 2005 Location: SWEDEN Posts: 71	Re: VR3 History for use with CCR Quote: (Originally Posted by diverklondike) Hmmmm.... "Hold the IR-transmitter in the right place".... I simply sit it up on it's side next to my laptop and it aligns perfectly.... Yes, but it took you a while, didn't it? Anyway, compare to Suunto's interface with a "click in" connection it isn't that easy! Rumour says that DeltaP is planing a Fischer-to-USB cable. //Regards
(Offline)

11th July 2006, 21:04	#6 (permalink)
*jradomski* Moderator Current Rebreather/s: Inspiration Classic Sport Kiss Optima rEvo Other CCR Home Build Other Rebreather/s: Inspiration Vision Evolution Megalodon Classic Kiss rEvo Other CCR Home Build Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: "Da" Bronx Posts: 3,011	Re: VR3 History for use with CCR Quote: (Originally Posted by Dinspiration) Hello, They are several VR3 versions on the market: First “new” design VR3 The IR beam port is at the top. They have a two pin I/O connector. The Control Switches are not removable. This Version requires a complete change for a VPM upgrade, which is very expensive! Second VR3 The IR beam port is on the right side. They have a six pin I/O connector. From time to time you see VR3 with and without an I/O connector. The I/O connector is required for reading the O2 of an external O2 cell. If you don’t need this feature, you don’t need the I/O connector. But, if you need it and there is no I/O connector on your VR3 you have to send it back to the factory. With an I/O Connector you need just a PIN to activate the external O2 cell reading. The Control Switches are removable. This version supports the HP link and direct download link. Depending on the production date (please refer the VPM announcement on the Delta P homepage) the VPM Upgrade is more or less expensive. Less expensive in this case means the VR3 has already the new circuit board (more memory, faster CPU) and only requires firmware update. If you don’t care on VPM you can buy a second hand VR3 (second edition) with the latest firmware 3.1 xxxx (for monochrome displays). If you consider upgrading to VPM you have to control the VR3 for the new circuit board. The easiest solution is buying a new one. I prefer the color version an I am very happy with my VR3. Kind regards DINspiration There is at least another version.. There are 2 pin versions with removable buttons.. (not sure where the Ir interface is) __________________ Joe Radomski CCR Trimix Instructor Trainer ANDI Instructor Trainer Director #10 All posts are personal opinions and DO NOT reflect any affiliated agency unless specifically stated.
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12th July 2006, 08:33	#7 (permalink)
*Beanie* give a man an inch....... Current Rebreather/s: Inspiration Classic Other Rebreather/s: Inspiration Vision Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: In da house! yeah baby! Posts: 3,176	Re: VR3 History for use with CCR Quote: (Originally Posted by Dan) Rumour says that DeltaP is planing a Fischer-to-USB cable. Thought it was out already? this? __________________ Beanie Gallery Admin & Library Assistant. www.outlawdivers.org.uk www.beandiving.co.uk www.beanengineering.co.uk
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12th July 2006, 09:27	#8 (permalink)
Dinspiration Custom Title Allowed! Current Rebreather/s: Inspiration Classic Other CCR Other Rebreather/s: Not Bought Yet Other CCR Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Switzerland Posts: 209	Re: VR3 History for use with CCR Hello As far as I know it is not a fischer-to-USB cable. The hardwire download cable is a fischer-to-serial cable. If it is a serial cable you will need a USB-to-serial converter as well..... Kind regards DINspiration
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12th July 2006, 11:54	#9 (permalink)
Dan New Member Current Rebreather/s: Classic Kiss Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: May 2005 Location: SWEDEN Posts: 71	Re: VR3 History for use with CCR Quote: (Originally Posted by Dinspiration) Hello As far as I know it is not a fischer-to-USB cable. The hardwire download cable is a fischer-to-serial cable. If it is a serial cable you will need a USB-to-serial converter as well..... Kind regards DINspiration Yes, that is what I have been told to! //Regards
(Offline)

4th October 2007, 22:25	#10 (permalink)
munerot New Member Current Rebreather/s: Classic Kiss Other Rebreather/s: Join Date: Aug 2006 Posts: 1	Re: VR3 History for use with CCR Do you have some news about the USB cable ? I hear that the data uses the same 2 wires that for the sensor connection (Fischer connection N° 2 and 7) ...But how is connected the USB connection ?
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