Computer, Depth Gauges Recalled

Suunto Vytek computer has a problem: The screen may freeze if 1) the unit is in Nitrox Mode, and 2) the SIMPLAN dive planning function is used before the dive, and 3) the Mode button is pressed for more than two seconds. Todd Anderson, senior repair technician at Aqualung, says the unit is safe for diving, as long as a Nitrox diver who has used the SIMPLAN function puts the computer back into “set mode,” and then resets it in the Nitrox mode before diving. However, when a computer screen freezes when being used according to instructions, we don’t call that safe. If your model has serial numbers from 205000 to 223700, send it back to Suunto for reprogramming. Bad news: it will take up to eight weeks, since reprogramming will be done in Finland. See your dealer or call (760) 597-5000 for an authorization to return.

UWATEC Depth Gauges have inaccurate depth readings: 1,700 UWATEC depth gauges issued between January and May give bum readings, which means the user may risk the bends. Four malfunctions have been reported. The recalled computers are produced by Johnson Outdoors and include the UWATEC Smart PRO, Pro ULTRA, and Sport PLUS consoles with U-Line gauges. The gray consoles have “UWATEC’” printed on the front, and the following codes are on the backs of the gauges: Tested-IL, Tested-JL, Tested-KL, Tested-LL, Tested-AM, Tested-BM, Tested-CM, Tested-DM, and Tested-EM. Return them to where they were purchased or call (800) 382-2211. Johnson Outdoors Inc.: http://www.scubapro.com