Suunto, the global market leader in dive computers, introduces the new Suunto HelO2 technical dive computer and dive planner. The device is designed specifically for technical divers – divers who use multiple gases such as trimix, nitrox and oxygen to go deeper for longer exploring wreck and caves, for example. Suunto HelO2 builds on Suunto’s successful line of recreational dive computers, which are trusted by millions of divers around the world.

Suunto HelO2

Suunto HelO2 is the first dive computer from Suunto with full mixed gas capability. It is rated to 120 m/393 ft and incorporates the new Suunto Technical RGBM algorithm. Based on the RGBM algorithm developed by Dr. Bruce Wienke, widely recognized decompression scientist, the Suunto Technical RGMB algorithm extends decompression flexibility into the world of technical diving.

The algorithm introduces helium tissue groups in the decompression model to enable trimix diving, as well as diving on air and nitrox. It allows eight gases to be programmed as primary or secondary gases, and enables oxygen content of 8-100%, and helium content of 0-92%. For the technical diver, the great benefit of the algorithm is that it provides more flexibility and reduces task load when decompressing by removing the need to constantly monitor a slate and watch.

Suunto technical dive planner

The Suunto technical dive planner is an easy-to-use graphical planner for planning dive profiles, gases, and back-up plans. The intuitive interface enables the diver to try different variations of depth, time, gases and partial pressures without having to continously recalculate. Suunto technical dive planner calculates all changes instantly and presents the results on on easy-to-read graph. When ready, the diver can simply export the planned gases and other dive-critical information from PC to dive computer with the included USB cable – removing the need to copy all the calculations onto a slate. Divers are also provided with gas mixing instructions for their planned dive, which they can print out and give to a dive shop if not mixing themselves.

The Suunto technical dive planner enables divers to plan dive series based on real dive profiles – not planned dive profiles – making the plans for later dives in the series more accurate and realistic. The planner also allows divers to compare the planned dive and the and actual dive, helping them pinpoint future areas of improvement in both planning and diving.