Suunto Watch D9 User Manual

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CUSTOMER SERVICE CONTACTS  
Suunto Oy  
Phone +358 9 875870  
Fax +358 9 87587301  
Suunto USA  
Phone 1 (800) 543-9124  
Phone 1 (800) 776-7770  
Phone +358 2 284 11 60  
www.suunto.com  
Canada  
Europe  
Suunto website  
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2. WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, AND NOTES ............................................ 10  
3. SUUNTO D9 AT A GLANCE .......................................................... 16  
3.1. Navigating in the menus ......................................................... 17  
3.2. Button symbols and functions ................................................... 18  
4. GETTING STARTED WITH YOUR SUUNTO D9 .................................. 20  
4.1. TIME mode settings .............................................................. 20  
4.1.1. Setting the alarm ............................................................ 21  
4.1.2. Setting the time .............................................................. 22  
4.1.3. Setting the dual time ........................................................ 22  
4.1.4. Setting the date .............................................................. 23  
4.1.5. Setting the units ............................................................. 23  
4.1.6. Setting the backlight ........................................................ 24  
4.1.7. Setting the tones ............................................................ 24  
4.2. Stopwatch ......................................................................... 25  
4.3. AC water contacts ................................................................ 26  
4.4. Learning how to use your compass ............................................ 27  
4.4.1. Compass display ............................................................ 28  
4.4.2. Locking a bearing ........................................................... 29  
4.4.3. Compass settings ........................................................... 30  
5. BEFORE DIVING ...................................................................... 33  
5.1. The Suunto RGBM/Deep Stop Algorithm ...................................... 34  
5.2. Emergency ascents .............................................................. 34  
5.3. Dive computer limitations ........................................................ 35  
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5.4. Nitrox ............................................................................... 35  
5.5. Freediving ......................................................................... 35  
5.6. Audible and visual alarms ....................................................... 36  
5.7. Error conditions ................................................................... 40  
5.8. Wireless transmission ............................................................ 41  
5.8.1. Installing the wireless transmitter .......................................... 41  
5.8.2. Pairing and code selection ................................................. 42  
5.8.3. Transmitting data ............................................................ 44  
5.9. DIVE mode settings .............................................................. 45  
5.9.1. Setting the depth alarm ..................................................... 47  
5.9.2. Setting the dive-time alarm ................................................. 48  
5.9.3. Setting the nitrox values .................................................... 48  
5.9.5. Setting the sample rate ..................................................... 50  
5.9.6. Setting the Safety Stops/Deep Stops ..................................... 51  
5.9.7. Setting the RGBM values .................................................. 51  
5.9.8. Tank pressure ............................................................... 52  
5.9.9. Units .......................................................................... 52  
5.9.10. HP code .................................................................... 53  
5.10. Activation and pre-checks ...................................................... 53  
5.10.1. Accessing DIVE mode .................................................... 53  
5.10.2. DIVE mode activation ..................................................... 54  
5.10.3. Battery power indication .................................................. 56  
5.10.4. Diving at altitude ........................................................... 57  
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5.10.5. Personal adjustments ..................................................... 58  
5.11. Safety Stops ..................................................................... 60  
5.11.1. Recommended Safety Stops ............................................. 60  
5.11.2. Mandatory Safety Stops .................................................. 61  
5.12. Deep stops ....................................................................... 63  
6. DIVING .................................................................................. 64  
6.1. Diving in AIR mode (DIVEair) ................................................... 64  
6.1.1. Basic dive data .............................................................. 64  
6.1.2. Bookmark .................................................................... 66  
6.1.3. Tank pressure data .......................................................... 67  
6.1.4. Ascent rate indicator ........................................................ 68  
6.1.5. Safety Stops and Deep Stops ............................................. 69  
6.1.6. Decompression dives ....................................................... 70  
6.2. Diving in NITROX mode (DIVEean) ........................................... 75  
6.2.1. Before diving in NITROX mode ............................................ 75  
6.2.2. Oxygen displays ............................................................. 77  
6.2.3. Oxygen limit fraction (OLF) ................................................ 78  
6.3. Diving in GAUGE mode (DIVEgauge) ......................................... 80  
7. AFTER DIVING ......................................................................... 81  
7.1. At the surface ..................................................................... 81  
7.1.1. Surface interval .............................................................. 81  
7.1.2. Dive numbering .............................................................. 82  
7.1.3. Repetitive dive planning .................................................... 83  
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7.1.4. Flying after diving ........................................................... 83  
7.1.5. MEMORY mode ............................................................ 84  
7.1.6. Suunto Dive Manager (SDM) .............................................. 89  
7.1.7. SuuntoSports.com .......................................................... 90  
8. CARE AND MAINTENANCE ......................................................... 92  
8.1. Water contacts and buttons ..................................................... 92  
8.2. Care of your dive computer ...................................................... 92  
8.3. Maintenance ...................................................................... 93  
8.4. Water resistance inspection ..................................................... 94  
8.5. Battery replacement .............................................................. 95  
8.5.1. Computer battery replacement ............................................ 95  
9. TECHNICAL DATA ..................................................................... 99  
9.1. Technical specifications .......................................................... 99  
9.2. RGBM ............................................................................ 103  
9.2.1. Suunto RGBM adaptive decompression ................................ 104  
9.2.2. No-decompression limits .................................................. 105  
9.2.3. Altitude diving .............................................................. 107  
9.3. Oxygen exposure ............................................................... 108  
10. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY ..................................................... 109  
10.1. Copyright ....................................................................... 109  
10.2. Trademark ...................................................................... 109  
10.3. Patent notice ................................................................... 109  
11. DISCLAIMERS ...................................................................... 110  
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11.1. User’s responsibility .......................................................... 110  
11.2. CE ............................................................................... 110  
11.4. After sales service ............................................................. 111  
12. WARRANTY ......................................................................... 112  
13. DISPOSAL OF THE DEVICE ...................................................... 114  
GLOSSARY .............................................................................. 115  
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1. WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF SUUNTO DIVING  
INSTRUMENTS  
Suunto D9 was designed to help you get the most out of your diving. By reading this  
manual and becoming familiar with the functions of your dive computer, you can begin  
a new era in your diving - one in which all dive-critical data can be seen on your wrist.  
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Suunto D9 is the world’s first dive computer to integrate a digital compass, wireless  
tank data reception, and gas switching. It simplifies your diving experience because  
all the information you need relating to depth, time, tank pressure, decompression  
status, and direction is now available on one easy-to-read screen – not hanging off  
you in a tangle of different gauges.  
To get the most out of your Suunto D9, please read this instruction manual carefully  
and make sure you understand the use, displays, and limitations of the instrument  
before using it. To make life easier, we've included a glossary of dive-specific  
terminology at the back of the manual.  
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2. WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, AND NOTES  
Throughout this manual, important safety icons are displayed. Three classifications  
are used to separate these icons by their order of importance:  
is used in connection with a procedure or situation that could  
result in serious injury or death  
WARNING  
CAUTION  
NOTE  
is used in connection with a procedure or situation that could  
result in damage to the device  
is used to emphasize important information  
Before you go on to read the manual itself, it is extremely important that you read the  
following warnings. These warnings are intended to maximize your safety while using  
Suunto D9 and must not be ignored.  
READ THIS MANUAL! Carefully read this manual in its entirety,  
paying close attention to all the warnings listed below, including  
Section 5. BEFORE DIVING. Make sure that you fully understand  
the use, displays and limitations of the dive computer, because  
any confusion resulting from neglecting to follow this user's manual  
or from improper use of this device could cause you to commit  
errors that may lead to serious injury or death.  
WARNING  
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NOT FOR PROFESSIONAL USE! Suunto dive computers are  
intended for recreational use only. The demands of commercial  
or professional diving may expose the diver to depths and  
conditions that tend to increase the risk of decompression illness  
(DCI). Therefore, Suunto strongly recommends that the device  
is not used for any commercial or professional diving activities.  
WARNING  
ONLY DIVERS TRAINED IN THE PROPER USE OF SCUBA  
DIVING EQUIPMENT SHOULD USE A DIVE COMPUTER! No  
dive computer can replace the need for proper dive training.  
Insufficient or improper training may cause you to commit errors  
that may lead to serious injury or death.  
WARNING  
WARNING  
THERE IS ALWAYS A RISK OF DECOMPRESSION ILLNESS  
(DCI) FOR ANY DIVE PROFILE, EVEN IF YOU FOLLOW THE  
DIVE PLAN PRESCRIBED BY DIVE TABLES OR A DIVE  
COMPUTER. NO PROCEDURE, DIVE COMPUTER, OR DIVE  
TABLE CAN PREVENT THE POSSIBILITY OF DCI OR OXYGEN  
TOXICITY! An individual’s physiological make-up can vary from  
day to day. The dive computer cannot account for these variations.  
You are strongly advised to remain well within the exposure limits  
provided by the instrument to minimize the risk of DCI. As an  
added precaution, you should consult a physician regarding your  
fitness before diving.  
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SUUNTO STRONGLY RECOMMENDS THAT SPORT DIVERS  
LIMIT THEIR MAXIMUM DEPTH TO 40 M/130 FT OR TO THE  
DEPTH CALCULATED BY THE COMPUTER BASED ON THE  
SELECTED O2% AND A MAXIMUM PO2 OF 1.4 BAR!  
WARNING  
WARNING  
DIVES THAT REQUIRE DECOMPRESSION STOPS ARE NOT  
RECOMMENDED. YOU SHOULD ASCEND AND BEGIN  
DECOMPRESSION IMMEDIATELY WHEN THE DIVE  
COMPUTER SHOWS YOU THAT A DECOMPRESSION STOP  
IS REQUIRED! Note the blinking ASC TIME symbol and the  
upward pointing arrow.  
USE BACK-UP INSTRUMENTS! Make sure that you use back-  
up instrumentation, including a depth gauge, submersible pressure  
gauge, timer or watch, and have access to decompression tables  
whenever diving with the dive computer.  
WARNING  
WARNING  
PERFORM PRE-CHECKS! Always activate and check the device  
before diving in order to ensure that all Liquid Crystal Display  
(LCD) segments are completely displayed, that the device has  
not run out of battery power, and that the oxygen, altitude,  
personal, Safety/Deep Stop, and RGBM adjustments are correct.  
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YOU ARE ADVISED TO AVOID FLYING ANY TIME THE  
COMPUTER COUNTS DOWN THE NO-FLY TIME. ALWAYS  
ACTIVATE THE COMPUTER TO CHECK THE REMAINING NO-  
FLY TIME PRIOR TO FLYING! Flying or traveling to a higher  
altitude within the no-fly time can greatly increase the risk of DCI.  
Review the recommendations given by Diver’s Alert Network  
(DAN) in Section 7.1.4. Flying after diving.  
WARNING  
WARNING  
THE DIVE COMPUTER SHOULD NEVER BE TRADED OR  
SHARED BETWEEN USERS WHILE IT IS IN OPERATION! Its  
information will not apply to someone who has not been wearing  
it throughout a dive, or sequence of repetitive dives. Its dive  
profiles must match that of the user. If it is left on the surface  
during any dive, the dive computer will give inaccurate information  
for subsequent dives. No dive computer can take into account  
dives made without the computer. Thus, any diving activity up to  
four days prior to initial use of the computer may cause misleading  
information and must be avoided.  
DO NOT EXPOSE THE SUUNTO D9´S OPTIONAL PRESSURE  
TRANSMITTER TO ANY GAS MIX CONTAINING MORE THAN  
40% OXYGEN! Enriched air with greater oxygen content presents  
a risk of fire or explosion and serious injury or death.  
WARNING  
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DO NOT DIVE WITH A CYLINDER OF ENRICHED AIR IF YOU  
HAVE NOT PERSONALLY VERIFIED ITS CONTENTS AND  
ENTERED THE ANALYZED VALUE INTO YOUR DIVE  
COMPUTER! Failure to verify cylinder contents and enter the  
appropriate O2% into your dive computer will result in incorrect  
dive planning information.  
WARNING  
WARNING  
THE DIVE COMPUTER WILL NOT ACCEPT FRACTIONAL  
PERCENTAGE VALUES OF OXYGEN CONCENTRATION. DO  
NOT ROUND UP FRACTIONAL PERCENTAGES! For example,  
31.8% oxygen should be entered as 31%. Rounding up will cause  
nitrogen percentages to be understated and will affect  
decompression calculations. If you want to adjust the computer  
to provide more conservative calculations, use the personal  
adjustment feature to affect decompression calculations, or reduce  
the PO2 setting to affect oxygen exposure.  
SELECT THE CORRECT ALTITUDE ADJUSTMENT SETTING!  
When diving at altitudes greater than 300 m/1,000 ft the Altitude  
Adjustment feature must be correctly selected in order for the  
computer to calculate the decompression status. The dive  
computer is not intended for use at altitudes greater than 3,000  
m/10,000 ft. Failure to select the correct Altitude Adjustment  
setting, or diving above the maximum altitude limit will result in  
erroneous dive and planning data.  
WARNING  
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SELECT THE CORRECT PERSONAL ADJUSTMENT SETTING!  
Whenever it is believed that factors that tend to increase the  
possibility of DCI exist, it is recommended that you use this option  
to make the calculations more conservative. Failure to select the  
correct Personal Adjustment setting will result in erroneous dive  
and planning data.  
WARNING  
This device contains a Lithium cell battery. To reduce the risk of  
fire or burns, do not disassemble, crush, puncture, short external  
contacts, or dispose of in fire or water. Replace only with  
manufacturer-specified batteries. Recycle or dispose of used  
batteries properly.  
WARNING  
NOTE  
It is not possible to change between AIR, NITROX and GAUGE  
modes before the instrument has counted down the no-fly time.  
There is one exception to this: You can change from AIR to  
NITROX mode even during the no-fly time. When planning both  
air and nitrox dives during the same dive series, you should set  
the instrument in NITROX mode and modify the gas mix  
accordingly.  
In GAUGE mode, the no-fly time is always 48 hours.  
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3. SUUNTO D9 AT A GLANCE  
If no button is pressed for 5 minutes, the dive computer beeps  
and returns to the TIME mode automatically.  
NOTE  
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3.1. Navigating in the menus  
Suunto D9 has three main operating modes - TIME mode (TIME), DIVE mode (DIVE),  
and MEMORY mode (MEM) – as well as the COMPASS submode, which can be  
activated from either TIME or DIVE modes. To toggle between the main modes, press  
the MODE button. To select a submode in DIVE and MEM mode, press the UP/DOWN  
buttons.  
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3.2. Button symbols and functions  
The table below explains the main functions of the dive computer's buttons. The buttons  
and their use will be explained in more detail in the relevant sections of the manual.  
Table 3.1. Button symbols and functions  
Symbol  
Button Press Main functions  
Switch between main modes  
Switch from submode to main mode  
Activate backlight in DIVE mode  
MODE Short  
MODE Long  
SELECT Short  
SELECT Long  
Activate backlight in other modes  
Select a submode  
Select and accept settings  
Activate compass in TIME and DIVE modes  
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Symbol  
Button Press Main functions  
Toggle between alternative displays  
Change submode  
UP  
Short  
Increase values  
UP  
Long  
Enable gas switching in NITROX mode  
Toggle between alternative displays  
Change submode  
Decrease values  
DOWN Short  
DOWN Long  
Enter Setting mode  
Toggle between ceiling and remaining air time display  
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4. GETTING STARTED WITH YOUR SUUNTO D9  
To get the most out of your Suunto D9, take some time to personalize it and really  
make it YOUR computer. Set the correct time and date, as well as the alarms and  
tones, unit and backlight settings, then calibrate and test the compass function. If  
you are going to use the optional wireless pressure transmitter, install it and enable  
the pressure transmission in the Suunto D9’s settings then test the pressure  
transmission.  
Suunto D9 is a very user-friendly dive computer, and you will quickly become familiar  
with its functions. Make absolutely sure that you know your computer and have it set  
up as you want it BEFORE getting into the water.  
4.1. TIME mode settings  
The first thing you'll want to do with your Suunto D9 , is to set the TIME mode shortcuts:  
alarm, time, dual time, date, units, backlight, and tones. In this section, we look at how  
to do this.  
Before that, however, take a look at the figure below, which shows how to toggle  
between different shortcuts in the TIME mode.  
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The seconds display reverts to date display after 5 minutes in  
order to save battery power.  
NOTE  
NOTE  
The display is illuminated by holding down the MODE button for  
more than 2 seconds.  
Now that you know how to toggle between the shortcuts, you can start to set them.  
The following figure shows how to enter the TIME SETTINGS menu.  
USE UP AND DOWN BUTTONS  
TO TOGGLE BETWEEN ALARM, TIME,  
DUAL TIME, DATE, UNITS, BACKLIGHT  
AND TONES.  
4.1.1. Setting the alarm  
The dive computer has a daily alarm function. When the daily alarm activates, the  
screen blinks and the alarm sounds for 24 seconds. Press any button to stop the  
alarm.  
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ADJUST WITH UP AND  
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT BUTTON.  
4.1.2. Setting the time  
In the TIME SETTING mode, you are able to set the hour, minute, and second, as  
well as choose between 12 and 24 hour display.  
ADJUST WITH UP AND  
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT BUTTON.  
4.1.3. Setting the dual time  
In the DUAL TIME SETTING mode you can select the hour and minute of a dual time  
- useful when traveling to a different time zone.  
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ADJUST WITH UP AND  
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT BUTTON.  
4.1.4. Setting the date  
Use the DATE SETTING mode to set the year, month, and day. The day of the week  
is automatically calculated in accordance with the date.  
ADJUST WITH UP AND  
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT BUTTON.  
4.1.5. Setting the units  
In the UNITS SETTING mode you can choose to have the units displayed in either  
the metric or imperial system - meters/feet, Celsius/Fahrenheit etc.  
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ADJUST WITH UP AND  
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT BUTTON.  
4.1.6. Setting the backlight  
Use the BACKLIGHT SETTING mode to turn the backlight on or off and to define how  
long it stays on for (5, 10, 20, 30, or 60 seconds). When the backlight is turned off, it  
does not illuminate when an alarm sounds.  
ADJUST WITH UP AND  
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT BUTTON.  
4.1.7. Setting the tones  
The TONE SETTING mode allows you to activate or deactivate the tones.  
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ADJUST WITH UP AND  
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT BUTTON.  
4.2. Stopwatch  
The Suunto D9’s stopwatch measures elapsed and split times. A separate stopwatch  
(dive timer) can also be used when in GAUGE mode. See Section 6.3. Diving in  
GAUGE mode (DIVEgauge) .  
USE DOWN BUTTON TO START  
STOPWATCH AND TAKE A SPLIT TIME.  
THE UP BUTTON STOPS THE STOPWATCH  
AND LONG PRESSING IT RESETS IT.  
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4.3. AC water contacts  
The water and data transfer contact is located on the right side of the case. When  
submerged, the water contact is connected to the casing (which is the other pole of  
the water contact) by the conductivity of the water and the “AC” symbol appears on  
the display. The AC text is shown until the water contact deactivates.  
AC APPEARS IN THE TOP RIGHT  
CORNER OF THE DISPLAY, WHEN THE DIVE  
COMPUTER IS IN CONTACT WITH WATER.  
THIS ALSO ACTIVATES THE DIVE MODE.  
Contamination or dirt on the water contact may prevent this automatic activation. It is  
therefore important that the water contact is kept clean. The contact can be cleaned  
with fresh water and a soft brush, for example a tooth brush.  
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Water or moisture build-up around the water contact may cause  
the contact to activate automatically. This can happen, for  
example, when washing your hands or sweating. If the water  
contact activates in the TIME mode, the AC symbol will appear  
on the display, and will be shown until the water contact  
deactivates. To save battery power, you should deactivate the  
water contact by cleaning it and/or drying it with a soft towel.  
NOTE  
4.4. Learning how to use your compass  
Suunto D9 is the first dive computer in the world to integrate a digital compass. It can  
be used both while diving and on the surface, and can be accessed by long-pressing  
the SELECT button.  
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IF ACCESSED FROM TIME MODE,  
TIME AND BEARING ARE DISPLAYED AT  
THE BOTTOM OF THE SCREEN.  
IF ACCESSED FROM DIVE MODE,  
CURRENT DEPTH AND TIME OR  
MAXIMUM DEPTH, AS WELL AS BEARING  
OR DIVE TIME OR TEMPERATURE ARE  
DISPLAYED.  
When accessed from DIVE mode, toggle between the alternative  
displays by pressing the UP/DOWN buttons.  
NOTE  
NOTE  
In order to save battery power, the compass display will  
automatically return to the TIME or DIVE mode 60 seconds after  
the last button-press.  
4.4.1. Compass display  
The Suunto D9 displays the compass as a graphical representation of a compass  
rose. The rose displays the cardinal and half cardinal points, in addition to which, the  
current bearing is also displayed numerically.  
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4.4.2. Locking a bearing  
A bearing can be locked to help you follow a selected course, and directional arrows  
point towards the locked bearing. Locked bearings are stored in the memory for later  
analysis and are available the next time the compass is activated.  
TO LOCK A BEARING,  
PRESS SELECT.  
The Suunto D9 also provides help for navigating square and triangular patterns, as  
well as navigating a return heading. This is made possible by following graphical  
symbols in the center of the compass display:  
Table 4.1. Locked bearing symbols  
Symbol  
Explanation  
You are traveling towards the locked bearing  
You are 90 (or 270) degrees from the locked bearing  
You are 180 degrees from the locked bearing  
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Symbol  
Explanation  
You are 120 (or 240) degrees from the locked bearing  
4.4.3. Compass settings  
You can define the compass settings (declination and calibration) when in COMPASS  
mode:  
Declination  
You can compensate for the difference between true north and magnetic north by  
adjusting the compass declination. The declination can be found, for example, from  
sea charts or topographic maps of the local area.  
ADJUST WITH UP  
AND DOWN. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT.  
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Calibration  
Because of changes in the surrounding magnetic field, the Suunto D9 electronic  
compass occasionally needs to be re-calibrated. During the calibration process, the  
compass adjusts itself to the surrounding magnetic field. As a basic rule, you should  
calibrate the compass whenever it doesn’t seem to operate properly, or after replacing  
the dive computer's battery.  
Strong electromagnetic fields, such as powerlines, stereo speakers, and magnets can  
affect the compass calibration. It is therefore advisable to calibrate the compass if  
your Suunto D9 has been exposed to these fields.  
When traveling overseas, it is recommended that you recalibrate  
the compass at the new location before using it.  
NOTE  
Remember to hold the Suunto D9 level during the calibration  
process.  
NOTE  
To calibrate the compass:  
HOLD THE  
DEVICE LEVEL  
AND SLOWLY  
ROTATE 360°.  
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If the calibration fails several times in a row, it is possible that you are in an area with  
sources of magnetism, such as large metal objects, powerlines or electric appliances.  
Move to another location and try to calibrate the compass again. If the calibration  
continues to fail, contact an authorized Suunto service center.  
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5. BEFORE DIVING  
Do not attempt to use the dive computer without reading this user's manual in its  
entirety, including all the warnings. Make sure that you fully understand the use,  
displays, and limitations of the instrument. If you have any questions about the manual  
or the Suunto D9, please contact your Suunto representative before diving with the  
dive computer.  
Always remember that YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY!  
When used properly, Suunto D9 is an outstanding tool for assisting properly trained,  
certified divers in planning and executing sport dives. It is NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR  
CERTIFIED SCUBA INSTRUCTION, including training in the principles of  
decompression.  
Diving with enriched air mixtures (nitrox) exposes you to risks  
that are different from those associated with diving with standard  
air. These risks are not obvious, and require training to understand  
and avoid. Risks include possible serious injury or death.  
WARNING  
Do not attempt to dive with any gas mix other than standard air without first receiving  
certified training in this specialty.  
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5.1. The Suunto RGBM/Deep Stop Algorithm  
Suunto’s Reduced Gradient Bubble Model (RGBM), utilized in the Suunto D9 , predicts  
both dissolved and free gas in the blood and tissues of divers. It is a significant advance  
on the classic Haldane models, which do not predict free gas. The advantage of Suunto  
RGBM is additional safety through its ability to adapt to a variety of situations and dive  
profiles.  
The Suunto D9 allows you to choose between a traditional Recommended Safety  
Stop and Deep Stops. Deep Stops are safety stops that occur deeper than traditional  
stops, with the purpose of minimizing microbubble formation.  
In order to optimize the response to different increased risk situations, an additional  
category of stop, referred to as a Mandatory Safety Stop, has been introduced. The  
combination of stop types depends on the user settings and the specific dive situation.  
To get the most from the RGBM safety benefits, refer to Section 9.2. RGBM.  
5.2. Emergency ascents  
In the unlikely event that the dive computer malfunctions during a dive, follow the  
emergency procedures provided by your certified dive training agency or, alternatively,  
follow these steps:  
Assess the situation calmly and then move promptly to less than 18 m/60 ft.  
At 18 m/60 ft, slow down your ascent rate to 10 m/33 ft per minute and move to  
a depth between 3 and 6 m/10 and 20 ft.  
1.  
2.  
Stay there for as long as your air supply will safely allow. After reaching the  
surface, do not dive for at least 24 hours.  
3.  
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5.3. Dive computer limitations  
While the dive computer's calculations are based on current decompression research  
and technology, it is important to realize that the computer cannot monitor the actual  
physiological functions of an individual diver. All decompression schedules currently  
known to the authors, including the U.S. Navy Tables, are based on theoretical  
mathematical models, which are intended to serve as a guide to reduce the probability  
of decompression illness.  
5.4. Nitrox  
Diving with nitrox provides you with an opportunity to increase bottom times or reduce  
the risk of decompression illness by reducing the nitrogen content in the gas mix.  
However, when the gas mix is altered, the oxygen content of the mix is generally  
increased. This increase exposes the diver to an oxygen toxicity risk not usually  
considered in recreational diving. In order to manage this risk, the dive computer tracks  
the time and intensity of the oxygen exposure and provides the diver with information  
to adjust the dive plan in order to maintain oxygen exposure within reasonably safe  
limits.  
In addition to the physiological effects of enriched air on the body, there are operational  
considerations to be addressed when handling altered breathing mixes. Elevated  
concentrations of oxygen present a fire or explosion hazard. Consult the manufacturer  
of your equipment to check its compatibility with nitrox.  
5.5. Freediving  
Freediving, and particularly freediving in combination with scuba diving, may present  
risks that have not been researched and are not commonly known.  
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Anyone who engages in any form of breathhold diving is in danger of shallow-water  
blackout (SWB), that is, the sudden loss of consciousness caused by oxygen starvation.  
Any breathhold diving results in some nitrogen build-up in the blood and other fast  
tissues. Due to the short time spent at depth, this build-up is generally not significant.  
Therefore, provided the effort involved in freediving has not been severe, there is little  
risk in diving after breathhold diving. However, the reverse is more unknown and may  
significantly increase the risk of DCI. Therefore, FREEDIVING AFTER SCUBA DIVING  
IS NOT RECOMMENDED. You should avoid freediving, and not exceed 5 m/16 ft, for  
at least two hours after scuba diving.  
Suunto also recommends that you receive training in freediving  
techniques and physiology before conducting breathhold dives.  
No dive computer can replace the need for proper dive training.  
Insufficient or improper training may cause a diver to commit  
errors that may lead to serious injury or death.  
WARNING  
5.6. Audible and visual alarms  
The dive computer features audible and visual alarms that advise when important  
limits are approached or that prompt you to acknowledge preset alarms. The table  
below describes the different alarms and their meanings.  
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Table 5.1. Audible and visual alarm types  
Alarm type  
Alarm reason  
Short single beep  
Dive computer is activated.  
Dive computer automatically returns to the TIME mode.  
Three beeps with a three  
second interval  
Cylinder pressure reaches 50 bar/725 psi. The cylinder  
pressure display will start to blink.  
Cylinder pressure reaches the selected alarm  
pressure.  
Calculated remaining air time reaches zero.  
Three beeps with a three  
No-decompression dive turns into a decompression  
second interval and activated stop dive. An arrow pointing upwards and the blinking  
backlight  
ascent warning ASC TIME will appear.  
Maximum allowed ascent rate, 10 m per min/33 ft per  
min, is exceeded. Ascent rate bar graph blinks and  
STOP warning appears.  
Continuous beeps and  
activated backlight  
Decompression ceiling depth is exceeded. An error  
warning Er and a downward pointing arrow appear.  
You should immediately descend to, or below, the  
ceiling. The instrument will otherwise enter a  
permenant Error mode within three minutes, indicated  
by a permanent Er.  
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You are able to preset alarms before the dive. The programmable alarms can be set  
for maximum depth, dive time and time. See also Section 5.9. DIVE mode settings  
and Section 4.1. TIME mode settings.  
Table 5.2. Preset alarm types  
Alarm type  
Alarm reason  
Continuous beep series for 24 seconds  
Maximum depth blinks as long as the current depth  
value exceeds the preset value.  
Preset maximum depth is  
reached.  
Continuous beep series for 24 seconds or until any  
button is pressed.  
Dive time blinks for one minute.  
Preset dive time is reached.  
Preset alarm time is reached.  
Current time is shown  
Continuous beep series for 24 seconds or until any  
button is pressed.  
Current time blinks for one minute  
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Table 5.3. Oxygen alarms in NITROX mode  
Alarm type  
Alarm reason  
Continuous beeps for 3  
minutes and activated  
backlight  
Set oxygen partial pressure limit is exceeded. The  
alternative display is replaced with a current blinking  
PO2 value. You should immediately ascend above the  
PO2 depth limit.  
OLF value reaches 80%. The OLF value will start to  
blink.  
OLF value reaches 100%. The OLF value will blink.  
When the backlight is turned OFF, it does not illuminate when an  
alarm is activated.  
NOTE  
WHEN THE OXYGEN LIMIT FRACTION INDICATES THAT THE  
MAXIMUM LIMIT IS REACHED, YOU MUST IMMEDIATELY  
ASCEND UNTIL THE OLF VALUE STOPS BLINKING. Failure  
to take action to reduce oxygen exposure after the warning is  
given can rapidly increase the risk of oxygen toxicity, injury, or  
death.  
WARNING  
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5.7. Error conditions  
The dive computer has warning indicators that alert you to react to certain situations  
that would significantly increase the risk of DCI. If you do not respond to its warnings,  
the dive computer will enter an Error mode, indicating that the risk of DCI has greatly  
increased. If you understand the dive computer and operate it sensibly, it is very  
unlikely you will ever put the instrument into the Error mode.  
Omitted decompression  
The Error mode results from omitted decompression, i.e. when you stay above the  
ceiling for more than three minutes. During this three-minute period the Er warning is  
shown and the audible alarm beeps. After this, the dive computer will enter a permanent  
Error mode. The instrument will continue to function normally if you descend below  
the ceiling within this three-minute period.  
Once in the permanent Error mode, only the Er warning is shown in the center window.  
The dive computer will not show times for ascent or stops. However, all the other  
displays will function as before to provide information for ascent. You should  
immediately ascend to a depth of 3 to 6 m/10 to 20 ft and remain at this depth until  
air supply limitations require you to surface.  
After surfacing, you should not dive for a minimum of 48 hours. During the permanent  
Error mode, the Er text will be displayed in the center window and the planning mode  
will be disabled.  
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5.8. Wireless transmission  
The D9 can be used together with an optional wireless cylinder pressure transmitter  
that easily attaches to the high-pressure port of the regulator. By using the transmitter,  
you can benefit from receiving cylinder pressure and remaining air time data direct to  
your wrist.  
In order to use the transmitter, the wireless integration needs to be enabled in your  
Suunto D9’s settings. To enable or disable the wireless integration refer to  
Section 5.9.8. Tank pressure.  
5.8.1. Installing the wireless transmitter  
When purchasing the Suunto D9, we strongly recommend that you have your Suunto  
representative attach the transmitter to the first stage of your regulator.  
However, if you decide to attach it yourself, follow the steps outlined below:  
Remove the high pressure (HP) port plug on the first stage of your regulator using  
an appropriate tool.  
1.  
Thread the high pressure transmitter of the Suunto D9 into the HP port of your  
regulator with your fingers. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN! Maximum torque 6 Nm/4.4  
lbsft or 53 lbsin.The seal is based on a static O-ring, not force!  
Attach the regulator to the scuba cylinder and slowly open the valve. Check for  
leaks by submerging the regulator first stage in water. If leaks are detected, check  
the condition of the O-ring and sealing surfaces.  
2.  
3.  
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5.8.2. Pairing and code selection  
In order to receive wireless data, the transmitter and the Suunto D9 need to be paired.  
During the pairing procedure, the transmitter and dive computer select a common  
transmission code.  
The transmitter is activated when the pressure exceeds 15bar/218 psi and it then  
starts sending pressure data together with a code number. During the pairing procedure,  
the Suunto D9 stores the code number and starts displaying pressure values that are  
received with that code. This coding procedure inhibits data mix-up from other divers  
also using a Suunto D9 transmitter.  
When there is no stored code, the Suunto D9 displays “cd:--” and receives data with  
lowered sensitivity from a very short distance only. By taking the Suunto D9 close to  
the transmitter, it will store the received code and start receiving with full sensitivity  
and display data received with this code only. The code is stored for approximately  
two hours, or until the cylinder pressure falls below 10 bar/145 psi. The set code can  
also be manually erased.  
To pair the transmitter and the Suunto D9 dive computer:  
Make sure that the transmitter is properly attached to the regulator’s HP port and  
that the regulator is properly attached to the cylinder.  
1.  
Ensure that the Suunto D9 is turned on, and that the wireless integration is enabled  
in the Suunto D9’s settings (HP set ON, see SECTION 5.9.10). The D9 should  
display “cd:--” in the lower left corner of the alternative display.  
2.  
Slowly open the cylinder valve fully and pressurize the regulator. The transmitter  
starts transmitting when the pressure exceeds 15 bar/218 psi.  
3.  
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Take the Suunto D9 wrist unit close to the transmitter. The unit will then quickly  
display the selected code number and then start displaying the transmitted cylinder  
pressure. A lightning symbol is displayed every time the Suunto D9 receives a  
valid signal.  
4.  
If there are several divers using Suunto D9s with wireless  
transmission, always ensure that each diver is using a different  
code before starting the dive.  
WARNING  
You can manually change the transmitter’s code by reducing the  
pressure to less than 10 bar/145 psi and then immediately (within  
10-12 seconds) increasing the pressure to above 15 bar/220 psi.  
The transmitter will then select a new code. The Suunto D9 must  
be in “cd:--“ mode to pair on the new code. This procedure can  
be used if, for example, your dive buddy has the same code and  
you need to change it.  
In order to save battery energy, the transmitter shuts off if the  
pressure remains unchanged for more than 5 minutes, and it will  
continue transmitting with the saved code when any pressure  
change is measured.  
NOTE  
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5.8.3. Transmitting data  
After the pairing procedure, the Suunto D9 will receive cylinder pressure data from  
the transmitter. The pressure is displayed in either bars or psi, depending on the unit  
selected. Any time the Suunto D9 receives an appropriate signal it flashes the lightning  
figure in the display’s lower left corner. A pressure reading of over 360 bar/5220 psi  
will display as “---“.  
If the Suunto D9 is unable to receive a valid signal for more than one minute it will  
start displaying “FAIL” intermittently with the latest valid pressure reading.  
If the transmitter battery is running low, a low battery warning “LOB” will be transmitted  
and displayed intermittently with the pressure reading.  
If the dive is started without the Suunto D9 and the transmitter having been properly  
paired, the dive computer will indicate that no cylinder data is available by displaying  
“OFF”.  
Table 5.4. Pressure transmission related displays  
Display Indication  
Figure  
Set Code. No code stored, Suunto D9 ready for pairing with  
Cd:--  
A
transmitter.  
Pressure reading over 360 bar/5220 psi  
- - -  
B
C
Indicates pressure reading has not been updated for more than  
one minute. Transmitter is out of range, in power saving mode or  
on another channel. Activate the transmitter by breathing off the  
regulator, and recode the wrist unit if necessary.  
FAIL  
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Display Indication  
Figure  
Indicates pressure transmitter battery voltage is low. Change the  
LOB  
D
transmitter battery!  
Pairing has not been conducted before start of dive. No cylinder  
data available.  
OFF  
E
A
E
C
B
D
5.9. DIVE mode settings  
Suunto D9 has several user-definable functions, as well as depth and time-related  
alarms that you can set according to your personal preferences. The DIVE mode  
settings are dependent on the dive sub-mode chosen (AIR, EAN, GAUGE), so that,  
for example, nitrox settings are only available in the DIVEean sub-mode. The table  
below shows what dive settings are available in each DIVE submode.  
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Table 5.5. DIVE mode settings  
Setting  
AIR mode NITROX mode GAUGE mode  
Depth alarm  
Dive-time alarm  
Nitrox  
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Personal/Altitude  
Sample rate  
Safety/Deep stop  
RGBM  
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Tank pressure  
Units  
X
X
X
HP code  
The following figure shows how to enter the DIVE mode settings menu.  
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USE UP AND DOWN  
BUTTONS TO TOGGLE  
BETWEEN DIVE  
SETTINGS.  
The settings cannot be activated until 5 minutes has elapsed after  
the dive.  
NOTE  
5.9.1. Setting the depth alarm  
You can set a depth alarm in the dive computer.  
ADJUST WITH UP AND  
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT BUTTON.  
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The depth alarm is factory-set to 40 m/131 ft, but you can adjust it according to your  
personal preference, or switch it off altogether. The depth range can be set from 3m  
to 100 m/9 ft to 328 ft.  
5.9.2. Setting the dive-time alarm  
The Suunto D9 has a dive-time alarm setting which, when activated, can be used for  
several purposes to add to your diving safety.  
ADJUST WITH UP AND  
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT BUTTON.  
With a range of 1 - 99 minutes, the alarm can be set to your  
planned bottom time, for example.  
NOTE  
5.9.3. Setting the nitrox values  
If set to the NITROX mode, the correct oxygen percentage of the gas in your cylinder  
(and additional gases) must always be entered into the computer to ensure correct  
nitrogen and oxygen calculations. In addition, the oxygen partial pressure limit must  
be set. When in the Nitrox setting mode, the equivalent allowed maximum depth,  
based on the chosen setting, will also be displayed. Settings for additional mixes  
(MIX2, MIX3) are made similarly, but with the additional selection of “ON” or “OFF”.  
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In order to minimize the risk of error during a dive, it is highly recommended that the  
mixes are set in the proper order. This means that as the mix number rises, so does  
oxygen content, and this is the order they are usually used during the dive. Before a  
dive, only set to “ON” the mixes you actually have available and remember to check  
the set values to make sure they are correct.  
The default oxygen percentage (O2%) setting is 21% (air) and oxygen partial pressure  
(PO2) setting 1.4 bar. After entering values for MIX1, you can enable/disable and set  
additional gas mixes - MIX2. and MIX3.  
ADJUST WITH UP  
AND DOWN  
ADJUST WITH UP  
AND DOWN  
BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT  
BUTTON.  
BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT  
BUTTON.  
If only MIX1 is enabled (MIX2/3 set OFF), MIX1 will revert to  
default settings (21% O2 and PO2 1.4 bar) after approximately 2  
hours. If MIX2 is set ON, settings for all mixes are stored until  
changed.If either MIX2 or MIX3 have an oxygen content of 22%  
or greater, settings for all mixes are stored until changed.  
NOTE  
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5.9.4. Setting the personal/altitude adjustments  
The current Altitude and Personal Adjustment settings are displayed in the startup  
screen when entering the DIVE mode. If the mode does not match the altitude or  
personal conditions (see Section 5.10.4. Diving at altitude and Section 5.10.5. Personal  
adjustments), it is imperative that you enter the correct selection before diving. Use  
Altitude Adjustment to select the correct altitude and use Personal Adjustment to add  
an extra level of conservatism.  
ADJUST WITH UP AND  
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT BUTTON.  
5.9.5. Setting the sample rate  
The sample rate controls how often the depth, time, tank pressure, and water  
temperature is stored in the memory. You can set the dive profile sample rate to 1,  
10, 20, 30, or 60 seconds. The factory default setting is 20 seconds.  
ADJUST WITH UP AND  
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT BUTTON.  
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5.9.6. Setting the Safety Stops/Deep Stops  
The Deep Stop setting allows you to choose between traditional Safety Stops or Deep  
Stops. If Deep Stops are set to OFF, the traditional Safety Stop calculation is used. If  
set to ON, iterative Deep Stops will be prompted instead. The length of the individual  
Deep Stops can be set to 1 or 2 minutes.  
ADJUST WITH UP AND  
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT BUTTON.  
5.9.7. Setting the RGBM values  
For certain divers and diving conditions, it may be desirable to set the attenuated  
RGBM mode. The selection is displayed during the DIVE mode startup. The options  
are full RGBM effects (100%), and attenuated RGBM (50%).  
ADJUST WITH UP AND  
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT BUTTON.  
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5.9.8. Tank pressure  
The wireless transmission can be set “ON” or “OFF” depending whether the optional  
wireless pressure transmitter is used or not. No cylinder pressure-related data is  
shown, nor data reception made, when this selection is “OFF”.  
ADJUST WITH UP AND  
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT BUTTON.  
You can set the secondary cylinder pressure alarm point. The 50 bar alarm is fixed  
and cannot be changed, but the secondary alarm pressure can be set in the range 10  
–200bar.  
5.9.9. Units  
Use Unit Settings to choose between metric (meters/celsius/bar) and imperial  
(feet/fahrenheit/psi) units.  
ADJUST WITH UP AND  
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT BUTTON.  
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5.9.10. HP code  
The HP Code setting allows you to verify the selected code and to erase the stored  
code. It also enables re-pairing if necessary.  
ADJUST WITH UP AND  
DOWN BUTTONS. ACCEPT  
WITH SELECT BUTTON.  
5.10. Activation and pre-checks  
This section describes how to activate the DIVE mode and explains the pre-checks  
that it is highly recommended you perform before you get into the water.  
5.10.1. Accessing DIVE mode  
The Suunto D9 has three diving modes: AIR mode for diving with standard air only,  
NITROX mode for diving with oxygen enriched mixtures, and GAUGE mode for use  
as a bottom timer and for freediving. The OFF mode disables the DIVE mode, and  
allows the TIME mode to be used underwater. The chosen dive mode is displayed  
when the DIVE mode is accessed, and you can toggle between the submodes by  
pressing the UP/DOWN buttons.  
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5.10.2. DIVE mode activation  
The dive computer activates automatically when submerged deeper than 0.5 m/1.5  
ft. However, it is necessary to activate the DIVE mode BEFORE diving to check the  
cylinder pressure, altitude and personal adjustment settings, battery condition, oxygen  
settings etc.  
After activation, all display elements turn on showing mostly figure 8s and graphical  
elements, and the backlight and the beep are activated. After this, the selected altitude  
and personal settings are displayed, as well as the RGBM and Deep Stop status. A  
few seconds later the battery power indicator is shown.  
At this time, perform your pre-checks, making sure that:  
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the instrument operates in the correct mode and provides a complete display  
(AIR/NITROX/GAUGE mode)  
the battery level is ok  
the altitude, personal adjustment, Safety/Deep stops, and RGBM settings are  
correct  
the instrument displays correct units of measurement (Metric/Imperial)  
the instrument displays the correct temperature and depth (0.0 m/0 ft)  
the alarm beeps  
If the optional wireless pressure transmitter is used ensure that:  
the pressure transmitter has been properly attached and the cylinder valve is open  
the transmitter and the wrist unit have been properly paired on a suitable code  
the pressure transmitter is working (lightning symbol blinks, cylinder pressure is  
displayed), and that there is no low battery warning displayed  
you have enough air for your planned dive. You should also check the pressure  
reading against your back-up pressure gauge  
And, if set to NITROX mode, make sure that:  
the correct number of mixes is set and that the oxygen percentages are adjusted  
according to the measured nitrox blends in your cylinders  
the oxygen partial pressure limits are set correctly  
For more information on the NITROX mode, refer to Section 6.2. Diving in NITROX  
mode (DIVEean) .  
The dive computer is now ready for diving.  
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5.10.3. Battery power indication  
Temperature or internal oxidation of the battery affect the battery voltage. If the  
instrument is stored for a long period, or used in cold temperatures, the low battery  
warning may be displayed even though the battery has enough capacity. In these  
cases, re-enter DIVE mode to receive the battery power indication.  
After the battery check, the Low Battery Warning is indicated by the battery symbol.  
If the battery symbol is displayed in the Surface mode, or if the display is faded or  
weak, the battery may be too low to operate the dive computer, and battery replacement  
is recommended.  
For safety reasons, the backlight cannot be activated when the  
low battery warning is indicated by the battery symbol.  
NOTE  
The optional wireless pressure transmitter sends out a lowbat (LOBT) warning when  
its battery voltage is getting low. This is shown intermittently instead of the pressure  
reading (see Section 5.3). When you get this warning, the pressure transmitter's battery  
needs to be replaced.  
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5.10.4. Diving at altitude  
The dive computer can be adjusted both for diving at altitude and also to increase the  
conservatism of the mathematical nitrogen model.  
When programming the instrument for the correct altitude, you need to select the  
correct Altitude Adjustment settings according to Table 5.6, Altitude Adjustment settings.  
The dive computer will adjust its mathematical model according to the entered altitude  
setting, giving shorter no-decompression times at higher altitudes (see Table 9.1, No-  
decompression time limits for various depths (m) and Table 9.2, No-decompression  
time limits for various depths (ft) in Section 9.2. RGBM).  
Table 5.6. Altitude Adjustment settings  
Alt. adjustment value  
Altitude range  
A0  
A1  
A2  
0 - 300 m / 0 - 1000 ft  
300 - 1500 m / 1000 - 5000 ft  
1500 - 3000 m / 5000 - 10 000 ft  
Section 5.9.4. Setting the personal/altitude adjustments describes  
how the Altitude value is set.  
NOTE  
Traveling to a higher elevation can temporarily cause a change  
in the equilibrium of dissolved nitrogen in the body. It is  
recommended that you acclimatize to the new altitude by waiting  
at least three hours before diving.  
WARNING  
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5.10.5. Personal adjustments  
There are personal factors that can affect your susceptibility to DCI, which you can  
predict in advance, and input into the decompression model. Such factors vary between  
divers and also for the same diver from one day to another. The three-step Personal  
Adjustment setting is available if a more conservative dive plan is desired and, for  
very experienced divers, a two step adjustment for RGBM effect on repetitive dives  
is available.  
The personal factors which tend to increase the possibility of DCI include, but are not  
limited to:  
cold exposure - water temperature less than 20 °C/68 °F  
below average physical fitness level  
fatigue  
dehydration  
previous history of DCI  
stress  
obesity  
This feature is used to adjust the computer to be more conservative, according to  
personal preference, by entering the suitable Personal Adjustment setting with the  
help of Table 5.7, Personal Adjustment settings. In ideal conditions, retain the default  
setting, P0. If conditions are more difficult, or any of the factors which tend to increase  
the possibility of DCI exist, select P1, or even the most conservative P2. The dive  
computer then adjusts its mathematical model according to the entered Personal  
Adjustment setting, giving shorter no-decompression times (see Section 9.2.2. No-  
decompression limits, Table 9.1, No-decompression time limits for various depths (m)  
and Table 9.2, No-decompression time limits for various depths (ft) ).  
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Table 5.7. Personal Adjustment settings  
Personal  
adjustment  
value  
Condition  
Desired tables  
P0  
P1  
Ideal conditions  
Default  
Some risk factors or conditions  
exist  
Progressively more conservative  
P2  
Several risk factors or conditions  
exist  
The Suunto D9 also allows experienced divers who are willing to accept a greater  
level of risk to adjust the RGBM model. The default setting is 100%, which gives full  
RGBM effect. Suunto strongly advises you to use full RGBM effect. Statistically, very  
experienced divers have less incidents with DCI. The reason for this is unknown, but  
it is possible that some level of physiological and/or psychological accommodation  
can take place when you are very experienced as a diver. Thus, for certain divers and  
diving conditions, it may be desirable to set attenuated (50%) RGBM mode. See  
Table 5.8, RGBM model settings.  
Table 5.8. RGBM model settings  
RGBM setting  
Desired Tables  
Effect  
Standard Suunto RGBM  
model (Default)  
100%  
Full RGBM effects  
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RGBM setting  
Desired Tables  
Effect  
50%  
Attenuated RGBM model  
Smaller RGBM effects, higher risk!  
5.11. Safety Stops  
Safety Stops are widely considered good diving practice for recreational diving, and  
are an integral part of most dive tables. The reasons for performing a Safety Stop  
include: reducing sub-clinical DCI, microbubble reduction, ascent control, and  
orientation before surfacing.  
The Suunto D9 displays two different types of Safety Stops: Recommended Safety  
Stop and Mandatory Safety Stop.  
5.11.1. Recommended Safety Stops  
With every dive over 10 meters, there is a three minute countdown for the  
Recommended Safety Stop, to be taken in the 6 - 3 m/10 ft - 20 ft range. This is shown  
with the STOP sign and a three-minute countdown in the center window instead of  
the no-decompression time.  
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WHEN STOP IS DISPLAYED,  
MAKE A RECOMMENDED SAFETY  
STOP FOR 3 MINUTES.  
The Recommended Safety Stop, as the name implies, is  
recommended. If it is ignored, there is no penalty applied to the  
following surface intervals and dives.  
NOTE  
5.11.2. Mandatory Safety Stops  
When the ascent rate exceeds 10 m/33 ft per minute continuously for more than 5  
seconds, the microbubble build-up is predicted to be more than is allowed for in the  
decompression model. The Suunto RGBM calculation model responds to this by  
adding a Mandatory Safety Stop to the dive. The time of this Mandatory Safety Stop  
depends on the severity of the ascent rate excess.  
The STOP sign appears in the display and when you reach the depth zone between  
6 m and 3 m/20 ft and 10 ft, the CEILING label, ceiling depth, and the calculated Safety  
Stop time also appear in the display. You should wait until the Mandatory Safety Stop  
warning disappears. The total length of the Mandatory Safety Stop time depends on  
the seriousness of the ascent rate violation.  
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WHEN CEILING AND STOP ARE  
DISPLAYED, MAKE A ONE MINUTE  
MANDATORY SAFETY STOP IN THE  
DEPTH ZONE BETWEEN 6 M AND 3 M.  
You must not ascend shallower than 3 m/10 ft with the Mandatory Safety Stop warning  
on. If you ascend above the Mandatory Safety Stop ceiling, a downward pointing arrow  
will appear and a continuous beeping starts. You should immediately descend to, or  
below, the Mandatory Safety Stop ceiling depth. If you correct this situation at any  
time during the dive, there are no effects on the decompression calculations for future  
dives.  
WHEN CEILING AND STOP  
ARE DISPLAYED, IMMEDIATELY  
(WITHIN 3 MINUTES) DESCEND  
TO OR BELOW CEILING.  
If you continue to violate the Mandatory Safety Stop, the tissue calculation model is  
affected and the dive computer shortens the available no-decompression time for your  
next dive. In this situation, it is recommended that you prolong your surface interval  
time before your next dive.  
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5.12. Deep stops  
The Suunto D9 allows you to choose a Deep Stop algorithm instead of the traditional  
Recommended Safety Stop. Deep Stops are safety stops that occur deeper than  
traditional stops, with the purpose of minimizing microbubble formation and excitation.  
The Suunto RGBM model calculates deep stops iteratively, placing the first stop about  
halfway between the maximum depth and the ceiling depth. After the first Deep Stop  
is completed, another Deep Stop will be prompted halfway to the ceiling, and so on  
until the ceiling depth is reached.  
The Deep Stop length can be set to 1 or 2 minutes.  
Enabling the Deep Stops disables the Recommended Safety Stops, but Mandatory  
Safety Stops due to continuous ascent rate violations, for example, are still prompted.  
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6. DIVING  
This section contains instructions on how to operate the dive computer and interpret  
its displays. You’ll find that this dive computer is easy to use and read. Each display  
shows only the data relevant to that specific diving mode.  
6.1. Diving in AIR mode (DIVEair)  
In this section, we look at how to make the most of the dive computer when diving  
with standard air. To activate DIVEair mode, please see Section 5.10.1. Accessing  
DIVE mode.  
DIVE HAS JUST BEGUN AND  
AVAILABLE NO-DECOMPRESSION  
TIME IS OVER 99 MINUTES SO NO  
VALUE IS DISPLAYED.  
The dive computer will remain in the Surface mode at depths less  
than 1.2 m/4 ft. At depths greater than 1.2 m/4 ft the instrument  
will go into the DIVE mode automatically. However, it is  
recomended that you activate the DIVE Mode manually in order  
to perform the necessary dive pre-checks.  
NOTE  
6.1.1. Basic dive data  
During a No-decompression dive, the following information is displayed:  
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your present depth in meters/feet  
the available no-decompression time in minutes as NO DEC TIME  
the ascent rate presented as a bar graph on the right side  
the Diver Attention Symbol if surface interval should be prolonged (see Table 7.1,  
Alarms)  
DIVE DISPLAY - PRESENT DEPTH IS 15 M,  
NO-DECOMPRESSION STOP TIME LIMIT IS 61 MIN.  
MAXIMUM DEPTH DURING THIS DIVE WAS 21. 5 M,  
ELAPSED DIVE TIME IS 5 MIN.  
Alternative displays, by pressing the UP/DOWN buttons, show:  
the elapsed dive time in minutes, shown as DIVE TIME  
the water temperature in °C/°F  
the maximum depth during this dive in meters/feet, indicated as MAX  
the current time, shown as TIME  
DOWN BUTTON TOGGLES  
BETWEEN MAXIMUM DEPTH  
AND CURRENT TIME.  
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UP BUTTON TOGGLES  
BETWEEN DIVE TIME AND  
WATER TEMPERATURE.  
In addition, with the optional wireless transmission enabled:  
the Remaining Air-time in the left center window indicated as AIR TIME  
the cylinder pressure in bar (or psi) displayed in the lower left corner  
the cylinder pressure graphically displayed on the left side  
6.1.2. Bookmark  
It is possible to record bookmarks in the profile memory during a dive. These bookmarks  
are displayed when scrolling the profile memory on the display. The bookmarks will  
also be shown as annotations in the downloadable Suunto Dive Manager PC software.  
The bookmark logs the depth, time, and water temperature, as well as compass  
heading (if the compass has been enabled)and tank pressure when available. To  
make a bookmark in the profile memory during a dive, press the SELECT button. A  
brief confirmation will be given.  
A BOOKMARK IS PLACED  
IN THE PROFILE MEMORY  
DURING A DIVE BY PRESSING  
THE SELECT BUTTON.  
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6.1.3. Tank pressure data  
When using the optional wireless pressure transmitter, the pressure of your scuba  
cylinder in bars (or psi) is shown digitally in the lower left corner of the alternative  
display. Whenever you start a dive, the remaining air time calculation begins. After 30  
- 60 seconds (sometimes more, depending on your air consumption), the first estimation  
of remaining air time will be shown in the left center window of the display. The  
calculation is always based on the actual pressure drop in your cylinder and will  
automatically adapt to your cylinder size and current air consumption.  
CURRENT TANK PRESSURE  
IS 168 BAR AND THE REMAINING  
AIR TIME IS 19 MINUTES.  
The change in your air consumption will be based on constant one second interval  
pressure measurements over 30 - 60 second periods. An increase in air consumption  
will influence the remaining air time rapidly, while a drop in air consumption will increase  
the air time slowly. In this way, an over optimistic air time estimation, caused by a  
temporary drop in air consumption, is avoided.  
The remaining air time calculation includes a 35 bar/500 psi safety reserve. This means  
that when the instrument shows the air time to be zero, there is still about 35 bar/500  
psi of pressure left in your cylinder, depending on your air consumption rate. With a  
high consumption rate, the limit will be closer to 50 bar/725 psi and with a low rate  
closer to 35 bar/500 psi.  
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Filling your BC affects the air time calculation due to the temporary  
increase in air consumption.  
NOTE  
NOTE  
A change of temperature will affect the cylinder pressure and  
consequently the air time calculation.  
Low Air Pressure Warnings  
The dive computer will warn you with three audible double beeps and a blinking  
pressure display when the cylinder pressure reaches 50 bar/725 psi.  
TANK PRESSURE HAS DROPPED BELOW 50 BAR  
AND THE REMAINING AIR TIME IS 4 MINUTES.  
THE DISPLAY BLINKS AND THERE IS AN AUDIBLE ALARM.  
Three double beeps are also heard when the cylinder pressure goes down to the user-  
selected alarm pressure and when the remaining air time reaches zero.  
6.1.4. Ascent rate indicator  
The ascent rate is shown graphically along the right side of the display. When the  
maximum allowed ascent rate is exceeded, the fifth SLOW warning segment and the  
STOP sign appear and the depth reading starts to blink, indicating that the maximum  
ascent rate has been exceeded continuously or that the current ascent rate is  
significantly above the allowed rate.  
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ACTIVATED BACKLIGHT, ALARM AND  
A BLINKING ASCENT RATE BAR GRAPH  
INDICATE YOU ARE ASCENDING FASTER  
THAN 10 M/MIN. YOU ARE ADVISED TO MAKE  
A MANDATORY SAFETY STOP WHEN YOU  
REACH A DEPTH OF 6 M.  
NORMAL  
ASCENT  
RATE.  
DO NOT EXCEED THE MAXIMUM ASCENT RATE! Rapid  
ascents increase the risk of injury. You should always make the  
Mandatory and Recommended Safety Stops after you have  
exceeded the maximum recommended ascent rate. If this  
Mandatory Safety Stop is not completed, the decompression  
model will penalize your next dive(s). Continuous ascent rate  
violations will result in Mandatory Safety Stops. When  
Recommended Deep Stop is enabled, the length is indicated in  
seconds.  
WARNING  
6.1.5. Safety Stops and Deep Stops  
If Deep Stops are not used, a 3 minute Recommended Safety Stop is prompted after  
every dive to over 10m.  
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YOU ARE ADVISED TO MAKE A  
DEEPSTOP AT 12 M. THE SECOND  
INDICATOR SHOWS THAT YOU HAVE 58  
SECONDS LEFT OF YOUR DEEPSTOP.  
6.1.6. Decompression dives  
When your NO DEC TIME becomes zero, your dive becomes a decompression dive  
so you must perform one or more decompression stops on your way to the surface.  
The NO DEC TIME on your display will be replaced by an ASC TIME, and a CEILING  
notation will appear. An upward pointing arrow will also prompt you to start your ascent.  
If you exceed the no-decompression limits on a dive, the dive computer will provide  
the decompression information required for ascent. After this, the instrument will  
continue to provide subsequent interval and repetitive dive information.  
Rather than requiring you to make stops at fixed depths, the dive computer lets you  
decompress within a range of depths (continuous decompression).  
The ascent time (ASC TIME) is the minimum amount of time needed to reach the  
surface in a decompression dive. It includes:  
the time needed to ascend to the ceiling at an ascent rate of 10 m per minute/33  
ft per minute. The ceiling is the shallowest depth to which you should ascend  
the time needed at the ceiling  
the time needed at the Mandatory Safety Stop (if any)  
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the time needed to reach the surface after the ceiling and Safety Stops have been  
completed  
YOUR ACTUAL ASCENT TIME MAY BE LONGER THAN  
DISPLAYED BY THE INSTRUMENT! The ascent time will  
increase if you:  
WARNING  
remain at depth  
ascend slower than 10 m/33 ft per minute  
make your decompression stop deeper than at the ceiling  
These factors will also increase the amount of air required to  
reach the surface.  
Ceiling, ceiling zone, floor and decompression range  
When in decompression, it is important that you understand the meaning of ceiling,  
floor, and decompression range.  
The ceiling is the shallowest depth to which you should ascend when in  
decompression. At this depth, or below, you must perform all stops  
The ceiling zone is the optimum decompression stop zone. It is the zone between  
the minimum ceiling and 1.8 m/6 ft below the minimum ceiling  
The floor is the deepest depth at which the decompression stop time will not  
increase. Decompression will start when you pass this depth during your ascent  
The decompression range is the depth range between the ceiling and floor. Within  
this range, decompression takes place. However, it is important to remember that  
the decompression will be very slow at, or close to, the floor  
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The depth of the ceiling and floor will depend on your dive profile. The ceiling depth  
will be fairly shallow when you enter the decompression mode, but if you remain at  
depth, it will move downward and the ascent time will increase. Likewise, the floor and  
ceiling may change upwards while you are decompressing.  
When conditions are rough, it may be difficult to maintain a constant depth near the  
surface. In such cases, it is more manageable to maintain an additional distance below  
the ceiling, to make sure that the waves do not lift you above the ceiling. Suunto  
recommends that decompression takes place deeper than 4 m/13 ft, even if the  
indicated ceiling is shallower.  
It will take more time and more air to decompress below the ceiling  
than at the ceiling.  
NOTE  
NEVER ASCEND ABOVE THE CEILING! You must not ascend  
above the ceiling during your decompression. In order to avoid  
doing so by accident, you should stay somewhat below the ceiling.  
WARNING  
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Display below the floor  
The blinking ASC TIME and an upward pointing arrow indicate that you are below the  
floor. You should start your ascent immediately. The ceiling depth is shown on the left  
side, and the minimum total ascent time on the right side, of the center window. Below  
is an example of a decompression dive without Deep Stops, below the floor.  
UPWARD POINTING ARROW, BLINKING ASC  
TIME AND AN ALARM TELL YOU TO ASCEND.  
MINIMUM TOTAL ASCENT TIME INCLUDING SAFETY  
STOP IS 4 MINUTES. CEILING IS AT 3 M.  
Display above the floor  
When you ascend above the floor, the ASC TIME display stops blinking and the upward  
pointing arrow disappears. Below is an example of a decompression dive above the  
floor.  
UPWARD POINTING ARROW HAS  
DISAPPEARED AND ASC TIME LABEL HAS  
STOPPED BLINKING, MEANING YOU ARE IN  
THE DECOMPRESSION RANGE.  
Decompression will now begin, but is very slow. You should therefore continue your  
ascent.  
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Display at the ceiling zone  
When you reach the ceiling zone, the display will show you two arrows pointing at  
each other (the “hour glass” icon). Below is an example of a decompression dive at  
the ceiling zone.  
TWO ARROWS POINT AT EACH OTHER  
“HOUR GLASS. YOU ARE IN THE OPTIMUM CEILING  
ZONE AT 3 M. AND YOUR MINIMUM ASCENT TIME IS  
8 MINUTES.  
During the decompression stop, ASC TIME will count down towards zero. When the  
ceiling moves upwards, you can ascend to the new ceiling. You may surface only after  
the ASC TIME and CEILING labels have disappeared, which means that the  
decompression stop and any Mandatory Safety Stop have been completed. You are  
advised, however, to stay until the STOP sign has also disappeared. This indicates  
that the three minute Recommended Safety Stop has also been completed.  
Display above the ceiling  
If you ascend above the ceiling during a decompression stop, a downward pointing  
arrow will appear and a continuous beeping starts.  
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DECOMPRESSION DIVE, ABOVE CEILING.  
NOTE DOWNWARD POINTING ARROW, ER WARNING  
AND ALARM. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATLY (WITHIN  
3 MINUTES) DES CEND TO OR BELOW CEILING.  
In addition, an Error warning (Er) reminds you that you have only three minutes to  
correct the situation. You must immediately descend to, or below, the ceiling.  
If you continue to violate the decompression, the dive computer will go into a permanent  
Error Mode. In this mode, the instrument can only be used as a depth gauge and timer.  
You must not dive again for at least 48 hours. (See Section 5.7. Error conditions).  
6.2. Diving in NITROX mode (DIVEean)  
NITROX mode (DIVEean) is the second dive mode available in Suunto D9 and is used  
when using oxygen- enriched gas mixtures.  
6.2.1. Before diving in NITROX mode  
If set to the NITROX mode, the correct oxygen percentage of the gas in your cylinder  
must always be entered into the computer to ensure correct nitrogen and oxygen  
calculations. The dive computer adjusts its mathematical nitrogen and oxygen  
calculation models accordingly. The dive computer will not accept fractional percentage  
values of oxygen concentration. Do not round up fractional percentages. For example,  
31.8% oxygen should be entered as 31%. Rounding up will cause nitrogen percentages  
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to be understated and will affect decompression calculations. If you want to adjust the  
computer to provide more conservative calculations, use the personal adjustment  
feature to affect decompression calculations, or reduce the PO2 setting to affect oxygen  
exposure according to the entered O2% and PO2 values. Calculations based on nitrox  
use result in longer no-decompression times and shallower maximum depths than  
diving with air.  
As a safety precaution, the oxygen calculations in the computer are made with an  
oxygen percentage of 1% + set O2% .  
When the dive computer is set in NITROX mode, the Dive Planning mode calculates  
using the O2% and PO2 values that are currently in the computer.  
To set the nitrox mixes, refer to Section 5.9.3. Setting the nitrox values.  
Default nitrox settings  
In NITROX mode, the Suunto D9 allows you to set 1-3 nitrox mixes containing 21-99%  
oxygen.  
In the NITROX mode, the default setting for MIX1 is standard air (21% O2). It remains  
in this setting until the O2% is adjusted to any other percentage of oxygen (22% -  
100%). The default setting for maximum oxygen partial pressure is 1.4 bar, however  
you are able to set it in the range of 0.5 - 1.6 bar.  
MIX2 and MIX3 are set to OFF by default. To set MIX2 and MIX 3, refer to  
Section 6.2.4. Gas change and multiple breathing gas mixes. Oxygen percentages  
and maximum oxygen partial pressures for MIX2 and MIX3 are stored permanently.  
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6.2.2. Oxygen displays  
When NITROX mode is activated, the display will show the information in the figure  
below. In NITROX mode, the maximum operational depth is calculated based on set  
O2% and PO2 values.  
NITROX DIVE MODE ACTIVATION.  
MAXIMUM OPERATIONAL DEPTH BASED ON  
SET O2% (21%) AND PO2 (1.4 BAR) IS 56.7 M.  
If set to NITROX mode, the Suunto D9 will additionally show on the alternative display:  
the oxygen percentage, labeled O2%  
the set oxygen partial pressure limit, labeled PO2  
the current oxygen toxicity exposure, labeled OLF  
maximum depth  
current time  
water temperature  
dive time  
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DOWN BUTTON  
TOGGLES BETWEEN  
O2, MAXIMUM DEPTH  
AND CURRENT TIME.  
UP BUTTON  
TOGGLES  
BETWEEN PO2,  
OLF, DIVE TIME  
AND WATER  
TEMPERATURE.  
6.2.3. Oxygen limit fraction (OLF)  
If set to NITROX mode, in addition to tracking the diver's exposure to nitrogen, the  
instrument tracks the exposure to oxygen. These calculations are treated as entirely  
separate functions.  
The dive computer calculates separately for Central Nervous System oxygen toxicity  
(CNS) and Pulmonary Oxygen toxicity, the latter measured by the addition of Oxygen  
Toxicity Units (OTU). Both fractions are scaled so that the maximum tolerated exposure  
for each is expressed as 100%.  
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The Oxygen Limit Fraction (OLF) displays only the value of the higher of the two  
calculations. The oxygen toxicity calculations are based on the factors listed in Section  
9.3 “Oxygen exposure”.  
6.2.4. Gas change and multiple breathing gas mixes  
The Suunto D9 allows gas changes to enabled gas mixes during the dive. Gas changes  
are made by following the procedure below:  
CHANGING GAS MIX. SCROLL  
THROUGH ENABLED MIXES BY  
PRESSING THE UP OR DOWN  
BUTTONS. SELECT NEW MIX BY  
PRESSING THE SELECT BUTTON.  
Mix number, O2%, and PO2 for the mixes are shown when  
scrolling. If the set PO2 limit is exceeded , it will be shown with  
the PO2 value blinking. The dive computer does not allow you to  
change to a gas whose set PO2 is exceeded. In such a case, the  
mix is shown but cannot be selected.  
NOTE  
NOTE  
If no button is pressed in 15 seconds, the dive computer will go  
back to the dive display without changing the gas mix. Upon  
ascent, the computer prompts you to change gas when the PO2  
level you have set for the next mix allows a gas change.The  
prompt is an audible 3 beeps and the current O2 mix starts to  
blink.  
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6.3. Diving in GAUGE mode (DIVEgauge)  
If set to GAUGE mode, the dive computer can be used as a bottom timer or as a  
freediving instrument.  
In the GAUGE mode, the total dive time is always displayed in minutes in the lower  
right corner. In addition, a Dive Timer in the center window displays time in minutes  
and seconds. The center window Dive Timer is activated at the start of the dive and  
it can be reset during the dive and used as a stopwatch by pressing the SELECT  
button.  
BY PRESSING THE SELECT  
BUTTON DURING A DIVE, A BOOK-  
MARK IS WRITTEN IN THE PROFILE  
MEMORY, THE DIVE TIMER IS RESET,  
AND THE PREVIOUSLY-TIMED INTERVAL  
IS DISPLAYED BELOW.  
Tank pressure (if enabled) is also displayed during the dive.  
The GAUGE mode does not provide decompression information.  
NOTE  
NOTE  
NOTE  
There is no ascent rate monitoring in the GAUGE mode.  
If you dive with the GAUGE mode, it is not possible to change  
between the modes before the no fly time has counted down.  
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7. AFTER DIVING  
7.1. At the surface  
Once back at the surface, Suunto D9 continues to provide post-dive safety information  
and alarms. Calculations to enable repetitive dive planning also help to maximize diver  
safety.  
7.1.1. Surface interval  
An ascent to any depth shallower than 1.2 m/4 ft will cause the DIVING display to be  
replaced by the SURFACE display:  
IT IS 6 MINUTES SINCE YOU SURFACED FROM A 35-MINUTE DIVE.  
THE MAXIMUM DEPTH WAS 21.5 M. THE PRESENT DEPTH IS 0.0 M. THE  
AIRPLANE SYMBOL AND NO-FLY VALUE INDICATE THAT YOU SHOULD NOT FLY  
FOR 14 HOURS, 28 MINUTES. THE DIVER ATTENTION SYMBOL INDICATES THAT  
YOU SHOULD PROLONG YOUR SURFACE INTERVAL TIME.  
Or, in the alternative displays, the following information will be shown:  
maximum depth of last dive in meters/feet  
dive time of last dive in minutes, shown as DIVE TIME  
the current time, shown as TIME  
the current temperature in °C/°F  
cylinder pressure in bars/psi (if enabled)  
If set to NITROX mode, the following information will also be shown:  
the oxygen percentage labeled O2%  
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the oxygen partial pressure labeled PO2  
the current oxygen toxicity exposure labeled OLF  
7.1.2. Dive numbering  
Several repetitive dives are considered to belong to the same repetitive dive series  
when the dive computer has not counted the no-fly time to zero. Within each series,  
the dives are given individual numbers. The first dive of the series will be numbered  
as DIVE 1, the second as DIVE 2, the third as DIVE 3, etc.  
If you start a new dive with less than 5 minutes of surface interval time, the dive  
computer interprets this as a continuation of the previous dive and the dives are  
considered to be the same. The diving display will return, the dive number will remain  
unchanged, and the dive time will begin where it left off. After 5 minutes on the surface,  
subsequent dives are, by definition, repetitive. The dive counter displayed in the  
Planning mode will increment to the next number if another dive is made.  
Table 7.1. Alarms  
Symbol on display  
Indication  
Diver Attention Symbol - Attenuated RGBM model set  
Diver Attention Symbol - Extend Surface Interval  
Violated Decompression Ceiling  
Do Not Fly Symbol  
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7.1.3. Repetitive dive planning  
The Suunto D9 includes a dive planner that allows you to review the no-decompression  
limits on a subsequent dive, taking the residual nitrogen loading of previous dives into  
consideration. The Dive Planning mode is explained in Section Dive Planning mode  
(MEMplan) in Section 7.1.5. MEMORY mode .  
7.1.4. Flying after diving  
The no-fly time is shown in the center window next to the airplane image. Flying or  
traveling to a higher altitude should be avoided at any time when the computer is  
counting down the no-fly time.  
The no-fly time is always at least 12 hours, or equivalent to the so-called desaturation  
time (if longer than 12 hours). For desaturation times lower than 70 minutes, no no-  
fly time is given.  
In the Permanent Error mode and GAUGE mode the no-fly time is 48 hours.  
The Divers Alert Network (DAN) recommends the following on no-fly times:  
A minimum surface interval of 12 hours would be required in order to be reasonably  
assured a diver will remain symptom free upon ascent to altitude in a commercial  
jetliner (altitude up to 2,400 m/8,000 ft)  
Divers who plan to make daily, multiple dives for several days, or make dives that  
require decompression stops, should take special precautions and wait for an  
extended interval beyond 12 hours before a flight. Further, the Undersea and  
Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS) suggests divers using standard air cylinders  
and exhibiting no symptoms of decompression illness wait 24 hours after their last  
dive to fly in an aircraft with cabin pressure up to 2,400 m/8,000 ft. The only two  
exceptions to this recommendation are:  
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If a diver has less than 2 hours total accumulated dive time in the last 48 hours,  
a 12 hour surface interval before flying is recommended  
Following any dive that required a decompression stop, flying should be delayed  
for at least 24 hours, and if possible, for 48 hours  
Suunto recommends that flying is avoided until all the DAN and UHMS guidelines,  
as well as the dive computer’s no-fly conditions, are satisfied  
7.1.5. MEMORY mode  
The memory options include a dive planner (MEMplan), dive logbook (MEMlog) and  
dive history (MEMhis). They are accessed from DIVE mode and you can toggle between  
them by using the UP/DOWN buttons.  
The dive time and date are registered in the Logbook memory. Always check before  
diving that the time and date are correctly set, especially after traveling between  
different time zones.  
Dive Planning mode (MEMplan)  
The Dive Planning mode displays no-decompression times for a new dive, taking into  
account the effects of previous dives.  
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When entering the MEMplan mode, the display first briefly shows the remaining  
desaturation time before going into plan mode.  
By pressing the UP/DOWN buttons, you can scroll the no-decompression limits in 3  
m/10 ft increments ending at 45 m/150 ft. No-decompression limits longer than 99min  
are displayed as “—“.  
WHEN ENTERING THE MEMPLAN MODE THE DISPLAY FIRST BRIEFLY  
SHOWS THE REMAINING DESATURATION TIME BEFORE GOING INTO PLAN MODE.  
USE UP AND DOWN BUTTONS TO SCROLL DIFFERENT NO-DECOMPRESSION LIMITS.  
NO-DECOMPRESSION LIMITS LONGER THAN 99 MINUTES ARE DISPLAYED AS “–”.  
The Planning mode takes into account the following information from previous dives:  
any calculated residual nitrogen  
all dive history for the past four days  
The no-decompression times given for different depths will therefore be shorter than  
before your first “fresh” dive.  
You can exit the planning mode by pressing the MODE button.  
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The Planning mode is disabled in GAUGE mode and in Error  
mode (see Section 5.7. Error conditions). The planning mode  
calculates no-decompression times for MIX1 only. If additional  
mixes are enabled in the NITROX mode, they do not affect the  
calculations in MEMplan mode.  
NOTE  
Higher Altitude and conservative Personal Adjustment settings will shorten the no-  
decompression time limits. These limits at different Altitude and Personal Adjustment  
setting selections are explained in Section 5.10.4. Diving at altitude and in  
Section 5.10.5. Personal adjustments  
Dive numbering shown during dive planning  
Dives belong to the same repetitive dive series if the instrument was still counting  
down the no-fly time at the beginning of the dive.  
The surface interval must be at least 5 minutes for a dive to be considered a repetitive  
dive. Otherwise, it is considered a continuation of the same dive. The dive number  
will not change and the dive time will continue where it left off. (See also Section 7.1.2.  
Dive numbering ).  
Dive logbook (MEMlog)  
The Suunto D9 has a very sophisticated, high capacity Logbook and Profile Memory.  
The data is recorded in the profile memory based on the selected sample rate. Dives  
shorter than the recording interval are not registered (see Section 5.9.5. Setting the  
sample rate).  
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The END OF LOGS text is displayed between the oldest and most recent dive. The  
following information will be shown on three pages:  
THERE ARE THREE PAGES OF LOGBOOK DIVE  
INFORMATION. USE SELECT BUTTON TO SCROLL  
BETWEEN LOGBOOK PAGES I, II, AND III. THE DATA OF  
THE MOST RECENT DIVE IS SHOWN FIRST.  
Page I, main display  
Maximum depth (NOTE! Depending on the sampling rate, the reading may differ  
from the maximum depth reading of the Dive History up to 0.3 m/1 ft.)  
date of dive  
type of dive (Air, Ean, Gauge)  
dive start time  
dive number  
oxygen percentage for Mix1  
total dive time  
Page II  
maximum depth  
surface time before previous dive  
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warnings  
used tank pressure (if enabled)  
Page III  
depth/time profile of the dive  
real-time water temperature  
real-time tank pressure (if enabled)  
The memory will retain approximately the last 36 hours of dive time. After that, when  
new dives are added, the oldest dives are deleted. The contents of the memory will  
remain when the battery is changed (providing that the battery has been replaced  
according to the instructions).  
Several repetitive dives are considered to belong to the same  
repetitive dive series if the no-fly time has not ended. See  
Section 7.1.2. Dive numbering for further information.  
NOTE  
Dive history (MEMhis)  
The Dive History is a summary of all the dives recorded by the dive computer. The  
following information will be shown on the display:  
DIVE HISTORY DISPLAY.  
TOTAL NUMBER OF DIVES, DIVE  
HOURS AND MAXIMUM DEPTH.  
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The Dive History Memory can hold a maximum of 999 dives and 999 diving hours.  
When these maximum values are reached, the counters will start again from zero.  
The maximum depth can be reset to 0.0 m/0 ft using the PC-  
Interface unit and the downloadable Suunto Dive Manager  
software.  
NOTE  
7.1.6. Suunto Dive Manager (SDM)  
Suunto Dive Manager (SDM) is an integral part of your Suunto D9 experience. With  
the SDM software, you can download dive data from your dive computer to your PC.  
You can then view and organize all the data recorded with your Suunto D9 . You can  
also plan dives, print copies of your dive profiles and upload your dive logs to share  
with your friends at SuuntoSports.com.  
You can always download the latest version of Suunto Dive Manager from  
www.suunto.com or www.SuuntoSports.com. Please check for updates regularly as  
new features are constantly being developed.  
The following data is transferred to your PC:  
depth profile of the dive  
dive time  
preceding surface interval time  
dive number  
dive start time (year, month, day and time)  
dive computer settings  
oxygen percentage settings and maximum OLF (in NITROX mode)  
tissue calculation data  
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real-time water temperature  
additional dive information (e.g. SLOW and Mandatory Safety Stop violations, Diver  
Attention Symbol, Bookmark, Surfaced Mark, Decompression Stop Mark, Ceiling  
Error Mark, Gas Change)  
dive computer serial number  
personal information (30 characters)  
real-time tank pressure consumption (with optional wireless transmitter in use)  
surface air consumption  
Using SDM, you are able to enter setup options such as:  
input a personal, 30-character field into the Suunto D9  
reset the Dive History’s maximum depth to zero  
It is also possible to manually add comments, multimedia and other personal information  
to the PC-based dive data files.  
7.1.7. SuuntoSports.com  
When you have dived and transferred your dive data to your Suunto Dive Manager,  
you can share your best experiences with other diving enthusiasts at SuuntoSports.com.  
It's a free and open Internet community where you can compare your underwater  
experiences with other Suunto users and learn from each other.  
SuuntoSports.com includes three sections.  
In My Suunto you can register your dive computer and manage your membership  
profile. The section also contains a personal event calendar.  
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The Communities section is meeting a place for smaller groups of SuuntoSports.com  
members. Here you can create and manage your own communities and search for  
others. All communities have a home page that lists the latest group activities.  
Community members can also use group-specific bulletin boards and calendars, create  
their own link lists and group activities. All registered SuuntoSports.com users  
automatically become members of the ‘World of Suunto Sports’ community.  
The Sport forums include sport-specific news, bulletin boards, event calendars, ranking  
lists and discussions. You can also exchange experiences and read travel reports  
written by other members.  
To learn more about SuuntoSports.com’s functions and activities, visit the site, try  
them and, if necessary, use the site Help. The Help is available on the right side of  
the bar that divides the screen.  
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8. CARE AND MAINTENANCE  
8.1. Water contacts and buttons  
Contamination or dirt on the water contacts/connector or buttons may prevent the  
automatic activation of the DIVE mode and cause problems during data transfer.  
Therefore, it is important that the water contacts and push buttons are kept clean. If  
the water contacts of the instrument are active (AC-text remains on the display) or the  
DIVE mode activates on its own, the reason is probably contamination or invisible  
marine growth that may create an unwanted electric current between the contacts. It  
is important that the dive computer is carefully washed in fresh water after the day's  
diving is completed. The contacts can be cleaned with fresh water and, if necessary,  
a mild detergent and a soft brush.  
8.2. Care of your dive computer  
NEVER try to open the case of the dive computer  
Have your dive computer serviced every two years or after 200 dives (whichever  
comes first) by an authorized Suunto representative. This service will include a  
general operational check, replacement of the battery, and a water resistance  
check. The service requires special tools and training, so do not attempt to carry  
out any service that you are not competent to perform  
If moisture appears inside the case or battery compartment, have the instrument  
checked immediately by your Suunto representative  
If you detect scratches, cracks or other such flaws on the display that may impair  
its durability, have it replaced immediately by your Suunto representative  
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Check the strap and the buckle for flaws. If needed, have them replaced by your  
Suunto representative  
Wash and rinse the unit in fresh water after every use  
Protect the unit from shock, extreme heat, direct sunlight, and chemical corrosion.  
The dive computer cannot withstand the impact of heavy objects like scuba  
cylinders, nor chemicals like gasoline, cleaning solvents, aerosol sprays, adhesive  
agents, paint, acetone, alcohol etc. Chemical reactions with such agents will  
damage seals, the case, and the finish  
Store your dive computer in a dry place when you are not using it  
The dive computer displays a battery symbol as a warning when the power gets  
too low. When this happens, the instrument should not be used until the battery  
has been replaced. Also refer to Section 5.10. Activation and pre-checks  
Do not fasten the strap of your dive computer too tightly. You should be able to  
insert your finger between the strap and your wrist  
8.3. Maintenance  
If left without care for an extended period, a thin film, often invisible to the naked eye,  
will cover the unit. Much like the build-up on the glass of an aquarium, this film is the  
result of organic contaminants found in both salt and fresh water. Suntan oil, silicone  
spray and grease will speed up this process. As a result of this build-up, moisture will  
be trapped next to the water contacts and will prevent your Suunto D9 from operating  
properly.  
The water contacts can be cleaned with a small brush (e.g. toothbrush).  
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IMPORTANT: Your Suunto D9 should be soaked, then thoroughly rinsed with fresh  
water and dried with a soft towel after each dive. Make sure that all salt crystals and  
sand particles have been flushed out. Check the display for possible moisture or water,  
and do not use the Suunto D9 if you detect any moisture or water inside.  
Do not use compressed air to blow water off the unit.  
Do not use solvents or other cleaning fluids that might cause  
damage.  
CAUTION  
Do not test or use the dive computer in pressurized air.  
8.4. Water resistance inspection  
The water resistance of the unit must be checked after replacing the battery or after  
other service operations. The check requires special equipment and training.  
You must frequently check the display for any sign of leaks. If you find moisture inside  
your dive computer, there is a leak. A leak must be corrected without delay, as moisture  
will seriously damage the unit, even beyond repair. Suunto does not take any  
responsibility for damage caused by moisture in the dive computer, if the instructions  
of this manual have not been carefully followed.  
In the event of a leak, immediately take the dive computer to an authorized Suunto  
representative.  
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8.5. Battery replacement  
8.5.1. Computer battery replacement  
It is advisable to contact an authorized Suunto representative for  
NOTE  
battery replacement. It is imperative that the change is made in  
a proper manner to avoid any leakage of water into the battery  
compartment or computer.  
Defects caused by improper battery installation are not covered  
by the warranty.  
CAUTION  
CAUTION  
When the battery is changed, all nitrogen and oxygen uptake data  
is lost. Therefore, the no-fly time shown by the computer should  
have reached zero or you must wait for 48 hours, or preferably  
even 100 hours, before you dive again.  
All history and profile data, as well as the altitude, personal and alarm settings, will  
remain in the dive computer memory after the battery change. However, the clock  
time and time alarm setting are lost. In the NITROX Mode, the nitrox settings also  
revert back to default settings (MIX1 21 % O2, 1.4 bar PO2, MIX2/MIX3 OFF).  
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8.5.2. Wireless transmitter battery replacement  
It is advisable to contact an authorized Suunto representative for  
NOTE  
transmitter battery replacement. It is imperative that the change  
is made in a proper manner to avoid any leakage of water into  
the transmitter.  
Defects caused by improper battery installation are not covered  
by the warranty.  
CAUTION  
Battery kit  
The transmitter battery kit includes a 3.0 V CR ½ AA lithium cell battery and a lubricated  
O-ring. When handling the battery, do not make contact with both of the poles at the  
same time. Do not touch the metal surfaces of the battery with your bare fingers.  
Required tools  
A Phillips-head screwdriver  
Soft cloth for cleaning  
Transmitter battery replacement  
To change the transmitter battery, follow the procedure below:  
Remove the transmitter from the regulator HP port.  
Unscrew and remove the four Phillips screws on the back of the transmitter.  
Pull off the transmitter cover.  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
Carefully remove the o-ring. Be careful not to damage the sealing surfaces.  
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Carefully remove the battery. Do not touch the electrical contacts or the circuit  
board.  
5.  
Check for any traces of leakage, or for any other damage. If there is a leak or any  
other damage, take the transmitter to an authorized Suunto representative or  
distributor for checking and repair.  
Check the condition of the O-ring. A defective O-ring may indicate sealing or other  
problems. Dispose of the old O-ring, even if it seems to be in good condition  
Check that the O-ring groove and the sealing surface of the cover are clean. Clean  
them with a soft cloth if necessary.  
Gently insert the new battery into the battery compartment. Check the polarity of  
the battery. The "+" mark should point toward the top of the compartment and the  
"-" mark towards the bottom.  
6.  
7.  
8.  
It is imperative that you wait at least 30 seconds before re-  
installing the transmitter battery.  
NOTE  
When the battery is re-installed, the transmitter sends an overpressure (“---“)  
signal on code 12 for 10 seconds, after which it goes to normal operation, and  
shuts down after 5 minutes.  
Check that the new lubricated O-ring is in good condition. Put it in the right position  
in the O-ring groove. Be very careful not to get any dirt on the O-ring or its sealing  
surfaces.  
9.  
Carefully put the transmitter cover into place. Note that the cover will only fit in  
one position. Match the three slots on the inside of the cover with the three ledges  
below the battery.  
10.  
11.  
Screw the four screws back into place.  
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Wireless transmitter parts. The code stands for spare part order number.  
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9. TECHNICAL DATA  
9.1. Technical specifications  
Dimensions and weight:  
Dive Computer  
Diameter: 50.0 mm/1.97 in  
Thickness: 17.6 mm/0.67 in  
Weight: 110 g/3.88 oz  
Transmitter:  
Max. diameter: 40 mm/1.57 in  
Length: 80 mm/3.15 in  
Weight: 118 g/4.16 oz  
Rated working pressure: 300 bar/4000 psi, maximum allowed pressure 360  
bar/5,000 psi  
Display resolution: 1 bar/1 psi  
Depth gauge:  
Temperature compensated pressure sensor  
Salt water calibrated, in fresh water the readings are about 3% smaller (calibrated  
in compliance with EN 13319)  
Maximum depth of operation: 100 m/328 ft (complying with EN 13319)  
Accuracy: ± 1% of full scale or better from 0 to 80 m/262 ft at 20°C/68°F (complying  
with EN 13319)  
Depth display range: 0 to 200 m/ 656 ft  
Resolution: 0.1 m from 0 to 100 m/1 ft from 0 to 328 ft  
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Temperature display:  
Resolution: 1°C/1.5°F  
Display range: -20 to +50°C/-9 to +122°F  
Accuracy: ± 2°C/± 3.6°F within 20 minutes of temperature change  
Calendar clock:  
Accuracy: ± 25 s/month (at 20°C/68°F)  
12/24 h display  
Other displays:  
Dive time: 0 to 999 min, counting starts and stops at 1.2 m/4 ft depth  
Surface time: 0 to 99 h 59 min  
Dive counter: 0 to 99 for repetitive dive  
No-decompression time: 0 to 99 min (- - after 99)  
Ascent time: 0 to 99 min (- - after 99)  
Ceiling depths: 3.0 to 100 m/10 to 328 ft  
Air time: 0 to 99 min (- - after 99)  
Displays only in NITROX mode:  
Oxygen %: 21 - 99  
Oxygen partial pressure display: 0.2 - 3.0 bar, depending on the limit setting  
Oxygen Limit Fraction: 1 - 200% with 1% resolution  
Logbook/dive profile memory:  
Recording interval: 20 seconds adjustable (1,10,20,30,60s). Records the maximum  
depth, minimum temperature , and minimum tank pressure of each interval  
Memory capacity: approximately 36 hours of diving with 20 second recording  
interval  
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Depth accuracy: 0.3 m/1 ft  
Operating conditions:  
Normal altitude range: 0 to 3,000 m/10,000 ft above sea level  
Operating temperature: 0°C to 40°C/32°F to 104°F  
Storage temperature: -20°C to +50°C/ -4°F to +122°F  
It is recommended that the instrument be stored in a dry place at room temperature.  
Do not leave the dive computer in direct sunlight!  
Tissue calculation model:  
NOTE  
Suunto Deep Stop RGBM algorithm (developed by Suunto and Bruce R. Wienke,  
BSc, MSc, PhD)  
9 tissue compartments  
Tissue compartment halftimes: 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, 120, 240 and 480 minutes  
(on gassing). The off gassing halftimes are slowed down  
Reduced gradient (variable) "M" values based on diving habit and dive violations.  
The "M" values are tracked up to 100 hours after a dive  
The EAN and oxygen exposure calculations are based on recommendations by  
R.W. Hamilton, PhD and currently accepted exposure time limit tables and principles  
Battery:  
One 3 V lithium battery: CR 2450  
Battery storage time (shelf life): Up to three years  
Replacement: Every three years, or more often depending on dive activity  
Life expectancy at 20°C/68°F:  
0 dives/y - 3 years  
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100 dives/year – 2 years  
300 dives/year – 1.5 years  
Transmitter:  
One 3V lithium battery: 1/2AA (K5546) and O-ring 2.00 mm x 2.00 mm (K5538)  
Battery storage time (shelf life): Up to three years  
Replacement: Every two years, or more often depending on dive activity  
Life expectancy at 20°C/68°F:  
0 dives/y –> 3 years  
100 dives/y –> 2 years  
400 dives/y –> 1 year  
The following conditions have an effect on the expected battery lifetime:  
The length of the dives  
The conditions in which the unit is operated and stored (e.g. temperature/cold  
conditions). Below 10°C/50°F the expected battery lifetime is about 50-75% of that  
at 20°C/68°F  
The use of the backlight and audible alarms  
The use of the compass  
The quality of the battery. (Some lithium batteries may exhaust unexpectedly,  
which cannot be tested in advance)  
The time the dive computer has been stored until it gets to the customer. (The  
battery is installed in the unit at the factory)  
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Low temperature or an internal oxidation of the battery may  
activate the battery warning even though the battery has enough  
capacity. In this case, the warning usually disappears when the  
DIVE mode is activated again.  
NOTE  
9.2. RGBM  
The Suunto Reduced Gradient Bubble Model (RGBM) is a modern algorithm for  
predicting both dissolved and free gas in the tissues and blood of divers. It was  
developed in co-operation between Suunto and Bruce R. Wienke BSc, MSc, PhD. It  
is based on both laboratory experiments and diving data, including data from DAN.  
It is a significant advance on the classical Haldane models, which do not predict free  
gas (microbubbles). The advantage of Suunto RGBM is additional safety through its  
ability to adapt to a wide variety of situations. Suunto RGBM addresses a number of  
diving circumstances outside the range of dissolved-gas-only models by:  
Monitoring continuous multiday diving  
Computing closely spaced repetitive diving  
Reacting to a dive deeper than the previous dive  
Adapting to rapid ascents which produce high microbubble (silent-bubble) build-  
up  
Incorporating consistency with real physical laws for gas kinetics  
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9.2.1. Suunto RGBM adaptive decompression  
The Suunto RGBM algorithm adapts its predictions of both the effects of microbubble  
build-up and adverse dive profiles in the current dive series. It also changes these  
calculations according to the personal adjustment you select.  
The pattern and speed of decompression at the surface is adjusted according to  
microbubble influence.  
On repetitive dives, adjustment may also be applied to the maximum allowable nitrogen  
overpressure in each theoretical tissue group.  
Depending on the circumstances, Suunto RGBM will adapt the decompression  
obligations by doing any or all of the following:  
Reducing No-decompression Stop dive times  
Adding Mandatory Safety Stops  
Increasing Decompression Stop times  
Advising an extended surface interval (Diver Attention symbol)  
Diver Attention Symbol – Advice to Extend Surface Interval.  
Some patterns of diving cumulatively add a higher risk of DCI; for example, dives with  
short surface intervals, repetitive dives deeper than earlier ones, multiple ascents,  
and substantial multiday diving. When this is detected, in addition to adapting the  
decompression algorithm, the Suunto RGBM model will in some circumstances also  
advise, with the Diver Attention Symbol, that you extend your surface interval.  
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9.2.2. No-decompression limits  
The no-decompression limits displayed by the dive computer for the first dive to a  
single depth (see Table 9.1, No-decompression time limits for various depths (m) and  
Table 9.2, No-decompression time limits for various depths (ft) .), are slightly more  
conservative than those permitted by the U.S. Navy tables.  
Table 9.1. No-decompression time limits for various depths (m)  
No-decompression time limits (mins) for various depths (m) for the first  
dive of a series  
Depth  
(m)  
Personal Mode / Altitude Mode  
P0/A0 P0/A1 P0/A2 P1/A0 P1/A1 P1/A2 P2/A0 P2/A1 P2/A2  
9
12  
15  
--  
124  
72  
163  
89  
57  
130  
67  
43  
163  
89  
57  
130  
67  
43  
96  
54  
35  
130  
67  
43  
96  
54  
35  
75  
45  
29  
18  
21  
24  
52  
37  
29  
39  
29  
24  
30  
23  
19  
39  
29  
24  
30  
23  
19  
5
20  
16  
30  
23  
19  
25  
20  
16  
21  
15  
12  
27  
30  
33  
23  
18  
13  
18  
14  
11  
15  
12  
9
18  
14  
11  
15  
12  
9
12  
9
8
15  
12  
9
12  
9
8
9
7
6
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No-decompression time limits (mins) for various depths (m) for the first  
dive of a series  
Depth  
(m)  
Personal Mode / Altitude Mode  
P0/A0 P0/A1 P0/A2 P1/A0 P1/A1 P1/A2 P2/A0 P2/A1 P2/A2  
36  
39  
42  
45  
11  
9
7
9
7
6
5
8
6
5
5
9
7
6
5
8
6
5
5
6
5
4
4
8
6
5
5
6
5
4
4
5
4
4
3
6
Table 9.2. No-decompression time limits for various depths (ft)  
No-decompression time limits (mins) for various depths (ft) for the first  
dive of a series  
Depth  
(ft)  
Personal Mode / Altitude Mode  
P0/A0 P0/A1 P0/A2 P1/A0 P1/A1 P1/A2 P2/A0 P2/A1 P2/A2  
30  
40  
50  
--  
120  
69  
160  
86  
56  
127  
65  
41  
160  
86  
56  
127  
65  
41  
92  
52  
34  
127  
65  
41  
92  
52  
34  
73  
43  
28  
60  
70  
80  
50  
36  
28  
38  
29  
23  
29  
22  
19  
38  
29  
23  
29  
22  
19  
25  
20  
15  
29  
22  
19  
25  
20  
15  
20  
15  
11  
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No-decompression time limits (mins) for various depths (ft) for the first  
dive of a series  
Depth  
(ft)  
Personal Mode / Altitude Mode  
P0/A0 P0/A1 P0/A2 P1/A0 P1/A1 P1/A2 P2/A0 P2/A1 P2/A2  
90  
100  
110  
22  
17  
13  
18  
14  
11  
15  
11  
9
18  
14  
11  
15  
11  
9
11  
9
7
15  
11  
9
11  
9
7
9
7
6
120  
130  
140  
150  
10  
9
7
9
7
6
5
8
6
5
4
9
7
6
5
8
6
5
4
6
5
4
4
8
6
5
4
6
5
4
4
5
4
4
3
6
9.2.3. Altitude diving  
The atmospheric pressure is lower at high altitudes than at sea level. After traveling  
to a higher altitude, you will have additional nitrogen in your body, compared to the  
equilibrium situation at the original altitude. This "additional" nitrogen is released  
gradually over time and equilibrium is restored. It is recommended that you acclimatize  
to a new altitude by waiting at least three hours before making a dive.  
Before high-altitude diving, the instrument must be set to the Altitude Adjustment mode  
to adjust the calculations for the new altitude. The maximum partial pressures of  
nitrogen allowed by the mathematical model of the dive computer are reduced according  
to the lower ambient pressure.  
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As a result, the allowed no-decompression-stop limits are considerably reduced.  
9.3. Oxygen exposure  
The oxygen exposure calculations are based on currently accepted exposure time  
limit tables and principles. In addition to this, the dive computer uses several methods  
to conservatively estimate the oxygen exposure. For example:  
the displayed oxygen exposure calculations are raised to the next higher percentage  
value  
for recreational scuba diving, the recommended upper limit of 1.4 bar PO2 is used  
as a default  
the CNS % limits up to 1.6 bar are based on 1991 NOAA Diving Manual limits  
the OTU monitoring is based on the long-term daily tolerance level and the recovery  
rate is reduced  
Oxygen related information displayed by the dive computer is also designed to ensure  
that all warnings and displays occur at the appropriate phases of a dive. For example,  
the following information will be shown before and during a dive when the computer  
is set in NITROX mode:  
the selected O2% on the alternative display  
OLF% alternative display for either CNS% or OTU% (whichever is larger)  
audible alarms are given and the OLF value starts to blink when the 80% and 100%  
limits are exceeded  
audible alarms are given and the actual PO2 value blinks when it exceeds the  
preset limit  
in dive planning, the maximum depth according to the O2% and maximum PO2  
selected  
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10. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY  
10.1. Copyright  
This user's manual is copyrighted and all rights are reserved. It may not, in whole or  
in part, be copied, photocopied, reproduced, or translated to any media without prior  
written consent from Suunto.  
10.2. Trademark  
Suunto, D9, Consumed Bottom Time (CBT), Oxygen Limit Fraction (OLF), Suunto  
Reduced Gradient Bubble Model (RGBM), and Continuous Decompression and their  
logos are all registered or unregistered trademarks of Suunto. All rights are reserved.  
10.3. Patent notice  
This product is protected by the following patents and patent applications: US 5,845,235  
and US11/152,075. Other patents have been applied for.  
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11. DISCLAIMERS  
11.1. User’s responsibility  
This instrument is intended for recreational use only. Suunto D9 must not be used for  
obtaining measurements that require professional or industrial precision.  
11.2. CE  
The CE mark is used to mark conformity with the European Union EMC directive  
89/336/EEC and Personal Protective Equipment directive 89/686/EEC. Suunto dive  
instruments fulfill all the required EU directives  
FIOH, Laajaniityntie 1, FIN-01620 Vantaa, Finland, notified body no.0430, has EC  
type-examined this type of personal protective equipment.  
EN 250 Respiratory equipment - Open circuit self-contained compressed air diving  
apparatus – Requirements, testing, marking.  
The cylinder pressure gauge, and the parts of this product used in measuring the  
cylinder pressure, meet the requirements set in the section of the European Standard  
EN 250 that concern cylinder pressure measurements. The instruments must be  
serviced by an authorized Suunto representative every second year or after 200 dives  
(whichever comes first).  
EN 13319 ”Diving accessories – Depth gauges and combined depth and time  
measuring devices – Functional and safety requirements, test methods” is a European  
diving depth gauge standard. The Suunto D9 is designed to comply with this standard.  
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11.3. Limits of liability and ISO 9001 compliance  
Suunto Oy does not assume any responsibility for losses or claims by third parties,  
which may arise through the use of this device.  
Due to continuous product development, the Suunto D9 is subject to change without  
notice.  
ISO 9001  
Suunto Oy’s Quality Assurance System is certified by Det Norske Veritas to be in  
accordance with ISO 9001 in all Suunto Oy's operations (Quality Certificate No. 96-  
HEL-AQ-220).  
11.4. After sales service  
If a claim under warranty appears to be necessary, return the product, freight prepaid,  
to your Suunto representative, who is responsible for having your product repaired or  
replaced. Depending on the requirements in your country, include your name, address,  
proof of purchase and/or Warranty card, which can be found at the back of this manual.  
The claim will be honored and the product repaired or replaced at no charge and  
returned in what your Suunto representative determines a reasonable amount of time,  
provided that all necessary parts are in stock. All repairs that are not covered under  
the terms of this warranty will be made at the owner's expense. This warranty is non-  
transferable from the original owner.  
You can locate your local Suunto representative at www.suunto.com.  
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12. WARRANTY  
Warranty arrangements vary from country to country. The dive  
computer packaging contains information regarding the warranty  
benefits and requirements applicable to your purchase.  
NOTE  
This Suunto dive computer is warranted against defects in workmanship and materials  
for a period of two years after purchase to the original owner subject to and in  
accordance with the terms and conditions set forth below:  
The dive computer should be serviced and repaired only by an authorized Suunto  
representative.  
This warranty does not cover damage to the product resulting from improper usage,  
improper maintenance, neglect of care, alteration or unauthorized repair. This warranty  
will automatically become void if proper preventive maintenance procedures have not  
been followed as outlined in the use and care instructions for this product.  
All implied warranties, including but not limited to the implied warranties of  
merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited from the date of  
purchase and in scope to the warranties expressed herein. Suunto shall not be liable  
for loss of use of the product or other incidental or consequential costs, expenses or  
damage incurred by the purchase. All warranties not stated herein are expressly  
disclaimed.  
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of implied warranties of  
consequential damages, so the above exclusions or limitations may not apply to you.  
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that  
vary from state to state.  
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This warranty does not cover any representation or warranty made by representatives  
beyond the provisions of this warranty. No Suunto representative is authorized to  
make any modifications to this warranty or to make any additional warranty.  
Battery replacement is not covered by this warranty.  
This User's Guide should be kept with your dive computer.  
Suunto's dive computers and wristop computers can be registered online at  
www.suunto.com. Registering your unit makes it quicker and easier for us to help you  
if you ever need to send your product for servicing, or if you need information about  
using your unit from our Global Help Desk.  
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13. DISPOSAL OF THE DEVICE  
Please dispose of the device in an appropriate way, treating  
it as electronic waste. Do not throw it in the garbage. If you  
wish, you may return the device to your nearest Suunto  
representative.  
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GLOSSARY  
Air time  
The amount of dive time remaining, based on a calculation of cylinder  
pressure and ambient pressure and present air consumption.  
Altitude dive  
Ascent rate  
ASC RATE  
Ascent time  
A dive made at an elevation greater than 300 m/1000 ft above sea level.  
The speed at which the diver ascends toward the surface.  
Abbreviation for ascent rate.  
The minimum amount of time needed to reach the surface on  
decompression stop dive.  
a
ASC TIME  
Ceiling  
Abbreviation for ascent time.  
On a decompression stop dive, the shallowest depth to which a diver may  
ascend based on computed nitrogen load.  
Ceiling zone  
On a decompression stop dive, the zone between the ceiling and the  
ceiling plus 1.8 m/6 ft. This depth range is displayed with two arrows  
pointing toward each other (the ”hour glass” icon).  
CNS  
Abbreviation for central nervous system toxicity.  
Central nervous system toxicity  
Toxicity caused by oxygen. Can cause a variety of neurological symptoms.  
The most important of which is an epileptic-like convulsion which can  
cause a diver to drown.  
CNS%  
Central nervous system toxicity limit fraction. Also note Oxygen Limit  
Fraction  
Compartment  
DAN  
See "Tissue group".  
Abbreviation for Divers Alert Network.  
Abbreviation for decompression illness.  
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Decompression  
Time spent at a decompression stop, or range, before surfacing, to allow  
absorbed nitrogen to escape naturally from tissues  
Decompression range  
Decompression illness  
On a decompression stop dive, the depth range between the floor and  
the ceiling within which a diver must stop for some time during ascent.  
Any of a variety of maladies resulting either directly or indirectly from the  
formation of nitrogen bubbles in tissues or body fluids, as a result of  
inadequately controlled decompression. Commonly called "the bends"  
or "DCI".  
Dive series  
A group of repetitive dives between which the dive computer indicates  
some nitrogen loading is present. When nitrogen loading reaches zero  
the dive computer deactivates.  
Dive time  
ΔP  
Elapsed time between leaving the surface to descend, and returning to  
the surface at the end of a dive.  
Delta P, describing the Cylinder Pressure drop during the dive; the  
difference in cylinder pressure between the beginning and end of a dive.  
EAD  
Abbreviation for equivalent air depth.  
Abbreviation for enriched air nitrox.  
EAN  
Enriched air nitrox  
Also called nitrox or Enriched Air = EANx. Air that has some oxygen  
added. Standard mixes are EAN32 (NOAA Nitrox I = NN I) and EAN36  
(NOAA Nitrox II = NN II).  
Equivalent air depth  
Floor  
Nitrogen partial pressure equivalent table.  
The deepest depth during  
decompression takes place.  
a
decompression stop dive at which  
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Half time  
After a change in ambient pressure, the amount of time required for the  
partial pressure of nitrogen in a theoretical compartment to go half way  
from its previous value to saturation at the new ambient pressure.  
HP  
Abbreviation for high pressure (= cylinder pressure).  
Multi level dive  
A single or repetitive dive that includes time spent at various depths and  
whose no decompression limits are therefore not determined solely by  
the maximum depth attained.  
Nitrox  
In sports diving, refers to any mix with a higher fraction of oxygen than  
standard air.  
NOAA  
United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.  
No decompression time  
The maximum amount of time a diver may remain at a particular depth  
without having to make decompression stops during the subsequent  
ascent.  
No decompression dive  
Any dive which permits a direct, uninterrupted ascent to the surface at  
any time.  
NO DEC TIME  
OEA = EAN = EANx  
OLF  
Abbreviation for no decompression time limit.  
Abbreviations for oxygen enriched air nitrox.  
Abbreviation for oxygen limit fraction.  
OTU  
Abbreviation for oxygen tolerance unit.  
Used to measure the whole-body-toxicity.  
Oxygen tolerance unit  
Oxygen limit fraction  
A term used by Suunto for the values displayed in the oxygen toxicity  
bargraph. The value is either the CNS% or the OTU%.  
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O2%  
Oxygen percentage or oxygen fraction in the breathing gas. Standard air  
has 21% oxygen.  
Oxygen partial pressure  
Limits the maximum depth to which the nitrox mixture can be safely used.  
The maximum partial pressure limit for enriched air diving is 1.4 bar. The  
contingency partial pressure limit is 1.6 bar. Dives beyond this limit risk  
immediate oxygen toxicity.  
PO2  
Abbreviation for oxygen partial pressure.  
RGBM  
Abbreviation for Reduced Gradient Bubble Model.  
Modern algorithm for tracking both dissolved and free gas in divers.  
Reduced Gradient Bubble Model  
Repetitive dive  
Any dive whose decompression time limits are affected by residual  
nitrogen absorbed during previous dives.  
Residual nitrogen  
The amount of excess nitrogen remaining in a diver after one or more  
dives.  
SURF TIME  
Abbreviation for surface interval time.  
Surface interval time  
Elapsed time between surfacing from a dive and beginning a descent for  
the subsequent repetitive dive.  
Tissue group  
Theoretical concept used to model bodily tissues for the construction of  
decompression tables or calculations.  
Whole-body toxicity  
Another form of oxygen toxicity, which is caused by prolonged exposure  
to high oxygen partial pressures. The most common symptoms are  
irritation in the lungs, a burning sensation in the chest, coughing and  
reduction of the vital capacity. Also called Pulmonary Oxygen Toxicity.  
See also OTU.  
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Suunto Oy 9/2004, 4/2006  
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