The NiTek X has all the features needed in a hi tech computer without the extras that make scrolling through the menus difficult. Most divers can program the computer within five minutes of pushing the first button. I wanted to bring you up to date on the Nitek X. The X has proven itself in the field on both deep and exploration dives. When we released the first 100 beta units earlier this year, consumers needed to keep up with the updates on our website. The first software release was version 1.0, we released version 1.0.1 within 30 days of the initial release. Consumer input was invaluable to its success. Six months later we released version 1.1.0 to fix a few bugs. These bugs included a patch for shallow stop stability while using 4th cell integration and changing the surface time from gas destaturation time to the standard 24/48 hour countdown timer. Three preset gradient factors are accessible from the menu and custom gradients as well. To check your computer for the latest software, remove the battery and replace it. When you tighten the cap a splash screen will appear with the current software version on the computer. The backlight is enhanced and brighter than the beta units, the LED back lighting is spread over the display with a fiber optic sheet for even lighting. The back light timer is in set up and can be switched to constant on but this will drastically reduce battery life. When replacing the battery be sure to use the battery door tool to ensure the battery cap is tight. If it is not installed with the tool the battery could lose connection while diving causing the computer to rest.

The NiTek X transfer cable is in stock. A low profile USB cable that plugs into the Fischer connection also used for 4th cell integration. The Nitek X Workbench is a web based program you install on your desktop to access the features of the program that include 1) Nitek Control – On this panel you can program gases and other features accessed under the “SET” menu on the computer. If you don’t like to push buttons all set up can be done here 2) Dive Log – down load up to 15 hours of dive time with programmed gases and dive profile. The download records the serial number of the computer so multiple computers can be downloaded 3) Dive Planner – This tab includes dive planning, gases and blender including mixing and top off function. Dive tables that match the X parameters can be generated from this tab for back up. 4) The dive log will always display PO2 when using 4th cell integration – this will show up as blue dots on the graph – I find this very valuable information for loop management 5) The program is now set up for offline use, after you install the program and upload the your X the first time the program will set up for offline use. Now you can use the program without an internet connection but remember program updates only happen when you have an internet connection. 6) Easy installation on both Mac and PC – you must have administrator rights when installing on a networked computer.

Right now we have special pricing on the NiTek X and/or the Transfer Cable. Ask your dealer for details, it’s only until supplies last or Nov 21st.

Lamar

After spending two weeks teaching in Australia I remember why I like the country and most of the dive sites. I have to say however, that there are a couple of training sites I can do without diving again, after spending many hours on multiple days diving them. I know that Australia has some great cave diving though and I do plan to come back and do some fun dives out on the Nullarbor.

I like to use every class as an opportunity to grow and observe as an instructor. I am very active in my personal diving, so watching students deal with tasks helps me formulate alternatives and safer practices. This was the case in Australia as well, as I was teaching the O2ptima rebreather course.

During the course, we discussed bailout options and gas management options and actually implemented some new techniques for bailout. The students found them easier and from my perspective they are much safer. In the absence of a BOV, position the second stage of the bottom gas bailout around your neck on a necklace as if you were on open circuit. We found this to be more efficient when having to bailout than going for a regulator secured to the neck of a sling bottle.

Training has always been a key part of what we offer at Dive Rite. We have four instructors on staff teaching all levels of diving. We offer this for our personal enjoyment as well as to support our dive shops who don’t have a full time instructor, yet wish to build their tech diving business. You can read more about our instructors in the TRAINING section of our website.

Congratulations to all the Australia students and in particular Chris Bojarski for becoming an O2ptima instructor.

Lamar