Garmin has announced the launch of its new Descent S1 Buoy, which uses Garmin’s SubWave sonar networking technology to keep scuba diving teams in contact with their surface support – and each other – while underwater.
Up to eight divers using a compatible computer and Descent T2 transceiver can be tracked and monitored through the Garmin App when paired with the Descent S1 Buoy.
The system enables two-way communication between the surface and the depths through a series of preset messages up to a distance of 100 metres underwater.
Connected divers are also able to see the distance and direction to the buoy for increased situational awareness underwater and guidance on where to safely surface.
Descent S1 Buoy communications
Surface support teams will be able to track divers who are using a compatible computer and Descent T2 transceiver through the Garmin Dive app paired with a Descent S1 Buoy.
Information about each diver’s location, depth and tank pressure can be relayed to boat crews up to a distance of 100 metres from the buoy (depending on surface conditions) and automatic alarms can be programmed to let support teams know when divers are running low on air.
Garmin’s SubWave sonar technology already enables divers to communicate underwater through a series of preset messages (eg ‘Are You OK?’, ‘Come to Me’, ‘Safely End Dive’) up to a distance of 30m without the buoy.
The Descent S1 Buoy greatly increases the distance divers can communicate underwater and also enables two-way communication between the surface and the depths through a similar system of preset messages.
Divers can also tell those on the surface where they are, where they’re going, their remaining decompression time, and if they should need to come up early.
Likewise, topside teams can send out a recall if a dive needs to be cut short for some reason, and the Descent S1 Buoy’s tracking facility will enable boats to locate divers if necessary.
Following the dive, a ‘heat map’ of diver movements can be analysed through the Garmin Dive app, enabling divers to discuss their dive with more accurate positioning detail.
Descent S1 Buoy specifications
The compact Descent S1 Buoy is very compact at 203mm (8.0″) in diameter and 135mm (5.3″) in height and weighs in at just 981 g (2.2 lbs), making it extremely portable for travellers.
The buoy has IPX8 water rating to 10 meters and a water temperature range from 0 to 40°C (2 to 104°F), making it suitable for all environments.
The rechargeable lithium battery provides up to 15 hours of battery life before needing to be recharged and connects to the Garmin Dive app using WiFi with a range of 60 metres.
Underwater range is up to 100m (328ft) with a clear line-of-sight, although choppy surface conditions and solid objects such as reefs, rocks, and other divers can reduce the signal strength and interfere with range and connectivity.
Fully compatible computers include the Garmin Descent Mk3i and Descent X50i; the Descent Mk2i can also be paired with the Descent S1 Buoy and can receive messages, but is unable to send them.
