Adding the VR-3 to any rebreather

The DeltaP VR-3 decompression computer is likely the ultimate computer available today for the rebreather diver. Unlike any other on the market, it can be purchased with an external 02 sensor which then measures the loop PP02 and then uses that PP02 to run real-time decompression. The only other computers on the market to do a similar procedure only offer decompression for Nitrox-based diluent. The VR-3 allows any helium or trimix based diluent to be selected, and can run for open circuit, user-defined PP02 setpoints, or sensor-read PP02. This allows the VR-3 to act as a tertiary PP02 measurement system, and also to continue to perform decompression calculations if it's own sensor fails using a user-defined PP02 setpoint. I like the VR-3 greatly, and recommend it without hesitation.

The one issue at present is that the sensor block as delivered from DeltaP is specifically adapted to the Buddy Inspiration, not surprising since they are both products of the UK and complement each other in the marketplace. Since I do not have an Inspiration, I took a day in the shop and came up with two different systems to allow this computer to be attached to any of my rigs.

    Details!

First, I made up adapter pieces to allow the original sensor block to fit into a set of breathing hoses. This put the computer on my Mark-15.

    Details!

Second, I made up an adapter that allows sensor to be plugged directly into a Draeger Oxygauge port. This is the solution for any of a number of rigs, as Installing an Oxygauge Port is an easy job on most all rebreather designs.



   Coming Soon!

I've now built up a system to allow the VR-3 to use one of the internal cells of my Mark-15, using a waterproof connector to the center section. This same type of system could be retrofitted to Inspiration, etc. Actually on the Inspiration it would be easier, as the cell voltage needed for the VR-3 is that produced by the cells used in the Inspiration, while the Mark-15 uses a cell of higher voltage output, thus requiring a little monkey-business to make it all work. Photos to come!

That's it for these projects. Both sets of adapters took a day on the lathe and the result is well worth it. For other applications, attaching other adapters would make it fit any rig. I'm making up a second set of adapters now to allow this system to be installed into the hoses of a Draeger Dolphin, as several Mark-15 divers have adapted these large-bore hoses to their rigs. I've sent these photos directly to DeltaP and have the feeling that they will become a factory option in the near future. In the meanwhile, if you want a VR-3 set up like this, order one with a blank sensor module and get a friend to do your machine-shop work. Heck, if you make friends with me, I may even help you!