Shearwater Research Perdix
Introduced in 2016, the Perdix from Shearwater Research of Canada is a full decompression dive computer incorporating the Bühlmann ZHL-16C decompression algorithm, with user configurable Gradient Factors (GF). Gradient Factors allow the diver unique and individual control of their dive computer decompression calculations. An optional PIN upgrade to the Varying Permeability Model (VPM-B and VPM-B/GFS) decompression algorithm is also available. Out of the box, the Perdix includes open-circuit and closed-circuit Air, Nitrox and Trimix mixed gas functionality. The standard firmware supports English language menus and both imperial/metric units of measure. New with recent firmware updates are several enhanced navigation features for the three-axis tilt-compensated digital compass.
The Shearwater Perdix model without the AI designation shown on this page has a lower price than the Perdix AI model. The Perdix AI model with the AI designation has the radio frequency receiver built in to the electronics and this is the reason for the difference in price. The model shown on this page cannot be later upgraded to support tank pressure transmitters.
The Perdix offers an information screen utilizing a large full color LED LCD display. The display will automatically adjust intensity based on available light to make the display easily readable whether on the surface in sunlight, in open water or in a cave. During a decompression dive, the Perdix provides complete information displays of all required stop times. The Perdix can provide time-to-surface based on "look ahead" at planned gas switches. Multiple gas definition presets are supported with any combination of oxygen, nitrogen and helium. The Perdix will NOT "lockout" after a missed stop or ascent rate violation. The included CCR mode for rebreathers provides the ability to perform constant PO2 set point calculations for deco. After the dive, the Perdix communicates via next generation Bluetooth Smart™ with iOS devices such as the iPad and iPhone. In addition to current Shearwater and third party support for Mac and PC desktop applications, users are able to download dives using their iOS devices in conjunction with third party applications.
The Perdix has been designed to accept any type of AA size battery including alkaline, lithium and rechargeables. Included with every Perdix from Dive Gear Express are two elastic straps with buckles, elastic tubing for configuring using the 'bungee" style wrist mount, zippered hard case, dual o-ring seal gold contact battery door and battery already installed (ready to dive out of of the case), two spare battery door o-rings, USB Bluetooth adapter, printed Quick Start Guide with instructions for downloading the full manual and desktop software from the Shearwater Research website. The Perdix also includes a screen protector already installed to help prevent scratches of the display face. The software includes a complete dive log manager, compatible with both MS Windows and MAC OS X. The dive log manager supports log downloads and firmware updates via the Bluetooth wireless interface of the Perdix.
The Perdix was originally shipped in a cardboard box, but Shearwater now supplies the Perdix with a zippered "travel" case. The Shearwater travel case included with the Perdix is a very snug fit, suitable for dry storage, but not suitable for boat use or damp storage. If you want a well padded case suitable for boat use and with room for extra storage, consider adding the optional DGX Padded Storage Bag.
Technical Open-Circuit Features
- Air/Nitrox/Trimix capable
- 5 open-circuit gas switch presets
- Bühlmann ZHL-16C with Gradient Factors
- Optional Varying Permeability Model (VPM-B)
- %CNS oxygen exposure tracking
- Ascent rate monitor
- Date, time and temp display
- Easy to read large full color screen
- Easy to use adaptive menus
- Logbook of last 1000 hours of diving
- Operational to at least { 853 ft | 260 m }
- Battery voltage and warning
- Metric and Imperial
- Right or left wrist mountable
- Battery life (Saft 3.6V LS14500) typically 130 hours of diving at medium brightness
- Battery life (1.5V Alkaline) typically 45 hours of diving at medium brightness
Rebreather Features
- Constant PPO2 Set Point
- Automatic Set Point Switching
- 5 additional CCR Diluent gas presets
- 2 button push OC bailout
- Does NOT support external PO2 monitoring (See Petrel2-EXT)
Also...
- Richly featured gauge-mode
- Three-axis tilt-compensated digital compass
- Bluetooth Smart wireless upload/download
- User upgradable firmware
- User changeable battery
- Dive Log Software
- Two Year Limited Warranty
Recreational Open-Circuit Features
Key features of the Recreational Open-Circuit mode (aka Recreational Nitrox mode) include a simpler menu structure, less cluttered display with a larger font and configurable bottom row, optional safety stops, and a no-decompression limit dive planner. The simplified settings allow for three breathing gas mixtures (Air or Nitrox) and places a greater emphasis on the maximum operating depth (MOD) and no decompression time limit (NDL). The display prominently warns the diver if their depth is near, at or exceeds the MOD of the selected breathing gas. The diver also simply selects one of three levels of NDL conservatism and during the dive a bar graph turns from green to red as the diver approaches the NDL. An optional 3 minute countdown safety stop starts when the diver reaches shallower than { 20 feet | 6 meters } on the ascent. If the diver exceeds the NDL and requires stops, the display turns red and warns "DECO STOP" with the mandatory depth and stop times.
