Underwatertimes.com News Service - February 28, 2007 16:47 EST
diver computer recall

selected Oceanic-brand ATOM 2.0 and AERIS-brand EPIC dive computers are being recalled

Pelagic Pressure Systems is recalling about 2,800 Oceanic and AERIS digital dive computers due to a decompression hazard.

When performing a switch from one gas to another during a dive, the dive computer's display will lock up and not return to the main dive screen that displays dive times. This can cause divers to enter decompression unknowingly or the diver could ascend prematurely, resulting in decompression sickness.

Pelagic has received a report of two dive computers malfunctioning. No injuries have been reported.

The recall involves Oceanic-brand ATOM 2.0 dive computers with serial numbers 1 through 2,079 (Revisions 2E, 3A, and 3B) and AERIS-brand EPIC dive computers with serial numbers 1 through 712 (Revision 1A), which can be accessed and viewed on the computer's display. Also, the serial number and date of manufacture are printed on the bottom of the unit (Oceanic ATOM 2.0 from August 23 to November 23, 2006, and AERIS EPIC from October 18 to November 14, 2006). This recall does not include any other Oceanic or AERIS brand dive computers.

Authorized Oceanic dealers sold ATOM 2.0 dive computers nationwide from August 2006 through February 2007. Authorized AERIS dealers sold EPIC dive computers nationwide from October 2006 through February 2007. Both computers sold for between $670 and $950.

Consumers should stop using the recalled dive computers and take them to an authorized Oceanic or AERIS dealer to get a free software upgrade.

Consumer Contact: Contact Pelagic toll-free at (888) 854-4960 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, send an email to service@oceanicusa.com, or write to: Pelagic Pressure Systems, 2002 Davis Street, San Leandro, CA 94577. Information is also posted on the Oceanic and AERIS Web sites (www.OceanicWorldwide.com and www.diveaeris.com).

The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).