The Shearwater Petrel 3 is an advanced dive computer known for its robustness and versatility, catering to both recreational and technical divers. Here's an in-depth technical description of its features:
Display: The Petrel 3 boasts a 2.4-inch full-color LCD display with a resolution of 320x240 pixels. The screen is user-configurable, offering a clear and bright display that is easily readable in varying light conditions, including direct sunlight.
Modes: It features multiple diving modes, including OC Recreational, OC Technical, CC/BO, and Gauge. This makes it suitable for a wide range of diving activities from simple air or nitrox dives to more advanced trimix and rebreather diving.
Algorithm: The Petrel 3 uses the Buhlmann ZHL-16C algorithm with Gradient Factors. This allows divers to customize decompression calculations to match their experience level, conditions, and specific dive profiles. It also supports Predictive Multi-Gas switching.
Connectivity: Equipped with Bluetooth integration, the Petrel 3 can easily connect to smartphones, tablets, and PCs for dive log management and firmware updates. This enhances the user's ability to analyze dive data post-dive and keep the device up to date.
Battery: It operates on a user-replaceable AA battery (either alkaline, lithium, or rechargeable). This feature ensures ease of battery replacement anywhere in the world and offers up to 45 hours of dive time depending on the settings and backlight use.
The device is robustly built with a rugged machined aluminum case, ensuring durability. It is depth rated to 290 meters (950 feet), making it suitable for deep technical dives. The Petrel 3 also features a simple two-button interface, facilitating ease of navigation through menus.
An integrated digital compass is included, which is tilt-compensated and provides accurate navigation under or above water.
Divers can customize the display with user-selectable fonts and themes. The dive logbook is extensive and provides detailed insights into each dive.
Safety Features: It includes features like a decompression ceiling, deep stop, and CNS tracking, enhancing the safety of the diver. The Petrel 3 also provides audible and visual alarms for critical dive data warnings.
The unit supports dive planning and simulation, enabling divers to plan their dives in advance. It also features a robust dive logbook which stores detailed information about each dive.
Firmware and Software Updates: Shearwater regularly provides firmware updates, which can be easily installed via the Bluetooth connection, ensuring that the Petrel 3 remains current with the latest features and enhancements.
The Petrel 3, with its combination of advanced features, customization options, and robust build, is highly regarded in the diving community as a top-tier choice for divers who require reliability and versatility in a range of diving environments.
